Pink bingo packs the house
Pens were poised, cards were ready and it was a packed house of pink-clad residents for Summerset Richmond Ranges’ pink-ribbon bingo fundraiser last week. About 80 residents turned out for the event, prompted by organiser Liz Lummis, who says about 13 residents in the retirement village are currently battling cancer. The Breast Cancer Foundation NZ runs its Pink Ribbon campaign throughout May.
Green light for airport runway plans
Planning changes enabling a future runway extension at Nelson Airport have been approved by the Environment Court, giving the airport long-term certainty. All appeals have been resolved following agreements with key stakeholders, and the changes will be added to the Nelson City Council’s planning framework. Airport leaders say the decision will support future growth, with a runway extension likely needed within the next decade as demand rises. An economic assessment estimates the airport will contribute $2.5 billion to the regional economy over the next 10 years.
Tasman reviews alcohol policy
Public consultation on a review of Tasman’s Local Alcohol Policy will open next month, giving residents a chance to have their say on how alcohol is sold and supplied in the district. The policy, in place since 2014 and reviewed every six years, guides alcohol licensing alongside the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act. The review will seek feedback on whether the policy should continue, whether current trading hours are appropriate, and where licensed premises should be located, including proximity to schools and other places where young people gather. Consultation is set to run from 25 June to 26 July.
Nelson travel consultant wins national award
Nelson travel consultant Matt Roberts has been named Corporate Consultant of the Year at the 2026 National Travel Industry Awards in Auckland. Matt, of Orbit World Travel Nelson, managed 1,800 bookings and more than 2,600 travellers in the past year, with a 90 per cent client return rate. Owner Jason McKay says the award reflects Matt’s long-standing commitment to clients and his ability to handle complex, high-level travel arrangements. Another Nelson consultant, Brendon Maguire, was also a finalist.
East St says goodbye
After 15 years, East St is having their final night on 6 June. The Church St restaurant, which serves plant-based food, has become an institution in Nelson’s food scene and will be missed.
Celtic Pipe Band gets funding boost
A Nelson pipe band heading to the World Pipe Band Championships has received a $5000 grant to help cover the cost of essential equipment. The New Zealand Community Trust funding will allow the Celtic Pipe Band, based in Stoke, to purchase chanter and drone reeds, a costly but vital component needed to maintain consistent sound across its more than 30 pipers. Pipe major Callum Gilchrist says the grant will ease financial pressure on members while helping the band stay performance-ready as it prepares for competition in Scotland later this year.
Chinese tea ceremony workshop explores tradition and culture
Motueka residents are invited to explore the rich culture and traditions behind Chinese tea at a hands‑on workshop today (Saturday 30 May). The Chinese tea ceremony workshop will introduce participants to different types of Chinese tea, traditional brewing methods and the cultural meanings behind tea in Chinese society. Attendees will also learn practical techniques for making Chinese tea at home and will have the chance to practice brewing and serving tea during the session. The workshop runs from 1-3pm at Te Noninga Kumu – Motueka Library.
