Plusliving + Magazine, Nelson / Marlborough Issue #3

Stress out

Why you shouldn’t worry about worrying

Bang for your buck

Getting the most out of your money

The power of gratitude

An essential mindset to help you navigate modern life

Making the most of every day

8 productivity tips which involve doing surprisingly little How to make better decisions

Keeping time on your side

6 tips to help you take control of your day

The freedom a little organisation offers This issue of Plusliving takes a practical look at how impactful even a modicum of self-organisation can be.

The good news is getting more organised doesn’t need to be difficult. The piece ‘Making the most of every day’ includes productivity tips which involve doing surprisingly little, and ‘Keeping time on your side’ has simple ideas to help you stay on track time-wise.

We also look at how to make better decisions, delve into the benefits of being financially organised, and even if you’re concerned that you’re chronically unorganised, talk about why you shouldn’t really worry about it.

No matter how well planned your days may or may not be, our lead story ‘The power of gratitude’ can benefit anyone by reminding us all of an essential mindset perhaps needed now more than ever.

LIVING WELL AND AGEING GRACEFULLY IN A MODERN SOCIETY

Publisher: The Job Agency T|A Markat

38 Lowe Street, Addington, Christchurch 8011

Managing Director: Gary Collins

GM of Operations: Kylie Palermo

Sales: Angela Elley

(03) 961 5184 | sales@markat.co.nz

Editor: Jonathon Taylor

(03) 961 5098 | editor@markat.co.nz

Art Director: Jarred Shakespeare

(03) 961 5088 | jarred@markat.co.nz

Production: Amber Mundy

(03) 961 5075 | amber@markat.co.nz

Accounts: Jo Pritchard

(03) 961 5161 | accounts@markat.co.nz

This publication is provided on the basis that The Job Agency Ltd is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. The Job Agency Ltd expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2020 by The Job Agency Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

Making the most of every day

Eight productivity tips which involve little

try some age-old resting techniques. Some people love daytime naps (which may be restricted to weekends, depending on how progressive your workplace is), and others practice guided meditation on a daily basis.

It’s easy to assume that doing as much as possible and filling every hour of the day is the best way to be productive. In fact, sometimes the opposite is true.

Robert Half New Zealand general manager Megan Alexander says “It’s not always about pushing ourselves to do more and more. Rather, global perceptions of productivity are changing to favour more flexible and people-centred work styles.

By encouraging rest periods and more flexible work options, people actually focused their attention more effectively. “They could produce just as much, often to a higher quality, and were more loyal to the organisations that gave them the flexibility to care about life outside of work.”

Finding yourself in a productivity rut? Megan shares eight productivity tips that everyone can adopt which involve doing surprisingly little.

1. A tired brain is a useless brain

When considering how to be productive, think about how you can boost your energy levels. Rest plays a key part in this.

To give your brain a chance to recharge and avoid burnout and fatigue,

2. Make switching off part of your daily routine

Switching off from the online world sounds impossible these days, but it’s worth considering – at least in short bursts. We consume more information now than ever before simply because it’s right at our fingertips. However, this can mess with our brains.

Set some time aside at night to deliberately wind down and switch off, perhaps starting with a technology-free hour before bed. This has been proven to increase the quality of sleep and reduce insomnia, which in turn will do wonders for your productivity during the workday.

3. Manage email overkill

That familiar pinging sound goes off and you feel the tension rise. You can no longer concentrate on the task at hand, instead you feel the pressure to reply to every email that’s beeped at you – and quickly. It’s time to manage your email program (and its incessant notifications), but if you think lessening your email time sounds unrealistic or unproductive, then think again.

In today’s fast-paced world, everyone appears to be action-orientated and being “busy” is worn like a badge of honour.

When thinking about time management tips and improving productivity, research has shown that establishing boundaries between emails, concentrating on other work and work-free time is a lesson in how to be productive.

Then you can set designated time to respond to emails when you’re in the right frame of mind, making better use of your time and creating more considered replies.

4. Hold off on making rush decisions

At times it may feel like you are under pressure to make an immediate decision, like giving feedback on a piece of work or responding to a colleague about an internal situation.

Taking a bit of extra time to think about the solution and next steps can prevent a lot of back and forth in the long run. Assess the urgency of a situation and then decide appropriately.

5. Step back from technology frustration

Technology is great when it works, yet there’s nothing more frustrating than a computer that’s frozen up or a software system that refuses to behave itself. Let alone someone suggesting that you “try turning it off and on again”.

Instead of getting wound up, try taking a few minutes to think calmly through a solution and take some deep breaths. It can save time and energy in the long run.

6. Don’t let emotions get the better of you

It’s easy to act defensively when you receive an inquisitive email or when a colleague seems to be coming across offensively. Instead of reacting immediately, it’s wiser to step back and cool off. You’ll come back to it with a clearer and calmer head, which will only have a positive effect on your productivity levels.

7. Take advantage of the wealth of fantastic apps now available

While technology can be a huge distraction during the day, it can help boost your productivity. It’s worth trying some productivity-boosting apps.

A couple of the most popular include Wunderlist (a new take on the old-fashioned to-do list) and Pomodoro (a timer to help you focus on one task at a time). And in keeping with the meditation suggestion, Headspace is a great resource to use to help make this a daily practice.

8. Use designated breaks to get out and exercise

Getting angry, frustrated or overwhelmed by work or colleagues? It’s time to run or walk it out. Even half an hour of exercise a day, which can be done before or after work or during your lunch break, is great for your mind and motivation.

Getting outside is the best option if you can: fresh air boosts your mood and energy levels, which can be a great productivity boost during your workday.

“Doing nothing might sound like the fast track to wasting time, but it could be the answer to getting through that ever-growing to-do list. It’s worth a shot. After all, it won’t take much effort,” Megan says.

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Lifestyles

Formation Wedge Speaker

From Bowers and Wilkins comes an immersive home wireless sound system with room-filling audio from one stylishly shaped and finished speaker. A graceful shape angles the array of two teeters, two midrange drivers plus a subwoofer to form a perfect stereo image. This sleek speaker is compatible with pretty much anything and comes in black and white.

RRP: $2,499

www.soundlab.co.nz

Roomba j7

The j7 Roomba is iRobot’s latest smart vacuum. With 10 times more suction than a previous model and unique intelligence to avoid cords and pet waste, this robot vacuum takes all the hassle out of keeping your home clean. It will learn to anticipate your needs such as when you’re home or at work, pet moulting season and when your area has a high pollen count.

RRP: $1,399.90 www.shopirobot.co.nz

Collezióne Tibetan Lamb Throw

This luxurious lamb throw will bring the elegant beauty of the wild into your home. The carefully sourced Tibetan fur is warm, soft and durable. This natural piece will add a sumptuous feel and timeless style to your living space.

RRP: $1,995 www.luxurylinen.co.nz

Melt Stand Chandelier Gold

Combining art and technology, this floor lamp brings lighting to a whole new level. Designer Tom Dixon has experimented with the technologically advanced field of vacuum metallisation to create an eye-catching piece. The melt is also available as pendants, table, floor and surface lights and has seven gold shades available.

RRP: From $15,155

www.ecc.co.nz

DISCLAIMER: Please note prices listed here are recommended retail pricing. Prices are subject to change at the discretion of the seller. The information on this page is for information purposes only. AMark Publishing NZ Ltd assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon.

Goccia Coffee Table

This New Zealand made coffee table is a modern twist on an old classic. It features a tempered glass top and the bases are available in rimu, ash with a white washed stain finish and oak with a natural stain finish. The glass top and broad legs make this artistic coffee table child-safe.

RRP: $1,439 www.danskemobler.co.nz

Experience Te Anau with Aden Motel

Nestled beside one of New Zealand’s largest lakes and surrounded by magnificent scenery, Te Anau is the one true gateway to the Fiordland National Park.

Conveniently located on Quintin Drive, situated in the beautiful township, your hosts, Irene Benfell & David Herron, welcome you to the Aden Motel.

“I would stay here again without hesitation.”

This comment is just one of the many rave-reviews their motel has received online from its visitors.

Indeed, with a 12-unit, ground-floor complex consisting of seven studio units, three one-bedroom units and two, two-bedroom units –Aden Motel offers a range of quality accommodation options with all the facilities a guest could possibly ask for.

The rooms are decorated with a Kiwiana theme, and are wellequipped with kitchen facilities, comfortable lounge areas and bathroom facilities, as well as free wireless internet in all rooms.

Plus, the Aden Motel also now offer a three-bedroom cottage, which sleeps up to eight people right next to the motel called Heron’s Cottage.

Ample parking with off street boat parking, guest laundry, playground, car and luggage storage and a BBQ for those lovely summer nights is also available.

With easy access to the nearby Fiordland National Park, it provides a convenient base camp to those who wish to catch a glimpse of the glacier-carved fiords of Doubtful and Milford sounds, or explore the many other magnificent sights and sounds that the area has on offer.

Let the team help you organise day trips to experience the glowworm caves, horse trekking, jet-boating, and many more activities Te Anau offers.

With super friendly staff, superb services and great prices, Aden Motel ticks all the boxes for location, attractions and services and is the ideal place to stay while you’re experiencing this magical part of New Zealand.

Book your getaway with them today at adenmotel.co.nz

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Just an example of what else you can do so come stay and enjoy our lovely town.

Keeping ontimeyour side

Both work and home life are easily derailed by time-eaters such as meetings, ad hoc requests and the distractions enabled by technology – including email and mobile phones.

Having difficulty meeting goals is a common problem both professionally and personally.

The situation can be greatly improved however, by making some simple adjustments.

The real secret to time management – and accomplishing objectives – is better self-management. Here are six tips that can help you take control of your day.

Analyse your schedule

Where does your time really go? For the next week, make a point to write down what you do and when during either the work day, or when you have a lot of errands to run.

Examining how you spend a typical day will help you to identify when you are most productive and in what ways (or by whom) you are most often interrupted or distracted.

Create ‘time windows’

After you’ve determined what can be changed in your current schedule, develop an action plan.

Think about setting aside “time windows” for specific tasks, such as reviewing emails, making and returning phone calls, or doing those daily things the just need to be done.

Also, create a regular schedule that takes advantage of your body clock – if you are sharpest before lunchtime, schedule more difficult tasks for completion in the morning hours.

Let messages wait

Keeping a constant vigil on your email and voicemail can distract you from more demanding tasks and can end up occupying lots of time.

Schedule times throughout the day when you focus exclusively on messages. You’ll cut down on ongoing anxiety while making your responses less hasty and more useful.

Rediscover single-tasking

You can’t solve a technical challenge while talking on the phone, filing paperwork or planning for an upcoming event.

When you’re occupied with something important, give the issue at hand your undivided attention so you do it right the first time. Fight the urge to multitask, which often impedes your ability to get already started tasks finished.

Give yourself permission to ‘check out’

This is a good one for work, be it at an office or working from home. If unnecessary interruptions tend to prevent you from completing important tasks, don’t be afraid to close the door, or advise your colleagues that you are off limits for the next few hours, so you can focus on your work.

Reward yourself

Keeping to a schedule, no matter how personalised or flexible, is challenging because it takes discipline.

Give yourself credit for adhering to your agenda and accomplishing all “must-do-today” items.

Be realistic too – some days you will be more productive than others, so don’t worry if you get off track temporarily.

Ensure you also create a balanced schedule that makes the most effective use of your time while allowing you to do things for yourself.

Most people have experienced “time regret” – that feeling of frustration over yet another day passing by without having made a significant dent in the ‘to do’ list.

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Pitt & Moore

Estate planning – have you done yours?

Estate planning means different things to different people and can sound complicated. Put simply, it means planning what is to happen when you die or if you lose mental capacity, and then recording that plan in legally enforceable documentation.

Questions to consider are:

• Who do you trust to make decisions for you in relation to your personal care and welfare and your property if you are unable to make those decisions yourself due to mental incapacity?

• Who should benefit from or receive your assets when you die, and who do you want to entrust with the responsibility of making sure this happens?

• If you have established a family trust and you are a trustee, who should replace you as a trustee if you lose mental capacity or die? Do co-trustees understand special family circumstances or your wishes in relation to particular assets and ultimate distribution of the trust assets and is this recorded? If you hold special powers, for example to appoint and remove trustees, who will exercise these powers if you are not able to?

• Do you wish to record in advance how you should be medically looked after if you become seriously unwell but are unable to communicate your wishes?

Who should benefit from or receive your assets when you die, and who do you want to entrust with the responsibility of making sure this happens?

Gain peace of mind about your estate planning by ensuring that you have Enduring Powers of Attorney and an up to date will in place. Consider if you need to address some of the other questions raised above. The senior law and succession team at Pitt and Moore are able to provide accurate and practical advice and can assist you in the preparation of all estate planning documentation.

Legal protection for your family through the

Enduring

Stress out

Why you shouldn’t worry about worrying

History is full of poets, philosophers and sages espousing the benefits of a positive disposition.

