Blenheim Sun, 72 High Street, Blenheim (2025)

05/12/2025

Hello my darlings,
Well, where do I start, it’s been such a busy month! I’ve been run off my little furry feet but so have the others in the team, so I won’t complain!
Firstly, I must tell you about my beautiful new collar. Even if I do say so myself, I look adorable. My old collar was discovered in the carpark, it must have broken off and despite vague whisperings of sabotage, I know nothing about how that happened. I am a very adventurous girl so it’s no wonder it couldn’t hack my pace.
My natural charm has paid dividends in terms of pats and attention recently. I am quite the centre of attention, a people magnate if you will. It has been a busy time and there are more people about than usual, each keen to lavish me with love. Who am I to deny them?
Our Catwalk for Care Fashion show in Picton on the 21 November was a huge success, raising $8748 for Hospice Marlborough. All 90 tickets sold, I hope people weren’t expecting to see me there strutting my stuff, but it’s only fair others get a chance to shine too. Any hoo everyone had a wonderful time, the energy was amazing, and I heard our incredible models just lit up the catwalk!
A big meow and thank you to all those that bought a ticket or supported the event in any way, you all made it such a special night out. A huge thank you to the local retailers who also made it possible, Sista & Co, Portal Jewellery & Design, Seamonkeez and of course our very own Hospice Shop Picton - watch this space for 2026…
Speaking of Fashion shows, we have another coming up in February 2026. This time it is Fashion and Art in the garden involving Raukura Gallery and Sista & Co once again. Keep an eye on our socials and website for more information coming soon. I too shall keep you posted, being the font of all knowledge that I am.
It’s the countdown for Christmas now and I’ve been pondering my wish list. I am a girl who enjoys the finer things in life and my thoughts turned to oodles of salmon, a diamond collar perhaps or a day at the spa but, honestly, I really want for nothing. I am loved, well fed and have a happy home here at Hospice.
That said though, Santa is paying a special visit on Sunday 7 December at Event Cinemas Blenheim. Santa will be there from 10m – 1pm, $10 a photo with all money going to Hospice Marlborough.
At the same time the Cinema has a lineup of Christmas movies for you all, you can get your photo and enjoy a festive film, with a portion of movie ticket sales also going to Hospice Marlborough! Make sure you head down – bring the whole family!
Well, that’s it for now and all for the year in fact. I shall return in 2026, refreshed and fabulous to bring you all my news. I hope you all have a wonderful festive season, may it be filled with love laughter and salmon!
Love Lexie ###

03/12/2025

An impressive collection of classic cars has inspired local artists to capture them in all their glory for an important exhibition.
Omaka Classic Cars was the unique venue for members of Marlborough Art Society to put their talents to the test, giving them something extra special to paint and draw.
Classic car enthusiast Ron Stewart, whose collection of more than 100 vehicles is on display, said welcoming the artists had been a pleasure.
“It’s also cruise ship season and having members here working on their art shows visitors to the area that Marlborough isn’t just a one trick pony.”
With an array of classic cars from the 1950s to 1980s to choose from, artists were spoilt for choice as they escaped the rain last week.
Marlborough Art Society Committee member and past president Anne Barrer said it had been a “golden era” for classic cars, one which had inspired an exhibition taking place next year.
She said some of the Society’s 290 members had made the most of the unique opportunity. Ron’s offer had been well received, she explained.
“Events like this are a great way to try something different. We try and set a program of exhibitions for the year ahead and it’s always good to have something new.”
Each vehicle has been carefully restored, showcasing the era’s unique design and technology.
Polished to a shine and in a rainbow of colours, the cars captured the artists’ attention as they worked on their own interpretations.
Marlborough Art Society upcoming President Carolyn Costley said the hope was that some of the work created at Omaka would go on to feature in the exhibition.
It would be a fabulous event, she explained, with people dressing up in costumes and fashion from the era.
“We set a programme of exhibitions for the year and try to find new themes. The opening gala evening will invite guests to dress up in costumes from the era. Ron will have at least two classic cars on display in the car park.
“Hopefully some of what we see here today will be chosen to go on display. It’s just fabulous here.”
The exhibition, scheduled for March 202, is titled "The Golden Era of Classic Cars 50s -80s"
Visit www.omakaclassiccars.co.nz for more information about the display and www.marlboroughartsociety.co.nz for more details about all their upcoming exhibitions.

