Nelson Cathedral Christmas Events & Services

 

Nelson Cathedral Events and Services

Christmas is a very busy and exciting season at the Nelson Cathedral. The very popular Christmas Tree Festival has begun with the light-up service already taken place, but the Christmas Tree Festival continues with many Christmas trees on show. The festival also features lunchtime Musical concerts with local musicians for a donation.

These events are to follow: ‘Festival of Nine Sessions and Carols’, ‘Kid’s Christingle Service’, ‘Christmas Eve Carols’ on the steps of the Cathedral, and much more listed below:

Nelson Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival: 

The Christmas Tree Festival at Nelson Cathedral is now open every day till 14 Jan. It is a community event & open to everyone, every day - from 8.30am until 6pm. Late night closing at 9.30pm on Friday evenings 15, 22 and 29 of  December at Nelson Cathedral.

The more than 60 trees have been decorated mainly by community organisations including a number of kindergartens & retirement villages. 

Lunchtime  Christmas Concerts:

Lunchtime concerts 1 - 1:30pm weekdays from 4 to 20 December. 

Festival of Nine Sessions & Carols:

This festival is to take place on 18 December at 7pm.

Kid’s Christingle Service:

This is to take place on Saturday 23 December at 5:30pm

Christmas Eve Carols on the Cathedral Steps:

Christmas eve ‘Carols on the Steps’ of the Cathedral 24 December 8:45pm and at 10:15pm ‘Choir Sings Carols from the Gallery.’

Christmas Day

Christmas Day 25 December 10am Choral Communion.

Evening Pray with Hymns

Sunday 7 January Evening Pray with Hymns 5-30pm

Christmas Tree Switch-off Service

Sunday 14 January 10-00am Family Communion and Christmas Tree Switch-off Service.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

“Baigent’s Bush: A Loved and Nurtured area of Nature - Generously Gifted to the Community by the Baigent Family.”

 

At the official handover ceremony of Baigent’s Bush from left to right: Richard Hilton Team Leader Reserves Operations, Deputy Mayor Stuart Bryant, Waimea-Moutere ward Councillor Mike Kinninmonth, Waimea-Moutere ward Councillor Dan Shallcrass, Barbara Cameron(nee Baigent), Paul Baigent, Mary Baigent, Evan Baigent, Waimea-Moutere ward Councillor Christeen Mackenzie.

Photo Tim O’Connell, Communications Officer, Tasman District Council.

“Baigent’s Bush: A Timeless Legacy Unveiled for the Community on 7 December 2023 from Generations Past to Generations to Come”

For the past 180 years, the esteemed Baigent family, synonymous with Wakefield's rich history, has bestowed a remarkable gift upon the people of Tasman—a sprawling nine-hectare haven known as Baigent’s Bush, nestled near Pigeon Valley.

With roots that trace back to Edward Baigent's arrival in Wakefield in 1843, the Baigent family has cultivated a legacy that now extends beyond familial bounds. Two years ago, they made a momentous decision to share their cherished piece of land with the wider community, a gesture that transcends generations.

Baigent’s Bush, once a landscape hosting a farm, tennis and croquet courts, water race, and hop gardens, has witnessed the ebbs and flows of community life—from pony clubs to picnics. The property has been a witness to history, and now, it stands as a living testament to the family's commitment to fostering community well-being.

Over the past two years, the Reserves and Facilities team of the Tasman District Council has meticulously prepared the woodland area for public enjoyment, implementing measures such as weed control, perimeter fencing, and informative signage. The area, adorned with new plantings, is also home to ancient native trees, including tōtara, mānuka, and kahikatea, some of which are believed to be over 500 years old.

Baigent's Bush handed over to the Community on 7 December 2023. Photo Tim O’Connell, Communications Officer, Tasman District Council.

The official handover ceremony on December 7 marked a significant moment, with members of at least three generations of the Baigent family, Tasman Deputy Mayor Stuart Bryant, Moutere-Waimea Ward Councillors, and Council staff in attendance. Deputy Mayor Bryant expressed gratitude for the family's generosity in opening the reserve to the public, emphasising the substantial gift it represents to the community.

In 2024, the Council District Council will initiate a formal consultation process to classify the land as a Scenic Reserve under the Reserves Act, solidifying its status as a protected natural treasure for the community today and for generations to come.

New tree planting has been done by the Reserves and Facilities Team of the Tasman District Council in Baigent's Bush. Photo Tim O’Connell, Communications Officer, Tasman District Council.

Brothers Paul and Evan Baigent, representing the fifth generation to work on the land, fondly recalled their upbringing and acknowledged the rich history embedded in each corner of the bush. Paul highlighted the passing down of love and respect for the bush through generations, creating "a home and a tranquil gathering point for family members."