But it seems scientists disagree. Why? Because it pays to worry a little bit - literally.

A study published in the Journal of Behavioural Decision Making in 2012 monitored 213 people’s behaviour in relation to a simulated gambling game.

The study found participants in a sad or worrisome mood were more likely to make logical bets they knew had a higher likelihood of winning, even after a series of losses.

Whereas positive, happy bettors were quicker and more likely to play what they knew was a riskier move. Their jovial outlook influenced them to make unpredictable decisions on gut feelings, despite the opportunity to play a logical bet.

The study shows you are more likely to make winning decisions while you are in an anxious, worried state of mind.

But these findings don’t just apply to gambling.

The positive effect of this negative feeling can impact all aspects of your life and in moderation, worry can work wonders.

Sometimes a negative attitude is actually beneficial trait to have because it allows you to look at a situation in a more realistic light.

Feeling worried means you are more likely to make a logical decision with a higher outcome of success, compared with your cheerful counterpart in the same situation.

Worry can be the side effect of a strong desire to achieve perfection. And in the pursuit of perfection worry can prompt you to double check and even triple check your work.

Without worry there is a risk you can become complacent, a little too relaxed and more likely to make a mistake.

Under a moderate amount of worry you are capable of learning and remembering new information more effectively.

This is because the primary stress hormone, cortisol, improves learning and memory at moderate concentrations compared to low or high concentrations.

People who are more susceptible to worry consequently exhibit the following personality traits:

Pros

• More attentive to detail

• More motivated to work

• More polite and attentive to others

• Vigilant for risks and threats.

Cons

• Overcautious

• Less creative

• At risk of becoming too stressed

• More closed minded.

In comparison, worry-free people exhibit these contrasting behaviours:

Pros

• More creative

• Form better relationships

• Healthier

• Willing to explore.

Cons

• Prone to overlooking threats and dangers

• Open to unwise risks

• More gullible

• Lacking appropriate embarrassment or guilt.

An unforgettable country getaway

Amuri Estate was previously an environmentally-friendly bed and breakfast which has now been developed into a property used for weddings, various events and luxury lodge accommodation. Owners Richard, Debra, and their daughter Vanessa Orr wanted to continue the vision of running a unique and special venue.

This country escape is a place to relax, unwind and feel at peace knowing you’re far away from the city – enjoying the stunning views the 26-acre property has to offer. The lodge allows for an unforgettable getaway for couples or small groups. There are three well decorated and comfortable rooms with joint kitchen, dining, and lounge facilities all warmed by a double-sided schist gas fire, heat pumps and under-floor heating. The guest rooms have their own unique views.

The Wallace Peak cottage is also on offer, which is based near the established olive grove with separate access and views of Mount

Wallace, the Waiau River, and the Hanmer mountain range. The Wallace Peak is the perfect place to relax as guests have their own self-contained space.

At Amuri Estate you can also experience Hanmer Springs’ ultimate wedding, conference, and event venue with amazing views of the Southern Alps. This stunning venue provides intimate and idyllic scenery with flexible options for any wedding or event. The team is friendly, knowledgeable, and supportive of everyone who enters the venue. The newly built area can hold up to 200 people with different spaces to suit individual needs. With various outdoor areas, the modern barn-style main hall is perfect for wedding receptions and large conferences or events.

Amuri Estate is located only an eight-minute drive from the Hanmer Springs village and is 90 minutes away from Christchurch. The wellexperienced team takes care of their guests on their special day.

Amuri Estate is a beautiful and sustainable place to escape, which offers accommodation, weddings, events, and conferences.

Cassandra Kovacs Photography

How to make better decisions

Consider both costs and benefits

One factor we often forget is the 'opportunity cost'. When we do one thing, we can't be doing something else at the same time. It’s either or. When you watch TV, the benefits are relaxation and enjoyment – but the cost is that you can't use that same time to read a business book. Therefore, force yourself to list the pros and cons.

Justify yourself

When we think someone will check up on us, we make more mental effort, leading to better decision-making. Imagine you have to justify your decision to someone else. Would you still make that decision?

Distance yourself from the issue

Our brains are influenced by our current emotions, which can impair rationality. Big decisions are better made after a good night's sleep. Step back and consider the likely chain of events. What are the future implications of this decision?

Don't believe the hype

It's easy to be persuaded by vivid stories and ignore scientific evidence. Look carefully at the information source and sample size – are you being manipulated?

Make fewer decisions

Peter Drucker said effective executives do not make many decisions, they concentrate on making a few important ones. Make the big strategic decisions, rather than try to solve lots of little problems. Do not make fast decisions. Make the right decisions that have the biggest impact.

What would Spock do?

Just reminding ourselves to think rationally helps us make better decisions. Consciously trying to think rationally will also help activate all the other techniques described here.

Y ou can choose who you use

on what needs to be signed, how, where, and by whom, and how to send everything to the High Court for processing. Usually, Kiwilaw’s fee is $490 and you pay the $200 High Court fee direct.

Kiwilaw offers a unique online approach to create the legal probate documents you require.

Before agreeing to anything, ask them for a clear estimate. Most charge from $1000 to $3000 just for probate, not counting the rest of the estate administration.

Based in Oxford (North Canterbury), Kiwilaw offers a no-nonsense, empathic approach to probate. With low overheads and advanced document automation that saves time, these savings are passed on to you - the client.

It really is straightforward. An initial no-obligation screening checks the will and any complications. If extra fees are required, you are told at that point. To go ahead, you answer a simple online interview. Courtready documents then arrive at your door, complete with instructions

Evolving from a lifetime’s interest in computers and systems, communications, and the law, not to mention Cheryl’s commitment to ‘doing things better’, Kiwilaw offers a unique online approach to create the legal probate documents you require. If there’s no will, no worries, the online process is similar but the documents are slightly different and cost a little more to prepare. But this is explained up front so there are no nasty shocks.

Following the loss of a loved one, Kiwilaw is there to make your legal paperwork easier, less expensive, readily accessible, and still legally accurate. With Kiwilaw there are no hidden costs.

If there is one thing that Cheryl Simes, director/lawyer at Kiwilaw, wishes more people knew, it is this: you do not have to use the lawyer who holds the will.

The power

of gratitude

An essential mindset to help you navigate modern life

Everyone has their own memories of getting through that first Level four Lockdown and for so many it marked a period of terrible change, even an end of an era.

While we never want to belittle the myriad challenges people around the globe have faced since, we are forever aware of the large body of scientific research demonstrating the psychological benefits of gratitude.

Tuning into what’s still good in our world (cognitive reappraisal) is a foundational skill for resilience.

Multiple studies have demonstrated the psychological benefits of noticing positive events, gratitude, mindful awareness, positive reappraisal, the use of personal strengths and acts of kindness during times of significant stress, and suggested the importance of these strategies for supporting people through the ongoing challenges of the pandemic (Waters et al, 2021).

Gratitude is just one positive emotion that serves to buffer and bolster mental health in times of adversity and stress, aiding recovery from loss and trauma via widening perceptual field and allowing people to see the big picture (Vernon et al., 2009).

Kim Tay, director of online training from the New Zealand Institute of Wellbeing and Resilience says, “There’s no doubt the past year has been tough, and we don’t want to diminish that, but wherever you are on the spectrum of how the pandemic has impacted you, taking a moment to notice what’s still good in your world, and particularly who you are

grateful for, is such a powerful way of broadening our perspective and enabling us to cope in the face of uncertainty, challenge and change.

“The benefits of a grateful mindset and grateful orientation toward life would appear to be especially valuable in the midst of uncontrollable stress, such as that engendered by the coronavirus crisis,” reports Professor Lea Waters and colleagues from around the world in their paper on psychological strategies for ‘buffering, bolstering and building’ psychological health.

And so, we encourage you, your colleagues, your teams, families, whānau and communities to make an intentional effort to tune into the good at this time.

To pause and reflect, for a moment, on the magnificent job done by all the people involved with delivering essential services, on the extraordinary ways families coped with homeschooling, and the businesses and organisations of all shapes and sizes doing their utmost to keep going.

Consider all those behind-the-scenes legends who keep New Zealand moving through adversity, never seeking the limelight or praise, and the massive contribution they make every day of the year.

We encourage you to take a moment to ponder, who is essential to you and your way of life?

It could be anyone involved in keeping your whānau safe and healthy, the food flowing, the power on, the rubbish collected. Or simply someone you can’t imagine facing the tough times without.

Questions you can ask yourself:

• Who are you grateful for?

• Who wouldn’t you want to live without?

• Who stood up for you last year – at work or home?

• Who are you most proud of?

• Have you ever thought of thanking the people behind the essential services in some way?

A year and a half ago, the whole of Aotearoa (and indeed the wider world) stepped up for the first big Covid lockdown.

Together our nation united to face the largest health challenge facing the country since the First World War.

Keeping your will up to date

Your will should not be a document which you write once and never look at again. As life changes, your will may need to reflect this.

Wills should be reviewed every three to four years, so that you ensure you have included, or in some instances excluded, benefactors.

For instance, if a spouse dies or more grandchildren have been born, these are times to take another look at your will to make sure it is a true reflection of the legacy you want to leave.

Remember, that your last will and testament is the legal document that has your final wishes. It is the instructions that will be left for your executor to carry out and really needs to accurately reflect what you have and who you want to leave it to.

There have been instances where an ex-spouse has forgotten to remove their former husband or wife from the will. This has resulted in shock and anger from children at an already stressful time and lengthy and costly court battles to rectify the situation.

If you have inherited money or assets, gone into or sold a business or your financial situation has drastically changed, these are times when you should review your will.

You may have inherited heirlooms from a family member since writing your original will and you may want to make sure you leave those precious family keepsakes are passed on to a member of your family.

It can also include such things as funeral arrangements including burial wishes, so it is important to get them on the will so there is no confusion.

A living will

The Public Trust website also advises that if your medical situation changes then it is a good time to consider a living will.

“A living will, also called an “advance directive”, states what medical care you should be given if you become physically or mentally unable to decide. You might want to make a living will saying you should or shouldn’t be resuscitated or that you want life support turned off in certain circumstances. “Medical professionals can’t ignore an advance directive unless there are reasonable grounds to doubt its validity.”

It is relatively easy to update your will. Your lawyer or a Public Trust representative can assist you with this process.

Times when you should update your will

• Change of marital status

• When your financial situation changes

• Your partner or spouse dies

• Your health changes

• Already-named benefactors have passed away

• The birth or adoption of a family member

• The acquisition or sale of a significant asset

• Children reach 18 years

• If you have come into an inheritance.

Bang for your buck

Getting more out of your money

Should you live for today or for tomorrow? Should you take a holiday on a Pacific Island or pay off the car loan?

When it comes to managing your money, it is hard to find the right balance and there is no absolutely right or wrong answer. The right answer for you depends primarily on what your priorities are.

Most people earn between $1 million and $2 million in their lifetime, but manage to save very little of what they earn. The problem is not our income, it’s what we spend.

So how can we make the most of what we earn?

Five key principles to stick to:

• Take control of your money and control your life

• Spend less than you earn

• Set aside a percentage of every dollar of your income and live off the rest

• Let time and compound interest work for you

• Invest in yourself — especially your skills and qualifications. In practice, this means paying off debt and focusing on saving. According to the IFA, this includes joining a subsidised superannuation scheme such as KiwiSaver, paying off high-cost short term debt, creating

an emergency cash fund, paying off your home mortgage as soon as possible and establishing a long-term savings plan.

That may sound difficult right now, but the best way to start managing your money is to draw up a budget. Your budget will consist of your income, your expenses including fixed and variable costs, and discretionary spending.

Remember that in the long run even the fixed costs like your house and car are choices that you make and if they cost too much, you can change that. How much you spend on the discretionary items is also your choice, which means that how much you have left over for saving is entirely

your decision.

Money management tips:

• Watch your cash expenses — cash from ATMs can add up very quickly

• Beware of luxuries dressed as necessities

• How much you buy is a choice; e.g., clothing

• Aim to spend no more than 90 percent of your income – this allows you to pay for some of the big-ticket items

• Beware of spending creep as your income rises

• Give yourself a credit card haircut

• Never spend more than $100 on anything without taking 48 hours to think about it.

Recognising online scams

– what to watch out for

There were 16,355 scam reports with 2,343 scams involving financial losses. The best way to protect yourself is to be aware that scams exist and understand the common tactics used to open up your wallet and spill your information.

What are some of the most common types of scams on the internet? You may have encountered some without even realising it.

Phishing scams

Phishing, or the fraudulent practice of posing as a reputable company to obtain personal information like passwords and credit card numbers, can happen to anyone. It can be someone posing as your bank, your Netflix account, or even an alternative email of yours.

Example: You open your emails to see your bank requesting you log in to check on suspicious activity on your account. The log in page looks exactly like it does on your online banking app!

However, when you click on the email sender, the email looks a little bit strange. When you look at the domain name (the part of the email address after the @ symbol), it misspelled the name of the bank.

