News from Marlborough District Council

Historic ship reaches gold standard

The Edwin Fox Maritime Museum has attained the highest level possible in New Zealand’s official tourism quality assurance programme.

Mayor Nadine Taylor said the accolade was “fully deserved”.

“The Qualmark evaluation noted the considerable progress made at the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum in recent years, with the strong support of Council.

“Achieving Qualmark Gold is a testament to all the hard work, planning and dedication that has gone into the museum over the past few years,” she said.

Museum Manager Karen McLeod said Qualmark was a trusted guide for visitors and meant the maritime museum had joined the top echelon of experiences with a Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award.

“This prestigious award recognises tourism businesses delivering outstanding visitor experiences while demonstrating excellence in customer service, sustainability, health and safety, and responsible business practices.

“It’s a fantastic achievement for our team and an assurance for visitors they will enjoy a high-quality experience when coming to see the Edwin Fox and maritime museum.

“We have worked hard to focus more on sustainability and carefully consider our impact on the local environment. This helped elevate our offering from silver to gold,” Mrs McLeod said.

The Edwin Fox and maritime museum is open year-round. From mid-August to the end of October, families are encouraged to make the most of the Spring Discovery Family Pass. For more details go to: www.edwinfox.nz/events-exhibitions/spring-deal

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Marlborough Civic Honours Awards nominations open

In every community there are those who go the extra mile in the interests of community service.

Nominations are now open for the Marlborough District Council’s Civic Honours Awards to recognise those people whose dedicated service over time has benefited residents and local communities.

“If you know of a Marlburian who has carried out deserving service, consider nominating them for this year’s awards,” Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor said.

“The Civic Honours Awards are an opportunity to recognise the exceptional people who help make Marlborough the special place it is.”

Any person who has carried out deserving service in Marlborough can be nominated in one or more of the following categories - Recreation, Youth Activities, Social Welfare, Community Affairs, Educational Services, Cultural Affairs, Religious Affairs and Other.

The online nomination process closes at 5pm on Friday 11 September.

“Nominations can be accepted from individuals and organisations, associations, societies and clubs but not families of nominees. There are no set criteria for the awards but if you are nominating someone, consider their length of service, the impact of their service on the community and any lasting legacy,” Mayor Taylor said.

A selection panel including representatives of community organisations will decide on the final recipients. Not all nominees will necessarily receive an award.

For more details including nomination information go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/our-community/awards/civic-honours-awards

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Rates rebate applications for low-income earners open

The rates rebate scheme provides a rebate for low-income earners who are paying rates for the home they are living in. Applications are now open for the rating year 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027.

The income threshold to be eligible for the maximum rebate for SuperGold cardholders and their households is $46,400. For non-SuperGold cardholders and their households it’s $33,210.

Those with a higher level of income may also be entitled to a partial rebate. The maximum rebate is $830.

To apply, it’s important people have the right information. Applicants need to provide proof of income from Inland Revenue for the financial year 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026, and their SuperGold card if applicable.

Council’s Customer Service Centre in Blenheim has dedicated rates rebate staff on duty from 3 August to 11 September from 9am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm each day to help. There are two car parks for mobility permit holders at the rear of the building.

Applications can also be lodged at Councils’ Customer Service Centre in Picton or online www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/rates/rates-rebate

Applications for the 2026/2027 year close on 30 June 2027.