Relay For Life grand total
Cancer Society Nelson Tasman says it “couldn’t be prouder” after the local community raised $246,224 through this year’s Relay For Life fundraiser. The final total was confirmed after donations closed on March 31, and the organisation says it reflects the “aroha and support” shown across the region. “This achievement belongs to our amazing community — especially our relayers, volunteers and local businesses who showed up with such heart and generosity,” it says. “Every dollar raised will stay right here in our region, helping support people and whānau affected by cancer. From all of us, thank you for being part of something truly special.” Relay For Life was held at the Richmond A&P Showgrounds on 14 and 15 March with nearly 1000 people with pep in their step for 16 hours in the name of charity.
Age Concern Nelson office temporarily closed
Age Concern Nelson Tasman has temporarily closed its Nelson office on Bridge St this week as it searches for a new premises. The organisation says the closure on 9 April is not permanent and work is already underway to secure another location. The decision to vacate the current site was made after it became “no longer sustainable” to keep the office open. Ongoing disruption in the surrounding area, combined with an upcoming lease renewal, prompted the move. While the physical office will close, the organisation has reassured the community that all services will continue without interruption. Staff will remain active across Nelson, delivering key support services such as elder abuse response, visiting services and carer relief. Community programmes, including Spin Poi, Tea and Talk and Hummin’ Strummers, will also continue, with alternative venues currently being finalised. In the meantime, community members seeking assistance or more information are encouraged to contact Age Concern Nelson Tasman directly or visit the Richmond office at 62 Oxford St.
Qigong master to speak in Nelson
International qigong master Yuan Tze will visit Nelson on Sunday, April 12, for a public talk at Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre. The talk, titled Improving Health, Happiness and Wellbeing, will run from 2pm to 4.30pm and is open to everyone. Yuan Tze is the founder of Ren Xue Qigong, a system developed in New Zealand based on the principle “Zi Du, Du Ren” — to uplift one’s own life and help others do the same. Event spokesperson Chris Turton says it is “special to be in the presence of a wise leader, especially in these uncertain times, and to learn how to care for ourselves no matter what is happening around us”. The event will include an introduction followed by a question‑and‑answer session with Yuan Tze. Tickets available at events.humanitix.com
NZ First candidate for West Coast-Tasman
A “seasoned governance leader” who most recently served six years as Buller mayor is standing for West Coast-Tasman in this year’s general election. New Zealand First announced Jamie Cleine as its candidate last week, with the party saying he is committed to ensuring the electorate has the infrastructure, investment, and policy settings it needs to contribute to national prosperity. “Jamie brings proven strategic leadership, crisis management expertise, and a strong commitment to resilient regional communities to his candidacy for NZ First in West Coast–Tasman,” NZ First says. “Jamie is widely recognised for his calm, decisive leadership during multiple states of emergency, coordinating multi-agency responses, fronting national media, and providing clear, trusted communication to communities under pressure.” NZ First also noted Cleine’s experience working collaboratively with ministers and advisors across successive governments, as well as with sector leaders both regionally and nationally. Alongside his public service career, Cleine has operated a hands‑on dairy and livestock farming business for 26 years, which the party says grounds his leadership in the practical realities of rural life and regional industry.
Restricted fire season move
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) has moved several areas from a prohibited to a restricted fire season, citing increased rainfall and reduced fire risk. The change applies to the Coastal, Waimea and Lake Rotoiti fire zones and remains in effect until further notice. District Commander Grant Haywood says recent rain has helped lower the immediate risk but warns conditions can change quickly. “It doesn’t take much for vegetation to dry out again,” he says. Grant implores anyone planning an outdoor fire to check conditions at www.checkitsalright.nz, where current restrictions, safety guidance and permit information are available. During a restricted fire season, all outdoor fires require an approved permit from FENZ.