If this is the case, contact your bank independently from details on the back of your card or from an independent search you can trust.

Romance scams

Through dating websites, apps, and even social media, dating scammers reach out pretending to be prospective partners. They take advantage of people using emotions to lure you in to giving them money, gifts or personal details.

A lot of romance scammers catfish people, or use fake pictures and details, and make up online profiles to lull people into a false sense of security.

The scammer will go to great lengths to gain their victim’s trust and to keep them romantically interested, from professing their love and even

sending gifts. A lot of times they can take months to establish this trust and may even pretend to book flights to come visit but don’t actually come because of some excuse or another.

Example: One of the most common romance scams is pretending to have a personal emergency that requires a lot of money, like an ill family member or that the scammer is stranded somewhere without credit cards. They’ll then ask for money (or even manipulate the victim into offering it).

Shopping scams

A lot of online sellers are legitimate, but some scammers set up fake websites to rip off shoppers trying to find the best bargains.

These websites can use modern layouts and designs, even having a “.co. nz” domain name to make it seem like an actual New Zealand business.

Other times, the business even advertises on your Facebook or Instagram page, giving it an extra air of legitimacy.

Often, the fake website’s biggest draw are really discounted prices. The victim can either receive a knock off item or no item will ever come through the mail.

One of the biggest giveaways of a shopping scam website is they ask the customer to pay via money order or wire transfer. Legitimate companies will offer a secure payment option like credit/debit card, PayPal, and POLi payments.

According to the 2019 Annual Report from Netsafe, nearly $23 million was reported as lost to scammers.

The Joiner Shop

Fraser & Suzanne, along with staff Andrew, Lizz, Dave, Michael, Andre, Kevin and Aaron offer all the benefits of dealing with a friendly, local company in a relaxed and happy atmosphere!

We can offer expert helpful advice and recommendations on all aspects of your project and our team would love to help you with your next new build, renovation or commercial project.

The Joiner Shop operate in Kaikoura, Canterbury, Marlborough and further and is also a member of the Registered Master Joiners Association.

From design to installation

All work is done in our wellequipped workshop by our experienced team.

We are proud to have quality craftspeople on our staff with the skills to build technically challenging, bespoke designs.

We’re committed to preserving the skills and knowledge our joinery team possess, it is the ethos of what we do.

Our joiners love their craft and whether you have a one-off piece or a bigger project, our skilled team will deliver top class workmanship and results.

Wall to wall choices

There are many ways to fill these vertical spaces, but before you pick out your photos and wall décor, how are you going to surface the walls?

The first instinct for many of us in New Zealand is to reach for the white paint. Using the same white paint throughout a rental property is expected, but it’s a bit drab when a house is absentmindedly doused in it.

It says: ‘yeah, this place is just one rung on my way up the property ladder’. Even if it’s true, that doesn’t really translate to ‘home sweet home, ’ does it?

Plus, it’s a shame to leave so much potential untapped. Sometimes we go for the safe choice because we don’t want to have to think about all of the possibilities.

Brainstorming, however, is half the fun. With new technologies available to us the options are practically endless. Of course, it doesn't stop with paint, there’s wallpaper too.

Playing with paint

A bucket of paint is a portal to colours galore. Paint can be altered to match or complement the statement piece in your room, whether it’s a bold, hot pink couch or the intricate pattern of a family heirloom, faded with time.

Paint doesn’t have to be applied in any one way either. Different techniques, patterns and finishes can add visual interest as well.

On the flip side, it’s important to remember that painting is a process. There’s the prep work, primer and dry times to consider before applying your new paint colour.

Overenthusiastic and eager to get their colour choices on the wall, DIYers often have their bubbles burst when their paint job doesn’t turn out the way they’d hoped after skipping necessary preparations.

Wondering about wallpaper

Gone are the days of pasting wallpaper onto the wall. Nowadays DIYers have the choice between pasting wallpaper or adhesive wallpapers. Also, homeowners can further personalise their wallpaper choice with high resolution photos, which can be blown up to fit the wall space.

Patterns and textures are easily integrated into a space with wallpaper available in a variety of colours and materials like paper, vinyl, fabric and more.

Nevertheless, whether pasting or adhering wallpaper, wrinkles and misalignment show up easily. Also, hanging photos and wall décor is a bigger decision since holes aren’t patched in the same way as paint. Also, wallpaper, like paint, requires proper preparation before application.

Decisions, decisions

It’s not so much about which one is superior, but which is right for the space you’re creating. Both have their pros and cons, but who said you had to choose one or the other?

With the use of paint and wallpaper samples, you can really make a statement by using a bold wallpaper for a feature wall and then paint the other walls with a colour found in the wallpaper to create a cohesive look.

For many homeowners, the different walls that make up their homes are blank canvases used to create a sense of familiarity.

Linen Wildflower wallpaper by Carol Robinson at Wallsauce. Photo by Wallsauce.com.

Fisher Windows

For over 60 years, Fisher has been offering New Zealand innovative joinery solutions.

They offer products that are strong and reliable, so when consumers purchase Fisher, they know they are getting a quality product that is back by superior knowledge and after-sales service. Being the oldest in the market means they’re also the most trusted brain of joinery and, although classic in approach, Fisher has kept pace with the times and has introduced design innovations that are known for their strength, smooth function, stunning beauty and modern engineering.

Fisher aren’t just any old joinery company either; they were actually created by the same man that created the Spirit of Adventure Trust – Lou Fisher. After decades apart, the two companies have reunited and now, Fisher Windows sends one young person from their local community to sea to take part on this amazing voyage.

Fisher offers a massive range of product from entrance doors and bifold doors to awning windows, casement windows and so much more. Fisher Windows are even the creators of the original Ranchslider. Their widows and doors are designed to make the most of what comes naturally, seeking to make the best use of light and the natural environment, while also providing the practical benefits of lower maintenance, longer life and better security.

Products:

• Entrance doors

• Bifold doors

• French doors

• Hinged doors

• Awning windows

• Bifold windows

• Casement windows

• Louvre windows

• Sliding windows

• Speciality windows

• Conservatories

• Eruoslider Doors

• Eurostacker Doors

• Ranchslider Doors

• Foldback Bifold Doors

• Ranchstacker Doors

• Millennium roof windows

• Aria window and door hardware

• Lucerne window and door hardware

• Malta window and door hardware

• Aluvent passive ventilation

• Insert windows – retrofit.

With branches right across the country from Invercargill, right up to Whangarei, you expert in windows and doors is only a phone call away. For more information, call 0800 347 473 or visit them online at www.fisherwindows.co.nz

Green with envy

If you haven’t begun preparing your lawn for the warmer months, now is the time to start. The experts from Kennards Hire have produced 10 handy tips to make sure that your lawn leaves your neighbours green with envy.

1. Do a good scan of your yard and remove any sticks. Rake up any leftover autumn leaves so that your lawn is receiving maximum sunlight and oxygen.

2. Make sure all of your lawn care equipment is in good working order.

3. Aerating your lawn will reduce soil compaction and increase air circulation. A well aerated lawn will become more efficient in absorbing rain and irrigation water, instead of it just running off the surface.

4. Testing your lawn’s pH levels will establish how acidic or alkaline your soil is. This will help you to determine the condition of your soil, and what your soil may require to nourish and sustain a healthy lawn.

5. If your lawn is suffering from any dead patches or is a bit sparse in some areas, this is the perfect time to sow some new seed for spring. Remove dead grass and fill with loose soil, then sow your seed. Make sure you use the same seed as the rest of your lawn.

6. Until spring really starts to kick in, keep your cutting height high and begin evening the length out. Make sure that you don’t cut

your lawn more than one third of its height, as this may expose your lawn to disease and the lingering weather extremes of winter.

7. Grass clippings are a form of organic fertiliser and a great way to keep your lawn healthy. By using a mulching mower and returning the grass clippings to your lawn you are essentially retuning 15 percent more nutrients back into your soil.

8. The key to a healthy lawn in summer is a deep root system. To create a deep lawn root system, you need to train the grass roots of the lawn to search deeper for water. This is done by reducing the time between watering, and increasing the duration that you irrigate.

9. There is nothing worse than a patchy lawn that is riddled with weeds. Hire a spray unit and use a Bindii and broad leaf herbicide to apply directly to the weeds.

10. Grass grows fastest in the warmer months, so decreasing your cutting height down to 2.5cm won’t affect it too much. During cooler months, grass grows much slower so it’s a good idea to raise your cutting height a little so as not to damage it.

NZ RECRUIT IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE YOUR COMPANY WITH ALL ITS RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS.

Developing extensive knowledge during years of recruitment and sales, both in the UK and New Zealand, we wanted to bring this platform and provide a service to help and develop your recruitment needs.

OFFICE HOURS

am - 2:00 pm

OUR GOAL IS TO PROVIDE A SERVICE THAT HELPS YOUR BUSINESS WITH RECRUITMENT AND TAKES THE PRESSURE OFF YOU.

Communication is key. We can help write your advert, screen and prepare for interviews. What takes your time and puts pressure on you; we can help manage. Building long-term working relationships is essential to us both, understanding your business and your recruitment needs.

Sat - Sun 6:00 am - 8:30 pm

Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

*Weekends

Richmond - 03 544 4306 74 Gladstone Rd, Richmond 7020

Motueka - 03 528 0071 481 High St, Motueka 71230

NZ Recruit is offering services to help reach and fill your current vacancies by advertising your current jobs on Seek, Trademe and Myjobspace, also by expanding your reach through social media. Not only can NZ Recruit offer advertising services, we will ensure applicants are contacted accordingly.

We understand that sometimes you need an extra pair of hands to help for a few days or a few weeks; not a problem, we can provide both short and long term solutions to help your company during those busier times.

www.nzrecruit.co.nz

(03) 943 9505 | info@nzrecruit.co.nz

Total Golf

Come see the Total Golf Nelson driving range to get your fix. Working on your slice or hook has never been easier, especially as the premises are the only ones in Nelson. Open seven days a week – from 7-5:30 in the summer and 8-4:30 in the winter – Total Golf’s driving range serves everyone. This ranges from beginners and novices to regular golfers practising, as well as academy golfers working to become elite in the game.

If you’re looking to take your golf game even further, consider coaching sessions. All sessions now have the option of a video analysis to learn the in and outs of your current form and technique, so you can learn how to elevate it.

• 30 minute session for adults from $60, and 30 minute sessions for juniors from $30

• 60 minute session for adults from $100

• 9 hole playing session for 1 person – $140, 2 people – $180, and 3 people – $220

• Couples session for one hour – $90

Session packages are flexible to suit your needs, with a six session package available. For example, six sessions are worth three hours of time total split any way you choose. Whether it’s a half hour or one hour sessions, it can be whatever way your game requires to get the most improvement.

Beyond the driving range and coaching sessions, Total Golf also offers a selection of golf clubs and golf gear. The shop, available online, carries brands such as Callaway, Cobra, Titleist, Mizuno and more.

Contact the Total Golf team at its pro shop on Bolt Road in Tahunanui, Nelson at (03) 548 5028.

To find out more about Total Golf and its services, visit www.totalgolf.co.nz

Let’s wine about it

A South Island vineyard guide breaking down one of New Zealand’s biggest export industries

It’s still competitive with our English-speaking counterparts, though –for example, our neighbour and closest ally, Australia has an estimated retail market of $NZ834 million compared to our $655 million.

Within the New Zealand wine scene, the South Island is full of powerhouse regions and wineries that rival some of the best in the world, boasting some of the largest and most notable wine regions in the country.

Marlborough

Home to 90 percent of New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blanc plantings, the Marlborough region accounts for by far and by large the highest producing vineyard area, as well as total wine production throughout the country. This is the flagship region that put New Zealand wine on the international stage.

For the total of 39,935 hectares of vineyards across New Zealand, Marlborough alone takes up 27,808 producing hectares – Sauvignon Blanc accounts for 25,160 hectares of all the country’s plantings. That’s 63 percent of all of our wine in just Sauvignon Blanc.

It’s no wonder when you hear about New Zealand wines abroad, the first image some people think of is a cheeky Sav on a blazing hot day.

Wineries that typically spring to mind are Cloudy Bay, Villa Maria, and Wither Hills. Oyster Bay also does well internationally, with its Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir taking home medals in both the United States and the UK.

Nelson

While Nelson’s wineries only account for three percent of New Zealand’s total wine production, the region has high-quality wines that aren’t beholden to any variety. From Pinot Noir to Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc to Aromatics, Nelson also has a funky mix of other varieties on offer.

If you wanted to experience the full spectrum of a Nelson’s wineries in one day, the region’s compressed size (the vineyards have a total of 1,102 producing hectares) gives you the ability to visit most of Nelson’s wineries in a day.

Himmelsfield Vineyard in particular has a rich history that echoes much of Nelson’s – the region’s vines have been cultivated by German settlers since the mid-1800s, and Himmelsfield Vineyard founder, Beth Eggers is the fifth-generation German descendant of immigrants who landed in Upper Moutere nearly 150 years ago.