03/12/2025

Rugby great Richie McCaw gave some words of wisdom to young fans as he made a flying visit to Marlborough last week.
More than 100 students, friends, and whanau gathered to welcome the former All Black captain as he landed his own helicopter on the playing field at Rapaura School.
And rain failed to dampen the spirits of students who welcomed Ritchie and special guest Rob Nichol to the school with rousing Kapa Haka performances.
The pair had flown to Marlborough ahead of the start of GODZONE, a multi-day, non-stop, expedition race which got underway on Thursday.
Ritchie told the excited crowd that he had taken part in the challenge four times.
“People will often say you can’t, but I always say, ‘why not,’”
“Something about the professional sportsmen that I’ve played with is you don’t have to come from anywhere special or in particular to be prepared to take on and meet a challenge.”
“After seven days out on GODZONE and you're sitting around with your teammates talking about what you went through, that feeling of satisfaction of setting out to do the task, going through the tough bits and achieving - that’s the bit I love,” he said.
School principal also Carey Huria addressed the crowd, saying it was an honour for the school to host the VIP guests.
“Your presence will inspire our Tamariki. You are demonstrating that leaders like yourselves, and people who give back to their community, who have dreams and make them a reality through building positive relationships, lifting people beyond what they believe they are capable of - and with gusty determination - succeeding.”

03/12/2025

What are your go-to spots when the weather heats up?

A popular Marlborough swimming spot is out of bounds as stopbank work is deemed a safety hazard.
Swimmers have been banned from part of the Wairau River below Ferry Bridge in Spring Creek as vital upgrades to flood protection get underway.
Council’s Group Manager Infrastructure and Services Richard Coningham said it was not a decision that had been made lightly.
He added the river and the area immediately below the bridge will be hazardous for all swimming, recreating and bathing activities during the construction of the new stop banks.
“It is for the safety of the public and to allow us to progress this important flood control work for the protection of the Spring Creek community.
“The closure will extend through until the completion of the stop bank works in June 2027.”
The upgrade to two primary sections of stop bank along Peninsula Road near the township is needed to prevent the banks failing. If this happened it would compromise the safety of Spring Creek township and State Highway 1.
The stop banks were damaged in the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake and 2021 and 2022 floods. While repairs have been carried out, they remain vulnerable.
Work is being funded by Council and the Government’s Kānoa regional development fund. The project cost is $22.5M with $13.8M funded by Kānoa and the remainder by Council.
Richard said it was probable restrictions would last until work ended.
If a window of opportunity comes along, then the restriction could be lifted temporarily he added.

“We cannot however make any promises about that as this is a major construction site.
“Council apologises for any inconvenience as we know how popular this area is. However, we are lucky in Marlborough that we do have plenty of rivers and seaside destinations and we encourage regular users of the river and the wider public to take this opportunity to explore some new places.”
The contract for the project was awarded in early November to Taylors Contracting Co Ltd and is on track for completion in June 2027.
For information on the swim spots that Council monitors go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/recreation/swimming-and-boating/recreational-water-quality.

02/12/2025

What do you think? Is it time for licence renewals to get a revamp?

