Sunday, July 23, 2023

"Kaikōura's State-of-the-Art Fire Station Unveiled:”

The opening of the Kaikōura new Fire Station


“A Beacon of Safety for the Community’’


The Kaikōura Volunteer Fire Brigade and the entire community rejoiced as they marked the momentous occasion of the official opening of their new, purpose-built fire station on the 22 July 2023. The Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Barbara Edmonds, along with Fire and Emergency representatives, local iwi, stakeholders, including Kaikōura Mayor Craig Mackle, and past members of the Kaikōura brigade, participated in the celebration.


Hon. Barbara Edmonds cutting the ribbon

The journey towards this cutting-edge $7.04 million facility began in 2021 after a devastating earthquake in 2016 rendered the old station unfit for use. Located dangerously close to the shore, the previous station was also vulnerable to tsunami risks. However, the new station, thoughtfully positioned outside the tsunami zone, embodies resilience and foresight.

Thanks to the generous funding support, in part from the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund, the new station boasts an array of features, including three appliance bays, decontamination and breathing apparatus filling facilities, spacious operations and training rooms, as well as well-equipped offices. In addition, a resource garage is on-site to house supplementary appliances and a tanker.

The new Kaikōura Fire Station

District Commander of Canterbury, Dave Stackhouse, from Fire and Emergency New Zealand, expressed his enthusiasm for the new station and its potential to serve as a vital hub for emergency services and the community. He emphasised that this state-of-the-art facility is constructed to withstand seismic challenges, ensuring continued operation even after a disaster strikes.

Kaikōura Fire Station

Stackhouse noted that the role of local firefighters extends far beyond responding to fires; the new station will equip them to handle a diverse range of incidents around Kaikōura, further strengthening their capacity to safeguard the community.

The opening of this modern fire station stands as a testament to Kaikōura's unwavering spirit and preparedness, providing a secure base for the Kaikōura Volunteer Fire Brigade to serve their community diligently for many years to come.

MEDIA: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Pigeon Post News Richmond


Saturday, July 22, 2023

Pigeon Post News Presents: Discover the Power of Pilates for Mind and Body

pilates@tangolibre.com

 

Unleash Your Strength and Unwind Your Mind with Pilates

Pilates, the renowned exercise method celebrated for its focus on functional movement and overall body strength, has taken the fitness world by storm. 

Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, this invigorating practice has captivated enthusiasts of all ages, offering a pathway to improved well-being through the mind-body connection.


Strengthen Your Core, Transform Your Life

At the heart of Pilates lies a core objective: to strengthen the abdominals, improve posture, stabilise and elongate the spine, and cultivate balance and overall strength. 

Unlike traditional workouts that target isolated muscle groups, Pilates works holistically, harmonising the body and promoting balance. 

Concentration, control, centring, proper breathing, flow, and precision form the six fundamental principles that underpin every Pilates session.


A Gentle Path to Resilience

Pilates stands apart as a low-impact exercise method that gently combines fluid movements with controlled breathing, making it accessible to individuals of all fitness levels and ages. 

By prioritising strength and mobility, Pilates aligns the body, fine-tunes movement patterns, and strengthens the deep core muscles. 

With its focus on the core, Pilates enhances stability and cultivates heightened body awareness.


Beyond the Physical: A Journey of Mind and Spirit

Pilates extends its benefits beyond the physical realm, offering profound mental and emotional advantages. 

The mind-body connection fostered in Pilates nurtures increased concentration and mindfulness during the exercises. 

By emphasising proper alignment and breathing patterns, Pilates helps alleviate stress levels and elevate mood, providing a holistic approach to fitness and well-being.


Experience the Artistry of Pilates with Anne-Maree

Step into the serene ambiance of Anne-Maree Therkleson's home studio in Richmond, where Dance and Pilates teacher Anne-Maree invites you to discover the transformative power of Pilates. 

Offering small, intimate classes with a maximum of seven participants, Anne-Maree ensures individual attention and a personalised experience. 

Join her on Tuesdays at 9 am, Wednesdays at 5:45 pm, or Thursdays at 9 am, and she will provide all the necessary equipment for your journey.


A Welcome for All, Regardless of Experience

Anne-Maree warmly invites both novices and seasoned practitioners to join her Pilates classes. 

Unsure if Pilates is right for you? 

Reach out to Anne-Maree for a friendly chat to address any questions or concerns you may have. 

Alternatively, dive straight into the world of Pilates by registering for a term and experiencing firsthand the grace and fluidity it can bring to your life.

Don't miss your chance to embark on this incredible journey. Term 3 has commenced, but she is still is offering positions to students to have the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the realm of Pilates. 

To learn more about Anne-Maree's Pilates classes and to register, reach out to her via email at pilates@tangolibre.com. Take the leap and discover the path to improved strength, flexibility, and overall well-being through Pilates.

Note: Anne-Maree's Pilates classes are limited, so secure your spot today!