North Canterbury

One of New Zealand’s newer wine regions with its first production established in 1978, the North Canterbury region still turns heads with wines regularly achieving critical acclaim.

A change from the top of the south’s Sauvignon dominance, North Canterbury’s largest variety is Pinot Noir – 423 hectares worth – closely followed behind by Sauvignon Blanc at 394 hectares, among other varieties that make up a total of 1,369 producing hectares at 2 percent of total NZ wine production.

Fiddler’s Green Vineyard & Bistro in particular, located in Waipara, is known not only for its fine wines but also for its high-class food and dining experience. Its namesake refers to 19th century maritime folklore about an afterlife for sailors with a fiddle that never stops playing and wine that never stops flowing.

When talking about North Canterbury wines, establishments such as Black Estate and Sherwood Estate are also often brought up.

Compared to the rest of the world, the wine industry in New Zealand is small but mighty. Accounting for one percent of total world wine production by volume, the industry export value is $1.8 billion as of 2020.

North Otago

A subregion of the Waitaki Valley, North Otago still catches a lot of attention for its tiny size and young age. Only with 59 producing hectares and less than one percent of New Zealand’s total wine production, a handful of passionate and inventive producers have put it on the scene, its first plantings done in 2001.

Much like its neighbour in Central Otago, the subregion’s largest producing variety is Pinot Noir, but there’s also a good mixture of Pinot Gris, Riesling and Gewürztraminer produced, among other white varieties.

Central Otago

Queen of the Pinot Noir, Central Otago is New Zealand’s third largest producing vineyard area at 1,930 hectares. Its flagship variety accounts for over 75 percent of its plantings; Pinot Noir takes up a total of 1,555 producing hectares.

Beyond some of the world’s best Pinot Noir, Central Otago also comes up with plenty of vivid white wines, such as Pinot Gris.

It’s the lowest point in the world that is hospitable to growing grapes – beyond it, you can’t grow anything. There are plenty of subregions within the Central Otago area to cater to this fact, from Bannockburn to Cromwell, from Wanaka to Alexandra.

Each subregion has its own distinctive style and flair within it, with Gibbston producing wines typically light yet intense while Cromwell is known for its silky and rich wines.

One of the most famous wineries in the region is Two Paddocks, in no small part due to the fact that its owned by award-winning actor Sam Neill. Other well known wineries include Mt Difficulty and Valli Gibbston.

The figures referred to in this article come from New Zealand Wine’s textbook and annual reports. To view more data about New Zealand’s vineyards, vintages and more, visit www.nzwine.com.

Food pairing with South Island wine styles

Sauvignon Blanc: This fresh and zingy wine complements seafood, as well as nice citrus and vinaigrettes.

Pinot Noir: This rich and deep wine goes well with savoury dishes as well as gamier meats, like quail, duck, veal and venison.

Riesling: This fruity wine complements drier salads and light seafoods, as well as white meats like chicken.

Pinot Gris: This well-balanced wine goes well with pork and white-sauced pastas, as well as white meats and seafood.

NELSON TASMAN POSITIVE AGEING FORUM

The Nelson Tasman Positive Ageing Forum’s role is to provide an opportunity for older persons and agencies who work for and with them to enable residents of Nelson Tasman to age positively.

As part of promoting positive ageing, we host regular networking and information sessions for older people in Richmond and Motueka called Positive Ageing Forums.

The meetings are open for agencies and individuals and cover various topics such as wellbeing, housing, digital literacy and others.

RICHMOND MEETINGS 2023

• Tuesday 21 February (Tasman District Council, Chambers)

• Tuesday 2 May

• Tuesday 4 July

• Tuesday 5 September

• Tuesday 7 November

Meetings start at 1.00 pm in the Constance Barnicoat Room at Richmond Library (except the first one).

MOTUEKA MEETINGS 2023

• Thursday 2 March

• Thursday 11 May

• Thursday 20 July

• Thursday 14 September

• Thursday 2 November

Meetings start at 10.00 am at Te Noninga Kumu Motueka Library.

HELP MAKE A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY

tasman.govt.nz

ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL (A4A)

Accessibility is universal and impacts on us all whether we are young, old, rural, urban, able-bodied or have a disability.

Regular meetings are open to anyone with an interest in accessibility. Meetings are held at the Tasman District Council offices in Richmond from 10.00 am – 12.00 pm.

MEETING DATES 2023

• Friday 17 March

• Friday 2 June

• Friday 1 September

ALL WELCOME

Umbrella Group

Abby’s got you covered

Deciphering insurance, policy documents, what you’re covered for and how to navigate a claim can be an overwhelming task and experience.

Having an Insurance Adviser can really help with ensuring you are covered correctly and having a “go to” person when a claim arises. It’s important to have a relationship with an Adviser because you know they have your best interests at heart and will support you through reviewing different cover options and assisting you through processes, like setting up policies and claims.

Abby Esler has been an Insurance Adviser for 3 years but has a long history with insurance and a clear love for her job. After working as a Claims Case Manager and then a Team Leader in Superannuation Insurance for a large super fund in Melbourne for 8 years, Abby has a wealth of knowledge from the claims perspective and knows the importance of having the right covers in place when things go wrong.

However, the call for home was strong and Abby had the opportunity to work with her father who has been working as an Insurance Adviser for over 40 years. Growing up with her dad meant she has heard about insurance all her life and saw the industry as a not only a great career choice but also because it meant she got to work with people, helping them when they were in need.

Abby is passionate about people having the right covers in place to ensure that when bad things happen, her clients will be looked after, and money is one less thing to worry about.

If you are wanting to review your current insurance covers or discuss taking out insurance cover, give Abby a call.

Find the words in the grid and cross out from the list below.

Words go horzintaly and vertically (not diagonally) they may intersect .

Dont ‘s : no bending, overlapping or going backwards

Note: Ignore spaces, dashes and diacritics, if any. There will be no unused letters left on the grid at upon completion

Word Search

Satay chicken wrap

Ingredients

• 1 wholegrain or natural wrap

• 50g shredded chicken

• ¼ carrot, grated

• ½ courgette, grated

Satay sauce

3/4 TBSP peanut butter

1/2 tsp chilli sauce

• ¼ capsicum diced

• ¼ red onion, diced

• 1 handful baby spinach

1/2 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp reduced salt soy sauce, 1/2 tsp sesame oil

Method

1. Mix together the chicken, carrot, courgette, capsicum, red onion and baby spinach, plus any other desired vegetables.

2. In a pot, gently heat the satay sauce ingredients until combined, adding water as needed.

3. Allow the sauce to cool and then mix into the chicken and vegetables.

4. Place down the middle of the wrap. Fold the bottom of the wrap then the sides and eat fresh or for lunch the next day.

Nutritional value

One serving contains: Calories: 228, Protein: 24g, Fat: 9g, Carbohydrates: 13g, Fibre: 2g, Sugar: 6g

Allergies: Gluten, Sesame, Peanut, Nuts.

Study shows these hobbies can increase IQ

Not only does reading improve vocabulary range, but it can also develop analytical and critical thinking as the constant stimulation trains the brain to problem-solve. Moreover, participants in the study commented that they felt more relaxed after a few weeks.

In second place, knitting improved participants’ IQ by 9.68 percent. Exercising and reading rank third and fourth respectively. However, volunteers in the category ‘joining an online gaming group’ commenced with the highest average IQ (104 to 109).

IQ tests are a tool to measure a range of cognitive reasoning skills such as problem-solving and logic. According to VeryWellMind, an average IQ test score is around 100, with different countries around the world varying between 59 and 108.

In first place is learning a new instrument with an IQ score increase of 9.71% with volunteers’ IQ before the study averaging 103 and averaging 113 after the study.

DIYS.com reveals that the most popular instrument to pick up was the guitar with 31 percent of participants favouring it.

Knitting takes second place with an increase of 9.68 percent with average IQ scores of 93 before and 102 after the six-month period. Not only is knitting a stress-reducing activity but it also engages cognitive stimulation.

Exercising ranks third with an IQ amelioration of 7.37 percent (95-102). Playing sports and exercising is a popular activity to increase happiness via the release of chemicals known as endorphins, in addition to dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.

According to Harvard Medical School, people who exercise have a larger brain volume in the memory and control-thinking areas.

Following in fourth place is reading as volunteers responded to a 7.07 percent IQ score increase. Participants were asked to read a new book every week and subsequently showed an average IQ increase score from 99 to 106.

Meditating takes fifth place with an IQ improvement of 6.38 percent (94100). Pilates (23 percent), yoga (21 percent) and mindful breathing (17 percent) were the most popular practices.

With constant distractions, meditation exercises our attention spans with evidence suggesting that long-term meditators are shown to have faster reaction times.

The following activities are ranked according to their average IQ increase after volunteers completed the activity:

Learning a new instrument - 9.71 percent

Knitting - 9.68 percent

Exercising - 7.37 percent

Reading - 7.07 percent

Practising meditation - 6.38 percent

Learning a new language - 5.88 percent

Gardening - 5.10 percent

Joining an online video game group - 4.81 percent

Making and editing videos - 4.26 percent

Trying new recipes every week - 4.17 percent

Starting to write/blog - 4.12 percent

Colouring in an art book - 3.96 percent

Daily journaling - 3.26 percent

Playing a new board game - 2.00 percent

Sewing - 1.03 percent.

Of the hobbies studied, learning a new instrument proves to be the hobby, which increases IQ the most.

Super tasty and a great source of protein, fibre and vegetables.

Why h ave an advance care plan?

An advance care plan lets you make choices about any treatment or care you want in the future and for the end of your life.

Advance care planning also gives everyone a chance to say what treatment they would and would not want, particularly for future and end of life care.

Writing down your thoughts and wishes, gives you a voice, if you are no longer able to say.

A plan makes it much easier for families and healthcare providers to know what a person wants if they can no longer speak for t hemselves.

You have some control of your health care, often reducing stress and anxiety for you and your whanau.

Your whanau, although grieving, may get some comfort, knowing that they were able to carry out your wishes.

Ask about an advance care plan at your general practice. A doctor, nurse or other health professional can help you with this.

Marlborough Primary Health contracts health pro fessionals a nd o rganisations in t he community, such as General Practices, to deliver quality primary health care services to an enrolled population of approximately 48,000 people and a total of ten ( 10 ) G eneral P ractices o p erating i n B lenheim, P icton, Renwick a nd H avelock.

(03)520 6200

info@marlboroughpho.org.nz

www.marlboroughpho.org.nz

Age Concern Nelson Tasman

Age Concern Nelson Tasman loves bringing people together to connect, share stories and laugh.

Our vision is that all older people live a meaningful life in an inclusive society, and at the heart of all our work is a passion and commitment to keeping older people free from harm and connecting them to relevant support services.

We now have two offices in the region, having opened a Nelson office in early 2022, and a staff of ten who are committed to promoting positive ageing and offering a wide range of services.

Get in touch with us if you’d like to find out more about:

• Volunteering – we’re always on the lookout for drivers, visitors, Tea & Talk hosts, or even riding rickshaws!

• Our visiting service – offering regular visits and friendship to older adults looking for more company.

• Elder abuse response – making sure our community are safe and free from harm, whether it’s financial, physical or emotional abuse.

• Care & Repair – a service that matches approved providers with people looking for help around the home, from gardeners and handypeople to hairdressers and plumbers.

• Weekly fun activities at both our hubs, including Sing Yourself Well, SpinPoi and Tea & Talk. We also offer Tea & Talk in venues including: Victory Community Centre; Nelson library; Motueka; Takaka; Tapawera; and Pakawau/Collingwood.

• Older driver programmes and workshops – Staying Safe (a refresher of the road rules) and AA CarFit (making sure you’re as safe and comfortable as possible), as well as Life Without A Car.

• Summer Activities Series – six weeks of have-a-go activities across the region, all free for people 65+!

With over 170 volunteers helping us deliver our services, we are a growing and thriving charity, and are committed to making Nelson Tasman the most age-friendly region in Aotearoa.

Get in touch today to find out more.

03 544 7624.

www.ageconcernnt.org.nz

Putting a smile on the faces of older people since 1976

Making your dreams a reality

Decorating Marlborough Limited are your local friendly painters who work together with you to give your home a revamp or to take care of your home maintenance needs.

Our team of nine is respectful, friendly, honest and professional –so you can trust that we will look after your home and furnishings with the utmost care.

We have redecorated hundreds of lovely homes throughout Marlborough. Our clients are always so grateful for the colour advice and great service we provide. Whether your home requires painting on the inside or the outside, we are here to take care of it all, including wallpapering. If your house is looking tired and dated, we can come and make your home look almost new again with our quality painting service and guaranteed workmanship.

We are registered Master Painters and offer a free colour consultation service if you need any advice. Co-owner Sandy Knight, said, “We love what we do! The team is really passionate about their trade and they all take great pride in their work, which means our clients are always very happy.”

