The compensations of old age 

‘It occurred to me that the greatest compensation  of old age is it’s freedom of spirit. I suppose that is accompanied by a certain indifference to many of the things that man thinks are of prime importance.

Another compensation  is that it liberates you from envy, hatred and malice I do not  believe that I envy anyone. I have made the most that I could of such gifts as nature has provided me with. I do not envy the greater gifts of others. I have had a great deal of success. I do not envy the success of others … I no longer mind what people think of me. They can take me or envy me’

  – Somerset Maugham  –  

South Wairarapa Tramping Club news – Farm excursion

One of the advantages of belonging to the tramping club is being able to go on farm walks inaccessible to the general public. We were fortunate to be able to join the Masterton Tramping Club recently on a visit to a farm on the Tararua foothills.

21 of us set out on what promised to be a very hot day. On our way across the farmland the owner talked to us about the farm, and various aspects of how they in particular handled their land and animals.

We criss-crossed a stream, water levels low enough for there to be no danger of getting our feet wet, and gradually rose up through the bush, passing 2 small huts which looked rather inviting. … Continue Reading

Installation of Deacon in Charge at St Andrew’s

On a glorious Tuesday evening on 2 February Rev Peter Hull was installed as Deacon in Charge at St Andrew’s Anglican Church. It was an evening of pageantry, worship, ceremony, blessing and words of welcome. Bishop Justin Duckworth and Archdeacon Peter Watson presided. Priests from the local Wairarapa area supported. 

Peter was welcomed by the mayor Alex Beijen, Martinborough Community Board chairperson Mel Maynard and school principals Gina Smith from Featherston School and Tana Klaricich from South Featherston School (where Peter Hull had been deputy principal prior to commencing his theological training). Local parishioners from the South Wairarapa Parish presented Peter with symbols representing the life and ministry of the church. We look forward to Peter’s ministry amongst us. … Continue Reading

Rotary Martinborough Fair is good for business say local retailers

Jessica Jina from Jessica’s Living Room, Scotty from Scotty’s Meats and Dudley-Anne Hill from Neighbourhood Coffee had only good things to say about the recent South Wairarapa Rotary Martinborough Fair.  It seems it is good for their business and brings both local and new shoppers into the area to experience the Fair and check out the local shops.

Jessica Jina absolutely loves the Fair and begins planning for the day, six months in advance.  Passion exudes from Jessica – she loves the people, the day and the benefits the Rotary Martinborough Fair brings to local businesses.  “It’s two days each year when you can showcase your business and products”.  This year’s Fair brought in a record turn-over and she encourages other retailers to make the most of the opportunity the Fair provides. … Continue Reading