Anne-Maree Therkleson pilates@tangolibre.com


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Pigeon Post News Richmond, Tasman.


Mapua - Help Needed urgently

This is our loving dog Vincent not Delia's

 

House/Dog Sitter needed Urgently


Hello,

My name is Delia, and I'm currently residing in Mapua. Unfortunately, my family has experienced a tragic event in the UK, and I must urgently travel there. However, before I can leave, there are some problems to be addressed.

You see, I have two large dogs, one of which has undergone recent surgery and requires daily rehabilitation. Due to their special needs, I cannot place them in kennels while I am away. Therefore, I am seeking someone who can take up this challenging responsibility.

I'm in search of an angelic soul who would be willing to help care for my dogs during my absence. The timing of my departure will depend on finding this kind-hearted person. Although the duration is somewhat flexible, I anticipate a minimum period of three weeks.

If you are up for this challenge and would like to offer assistance, please don't hesitate to contact me at - This problem has been solved with your help.

Thank you,

Delia from Mapua



Pigeon Post News Richmond

Editor: Thank you for all your comments

Friday, July 21, 2023

Baton Valley - Tasman: From Gold Mining History to Tourist Destination

Baton Valley Tasman

 Take Care in the Back Country as Tourists and Locals visit unfamiliar territory

The back country of Tasman, New Zealand, offers a captivating haven for outdoor enthusiasts, drawing in trampers, hunters, and cyclists with its untamed beauty and rich history. One of the significant historical sites in this region is the Baton Valley, nestled at the base of the majestic Mount Arthur. In the 19th century, this valley was a bustling centre of gold mining activity, triggered by the discovery of gold traces by the adventurous sailor, Batteyn Norton, in 1855. The news of gold brought around 100 diggers to the area by 1859, creating a vibrant community.

The Baton gold, although less valuable due to its sandy composition, coexisted with the highly sought-after Wangapeka gold, leading to the establishment of a store, hotel, and annual grand dances organised by the Taylor family in 1859. J.W. Sutcliffe also managed another hotel in the valley, adding to the growing community.

The initial gold diggings were concentrated near the Skeet and Ellis Rivers, making the field easily accessible. However, as time passed, the initial excitement waned, resulting in a decrease in the number of diggers, with only around 50 remaining. Some diggers transitioned into settlers and contributed to the establishment of a local school, while hack meetings at the Baton racecourse brought participants from distant districts.

Although the Baton Valley was not considered a wealthy gold field, it served as a fallback option for farmers and diggers facing difficulties elsewhere. Notable gold discoveries occasionally occurred, such as Arthur Needham's find, which enabled him to purchase a farm. In the late 1800s, visitors reported finding gold along the Motueka and Baton Rivers, with some individuals earning substantial amounts, up to £12 per week.

However, by 1902, the Baton workings were largely abandoned, except for the 1930s Depression period when men were subsidised to search for gold in the riverbed, resulting in new discoveries. The construction of the Baton Bridge in 1907 greatly benefited settlers by improving access to the area, contributing to its ongoing development.

In the present day, the Baton Valley proudly preserves its agricultural heritage while enticing tourists with the allure of the Tasman's Great Taste Cycle Trail. This back and beyond section of the cycle trail offers a thrilling 4 to 6-hour biking experience from Tapawera to Riwaka. The trail treats visitors to awe-inspiring vistas of mountains, farmlands, rivers, and vast skies, fostering a deep connection with nature.

However, as enticing as the backcountry may be, caution is essential. Once traveler's leave the towns at each end of the trail, options for restocking supplies become limited. It is vital to ensure sufficient provisions for the journey ahead. The trail comprises rural gravel roads, which are shared with vehicles, including logging trucks and milk tankers. Cyclists must exercise caution and remain mindful of loose gravel. For e-bike users, carrying enough battery charge is crucial, as no charging facilities exist in the backcountry, and cellular coverage is sparse.

Recent events in Baton Valley serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by those venturing into the backcountry. A cyclist was found after being lost for ten days, surviving without food, last week. He apparently went for a bush walk and became lost. Thanks to the vigilant efforts of the Police, search teams and a member of the public who reported an abandoned tent cycle and other items, the man was located and safely transported to the hospital. This incident underscores the importance of early reporting and preparedness when participating in outdoor activities in remote areas.

Sergeant Jonny Evans of Nelson Bays Search and Rescue expressed gratitude to the individual who initially alerted the authorities and acknowledged the efforts of the search teams and LandSAR volunteers involved in the rescue operation.

Authorities strongly advise individuals engaging in tramping, hunting, and cyclists who intend to some tramping as well, in the backcountry to carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). PLBs are invaluable tools that enable rescue teams to respond quickly by pinpointing the location of distress signals. Registering the PLB with the Rescue Coordination Centre NZ before embarking on any outdoor excursion ensures a rapid and efficient emergency response.