Decorating Marlborough offer services both inside and outside of your home. We can work on kitchens, bathrooms, sunrooms and concrete and exteriors. We’re also able to provide airless spraying, decorating and create feature walls.

We want to help you make your dreams a reality with our qualified team of experts. We guarantee you the preparation completed on your projected will be of the highest standard, thus ensuring the finished product will be too.

If you are thinking about painting and decorating your home, give Sandy Knight a call on 022 017 6691 and she will come and see you to discuss your requirements. She can offer free quotations and free advice with colour schemes and the latest trends.

Design Marlborough

Design Marlborough Architecture are there to guide you through the process of your new build, alterations or additions to your home or renovation.

Providing full architectural services to ensure your build is a top quality individually designed home. Customisation to your personal needs and wants is key for Design Marlborough.

Founder of Design Marlborough Architecture, Benjamin Stace says creating or improving homes to suit their client’s individual lifestyle, budget and site is at the heart of their design process. “We focus on keeping designs well laid out with natural flow through adjoining spaces and outdoor areas, while keeping the overall structure nice and simple to keep costs down.”

“I love our designs to incorporate accessible design principles into them, from level entry exterior sills to fully tiled showers.” These features allow clients of all abilities to easily move around their homes and also access their outdoor areas seamlessly.

His number one piece of advice for people looking to build or renovate is to get in touch with an architect right at the early stages. When they are looking at a piece of land is ideal, as this allows for all the site features to be incorporated into the design.

Making the hundreds of decisions while building or renovating your home can be overwhelming with

endless possibilities available. Ben can help you work through these and take away the stress with his over a decade of experience.

The joy of having an architectural designer on your team is there is no need for unnecessary worries, as Ben is on hand to answer questions and put your concerns at ease.

Getting the right advice early on really can help you save money, and ensure you get the home you’ve always dreamed of.

Architectural plans and documentation are provided

throughout the design process, as well as building advisory services to help guide you throughout the build.

Ben is happy to collaborate with your selected builder or building company to get the best possible outcome for your home. “A building project is a team effort, and we all need to be working together towards the same outcome,” Ben says.

Get in touch to schedule a consultation for your next project via Design Marlborough’s website at: www.designmarlborough.co.nz

Super savings with SuperGold

SuperGold helps you stretch your money further, offering instant discounts, special offers on everyday essentials and more. Explore the many ways you could save locally and nationwide.

What is the SuperGold Card?

SuperGold - or the ‘gold card’ as some people know it - gives you golden opportunities to stretch your money further. There are thousands of instant discounts and special offers. You will find all sorts of ways to make instant savings every day near you across New Zealand and in Australia.

The card gives you:

• Instant savings on everyday essentials like electricity, insurance, food and healthcare

• Discounts on entertainment, travel and in retail stores

• High value special offers

• Free off-peak public transport.

Getting the SuperGold Card

Getting an automatic SuperGold Card

Once your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail. This usually only takes a few weeks, but you may have to wait a month or two if you apply for New Zealand Superannuation prior to your 65th birthday.

SuperGold is one way the New Zealand government and business communities can say ‘thank you’ or ‘tēnā rawa atu koe’ to older New Zealanders for the work they have done raising families, supporting communities and contributing to Aotearoa.

Applying for a SuperGold Card

If you do not receive or are not eligible to receive New Zealand Superannuation, you can still apply for a SuperGold Card. You must be 65+ years old and be a New Zealand resident. Simply fill in the SuperGold Card application (PDF 255KB) and return it to us.

Call: 0800 25 45 65 (Monday – Friday, 8am-5pm)

Email: information@supergold.govt.nz

SuperGold Centre

PO Box 5054

Wellington 6145

www.supergold.govt.nz

Veteran SuperGold

Veteran SuperGold is a specially branded SuperGold Card to recognise service to our country in the Armed Forces.

Once your Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail. This usually only takes a few weeks, but you may have to wait a month or two if you apply for New Zealand Superannuation prior to your 65th birthday.

Get the SuperGold app

The fast and easy way to find discounts and offers when you’re out and about is to use the SuperGold app. If you have a smartphone or tablet, download the SuperGold app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Office for Seniors

The Office for Seniors is working to improve the lives of older people across New Zealand. Their website and regular email newsletter provide helpful information, news, and stories for older people.

Visit: www.officeforseniors.govt.nz

Call: 0800 25 45 65 (Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm)

Email: information@supergold.govt.nz

Frequently asked questions about SuperGold

Can I use my SuperGold Card to travel free on public transport?

Yes. Most areas off-peak is usually 9am to 3pm and from 6.30pm to the end of service on weekdays, and any time on weekends and public holidays. In most areas you will also need a smart card from the Regional Council to access free off-peak travel.

How do I order a replacement card?

If your SuperGold Card is lost, stolen, damaged or if you change your name, call or email us to order a replacement card. You will need to let us know your full name, date of birth, current residential and postal address and SuperGold Card client number if you have one (found on the back of your SuperGold Card). You should receive a replacement card within three weeks – free of charge.

When will I receive my SuperGold Card?

You will be automatically issued a SuperGold Card when you’re granted New Zealand Superannuation or a Veteran’s Pension or a main benefit at age 65 or over.

Your New Zealand Superannuation will need to be approved at least three weeks before turning age 65 if you wish to receive your SuperGold Card by your 65th birthday.

Is SuperGold connected to my New Zealand Superannuation?

Once your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail.

If you do not receive or are not eligible to receive New Zealand Superannuation, you can still apply for a SuperGold Card.

What if I am already receiving a main benefit?

If you are turning 65 and receiving a main benefit from the Ministry of Social Development, your SuperGold Card will arrive at least three weeks after you are granted New Zealand Superannuation on your 65th birthday.

If you are not applying for New Zealand Superannuation then you will need to call or email us to advise you have turned 65 so the MSD can send you a new SuperGold Card.

How does the Community Services Card work with SuperGold?

If you have a current Community Services Card at the time you are granted New Zealand Superannuation, and you may continue to qualify for a Community Services Card, you will need to complete a Community Services Card application form to get a new SuperGold/Community Services Combo Card. It will have the initials CSC on the back and an expiry date. Your new combo card’ replaces your Community Services Card. You can use this card for both health subsidies and SuperGold discounts.

Does my SuperGold Card have an expiry date?

Since May 2010, the only SuperGold cards with an expiry date are those which double as both a Community Services Card and SuperGold Card. These ‘combo cards’ have an expiry date because entitlement to a Community Services Card can change over time.

If the back of your card includes an expiry date (EXP) and this date has expired, call 0800 25 45 65 or email information@ supergold.govt.nz to arrange a replacement card.

Can I still get SuperGold if I am not a resident?

If you are not normally a resident in New Zealand and do not intend to stay here, you will not qualify to receive a SuperGold Card.

Information provided courtesy of and copyrighted to the Ministry of Social Development: www.supergold.govt.nz.

Expert painting & decorating

Her and her daughter work across the Nelson area, delivering high quality painting and decorating services. Known locally for her bright pink signwriting, passion and painting skills, Racquel has quickly become a staple in her community.

Racquel worked for a family business for about seven years, painting and decorating, and thought it was pretty cool. She decided she wanted to do it herself. “Now, I’ve got my own little family business with my daughter and I,” she says.

Racquel Thomas Painting does all aspects of residential painting, both interior and exterior. They specialise in wallpaper as well. “We cater to each individual person’s needs,” says Racquel. “We’ll do anything from a single window frame to a whole, five-bedroom house!”

Racquel says community is at the heart of what she does. “I might be my own boss but, really, my community is my boss. So, I like to give back to my community.”

She does a lot of work for Habitat for Humanity in Nelson. Habitat for Humanity builds houses for couples and families who can’t afford to get into the housing market. One of the stipulations of this is that the families and couples do a lot of painting themselves. So, Racquel does a lot of training mornings to help them with the basics. She also paints the things that are deemed too dangerous such as stairwells. This is all done at a reduced price. Racquel says it’s her way of giving back.

“Everyone seems blown away by what I do,” she says. “But I don’t really see the big deal. I just love my job, I love doing this everyday and I love being out in my community.”

Whenever Racquel Thomas Painting paints an exterior, they go back a year later and give a free house wash to ensure it’ll last the guarantee of the paint that has been used. This year, it’s the beginning of the free house washes. Racquel says she’s never seen anyone else do it.

She says that every job is different and some jobs they charge by the hour and others are quoted. “I get sent blueprints sometimes or photographs to quote from,” she says. Racquel Thomas Painting will take a bite of anything!

At the end of the day, Racquel says she’s just a girl who loves to paint. “My clients end up being my friends! It works for us and I love it. I probably take my job a bit too seriously but I don’t see the problem with that.”

Racquel Thomas Painting Services:

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From basic touch ups to full paint jobs, Racquel Thomas Painting can do it all. So, for the expert in painting and decorating, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

For more information and to organise your quote, contact Racquel today.

027 722 602 racquelt35@gmail.com.

On the 22nd of January, 2022, Racquel Thomas started her own painting company in the Nelson region. Since then, it’s taken off and Racquel has been incredibly busy.

Everyone seems blown away by what I do, but I don’t really see the big deal. I just love my job, I love doing this everyday and I love being out in my community.

TasmanSurgeryDay

Tasman Day Surgery and Nelson’s newest private hospital has been developed with the simple principle of providing high quality, patient centred hospital care to the community.

The new hospital was opened in March 2022 in response to the rapidly developing population growth in the region.

Partnered with local firm Opritech, they have developed a leading surgical theatre system, allowing a wide range of procedures to be undertaken during Day Stay in a hospital setting.

Day Stay is a modern concept made possible through new anaesthetic and surgical techniques, reducing your hospital visit to one day or even hours. The highest quality care is maintained with the benefit of being discharged on the same day.

Tasman Day Surgery says, “Day surgery effectively reduces anxiety normally associated with undergoing surgical procedures and it is the ideal way to avoid disruption at home or work”.

The entire team of medical and administrative staff make a conscious effort to ensure they work together to give you the best possible experience. Ensuring that patients have a stress-free and comfortable time with the team is at the heart of their clinic.

General manager, Lynda Wakefield, is a registered nurse with over 30 years’ experience in her field. She has been involved in endoscopic specialisations, general surgical and obstetric nursing and more. Lynda is passionate about providing the best possible care and quality service.

She says this ensures Tasman Day Surgery supports each patient’s needs and the needs of their whanau, maximising patient experience.

The team at Tasman Day Surgery are very well experienced in endoscopy and will provide a comfortable experience with a stay of 3 hours or under on the day of procedure. Bowel cancer is the second highest cause of cancer death in New Zealand.

Around 3000 New Zealanders are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year. When identified early, bowel cancer is treatable and a colonoscopy is the best way of diagnosing it.

The facility and specialists can provide a wide range of medical services ranging from general surgery to skin, nose surgery, through to orthopaedics.

Their specialists can provide a wide range of medical and surgical services including:

• Endoscopy - Colonoscopy and Gastroscopy

• General Day Surgery

• Gynaecology

• Skin Surgery

• Ear Nose and Throat Surgery

• Infusion Treatment

• Orthopaedics.

Coming soon to the surgery clinic:

• Dental and Oral Surgery

• Urology.

The team at Tasman Day Surgery will support your health journey where you can be assured safety and comfort are prioritised every step of the way. The surgery has a welcoming environment to assist you throughout your health needs, as well as prioritising your wellbeing.

To enrol as a new patient or if you have any enquiries, make sure to contact the team at Tasman Day Surgery on 0800 827 329 to find out more.

Tasman Day Surgery

341 Lower Queen Street

Richmond

Tasman 7020 0800 827 329 enquiries@tasmandaysurgery.co.nz

Tasmandaysurgery.co.nz

Developed with the simple philosophy of providing high quality, patient centered hospital care to our community in the Top of the South.

At Tasman Day Surgery our team of caring health professionals will support your health journey. With a leading purpose-built hospital, you can be assured that your safety and comfort are prioritised every step of the way.

One-stop shop for your decorating needs

Guthrie Bowron Blenheim is a locally owned and operated ‘one-stop shop’ for everyone’s decorating needs.

The franchise is known to be New Zealand’s go-to home decorating specialists. Guthrie Bowron’s goal since 1896 is to inspire Kiwis with decorating and help people feel homely in their own homes.

The brand was founded by Dunedin born, Henry Guthrie, who was soon afgter joined by George Bowron. Henry and George travelled throughout the South Island selling various products. In the mid 1920’s, Guthrie Bowron became involved in importing lacquer, varnish, lead and linseed oil – the base ingredients for paint at the time. In 1932, Guthrie Bowron was appointed agent for Dulux Paints and around this time opened a wallpaper store in Christchurch.

