Pip Maynard

He aha mea te nui o te Ao?   He Tangata, He Tangata, He Tangata.
What is the most important thing in the World? It is People, it is People, it is People.
I am running for the South Wairarapa District Council because I am passionate about the South Wairarapa and committed to being a Councillor of the people, for the people.

I’m Featherston born and Martinborough raised, educated at Martinborough School and Kuranui College, with family and friends who love South Wairarapa as much as I do. Being 5th Generation Martinborough, I understand the area’s history, learning from my Elders.
At 15yo I was inaugurated into SWDC, with my twin, as a joint Town Crier, promoting the Region throughout New Zealand.  At this young age I gained insight into Local Government, the work it does and the impact it has on its towns and its people. 
From 1999 to 2009 I worked for National Bank, later ANZ.  As National Complaints Manager for Credit Cards I was result driven to find answers that achieved a win-win solution for all parties.  I believe quality negotiations are achievable and successful when you take Everyone’s views into consideration; Everyone feels heard and Everyone understands what created the outcome.  Total transparency provides clarity. … Continue Reading

Update from Martinborough Plunket

Haven’t these last few days of sunshine been wonderful? My roses are budding like fury and the daffodils are nodding in my garden.
Although the Venice Street Plunket Rooms have been closed for use since last May we want you to know that Martinborough Plunket is still fully operational. Our mobile clinics are being held in the School Dental Clinic (that was) – and the nurse is booking visits with our community, saving them the extra travel to Greytown or Featherston. Lia and Amanda (from our group) have set the room up so that it is really appealing for Mums and babies. A massive thank you to the school for allowing us the use of this building.

Our PINS (Parents in the Neighbourhood) afternoon teas continue to operate in the Playcentre building on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 1.00 – 2.45pm. These get-togethers provide Mums with the opportunity to chat and share ideas – and our karitane is there also for any questions you may wish to have answered. Everyone is welcome to come along. This time we must thank the Playcentre for allowing us the use of their facility. Isn’t it great that the Martinborough community pulls together to help each other in difficult situations!
This leads us to the progress we are working on to become a part of the Waihinga Centre. Plunket is meeting with the council and the Mayor this coming Thursday to discuss exactly how we will be able to take our place within this venture. It is exciting to know that we are this far on the way – and I will keep you informed of our progress in future writings.

Our first real involvement will be at the “Turf Turning” when, along with Playcentre and the Toy Library, Martinborough Plunket will be holding the ‘Big Dig’ for the kids. Come along on Saturday 10 September at noon to experience the turning of the first turf for the Waihinga Complex and enjoy the activities to follow, including digging for treasure in our ‘Big Dig’.
Kids, be sure to remind Mum and Dad of this fun day! See you there!

Richard Riddiford – a tribute.

Richard Riddford’s many business achievements have already been well documented, but what of Richard the person? A dozen people who have known Richard really well have generously shared their thoughts and memories of him.

What emerged is a vivid picture of a man of many parts: Richard the mentor. The gruff but caring and generous Richard. Richard the perfectionist. The man of action, his remarkable memory for detail, and so it goes on.

Many found his rather crusty nature intimidating and it difficult to get to know him. However those who did were aware of a caring softer side under the façade – although he wasn’t keen on too many people knowing that. In one family he had earned the affectionate nicknamed ‘Uncle Gruff’. Described as always there ready put his hand up to sort out problems, and knowing that when Richard was involved you always knew that the job would be done – and done well. ‘That’s the other side of Richard, not everybody realised this’. … Continue Reading

Robert Hunter

A local voice for the locals. I come from a multigenerational Southern Wairarapa family with understanding of civic responsibility.
After the razing of his Martinborough garage in 1926 our grandfather, Jack Hunter, fundraised for a new Model T Ford fire engine. (“At the time there was no fire truck, and they had to do everything by hand using buckets.” sic) a tradition carried on with relatives including a brother and sister serving as firefighters. I myself had an extensive involvement with Waihenga Scouts and the Martinborough Community centre) … Continue Reading