News in brief

Storybook magic

Motueka South School came alive with pirates, robots, and superheroes last Friday during its annual character parade, a highlight of the school’s Book Week celebrations. Room six was no exception, showcasing a vibrant grove of Truffula trees alongside the Lorax, Cinderella, and a pair of Mario Brothers.

Transition for Arts Council Nelson

Arts Council Nelson is set to transition into an independent Arts Development Agency for Whakatū Nelson, which will be equipped to lead on sector strategy, advocacy, investment and community arts development. Recently, Nelson City Council unanimously voted in favour of the Art Development Agency Transition Plan. The new agency will be governed by a charitable trust, supported by a strengthened staffing structure, a new leadership position and further capacity, along with a robust funding strategy and a focused communications plan. The first step in the transition process is a call for trustees to form a new board, to find out more go to www.acn.org.nz/artsdevelopmentagency

Lean on a Gate

Club Waimea is set to host Nelson Tasman’s port of call for the ClubConnect tour which aims to strengthen communities with tools and training opportunities for those who want to nurture community well-being. The free event on 21 May from 5.30pm is a collaboration between the Lean on a Gate mental health campaign and Clubs New Zealand. Rural health advocate Craig ‘Wiggy’ Wiggins and former Māori All Black Slade McFarland will share real experiences about challenges, resilience, and the power of community. Visit Club Waimea to express your interest in attending.

Battle of the Burgers

Burgerholics are in for a treat as The Battle of the Burgers comes to Tasman for a month of sizzling competition to decide the ultimate burger creation. Between 26 June and 3 August, burger-creating eateries will have the opportunity to prove they have the best burger in the region. Eateries have until 27 May to throw their hat in the ring and register for the Hospitality New Zealand competition, which means coming up with a catchy name and drool-worthy description for their burger. As well as prizes, the event is akin to ‘winning a gold medal for flipping patties’. From 26 June, locals get to sample some of the most creative burgers in the region and vote.

Jackie Clarke back to entertain Motueka

Jackie Clarke is coming back to Motueka. Described as ‘petite, but mighty’, Jackie has hit the road with Arts on Tour New Zealand (AOTNZ) showcasing her strong voice, wit, and storytelling charm in her new concert ‘Jackie goes Prima Diva’. She’ll be covering songs from legends such as Peggy lee, Barbara Streisand, Lady Gaga, and Annie Lennox. Jackie will be accompanied by pianist Karl Benton, who has 30 years experience in New Zealand music.The show will be at the Motueka Memorial Hall, 7.30pm on Saturday, 31 May. Tickets are $25 adults, $5 children and available from Motueka Floral Studio (cash), with door sales (cash and EFTPOS).

Author talk

All are welcome to attend the upcoming Friends of Flora AGM in Upper Moutere, which will feature a special talk by acclaimed New Zealand author and conservationist Annette Lees. Annette’s books After Dark: Walking into the Nights of Aotearoa and Swim were both longlisted for the Ockham New Zealand Book Awards. Everyone welcome, no RSVP, just turn up. Wednesday, 21 May 6.30pm, at the Moutere Community Centre.