Licensing rules are set to be reviewed to help older people stay in the driver’s seat as long as safely possible.
Details of the Better Later Life Action Plan were unveiled in Blenheim on Friday by Minister for Seniors Casey Costello.
Investigating whether regular licence renewals for people aged 75 years old and over were still fit for purpose was one of several actions outlined.
Addressing Grey Power members, Minister Costello said the plan was geared around a simple goal - helping every New Zealander to live well for longer.
“It focuses on three key areas that matter to older people. We want people to stay well and independent for as long as possible and to support social connection,” she explained.
“We need to increase access to the right types of housing in the places people want to live. And we need to help older people remain financially secure and keep control over their lives.”
Hosted by Grey Power Marlborough, the event outlined the action plan which is the result of many months of collaboration between numerous government agencies.
Minister Costello said a revamp of the current licensing system could help older people stay independent and connected for longer. Work needed to be done to ensure health practitioners have the information they need to assess medical fitness to drive.
National Grey Power President Gayle Chambers and Marlborough President Bronwyn Mogridge joined about 40 local members at Nativity Church in Blenheim to hear about the new plan.
Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor and NZ First List MP Jamie Arbuckle also attended.
Ms Costello said the plan was something she felt passionate about.
“Across government, we want to improve access to information about government services so people can more easily find the help that’s available and the support that they need.
“This plan drives practical change to make life easier for older New Zealanders.”
The Action Plan supplements core services with specific new initiatives including:
• working to increase the range of suitable housing options
• supporting existing local networks to expand their services, with digital training through libraries
• providing tools and guidance to allow people to plan for later life
• strengthening protections against elder abuse, and
• modernising the SuperGold Card and exploring whether it can be used as a primary form of identification so that it remains as useful as possible.

02/12/2025

End of an Era at Bohally

After more than 37 years in education, including 11 years shaping the future of students at Bohally Intermediate, half of which were spent as Principal, Nicky Cameron-Dunn is bidding farewell to her leadership role.
Originally from Darfield in Canterbury, Nicky grew up on a farm on the outskirts of town before moving to Marlborough in 1989 to begin her teaching career. “My grandmother came from Birch Hill up in the Wairau Valley, so it felt like a bit of a full circle for me to return and make Marlborough my home”.
Looking back on her journey, Nicky admits she was initially uncertain about her career path after leaving school. “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do at first. Teaching was one of my options, so I applied for Christchurch Teachers College, got accepted, and decided to see how it went. Forty years later, I’m still here, so I guess it was the right decision.”
At that time, the application process was challenging, with only one in five applicants being accepted, a far cry from today’s more accessible entry into teaching. “It was a rigorous process back then, and I think it made us really value our roles,” says Nicky.
After five years of teaching and working in management roles at Bohally, the opportunity to become Principal arose. “I’ve always enjoyed a challenge,” says Nicky. I felt I had the experience and skills to lead, and I was fortunate to have a Board that believed in me.
For Nicky, the most essential part of the job has always been fostering positive relationships with students, parents, and staff. “Being a visible leader is crucial; people need to know you, trust you, and feel that you have their best interests at heart”, she explains.
Reflecting on the highlights of their time at Bohally, Nicky struggles to pick a favorite memory. “There are so many to choose from, school camps, tough hockey finals, inter-class competitions, and future problem-solving finals. It’s been an incredible journey.”
But not every moment has been easy. The death of a student stands out as one of the most difficult times of her career. “Losing a student is always a tragedy, not just for the family but for the entire school community. It’s something you never forget.”
Looking to the future, Nicky is proud of the strong leadership team at Bohally. “We have a fantastic leadership team, from our senior leaders to the middle leaders and our student leaders. A good leader is always part of a great team,” says Nicky.
Nicky was integral in developing plans for the new school build, Te Tātoru o Wairau. Reflecting on her time as part of the team, she says it was a huge part of her time at Bohally. “I spent a lot of time working with designers and architects planning and designing our new school at College Park. I understand the government’s reasoning to close the project in regard to financial costs, but it was disappointing for the community.
“During that time, I got to work with some amazing people.”
As for what she will miss most about school life, the answer is clear: “I’ll miss the people, the camaraderie with staff, the unpredictability of each day, and, of course, the students.”
Though some sort of change is now on the horizon, Nicky isn’t planning to slow down just yet. “I’ve always loved being outdoors. In my free time, you’ll find me running, walking, or cycling, she says with a smile. “And who knows? Maybe one day I’ll start my own breakfast cereal company. I’ve always fancied doing that.”
While there are no concrete plans in place, Nicky is looking forward to new adventures and opportunities, hoping to use her skills and experience in some capacity within the community. “I want to take some time out to complete some outdoor missions, and then we’ll see what comes up,” says Nicky.
As her time at Bohally comes to a close, Nicky leaves behind a lasting legacy. “Our mantra at Bohally Intermediate is ‘Maximising Potential.’ That’s what I’ve strived to do every day for the last 37 years, to help every student reach their full potential.”