Paul expressed that the decision to gift the land was a culmination of his parents' lifelong love for the bush. Noel and Joyce Baigent's vision was to protect this natural haven for future generations, leaving their children in a position to make this enduring gift—a legacy to Wakefield.

As the community looks forward to the future of Baigent’s Bush, a survey has been launched to gather ideas on potential developments in the area. This, coupled with the ongoing Reserve Management Plans review for Richmond and Murchison wards, invites public participation and input at shape.tasman.govt.nz/rmp-reviews. Baigent’s Bush stands not only as a testament to the past but as a living, breathing gift that will be cherished by generations to come.

Source: Tasman District Council Communications Team.

Pigeon Post News. 

CHRISTMAS Sundial Square, Richmond - Today

 

CHRISTMAS - COMING EVENTS

RICHMOND:

Festive Fun at Pak’n’Save Richmond Community Christmas Party!

Richmond is buzzing with excitement as Love Richmond and GK Events Hire bring you the Pak’n’Save Richmond Community Christmas Party – a spectacular event to make your holiday season merry and bright!

Date and Time:

Get ready for a day filled with joy on Saturday, December 9th, from 1 pm to 5 pm, at Sundial Square. Santa has exciting news straight from the North Pole, and he's making it up to everyone who missed the Pak’N’Save Richmond Santa Parade, which unfortunately had to be canceled.

A Festive Afternoon for All:

Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas with an array of activities, including games, face painting, balloons, music, dancing, and even free slushies! The festivities promise to keep you entertained and your spirits high throughout the afternoon.

Santa's Grand Appearance:

Santa himself will be in Sundial Square, ready to spread holiday cheer and create lasting memories. Don't miss the chance for a FREE photo opportunity with the jolly man in red – it's the perfect keepsake for the festive season.

Christmas Costume Contest:

Dress up in your most festive Christmas-themed costume and join the costume procession at 3 pm for a chance to win exciting prizes! Let your creativity shine as you become part of a cheerful parade of holiday attire.

Exciting Prizes Await:

In the spirit of giving, there's an opportunity to win a fantastic $250 Pak’n’Save voucher! Attend the party, join in the festivities, and you might just be the lucky winner of this incredible prize.

Heartfelt Thanks to Our Sponsors:

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our generous sponsors who have made this event possible. We extend our gratitude to Pak’N’Save, NBS, Nelson Pine Industries, Downer NZ, Nelson Santa Parade Trust, Richmond Mall, GK Events Hire, Media Works, Footprint Signs, Houston Motors, Gravity Events, Continental Events, and Harcourts.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, December 9, 2023
• Time: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
• Location: Sundial Square, Richmond

Hosted by Richmond Unlimited and GK Events Hire:

This festive extravaganza is proudly brought to you by Love Richmond and GK Events Hire, working together to create a memorable and magical Christmas experience for the Richmond community.

Special Note:

This event is a heartwarming response to the cancellation of the Richmond Christmas Parade, ensuring that local children have the opportunity to see Santa and partake in the joy of the season. Join party in celebrating the season of joy, laughter, and community spirit at the Pak’n’Save Richmond Community Christmas Party. We look forward to seeing you there for an afternoon filled with festive delight!

RICHMOND

Christmas in the Park and Multicultural Picnic

Celebrate a Multicultural Christmas in the Park on International Migrants Day!

This Christmas, experience the magic of the season with a unique and culturally rich celebration at Washbourn Gardens in Richmond. Join us on Saturday, December 16, for a heartwarming Christmas in the park that not only embraces the festive spirit but also pays tribute to International Migrants Day.

Event Highlights:

Commencing at 6 pm, the festivities kick off with a vibrant multicultural picnic, inviting the community to come together and share in the joy of the season. Families can indulge in delicious treats while enjoying family-friendly craft activities, setting the stage for a memorable evening.

Musical Extravaganza:

The celebration takes an international twist with an open mic session for musical performances, featuring special guests pianist Louis Lucas Perry and Samantha Baxter from NZ Musical Theatre. The enchanting melodies of the Nelson Brass Band, Salisbury Road, and the Take a Chance Choir will fill the air, presenting beloved Christmas songs that resonate with the holiday spirit.

Community Carol Singing:

At 8 pm, the grand carol singing begins, bringing everyone together in a harmonious celebration of the festive season. Attendees are encouraged to join in the merriment and sing along, with song lyric booklets provided for the audience.

Global Flavor at Open Mic:

During the open mic time from 6:15 pm to 7:15 pm, individuals are invited to share the joy of Christmas by performing a festive song in their mother language. This unique addition adds a global touch to the celebration, highlighting the diversity and unity within the community.