Guthrie Bowron became a public company in 1963 and by 1969 had 18 branches throughout the country, retailing mainly paint and wallpaper. In 1971, the company was purchased by ICI (NZ) Ltd, the owner and manufacturer f the Dulux Paint brand and by 1985 had 34 outlets. The company and all its stores remain 100% New Zealand owned and operated.

The store offers a range of decorating products such as Dulux and Cabot’s paint, selected wallpaper brands, tiles, flooring, curtains, blinds, homeware, awnings, shutters, and other decorating tools. It has a large selection of sampling for both flooring and window dressings and offers a free in-home measure and quote for window dressings and flooring.

The store in Blenheim has an onsite workroom and an in-house installer. The staff offer advice on how to revamp their customer’s homes. These experts also have knowledge covering all categories (over 100 years in total) that they’re very willing to share.

For over 120 years, Guthrie Bowron has been known for its brand, as it has 48 stores nationwide. The franchise has been awarded five stars by Canstar Blue for its most satisfied customers in home furnishings this year. Many customers may feel overwhelmed when moving into a new place or redesigning their homes because they don’t know where to start. The good news is Guthrie Bowron can provide customers with a solution both inside the store and in the customer’s home.

Other things Guthrie Bowron is known for is: welcoming and friendly, invested in helping with whatever needs to be accomplished (big or small), help customers feel comfortable when planning and discussing ideas, easy to contact, fix any mistakes if required, assist with carrying purchases or samples to cars, and recommend the right tradesperson for the right job to satisfy customers. No other retailer in Australasia provides an entire decorating solution through specialist categories of paint, wallpaper, window dressings, flooring and homewares.

Guthrie Bowron continues to be price competitive whilst delivering above average margins through its product mix and preferential supplier arrangements. The scale of Guthrie Bowron and its nation presence allows it to negotiate very competitive trading terms with its supply partners.

For more information check out their website or contact the Blenheim store on 03-578-7900. natural environment, while also providing the practical benefits of lower maintenance, longer life and better security.

WILDFOODS FESTIVAL

Wilson Denture Design

Need expert advice on dentures? Nelson-based Wilson Denture Design is a denture clinic run by two brothers

Majd and Nibras Issa.

Both are NZ-registered and qualified clinical dental technicians with years of experience in the industry.

Their aim is to use and apply the latest information in the world of dentures to provide high quality and affordable dentures to their patients. Wilson Denture Design offers an extensive range of handcrafted dental prosthesis and services onsite that will fulfil your needs and budgets. They can provide their patients with complete denture, partial denture, immediate denture, and reline, repair and denture cleaning.

Fantastic service and product. Highly recommend and will be sending my wife here too for a new set. Cheers Boyd.

- Richard Boyd

Wilson Denture Design ensures it uses material of the highest quality to ensure we restore your confidence in your smile.

At Wilson Denture Design, the team’s philosophy is simple: “We create more than a denture – we create a quality of life fix and the ultimate patient experience.” The team at Wilson Denture Design will help you find the dental solution that’s right for you.

For a free no obligation consultation, call Wilson Denture Design on 03 546 8551 visit www.wdenturedesign.co.nz

Hear more of life with Blackmore Audiology

Blackmore Audiology Marlborough’s newest audiology clinic is an independent and locally owned practice.

What sets Blackmore Audiology apart from their competitors, who are internationally owned, is that they work with all leading hearing aid manufacturers to ensure that they provide people with the best option for them.

Sara Blackmore, owner and Audiologist has a Masters of Audiology and a Bachelors of Speech and Language Therapy. Prior to opening her own clinic, Sara worked for a large chain all over NZ, where she worked clinically, supervised new graduate Audiologists and was in senior management. With Sara’s strong ties to the community as a fourth generation Marlburian, it was an easy decision to settle in the region with her husband and young family to enjoy the fabulous lifestyle the area offers while providing the area with a much-needed local option for all their hearing needs.

Hearing loss is something that will affect most of us as we age, by 65 years of age, 63% of males and 51% of females will have hearing loss. Research shows that on average it takes someone 7 years to decide to do something about their hearing loss - a long time to be struggling to hear the things that you love.

Blackmore Audiology is a registered provider for ACC, VANZ, Ministry of Health and WINZ.

They offer a complete hearing and ear health service to make sure you are not missing out, services include:

• Wax Removal via micro-suctioning

• Hearing Assessments

• Hearing Aid both new fittings and support with existing devices

• Hearing Protection.

Blackmore Audiology is located centrally at 21 Francis Street Blenheim and has plenty of off-street parking and a ramp for easy access.

To find out more reach out us the following ways: (03) 579 3092

www.blackmoreaudiology.co.nz info@blackmoreaudiology.co.nz

Don’t get by eye disease

blind sided

Every year, thousands of New Zealanders needlessly live with vision problems that affect their everyday lives.

Poor vision can lead to higher rates of depression, more falls and fractures, increased need for community and/or family support, and earlier need for institutionalised care.

According to the World Health Organisation, at least 2.2 billion people around the world have a vision impairment, of whom at least one billion have a vision impairment that could have been prevented or is yet to be addressed.

Some 85 percent of the world’s blindness is preventable and 20 percent of the people accessing services for the blind had lost their sight from preventable causes.

In New Zealand the total number of people with severe to moderate functional vision loss is estimated to be 180,000 and increasing with the aging population.

Eye diseases can often develop without early warning signs, making early detection a vital step in avoiding or limiting permanent damage to the eyes. For eye conditions that result in blindness, the only way to find them early is to have a comprehensive eye exam.

New Zealand optometrists actively promote eye health to remind Kiwis how precious their sight is and the importance of a nine-step comprehensive eye examination for maintaining good eye health.

Glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataract, and diabetes are the main causes of impaired vision and there is a growing occurrence of these eye health issues as the New Zealand population grows older.

Even children and young adults with perfect vision can find their eyesight and eye health changes as they get older.

Those with gradual loss or change in vision can be most at risk as they do not realise what is happening to their eyes.

The New Zealand Association of Optometrists wants people to know that visiting an optometrist does not mean you will require a new pair of glasses.

Optometry is about ensuring the ongoing health and well-being of people’s eyes. To find out about the nine-step comprehensive eye exam, talk to your local optometrist or visit: saveoursight.co.nz

Glaucoma

Glaucoma NZ report that 10 percent of people over 70 will have glaucoma. Loss of vision occurs because of damage to cells in the retina.

Cause: The cause is not fully understood, but high pressures in the eye and poor blood supply to the optic nerve are part of the condition. Genetics and age are also thought to be important factors.

Symptoms: Usually glaucoma progresses gradually and painlessly without symptoms. Rarely, glaucoma may occur rapidly with blurred vision, loss of side vision, coloured halos around lights and painful or red eyes.

What you can do: Have regular eye exams and if there is a family history of glaucoma, see the optometrist for an eye examination every year. During the eye examination the optometrist will measure the internal pressure of both eyes and examine the health of the optic nerve.

The good news: If detected early, glaucoma can be managed and loss of vision prevented to a greater extent. Unfortunately, at least half the people with glaucoma are not having treatment because they do not know they have glaucoma. If glaucoma is not detected, it can lead to permanent blindness.

As the only private surgical hospital with an inpatient Unit in the Nelson Tasman region, we pride ourselves on our commitment to providing exceptional care. Our aim is to ensure the wellbeing, comfort and quality hospital experience for every patient.

Manuka Street Hospital has been providing high quality surgical services

for more than 100 years. We currently perform around 3000 procedures each year. The Hospital is certified by the Ministry of Health, endorsing the quality of our services.

Every patient journey begins with a friendly welcome from our Reception and Administration team. Once settled, there is an assessment with our pre-anaesthetic team, prior your procedure. Our dedicated and experienced nursing teams will put you at your ease, and our highly skilled theatre teams, including your specialist, will perform your procedure.

We know the importance of postoperative recovery and so we place close attention and detail on the way

our post-anaesthetic care/recovery team meticulously manage every need as you wake-up, and then focus on a smooth transfer to either our Inpatient unit or Day Stay unit.

At all times, your care and comfort are our consideration. Many of our surgeons and anaesthetists are recognised leaders in their fields. The medical team, along with our highly capable and compassionate nursing team, provide our patients with excellent care.

Over the past five years, Manuka Street Hospital has undergone major renovations, with an extension to our Ward, including four higher-level care (Intermediate Care) beds, a new Patient

At Manuka Street Hospital, your care and comfort are our foremost priorities.

Lounge and a new Reception area. We are particularly pleased with our new commercial kitchen, which produces restaurant-quality meals –something for which Manuka Street Hospital is well known.

Our latest redevelopment has added a fourth theatre, a 10-bed postanaesthetic care unit, and a 10-bay Day Stay Discharge area – doubling our capacity in these areas.

Our facilities are light, airy, state-of-

the-art and designed to enhance your recovery. Our gardens have been devised to add to the patient experience, with an appreciation for how our immediate environs affect our well-being and assist in a healthy recovery.

Manuka Street Hospital takes its commitment to the entire patient experience very seriously. We want you to have the upmost confidence as you progress through your procedure – in the personnel you

encounter from the moment you enter the premises, the highly skilled nursing teams in the surgical suite, through to the staff who are instrumental in your recovery.

Whether you’re with us for a day, or for a longer period, our absolute commitment and focus is on your health and well-being.

We are the industry experts when it comes to electrical servicing for your home or business.

Our qualified electricians provide domestic and commercial electrical services, from solar installation and maintenance to your electrical house renovation and break downs.

info@goodyerelectrical.co.nz www.goodyerelectrical.co.nz

We pride ourselves in having a holistic approach to solar energy, ensuring you have an expert partner at every step of your solar journey.

• From free consultations to installation and panel maintenance, we make life hassle-free by being your one-stop shop for all things solar.

• Our experienced team of solar technicians and licensed electricians provide industry-leading and reliable service.

• We supply innovative and market-leading products that integrate with your Goodyer Solar system, ensuring that you GET A FREE QUOTE TODAY 03 972 2755 info@goodyersolar.co.nz

www.goodyersolar.co.nz

Have you seen this car?

You may have wondered what it was – well it is an amazing Companion Driving Service called Driving Miss Daisy.

At Driving Miss Daisy, they are always mindful of their clients’ wellbeing ensuring that they are comfortable and safe. This reliable service is for everybody; whether you cannot drive, choose not to drive or no longer drive. It’s about helping people maintain, or regain, their independence with a professional and flexible service, catering to specific needs and requirements.

Driving Miss Daisy can accompany clients to appointments, to the hairdresser, medical appointments, help with shopping, on a scenic drive or even an outing to the beach for a breath of fresh air, a coffee date with friends, anywhere the heart desires – clients design the journey! Their drivers will always go the extra mile by opening the car door, carrying the shopping and assisting clients to and from their front door as required.

You really don’t need a reason to call on Driving Miss Daisy, as just getting out and about and enjoying the company of your Daisy driver is good for the soul by simply having a good time, creating positive memories. So, don’t sit inside lonely while the world buzzes along, there are very few reasons not to have a little fun.

Driving Miss Daisy clients can feel confident there is every protocol in place to keep their trip safe, so they can live life to the full and make the most of every moment. All drivers are Police Vetted and well qualified with a P-endorsement driver’s licence, First Aid Certificate, and are Dementia Friends qualified. Their cars are maintained to high standards, are always clean and hygienic.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles are available upon request to assist with walkers or wheelchairs. Total Mobility Scheme cards accepted, and they are an ACC contracted supplier.

To make a booking or discuss your requirements, call today. 03 579 3162 or 021 503 354

Looking to list your property? Here’s how to get started

By Jen Baird, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ).

Typically, spring is seen as an ideal time to bring a property to market — particularly as many people look to make their buying plans this side of Christmas. Here’s what to think about as you look to list your property. As we head into the warmer months, the market cycle tends to see more listings and an increase in buyer demand.

It is important to find a real estate professional who can deliver a standout marketing campaign, advise you on key steps for getting your property ready to list, and who will tell you what you need to know throughout the selling process.

Research is key

Using a real estate salesperson can result in a more effective sale than selling privately. They will handle the details of the marketing and sales process, the cut and thrust of the negotiation or auction, and you can rest assured that you’re protected throughout the process by their expertise and requirements under the Real Estate Agents Act.

To find the right person for you, ask around; talk to family, friends and neighbours and see if they have any recommendations on real estate salespeople they have previously used and whom they had a good experience with.

It’s also fundamental to understand where the market is today before you head into the selling process. Doing some of your own research is vital however, you can rely on your salesperson to bring expertise.

Salespeople have the time, access to the latest data and market information, and to advise on exactly what is happening in your market for your type of property. Having honest conversations with your real estate salesperson will enable you to understand the current market and the best approach for selling your home.

Honesty is the best policy

A real estate professional will help to manage your price expectations with the latest statistics, their knowledge of the current market, the local area, what properties are attracting the most attention and why, the current levels of attendance at open homes, and more.

They should also explain what they will do behind the scenes to ensure the best possible outcome for you.