02/12/2025

Mum of two Shani Sowman would love to take her young sons to the park; to see them having fun without fearing for their safety.
Noah, 4, and Mason, 3, Sowman-Michie both have autism, both on the severe end of the spectrum, meaning they need a safe space to play.
Shani said she hoped to encourage council to create a secure playground for older children in Marlborough with developmental disorders.
“It would mean so much,” she said.” Just to have a space that is open and available to everyone and big enough not to feel overcrowded and over simulated would make such a big difference.
“Even just having a space so I know they’d be safe and not run out onto the road would be wonderful.”
Noah and Mason were both officially diagnosed with autism at 2-years-old. Both are non-verbal. Each love cuddles which they seek out when they are overwrought. Noah enjoys water and is a prolific climber wjo;e Mason loves adventuring.
Shani, from Blenheim, says the boys enjoy being on their trampoline at home but need other ways to expend energy.
“The splash park on Picton Foreshore is awesome, but Noah would just make a beeline for the ocean. It’d be great if there was something similar in Blenheim.
“I know these ideas are expensive but with some thought behind it and in the right location it would be great for so many families in this town.”
After gauging public reaction on Facebook, Shani said she was encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive response.
People suggested other parks or school playgrounds, but these wouldn’t work she explained. “School playgrounds are only available outside school hours, and many are so big the boys would just run off in different directions. I know parks are for children to enjoy but I don’t think they’re meant to be stressful for adults.”
Shani said the boys’ dad, David Michie, is amazing with their sons but worked during the week.
“I just can’t risk taking the boys to the park on my own. It’s just not safe. Having a safe space we could go to would give me more confidence to get out of the house with the boys so they can experience more.”
A Council spokesperson said the Parks and Open Spaces team would be very happy to chat with Shani to better understand specific needs for play areas to support children facing developmental disorders such as autism.

20/11/2025

Huge thanks to Logan for sharing his story with such honesty and openness. His commitment to positive change in mental health is commendable. We publish this with gratitude in memory of Keagan.

