Now we are five……

By Chris Cassells

March 2020, when the first COVID lockdown hit, will surely have a permanent place in NZ history. For the next two years the country faced ongoing lockdowns and other pandemic-related changes to our daily lives.   The impact for sectors like the performing arts was sometimes catastrophic.

Facing this storm was the Martinborough Music Festival.   Just a baby really, having been launched only three years before but from the beginning showing it was something special.   Cherry Van Kranen’s gift to the community of her grand piano made it possible to invite keynote artists such as Michael Houstoun and Deidre Irons to play here. … Continue Reading

Parkinson’s Family Support

By Roslyn Lafrentz

Parkinson’s is a degenerative disease with no cure at present although research is moving is leaps and bounds.  There are approximately 112 people diagnosed with Parkinson’s in the Wairarapa, where very good support systems are in place both for those with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. 

The Parkinson’s Family Support group is aimed at providing an opportunity to meet fellow caregivers, chat over light refreshments to discuss problems, solutions and anything in between. … Continue Reading

   Hospice Wairarapa Remembrance Service

Wharekaka, 20 Oxford Street, Martinborough

4pm to 5pm, Wednesday 7^th December 2022                                                          

We are aware that as Christmas approaches, this can be a difficult 

 time for families and friends who have lost a loved one.  

To remember them, we would like to invite you,

and those close to you, to a Christmas Remembrance Service.                                                                                                                                         

This service will be led by Sharon Penny.                                             

The Service is an opportunity to remember your loved one in the company of others.

Please RSVP to Hospice Wairarapa Phone 378 8888 / 0800 467 7924

From the Mayor

The editor of the Star has invited me to write regular columns for him.  I am pleased to accept that offer.  

Let me start by acknowledging the success of Councillors Pip Maynard, Kaye McAulay and Aidan Ellims.  I extend my thanks, and sympathy, to Ed Martin and Jeena Matchet who were excellent candidates. Democracy can be tough.  I hope you will both continue to take a strong interest in our local democracy. Congratulations to Mel Maynard, Angela Brown, Storm Robertson, Karen Krogh who have become our elected Community Board members.  Thank you to the retiring Mayor Alex Beijen and Councillors Brian Jepson and Pam Colenso for your service to our community. … Continue Reading