Oasis amid the storm: local business escapes the worst – MBA

By Allan Hogg

Martinborough, a destination known for its world-class wine, charming retail scene and hospitality, remains an oasis amid the current economic challenges faced by families and individuals.

In this time of financial strain, the significance of exceptional customer service cannot be overstated. Through the business owners’ unwavering commitment to the customer experience, Martinborough’s retailers, vineyards, accommodation providers, and hospo establishments continue to thrive, offering comfort and respite to visitors seeking a memorable escape.

Martinborough’s retail sector is a treasure trove of unique and artisan offerings that cater to every budget. From boutique clothing stores to quaint gift shops, the town’s retail establishments have curated an array of options that allow visitors to indulge in a shopping experience without breaking the bank. Local retailers pride themselves on personalised attention, ensuring that every customer feels valued and appreciated, regardless of their budgetary constraints.

No visit to Martinborough is complete without exploring its world-renowned vineyards. Amid the breathtaking vistas, visitors can embark on wine-tasting adventures that showcase the region’s rich viticultural heritage. The vineyard owners and staff are passionate about sharing their expertise and offering unforgettable experiences to wine enthusiasts of all backgrounds. From affordable wine-tasting flights to exclusive cellar-door experiences, Martinborough’s vineyards cater to the discerning palate while keeping in mind the financial realities faced by many visitors. … Continue Reading

New golf clubhouse build, fund-raising up and running

Martinborough golf’s new clubhouse build is well under way _ as are fundraising efforts.

It doesn’t seem long since we watched the demolition of the old clubhouse and now the frames for half the new building are in place with scaffolding up ready for the roof timbers.

Everything is going to plan – let’s keep fingers crossed for a dryish autumn so that the building can be watertight ready for winter.

Project manager John Thompson said while things are going well there are always a few hitches along the way, like finding an old septic tank which must have been buried for more than 50 years!

Fundraising is the main focus of the club currently with members putting hands in pockets to help as well as a number of funding applications in progress _ including one to the Pain Estate. Given the multi use of the facility for meetings, functions and as a civil defence community hub it is hoped that funders will look favourably on the applications.

More will be needed though and a number of events are planned.  … Continue Reading

Stop button hit on three-way amalgamation

Then there was one. 

Carterton Mayor Ron Mark is the last one standing after first South Wairarapa hit pause, then Masterton bailed on talks about merging governance of the three districts.

The councils to the north and south of Carterton were both careful in their wording as they stepped away from the merger discussions, now on and off for the past 36 years.

South Wairarapa’s lead at the talks, now Acting Mayor Melissa Sadler-Futter, was quoted saying the south had “no appetite” to spend time and money on the project “until” there was evidence  amalgamation would provide better services and value.

Masterton Mayor Gary Caffell said in early March that his council was not going to continue “diverting valuable time, energy and resources away from critical priorities.” … Continue Reading

Local digital seniors cosy up to Heartland Hub

After 15 years working from a church hall, Digital Seniors Martinborough has moved to the Heartland Services hub in Jellicoe St.

The Digital Seniors coaches have been based at St Andrews Church Hall since 2009.

Coach Roger Fraser said the team will continue its free one-on-one support for digital devices on Thursdays, between 9.30 a.m. and 11.00 a.m.

Volunteer coaches Roger, John MacGibbon and Louise Lyster help locals _ aged 65 and over _ to  use mobile phones, tablets and laptops.  … Continue Reading