The quiet murmurs fell into silence as he watched the hearse bearing his brother drive slowly away. His brother. Keagan. A charismatic, young man with a talent for dance. He was a fitness fan, people magnet and whirlwind, a much-loved son, brother and friend and now he was gone.
Thirteen years on, Logan recalls that time with clarity. He feels the weight heavy on his shoulders as he helps carry the casket into church. He sees Keagan at rest, feels his lips brushing his forehead as he bids him a final goodbye.
He remembers the heat of the summer sun, the stiffness of his shirt collar, his shoes shone to a respectful gleam. He remembers the tears; the faces twisted in sadness. Above all this, he remembers Keagan.
His heart thumped its unhappiness and the pain he felt consuming. He had never felt more alone than in that moment, Logan said. “I was standing in the middle of the driveway on my own as the hearse drove away with my brother, my brother who I’d never, ever see again.
“I was still in shock. I really looked up to him, it wasn’t so much the things he did but the person he was, because he had shown so much love to me.
“We had a solid bond, but I never truly got to know him as an adult, he had his life, and I was always out riding my BMX. He was an awesome person who always seemed happy, but he was probably putting a brave face on so everyone thought he was okay.”
Logan was 15 years old and the youngest of three brothers when Keagan died after committing su***de. His death at 23 years old was to alter the lives of all who loved him. It was, Logan explains, Keagan who unwittingly set him on the path towards mental health awareness and advocacy.
The 29-year-old father of two moved to Blenheim in 2023 with his partner Georgia and their five-year-old daughter. The couple’s four-month-old son followed, bringing more love and joy into their lives.
Born in Cape Town, South Africa Logan was raised from age 2 in Auckland and in his early 20’s worked as a fabricator, ultimately starting his own business. Logan explains how his struggles to do everything himself sparked issues with his own mental health.
“I felt like I was carrying 100kg on my back. I was so tired and constantly under pressure” he said. “If you’re at the point where you’re asking for help, you’re already spiralling. A lot of people are in the same situation I was in, trapped in a temporary situation that carries a lot of weight mentally, you feel hopeless at times; that feeling doesn’t last forever though.”
It was his big brother Wesley who he turned to. “I was open, honest and vulnerable and he helped. We didn’t talk much about feelings, it was having him here, he took the heaviness away.”
Logan said he was with Wesley when their father broke the news that Keagan was gone.
“I’d never seen Wesley cry before. He was Keagan’s mate; they spent so much time together as they were closer in age. I know there were heaps of people who would have done anything to keep Keagan here. They would have solved as many problems as they could have but they didn’t know.
“As men, it can make us feel weak when we own up and say what we are really going through. People can look at you with pity which just makes it worse.
“I want to do more to educate people to be aware, to have the empathy and compassion to witness it. Also, how we can manage our own mental wellbeing, so we have the tools to help ourselves.”
Setting up his own informal men’s group, the Blenheim Brotherhood, a group he describes as a “passion project,” is a proactive way of helping, Logan says. “It’s a safe space for mento come to and discuss all things life. I didn’t start it for any recognition I just knew that we needed it.”
Logan says when he moved to Blenheim he reached out to Bary as he wanted to be involved in Hope Walk. “I told him about losing my brother and my challenges which had shaped me to become more compassionate and empathetic.”
Being charged with taking the Hope Walk reins is a privilege he is committed to, Logan explains.
“I’m extremely honoured to be given the role. Part of my purpose is to raise awareness and support for those in need. When you internalise problems, you feel like you’re the only one going through them. Negative emotion is often amplified when internalised.
“Because of Keagan, because of the experiences I went through, I am compelled to help if I can.”
Would Keagan be proud of the man Logan has become? Logan pauses. “I think so. I think about him almost every day. I’ve had my days, my moments of sadness and I still get them.
“I do talk to him and have accepted his decision to go. I had to make peace with that decision and try to understand it so I could let go. I’ve become the person Keagan needed when he was struggling, only problem is I’m 13 years too late.
“Sometimes I wish I could just go out with him for a beer and talk. He would have made an awesome uncle.
“Yeah, I miss him. I always will, the world was a much better place with him in it.”

In Logan's Experience

Most people who are suicidal don’t actually want to die; they just want the pain to go away.

I’m thankful for all the hard times I’ve gone through, I’m thankful for all the times life was not so good, cause now - I see life as a blessing, a gift, an amazing opportunity that I’m lucky to have.

Check on your mates and loved ones and ask twice.

Make talking about mental struggles normal by being vulnerable first -this helps others open up.

You don’t need to be a therapist and have all the answers and know what to say. You just need to be empathetic and compassionate enough to be willing to listen and be there.

Sometimes just being there is enough.

We have to get better at normalising talking about life’s challenges taking a toll on mental health.

You never know what someone’s going through, remember that.

The biggest issue in most cases is people’s mental health becomes a serious topic only when things get really bad, we need to get better at catching things earlier before they spiral out of control.

