Needles, nibbles and Nelson

FCANZ

Oct 27

2 min read

Nelson did not disappoint, with a beautiful sunny day to enjoy the stunning coastline as we journeyed to each stop on our Ladies Who Lunch day out.

Our first stop was the infamous Connings Food Market, where we enjoyed learning about their local, family-owned and operated grocery store and supermarket just outside Richmond, Nelson. It was a highlight to visit their stores, kitchen and one of the farms that produces fresh produce for their stores. There was so much to see and such a great variety that we enjoyed it so much, we had to alter the end of our day to fit in another visit to Connings for some more shopping!

Next stop was the beautiful Mapua Wharf, where we enjoyed the lovely scenery and cute shops. We were so lucky to have Cassa on our trip, with her local knowledge and co-pilot expertise helping guide us to each stop while maximising the views along the way.

Lunch was enjoyed at the Riverside Community Hall in Lower Moutere, Motueka. Riverside offers a range of activities, and after lunch we all enjoyed a needle felting class. Only a couple of the ladies had tried needle felting before, so it was fair to say we weren't all naturals - and many needles made their way into fingers! We had lots of laughs, and in no time at all we had each created some beautiful creatures.

Before long, it was time to venture back to Connings Food Market for our extra stop of shopping and tastings on the way home.

Prize winners this year were Katrina and Emma for the most unique purchase, Jodi for the most pricks (from the needle felting class!), Lee for the most unique creature and Lisa for best creation with her butterfly. Emma should have also received a prize for being the only person not to prick herself!

A special thanks to everyone who joined us on the day and Jeanette for planning our Ladies Who Lunch day out, and to Cassa for helping navigate our way around - it saved using Google Maps!

Can't wait until another Ladies Who Lunch outing in the Hawke s Bay in 2027!

Written by Janine Swansson

Felt needlework creations
Stunning scenery - Mapua Wharf

Published in WIRED issue 82/September 2026 by Fencing Contractors Association NZ

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