Chilly school swim
Auckland Point School shook off the Monday blues with a late Autumn swim earlier this week, with staff and students taking an optional dip in the cold water. New principal Justin Neal, who started two weeks ago, joined in too, saying the water was a tad chilly but the swim provided some good fun – and it helped that the sun was shining. Justin added he’s settling in well at the school, praising the “lovely community and kids” who have made him feel very welcome. Nikora Herewini-Kerr, 7, reckoned the water was just “a little bit cold”, while other students said it felt like a “fresh river”.
Port Tarakohe building wins major awards
Tasman District Council’s Port Tarakohe management and amenities building is gaining national recognition, winning top place in the Total Colour Neutrals Tone category at the Resene Total Colour Awards. Judges praised the collaborative design process, which involved Manawhenua ki Mohua (Ngāti Tama, Ngāti Rārua, Te Ātiawa) and local Māori artist Robin Slow, with cultural motifs reflecting the whakapapa of Mohua. The project has also been shortlisted for the 2026 Nelson and Marlborough Architecture Awards, alongside the Queen St parklet. Winners will be announced on 8 May. In addition, the Tarakohe building is a finalist in the RCP Commercial Office Property Award, with winners announced on 12 June.
Campaign targets rising road toll in Tasman
Tasman District Council is backing a joint campaign with police, NZTA and ACC to tackle rising serious crashes on local roads. An NZTA audit shows crashes involving death or serious injury have increased over the past five years, with 82 serious or fatal crashes recorded across the district. Police say speeding is a major factor, and enforcement can be expected anytime, anywhere. District road policing manager inspector Martin Tunley says speeding puts everyone at risk and will not be tolerated. Council transportation manager Jamie McPherson says evidence clearly shows reducing speed limits lowers deaths and serious injuries, particularly on high‑risk rural roads such as the Moutere Highway.