A permanent decision for a temporary pain isn’t the best option

Here is a list of numbers you can use any time to seek advice or support. If you are worried about someone you can call to ask for help.
• Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.
• Lifeline 0800 543 354 or (09) 522 2999 | Free text 4357 (HELP)
• Youthline 0800 376 633
• Samaritans 0800 726 666
• If you or someone you know is at risk of harm: dial 111 or visit your nearest hospital emergency department.
• Call 0800 611 116 for your nearest DHB Mental Health Crisis Team (CATT Team).

20/11/2025

The Blenheim Transfer Station and Resource Recovery Centre at Wither Road, Blenheim, are closed to the public after a fire broke out. Fire crews are in attendance.

All staff have been safely evacuated. Wither Road Extension is also now closed to traffic. Neither facility will be open for the rest of the day.

19/11/2025

Huge congratulations to members of both Marlborough RSA and Blenheim Bowling Club on their new improved home. Andrew Pope Homes began work on Friday :)

The future is finally looking brighter for Marlborough Returned Services Association who have secured a new home following years of uncertainty.
Plans for a $260,000 extension at Blenheim Bowling Club have been revealed.
The organisation was left without a base following the sudden closure of the Clubs of Marlborough in November 2022.
Announcing the plans, Blenheim Bowling Club and RSA bosses said the build would include a purpose-built memorabilia room and office.
Marlborough RSA president John Capill, himself a life-member of the bowling club, said the plan came as “a relief”.
“The reality is that if the arrangement hadn’t been made then the RSA would have gone the way of many others around the country.
“It’s a relief that finally we will finally have a place to call home.”
The work, which was set to get underway at the end of last week, will boost space by 46 square metres. A commercial kitchen and a bigger storeroom were included in the upgrade.
The RSA’s impressive collection of medals, memorabilia and other items currently stored at Woodbourne will once again go up on display.
Blenheim Bowling Club President Lloyd Gallop said the move would benefit both parties. RSA members had been meeting at the club on Friday nights.
With an average of 60 to 70 people using the club then, it made sense to consider a longer-term solution, he added.
Andrew Pope Homes Design and Build successfully bid for the contract and are in the process of contacting tradies and contractors.
Owner Andrew Pope said some had already pledged to do work at cost or to donate building materials.
The project was one he hoped people would support, he explained.
“We are looking for people who can help, either with the build or with donations.”
The extension is expected to be finished in February next year.
If you are interested in donating or can help, contact [email protected]

19/11/2025

Fantastic work Sophia Speedy, don't forget us when you're famous! :)

A Blenheim singer-songwriter has been following in the footsteps of music royalty as she gets set to release her debut single.
Sophia Speedy, 16, was a national finalist in Play It Strange peace competition for high schoolers in New Zealand earlier in this year.
She won the chance to record her entry, Troubled Seas in Neil Finn's famous Roundhead music studios where the likes of Lord, Ed Sheeran, Dua Lipa and Pink have worked.
With the song set to be released on all streaming platforms, Sophia will hold a concert to celebrate.
The talented musician, who plays the piano and violin, explained it was the first national Covid lockdown which inspired her to start writing.
“I was about 10 years old when I started songwriting. I got bored during lockdown and my first song was about going through hard times and that things would get better.
“When my piano teacher, Kimberley Jones, heard it she thought it was from a professional which gave me a huge boost to keep on writing.
“She pushed me to perform. Up until then I was more of a shower singer,” Sophia laughed.
Troubled Seas is about the struggles people can face, from loss, addiction, depression and sickness.
Sophia says a serious bout of double pneumonia which saw her hospitalised gave her the idea for the song.
“There’s a lot in this world we struggle with,” she said. “The song has a line about ‘walking on top of the seas’ and that’s the hope that things improve, that they get better.”
Sophia, who is homeschooled, flew to Auckland with her dad for a full day in the recording studio.
Walking in, she was met with chandeliers and multiple grand pianos, one of which she got to use to lay down her piano track.
She did the whole song by herself, Sophia revealed, recording piano, violin, main vocals and backing vocals herself.
“Initially, it was a bit nerve wracking, but everyone was so kind and welcoming.”
Music and songwriting are both passions Sophia hopes to continue. Describing her music style as contemporary Christian and a bit alternative with elements of pop, she hopes to make music a career.
“I really enjoy writing and performing, I enjoy the whole process and collaborating with other artists would be cool.
“I want to keep on releasing music, that’s the dream.”
The concert will include ten songs, both originals and covers as well as the premier of the music video for Troubled Seas, filmed by Daniel Wye.
Thank you to Jessica Jones for the photos.