Santa Claus, Food Delights, and Kids Activities:

Get ready for a visit from Santa Claus, who will be spreading cheer and joy. Food trucks will be on-site, offering a variety of culinary delights, and there will be engaging activities for the little ones. Don't forget to bring a candle and your own reusable plates, containers, and cups to make this celebration environmentally friendly.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, December 16, 2023
• Time: 6:00 pm onwards
• Location: Washbourn Gardens, Richmond

Rain Date:

In case of inclement weather, the event's rain date is Sunday, December 17, ensuring that the festive spirit remains undampened.

Organizers:

This multicultural Christmas celebration is proudly organized by the Tasman District Council and Welcoming Communities Tasman.

Stay Connected:

For the latest updates and any changes, follow us on Facebook: https://fb.me/e/NiNFE4kH

Join us for a Christmas celebration that transcends borders and embraces the richness of cultural diversity. Let's make this holiday season a truly unforgettable experience for all!

Pigeon Post News

Takaka commercial fisher fined $20,000

Commercial Fishing Vessel Jeanette. 

 Takaka commercial fisher who removed a Geospatial Position Reporting device from vessel fined $20,000

A commercial fisher who deliberately disarmed and removed a Geospatial Position Reporting (GPR) device from his fishing vessel, has been fined $20,000.

Tony Peter Phillipson (49) was sentenced today – Wednesday, 6 December in the Nelson District Court after earlier pleading guilty to 3 charges under the Fisheries Act and Fisheries (Geospatial Position Reporting) Regulations 2017, following a successful prosecution by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

"All commercial fishing vessels are required to have GPR technology installed and operating on their vessels. Digital monitoring supports sustainable fisheries by tracking, reporting, and monitoring all commercial fishing activity. Mr Phillipson knew that it was illegal to remove  his GPR device, however, he deliberately went out of his way to do this in order to circumvent the law," says fisheries New Zealand acting regional fisheries compliance manager, Anthony Little.

In April this year, Mr Phillipson left Port Tarakohe in Golden Bay aboard the vessel Jeanette with one crew member, sailing towards Cook Strait for a commercial fishing trip. When he reached the Waitui Bay area, he removed the GPR equipment, placed it in waterproof bags, attaching them to fishing buoys, tied to a rope and anchor. There is no record of where he went to from that point. He returned 3 days later but could not find the GPR device and claimed it had been stolen.

Mr Phillipson sailed to Port Nelson on 1 May after catching 5,948kgs of fish, valued at $11,875,00. The GPR device – a Solar VMS - was found by a member of the public and handed in to MPI, along with the anchor, rope, and buoys.

"When spoken to by a fishery officer, Mr Phillipson admitted removing the GPR device. This is the first time we've encountered this type of offending – someone disabling GPR equipment and there are consequences. The rules are there for a reason – to protect our shared fisheries and ensure sustainability into the future. Mr Phillipson's actions undermined a system based on trust," says Anthony Little.

The Jeanette, the Solar VMS, anchor, rope, and fishing buoys were forfeited to the Crown.

MPI encourages people to report suspected illegal activity through the ministry's 0800 4 POACHER number (0800 47 62 24)

Date: 06 December 2023

Ministry of Primary Industries

Pigeon Post News

Drivers urged to plan for delays. State Highway 1 repairs - Nelson to Picton - Blenheim to Picton

Waka Kotahi Traffic Bulletin: 

4 December 2023

Drivers travelling between Tasman/Nelson and Blenheim to Picton can expect delays tomorrow (Tuesday, 5 December) as contractors continue repair works on State Highway 1 at the Picton Elevation.

The site is about 1km or so outside of Picton.

Basically, anyone catching a ferry will have to go through the site – Nelson traffic could use Queen Charlotte Drive to avoid it – but that route would take much longer than the expected delays at the stop/go

 

Road workers will be on-site between 8:30 am and 4 pm carrying out preparatory work before drilling to drain groundwater begins on Wednesday, 6 December.

 

Stop/go traffic management will be in place to keep road workers safe and allow them to get the job done as quickly as possible. Drivers can expect delays of around 15 minutes when passing through the works area.

 

The work underway is to repair damage to the road caused by a change in groundwater movement under the road’s surface.

 

Drivers must obey stop/go traffic controls and temporary speed limits and follow all instructions from road crews.

 

Because the works site is enroute to and from Picton, drivers with ferry connections should allow extra travel time for their journeys.

 

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey. Keep up to date with:

Traffic updates: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic

• Facebook: facebook.com/NZTASouthIsland
• Twitter: twitter.com/WakaKotahiTOTS
• Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz
• Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)

Wake Kotahi

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.