News in brief

Blessing of the Fleet

This year’s edition of the Blessing of the Fleet remembered more than those who lost their lives at sea, with event founder Mike Smith also acknowledged for his contributions. Having passed away from cancer just four days after last year’s event, his daughter Michaela provided a moving eulogy for the man who was a driving force behind the blessing for the last 22 years.

Importance of play celebrated

The eighth ‘Sacred Urge to Play’ conference was held in Nelson last weekend with 61 play-enthusiasts from New Zealand and Australia in attendance. Hosted at Fairfield House, it was the first time Nelson had hosted the conference, which is all about celebrating children and the importance of play. The conference began when Kimberley Crisp, David Spraggs, Lisa McKimm, Natasha Kibble and Pennie Brownlee came together to share their passion for children’s play with other educators.

Local edible landscape set to inspire on Country Calendar

Those tuning in to this weekend’s Hyundai Country Calendar may recognise some familiar faces on the screen. Rozmeri Leatham, Luke Marsden and their three children will be showing their variety of produce and products from the “edible landscape” of Little Shaggery Farm, located in the Motueka valley. Director Robyn Janes, who also lives locally, says that they are “great people who are doing some really interesting things adding value to the organic fruit they grow”. Rozmeri and Luke produce cider vinegars, juices and shrubs, as well as healthy tonics. They also sell organic pipfruit, plums and citrus. Robyn says that it was an awesome experience to film a story just ten minutes from home, with a young family who are doing such great stuff. The episode will air on TV One on Sunday, 19 May at 7pm, and will also be available On Demand.