Troubles Seas release concert
Saturday 6 December from 7-8.30pm at Elim Church, Burleigh Road, Blenheim.
Student tickets $10 and adults $15. Cash sales at the door.

18/11/2025

Who would have thought coloured sand could cause such a serious problem?

Some Marlborough schools closed following a potentially toxic sand scare.
Tua Marina School shut its doors as a precaution on Friday due to the risk of possible asbestos contamination. It remained closed on Monday.
Fairhall School was also closed with Riverlands, School and Grovetown School closing off some parts to staff and students.
The move comes in the wake of a warning and recall notice for coloured sand products including some sold by Kmart NZ which have tested positive for tremolite asbestos.
Tua Marina School principal Nic Walker said the 105-pupil school had taken precautionary action and closed following advice from WorkSafe and the Ministry of Education.
“When we got the bulletin from the Ministry on Thursday afternoon we moved into the hall as it’s separate from the rest of the school. That worked for one afternoon but is not a solution longer term.
“Because of out school structure it’s [the sand] is being utilised in a lot of rooms which are interconnected. It’s generally on moveable play tables and kids being kids, it goes everywhere and could be airborne.
“The advice was that if you can’t be in the rooms then you need to shut.
“It’s incredible that something so innocuous is causing such huge disruption.”
Nic said samples had been taken at the school on Friday by an asbestos removal company.
Tubs of EC Rainbow Sand (1.3kg) and Creatistics – Coloured Sand(1kg) are under investigation. They are sold at retailers including Paper Plus, Hobby Land, NZ School Shop, Office Products Depot, Discount Office, Acquire and Qizzle.
Kmart NZ Magic Sands products are now also being recalled after asbestos was detected. They are the 14-piece Sandcastle Building Set and the Blue, Green and Pink Magic Sand sets.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) said the products could have also been sold online.
WorkSafe said any workplace where the coloured sand is used or stored needed to assume the product contained asbestos.
Product Safety Spokesperson (MBIE) Ian Caplin said staff were working to establish the risk.
“We are taking immediate precautionary action, while we establish the extent and risk of the potentially contaminated product.”
In an online statement on Friday, Ministry of Education bosses said they appreciated the presence of asbestos in products used by children may cause worry for parents and caregivers.
“If the sand is loose or in use in your facility, please instruct everyone to leave the area, block it off and make sure it is not accessible.”
Council’s Hazardous Waste Centre (HWC) at Wither Road in Blenheim can assist with the disposal of recalled coloured sand under strict conditions.
Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas said the HWC will accept double bagged or double wrapped asbestos for safe disposal.
“The HWC will give out asbestos bags free of charge to members of the public if they need to dispose of the sand. They will need to come and collect the bags and bring the buckets of sand double bagged to us – they cannot bag it on our site for health and safety reasons.
“Our staff reserve the right to accept or decline packages to ensure staff are kept safe.”

Blenheim Sun

05/12/2025

03/12/2025

03/12/2025

03/12/2025

02/12/2025

02/12/2025

02/12/2025

20/11/2025

20/11/2025

19/11/2025

19/11/2025

18/11/2025

Address

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category