They can advise you on the best way to present your property for sale including aspects such as required maintenance, tidying up of gardens, decluttering, or home-staging.

With these factors come costs, and your real estate professional should ensure you are aware of the aspects you may need to invest in when selling

your home so there are no surprises, and so you can factor this into your budget.

Look for a salesperson who can demonstrate knowledge of your local area and community, ideally with a network of potential buyers, as this can help ensure your property is best positioned and marketed to the right people. Make sure you understand what a salesperson’s commission fee is. While fees do vary by agency, our advice is that choosing a salesperson on commission alone could lead to losing a significant amount of money by achieving a lower price for the property.

The Real Estate of Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) is a champion for a world-class real estate profession delivering the best possible real estate services to New Zealanders.

Choosing a REINZ real estate professional member means you are choosing someone who is supported to excel in the profession, and are trusted, skilled professionals, supported by high-quality education, advice, and uphold the best standards of practice.

It’s been a market of supply outweighing demand for several months, but as we enter spring, activity is expected to pick up — including the usual spring flurry of listings.

A fresh, innovative approach

For over ten years now, Tracy Beer has been helping hundreds of vendors and purchasers buy and sell their properties.

Tracy knows the mark of a good salesperson is the quality of the relationships and referrals that come from doing what’s right. Her first priority is to listen to her clients wants and needs to achieve the best outcome in every transaction and she strives to ensure the home buying or selling process is fun, easy and stress-free.

Tracy has been working hard to earn the respect of her clients by working tirelessly on their behalf and always offering them candid advice. She has a proven history of happy clients and is a hardworking and professional salesperson who has a ‘never give up’ approach.

Marie and Ken say Tracy’s service is excellent. “Her communication was impeccable, she kept us updated at every stage of the process,”

they say. “We highly recommend Tracy to anyone needing to sell their home. She goes out of her way to make things easy. Tracy’s positivity and motivation is second to none.”

Donna Roberts says Tracy is absolutely faultless. “Tracy has been absolutely fantastic from the time I met her, right through until the property became unconditional. We put our full trust in her and she was exceptional. She explained everything in full, was very thorough, had a wealth of knowledge and always answered emails or phone calls. Her nature is very approachable, friendly, down to earth and a great attitude,” Donna says in her testimonial.

Her passion for real estate and fresh, innovative approach to marketing, hard work ethic and a never give up attitude is her key to success. For a higher level of real estate and a passionate salesperson, call Tracy Beer.

027 674 8102

tracy.beer@mikepero.com

Marion Cross Bayleys Motueka

Marion Cross works for the real estate agency Bayleys

Motueka and has accomplished a lot in sales having 23 years in the industry.

Bayleys Motueka are experts in property management, residential, lifestyle, commercial, industrial, tourism, business, waterfront, and rural properties, which cover a wide range of areas like Motueka, Mapua, Kaiteriteri, Abel Tasman, and more!

Motueka in particular is very lively and is located on the western side of Tasman Bay. The area is great for warm summer days and mild winters, which attracts a lot of people to the town. It’s a larger town than people might think with beautiful views of the water and hills, supermarkets, and many shops and services, including quality restaurants, cafes and wine.

Marion is very talented, friendly, communicates well, and works extremely hard. This is why she is very reliable and knows what she’s doing, which will make any client feel at ease, during what can be a very stressful process when clients are buying or selling a property or business. She also works in a range of areas such as orchards, lifestyle

from Atawhai to Golden Bay. She is also happy to live in a beautiful area like Motueka.

Another awesome thing about Marion is that she works alongside her daughter Sammie Cross at Bayleys Motueka, so they’re working hard togethermaking a great team!

Whenever there is an issue, Marion is your go-to real estate agent. She will solve issues in the blink of an eye. She has lots of contacts, which are made up of satisfied clients, and also has a list of contacts through coaching a senior netball team.

because she likes to be funny but knows when to keep things professional. She makes sure her clients know what is happening from the beginning until the end and does everything she can to ensure they get the best possible outcome.

Marion is very positive and passionate about helping people buy or sell a home or business to help them achieve their goals. She takes her time getting to know her clients and is successful at helping her clients out. Her previous listings where she has sold properties in the past say it all.

get started.

Check out Marion’s page for more information here: https:// www.bayleys.co.nz/marioncross

Interested in getting in touch today?

To get in contact, please contact Marion Cross either via her mobile at +64 22 099 0390, phone the office at +64 3 528 5242 , email her at marion.cross@bayleys.co.nz , or head to the office, which is located at 208 High Street in Motueka on the South Island.

Let Marion put a smile on your face

Marion certainly has a proven sales track record with over 23 years in the industry. From orchards and lifestyle blocks to homes, rentals and multi-million dollar homes she provides her clients with a smooth stress-free experience, whether they are buying or selling. Marion has sold right across the region, from Atawhai to Golden Bay and is proud to call Motueka home. She’s a real problem solver with a large network of contacts which are generated not only from her long list of satisfied past customers, but through her involvement in coaching a senior netball team and you’ll often see her on the side of the rugby field supporting her grandson. People like Marion because she’s knowledgeable and she balances her professionalism with a keen sense of humour. She prides herself on keeping

her clients informed every step of the way, working tirelessly to get them the best possible outcome. Marion has never lost her enthusiasm and passion for solving people’s real estate problems and helping them achieve their next goal. She says the greatest reward for her is happy clients. For Marion Real Estate is not a career – it’s a lifestyle.

Let Marion put a smile on your face –call today to find out for yourself what she can do for you.

Unlocking Build to Rent housing

Property Council New Zealand chief executive, Leonie Freeman, says the initiative could mark a key turning point towards unlocking the potential of Build to Rent.

“Our members share the government’s view that enabling Build to Rent will provide warm, dry rental homes that offer Kiwis long-term security of tenure.

“It is encouraging to see that the government has listened to our sector and acknowledged Build to Rent as a unique property asset class.

“The government’s announcement is a major step towards boosting New Zealand’s emerging Build to Rent sector.

“Build to Rent will transform the experience of renting in New Zealand.

“Property Council research shows that our members stand poised to deliver over 25,000 Build to Rent homes in the next decade, with the right policy settings.

“Build to Rent refers to multi-unit residential developments, typically located in city centres within walking distance of key transport links.

“These developments are professionally managed, with brilliant amenities available onsite, offering residents bespoke lifestyle options for as long as they want to stay.

“By enabling Build to Rent, the property sector will be able to deliver thousands of new high-quality, high-density rental houses, supporting New Zealand’s urban intensification and climate ambitions.

“Kiwis will hopefully soon have many choices to access to a warm, dry and climate friendly Build to Rent home.

“Over the past 18 months, the Property Council has been working closely with the government to highlight the untapped potential of Build to Rent and explain the legislative actions required to enable it.

“As part of this, we have collaboratively resolved the unintended consequences of last year’s interest deductibility changes.

“While the announcement has been a fantastic step in the right direction, there are a few remaining speedbumps to truly unlock the concept.

“For Build to Rent to flourish, access to large institutional investment via the overseas investment act and commercial depreciation is also required.

“The Property Council looks forward to continuing our engagement with the government to support the roll out of the world’s fastest growing residential sector in Aotearoa.”

The Property Council, whose members are some of New Zealand’s largest property developers, owners and investors, has come out in support of the government’s Build to Rent tax exemption boost.

Quinovic Nelson / Tasman

Quinovic is one of Aotearoa’s leading property management companies, which was established in 1988. The company has over 34 owneroperated franchise offices in the country. Over 30,000 property owners and investors have trusted Quinovic with looking after their properties. Quinovic has been trusted with over 100,600 tenancies - where tenants and investors get equal care.

Through a professional and modern approach, Quinovic provides high quality property management services, and has also become the largest privately owned residential property management company in the country. It provides top-notch services and understands the importance of excellent investor returns for all of its clients.

Quinovic has a Care and Return system which is known for its excellent service and ensures everything is taken care of accordingly. Quality property management services include looking after their client’s property’s cash value, improving assets and tending to tenants. Find out more information here: www.quinovic.co.nz

Quinovic Nelson/Tasman looks after various properties throughout the Nelson and Tasman areas and manages over $185 million of property assets in the region. Those who want to rent properties in these regions can have a look at the website to see properties currently available to rent. People looking for homes can select a district and suburb in the Nelson/Tasman region to find what property works best for them.

Link to the website: www.quinovic.co.nz/rentals/nelson-tasman

The small friendly knowledgeable and experienced team is there to help anyone who might be interested in renting a Quinovic property. They aim to provide excellent homes to clients looking for quality rental property as well as professional property management.

Quinovic

/

founded

in 2004 and uses her advanced experience in property management and banking to help her teammates deliver high-quality services to clients. The team knows that renting can sometimes be stressful, so they ensure their clients feel at ease with regular communication from the get-go. Quinovic Nelson / Tasman is only ever a call away, so their clients know what is happening every step of the way. They pride themselves on always being on time for house inspections and will tell their clients in advance when to expect them.

For the team, it’s more than just property management, it’s also about supporting and having great relationships with clients and building long-term relationships.

Check this link for more: www.quinovic.co.nz/nelson

Get in touch via phone: 03 539 4425, 027 5434 821, email: enquiries@ quinovic-nelson.co.nz, or head to the office at Unit 408, 6 Point Road, Monaco Resort in Nelson.

Nelson

Tasman Juliet Robinson

Quinovic Nelson

Pauline’sManagementProperty

Pauline is the owner of Pauline’s Property

Pauline helps you to stay informed. When you’re in the market for a new investment, it is essential that you take time to check out homes and get a feel for what is a good investment. Pauline has the knowledge of Healthy Homes and is more than happy to answer your questions.

Pauline’s honest and accurate market assessments and extra services on offer are what keeps her fresh and relevant and sets her apart from the competition. Pauline is qualified and helps clients by renting properties –managing every aspect of the process.

Pauline is focussed on 100% commitment to both her owners and her tenants. She will find owners the perfect tenants for the property. She takes care of any maintenance issues at any time and she treats tenants with care and respect. With honest and accurate market assessments, Pauline can help you make educated decisions. She ensures you’re kept informed throughout the whole process. While things may seem confusing at first, Pauline is highly trained and certified and is available to answer any questions or concerns.

Her property inspections are visual and non-invasive inspections of the home from the roof to the foundation. Pauline’s appraisals are unbiased and professional. She provides an analysis and conclusion about the property value based on her observations.

Clients of Pauline have praised her knowledge and say they’d highly recommend her. “She did an amazing job looking after us (nervous first timers), our tenants and our home.”

Pauline’s Property Management

62 Beach Road, Waikawa, Picton pauline@paulinespropertymanagment.co.nz 027 208 3330

Management which started servicing in the Marlborough region from the 15th of February, 2020. Pauline’s values are at the core of everything that she does – guiding behaviour and decisions all day, every day. Pauline’s integrity keeps her humble and always thinking about who is using her services.

Helping others cope with loss and grief

Whether it's an elderly relative or the unexpected loss of a young child, the loss of a loved one, be it in the family, a friend or colleague, is always a time of trauma and sadness for those left behind. At times grief can be an all-consuming sadness.

Support for people in mental health crisis

An increase in mental health related emergency ambulance responses is cause for great concern according to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP).

A recent report released by St John, states that over the past six months St John has responded to nearly 20,000 people who have been experiencing some form of mental health crisis.

Chair of the RANZCP New Zealand National Committee – Tu Te Akaaka Roa, Dr Mark Lawrence, says “An increase of 10 percent in mental health related incidents is a clarion call to the mental health sector.

“These statistics are a clear wake up call to improve our mental health services to avoid people reaching crisis point. Our whanau should not be reaching this level of crisis.

“There is no denying, as a nation, we need to work together to address this. St John can’t do it alone, nor can whanau, nor can psychiatrists. Together however, we can – and must – make a real difference.”

The RANZCP emphasised that the best way to combat this increase in mental health call outs was for emergency and mental health services to work together.

“Let’s work together,” says Dr Susanna Galea-Singer, chair of the New Zealand Faculty of Addiction Psychiatry Subcommittee.

“We need to do more to prevent people reaching crisis point and this can be done by getting the right people, in the right places, at the right time.”

I don’t want a fuss

By Gillian Boyes, Funeral Directors Association CEO.

Shortly after I began in this role I spoke to my parents about their wishes for a funeral.

“I don’t want a fuss,” said my mum. “And it’s so expensive,” dad added.

It’s a common refrain and as a newcomer to the industry was one I was initially challenged to respond to. But over the last few months I’ve come to understand why some kind of farewell is essential to those of us left behind.

Some of the early healing can help when you’re preparing for a funeral

Going through old photos and reminiscing and sharing stories can be a powerful way to remember the significance of the life of your loved one. There will be laughter as well as tears and it can be an important bonding time for your family.

An ‘event’ helps a family move through the grief process

The funeral ‘event’ can help you begin to acknowledge the reality that someone in your life has died. Grief is a biological reaction, and it can be externalised though the event –something that will help with your immediate and future mental wellbeing.