In conclusion, the Baton Valley, steeped in historical significance and coupled with the allure of the Great Taste Cycle Trail, has transformed into a thriving tourist destination. Adventurers seeking an unforgettable experience are drawn to this untamed paradise. However, undertaking such ventures requires a blend of adventurous spirit and responsible preparedness. By approaching the backcountry with caution, foresight, and respect for its wilderness, visitors can fully immerse themselves in its enchanting beauty while minimising risks and preserving its charm for generations to come.



Sources:

Nelson Provincial Museum Pupuri Taonga o Te Tai Ao


Tasman’s Great Taste Cycle Trail - Tasman District Council


NZ Police Media Centre

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Pigeon Post News, Richmond, Tasman.

MetService Weather - Tasman

 





RICHMOND WEATHER:

TODAY 

 

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Pigeon Post News Richmond Tasman

Thursday, July 20, 2023

Fonterra Boosts Efforts to Cut Emissions - Targets Net Zero by 2030

Fonterra testing biomass in it's manufacturing process


"Fonterra Pledges Bold Emissions Reduction Targets - Aiming for Net Zero by 2030”



Fonterra, a major dairy company, has recently announced its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions further. The company has set ambitious targets for Scope 1&2 emissions, which include direct emissions under its control and indirect emissions resulting from its activities but not directly owned or controlled by the company.

The new goal is to achieve a 50% absolute reduction in Scope 1&2 emissions by 2030, using a 2018 baseline. This is a significant increase from their previous target of a 30% reduction by 2030. 

Fonterra's emissions mainly come from their manufacturing operations and supply chain, and achieving this new target is a vital step towards their ultimate aim of becoming net zero by 2050, meaning they will aim to balance out emissions with equivalent carbon removal.

To achieve this ambitious goal, Fonterra plans to focus on energy efficiency improvements and switching to renewable energy sources across its milk collection fleet and manufacturing sites. Particularly, they aim to transition away from coal usage in six of their facilities. 

The company foresees an investment of $790 million in these efforts, with the government contributing up to $90 million through the Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry (GIDI) fund.

Fonterra's CEO, Miles Hurrell, emphasises the importance of collaboration in achieving these targets, and the government funding will help expedite their plans to reduce Scope 1&2 emissions by 50% by 2030 and eliminate coal usage by 2037.

The company is actively exploring various technologies, such as biomass, electrification, and heat pump technology, to make the shift towards renewable energy sources at their manufacturing sites. They have already initiated decarbonisation projects at five sites in the past five years and aim to continue this momentum.

By accelerating their efforts, Fonterra aims to maintain its position as a leading provider of low-carbon dairy products on a global scale. These actions will not only contribute to New Zealand's climate targets but also bring benefits to local communities through job opportunities.

Fonterra is also in discussions with farmers to set a Scope 3 emissions target, which will be announced shortly. All of the company's climate targets align with the Science Based Target initiative, which seeks to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Fonterra is in the process of seeking accreditation for its efforts in this regard.

Overall, Fonterra's increased commitment to emissions reduction is a significant step towards a more sustainable future, and it sets a positive example for other companies to follow suit in the fight against climate change.


Fonterra


Pigeon Post News, Richmond, Tasman.

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

Police - Lost Man Found in Baton Valley

 

Police Photo

Man located by Police and LandSAR after being lost for ten days - Baton Valley, Tasman District


A man is recovering in hospital after being located by Police and LandSAR in Baton Valley, Tasman District, last night.

The man had been without food for a week and is fortunate to have survived.

A search was launched on Monday morning, after a member of the public reported finding an abandoned tent at Ellis River, along with a bicycle and a number of other items.

The search teams, which included a SAR dog, were deployed and conducted a search over a wide area.

The man was located by LandSAR volunteers around three kilometres from the end of Baton Valley Road shortly after 5pm.

A helicopter was unable to be deployed due to low cloud, so the man was assisted out by searchers, before being transported to Nelson Hospital.

“At this stage we believe the man had been lost for ten days, but had not been reported missing,” says Sergeant Jonny Evans, Nelson Bays Search and Rescue.

“He is very lucky to be alive and I’d like to thank the member of the public who initially reported finding the tent and other items, as well as those who got in touch with us when we appealed for information about the tent on social media.”

“This situation shows the importance of getting in touch with Police when you see something that you think doesn’t seem quite right.”

“The information provided by the public enabled us to get a search up and running – I have no doubt we would be dealing with a very different situation if this had not been reported to Police when it was.”

“And I would like to thank all those involved in the search, including our LandSAR volunteers. It was a very long day for them and they can be proud of the work they did to recover this man and bring him to safety.”

Police encourage anyone heading out tramping or hunting to ensure they are equipped with a Personal Locator Beacon.

Beacons are a lifesaving tool which allow rescue teams to respond to your location as soon as possible.

If you are exploring the outdoors and are unable to make it out for any reason, or if you have concerns for someone else, please do not hesitate to activate your beacon.

Remember to register your beacon with Rescue Coordination Centre NZ before you head out: www.beacons.org.nz 

Police Media Centre.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond, Tasman.

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