Funerals help us recall and remember – and even learn about a loved one

How many times have you sat through a funeral eulogy and realised you didn’t know a certain fact about someone? Sharing unique memories and stories helps provide support to all those who attend.

They can involve people near and far

Many funeral homes now offer livestreaming of services reducing the cost and burden on physically attending.

Traditional, scripted services are no longer the norm

Modern funerals are personalised and can encompass whatever a family needs to help them farewell their loved one in a meaningful way. Venues these days, for instance, range from churches and chapels to sports clubs, theatres, or the local club. And families are encouraged to add their own touches and tributes – both to save money but to also make it meaningful for them.

Your needs are just as important as those of the person who died

Finally, people often think they must ‘respect a person’s wishes’. But what about your own? You’re the one left behind so it’s important for you and your own wellbeing that you get that chance to say goodbye, and to have support around you.

If you genuinely fear disrespecting their wishes, have ‘that’ conversation. It doesn’t have to be morbid or difficult – after all you’ll be talking to the person you love most, and they’ll understand you will need help to carry on without them.

Luckily, my parents were already planning to use a Funeral Directors Association member so I don’t have to have that conversation. But with my new found knowledge I’ve also been able to talk to them about what I need from the funeral itself. And at least a little bit of fuss is what’s right for me.

Matuku Funerals

Once you have decided on a funeral home, you can design something that is authentic to your personality, without the emotional strain. Another benefit to pre-planning, is that it is good self care. Once done, you no longer need to worry and can get on with living your best life!

Funerals are for the living, and help our family and friends to honour and celebrate us. A funeral gives our loved ones a chance to say goodbye, and to be supported by others in their grief.

The funeral is also our last chance to express ourselves to those we love, by conveying what has been most important to us, in our life. A meaningful farewell is a special gift to those left behind.

Matuku Funerals is independently owned and located in Golden Bay, and specialises in providing excellent family-focused funeral services, burials and cremations for locals, on both sides of the Takaka Hill.

With pre-planning, we can be sure to deliver the service you envision for yourself, in your chosen setting, and honour your style and culture. We do this with empathy, compassion and creativity.

Don’t want your funeral to cost the earth? We specialise in professional, affordable eco-funerals, traditional services, and personalised celebrations. We use local suppliers whenever possible. We can either work with your designated celebrant or clergy, or co-owner Laura Manson has professional celebrant training in Humanist, and Christian services.

Get in touch with us at www.matukufunerals.co.nz for a no obligation conversation and estimate. Proud members of The Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand, Matuku Funerals offer safe and transferrable pre-payment with The Funeral Trust.

a reasonable

Located in East Takaka, Matuku Funerals provides the Golden Bay community with safe and natural after death options.

At Matuku Funerals, we are inspired by the shift that is taking place, to reclaim one of life’s most important rites of passage, and we offer a safe, caring, compassionate and personalised approach to death care and funeral arrangements. Call

The best way to save money on your funeral and have the style of service you desire, is to pre-plan

Shone & Shirley Funeral home

Shone and Shirley Funeral Directors are a family owned and operated funeral home, caring for families across the top of the South Island.

The team goes above and beyond the call of duty to make personalised funeral arrangements that are delivered to family and friends with compassion.

Shone and Shirley was Nelson’s first funeral home established in 1862. The business has a significant history in the area running for over 160 years.

Owners and Funeral Directors, Alastair and Emma Hebberd and the team, take great care in making sure everything is organised on the day of a funeral to reflect the life of a loved one, in a personal and meaningful way. Making the extra effort to ensure each service is personalised is at the heart of the Shone and Shirley team.

In 2019, Alastair and Emma became the seventh owners of the funeral home. Alastair is one of the few fully qualified funeral directors and embalmers in Nelson, with over 20 years of experience in caring for families, working in funeral homes across Nelson and Marlborough, both family owned and corporate overseas owned funeral homes. From his wide experience he has learned the importance of supporting and connecting with the local community.

Alastair and Emma are proud of their team who come from a range of backgrounds giving understanding and support to families and friends at the time of their loved one’s death. We are proud of our purpose built facilities which are warm, calm and inviting, giving families privacy and peace of mind that their loved one is cared for respectfully in a well appointed environment.

It is important to the team to give support to families experiencing grief during this time as much as possible. We are proud to have a calm and kind environment to help support families.

Why choose Shone and Shirley Funeral Directors to help celebrate your loved one’s life?

• Proudly locally owned giving us the ability to adapt and change to meet each family’s needs

• No mileage charge for funerals in the Nelson/Tasman/Motueka/Marlborough area

• Full built-in live stream facilities giving our families the ability to connect with those who cannot attend

• Separate Catering Lounge

• On-site car parking

• Caring for all price ranges, while providing the highest standard throughout

• The team support a number of community groups and activities. We understand the importance of supporting local.

Free of charge, no obligation, pre-planned funerals are available as part of their services, ensuring a meaningful farewell which transforms your wishes into reality. Planning your funeral may remove a great deal of stress for your immediate family during a very emotional time.

Talk to Shone and Shirley and give your family the gift of peace of mind.

The team invites families to meet their staff and view their funeral home. You can give the team a call on 03 546 5700 to make an appointment.

To find out more visit their website shoneandshirley.co.nz

Our family caring for your family.

Funerals ... who wants to know about them, who wants to talk about them? Some of us do, some of us don’t, but no matter what there will be a time when that day needs to be faced, and questions answered about family history that perhaps only you know the correct answers to.

Funerals ... who wants to know about them, who wants to talk about them? Some of us do, some of us don’t, but no matter what there will be a time when that day needs to be faced, and questions answered about family history that perhaps only you know the correct answers to.

Do you quiver at the thought of how much the farewell is going to erode your savings by? You might be surprised what Geoffrey T Sowman Funeral Directors can offer you, and how they can work within your budget to achieve the best outcome for everyone, and creating lasting memories of a special farewell.

Do you quiver at the thought of how much the farewell is going to erode your savings by? You might be surprised what Geoffrey T Sowman Funeral Directors can offer you, and how they can work within your budget to achieve the best outcome for everyone, and creating lasting memories of a special farewell.

By planning and prepaying now, making your wishes known as to what you want to happen on your final journey, and how

By planning and prepaying now, making your wishes known as to what you want to happen on your final journey, and how

much you are able to put aside, is a sure way of easing stress and angst later. Record how you would like to be farewelled, and Sowmans will make it happen.

much you are able to put aside, is a sure way of easing stress and angst later. Record how you would like to be farewelled, and Sowmans will make it happen.

Sowmans have been in the funeral industry for over 150 years, covering from Kaikoura to Rai Valley (and further if required) and know what they are doing. Their staff are local, professional, caring and empathetic.

Sowmans have been in the funeral industry for over 150 years, covering from Kaikoura to Rai Valley (and further if required) and know what they are doing. Their staff are local, professional, caring and empathetic.

‘Serving the community’ has long been a focus of Sowmans whose generosity to the Marlborough community continues. Some past donations are: restoration of various Marlborough war memorials in the lead-up to ANZAC Day’s historic 100-year centenary, the war monuments at Grovetown and Seddon, and the ‘Marlborough Memorial Wall’ adjoining the carpark by the Marlborough Events Centre.

‘Serving the community’ has long been a focus of Sowmans whose generosity to the Marlborough community continues. Some past donations are: restoration of various Marlborough war memorials in the lead-up to ANZAC Day’s historic 100-year centenary, the war monuments at Grovetown and Seddon, and the ‘Marlborough Memorial Wall’ adjoining the carpark by the Marlborough Events Centre.

Aside from the war memorials, also donated are the plaques for the ongoing and evolving Taylor River Writers’ Walk, the soldier at Fairhall Cemetery, sponsorship

Aside from the war memorials, also donated are the plaques for the ongoing and evolving Taylor River Writers’ Walk, the soldier at Fairhall Cemetery, sponsorship

for the water fountain in the Taylor River by the riverside amphitheatre, the bird bath at Wairau Hospital and the glass backdrop at the main entrance foyer, restoration work on the Band Rotunda in Market Place, to name a few.

for the water fountain in the Taylor River by the riverside amphitheatre, the bird bath at Wairau Hospital and the glass backdrop at the main entrance foyer, restoration work on the Band Rotunda in Market Place, to name a few.

Memorial stones are also available and Sowmans are the only registered monumental masons in Marlborough.

Memorial stones are also available and Sowmans are the only registered monumental masons in Marlborough.

So why not phone us on 03 578 4719 and arrange a time to talk? The planning process will be made easy for you, making sure that on your final journey, you will be farewelled in the way you want to be, and at an affordable price. Grey Power and Gold Card discounts offered.

So why not phone us on 03 578 4719 and arrange a time to talk? The planning process will be made easy for you, making sure that on your final journey, you will be farewelled in the way you want to be, and at an affordable price. Grey Power and Gold Card discounts offered.

A professional and trusted business takes time … Sowmans has been here since 1869

A professional and trusted business takes time … Sowmans has been here since 1869

Local people supporting local community

Local people supporting local community

Feel safe in the knowledge you are working with a professional and experienced team who have been caring for the Marlborough community for generations.

Bob Thelma Alistair Barry Ethan Terry Faye

Mayfield Chapel

• Most modern purpose-built Chapel in Marlborough

• Seats up to 150 people

• Air-conditioning

• Wheelchair access

• State-of-the-Art sound system

• “Memories Forever Wall”

Overhead projector

• Two large LED screens

• Live webcasting options

• Two large LED screens in both family & catering rooms

• The Sowman Lounge for all your catering needs, ideal venue for gathering after the funeral

Arranging a funeral

Arranging a funeral

• Organising a funeral can feel like a massive task. There are a lot of decisions to make. And you may be feeling a whole kaleidoscope of emotions—or nothing at all. Everyone reacts differently to news of a death, and we understand.

• Organising a funeral can feel like a massive task. There are a lot of decisions to make. And you may be feeling a whole kaleidoscope of emotions—or nothing at all. Everyone reacts differently to news of a death, and we understand.

• Funerals aren't for the person who has died; they're about them. So when choosing a funeral ceremony it's important you're guided by what’s right for you and your family. Sowmans will help by walking you through the choices available and then taking care of all the details.

• Funerals aren't for the person who has died; they're about them. So when choosing a funeral ceremony it's important you're guided by what’s right for you and your family. Sowmans will help by walking you through the choices available and then taking care of all the details.

Don’t carry it all yourself; let us help. Phone Sowmans today to discuss the best way to farewell your loved one.

Don’t carry it all yourself; let us help. Phone Sowmans today to discuss the best way to farewell your loved one.

Corner Hutcheson & Parker Streets, Blenheim.

Corner Hutcheson & Parker Streets, Blenheim.

(03) 578 4719

(03) 578 4719

www.sowmans.co.nz

www.sowmans.co.nz

Marion CrossBayley’s Real Estate Agent

Marion Cross is a well experienced real estate agent with over 23 years’ experience. Her services are special as she works closely alongside her daughter to ensure every client has a positive and efficient experience.

Marion has a passion for real estate and ensuring everybody has the opportunity to purchase the home they love.

Whether you are a first home buyer looking to get into the market or a family wanting to start the New Year in a fresh home Marion can help you.

Clients find Marion knowledgeable and say she balances professionalism and a sense of humour well. She is approachable and works tirelessly throughout the process of every home purchase to ensure her clients get the best possible outcome.

From orchards and lifestyle blocks to multi-million-dollar homes, Marion provides her clients with a smooth and stressfree experience whether they are buying or selling.

Currently based in Motueka, she is proud to call the region home. She has extensive experience selling homes across the country with a large network of contacts.

She prides herself on keeping her clients informed every step of the way. Working with clients closely is important to ensure your experience is personal and professional.

One of her clients says “Marion was up to date with the market of the day. She was clear in the information she shared and was completely professional in her approach to me.

“As far as I can tell she showed the same to the interested buyers, reporting in detail how the open homes went and potential buyer comments”.

On her Facebook page, Marion also has useful tips for uplifting and revitalising your space such

as home interior design pointers like colour forecasting and texture trends.

She says there are many low cost and impactful home decor tips which can transform the look of a space without spending a fortune.

“Start with great lighting. This could be as easy as adding a lamp in a dark corner. A feature mirror or an eye-catching piece of art can make a real statement to a room.”

In her personal life, you will often find Marion standing on the side of a rugby field supporting her grandson or coaching her senior netball team. It is clear Marion is a people person and is happy to

help support her community in any way possible.

Marion has never lost her enthusiasm for all aspects of home buying and selling. Her greatest reward are happy clients and she is willing to support anyone throughout the process.

For Marion real estate is not a career it is a lifestyle she is passionate and proud to be a part of. Let Marion help you out with your next home purchase.

To get in contact with Marion

Cross you can give her a call on 022 099 0390 or email her at marion.cross@bayleys.co.nz

Marion Cross Real Estate 208 High Street