Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,000 Year-long running challenge rounded off with impromptu marathon By Gillian O’Neill

Whitianga physiotherapist, Grace Smith, piece of toast and off I went.” is not quite sure how the idea of running In terms of route planning, Grace says she 5km a day to stay physically and mentally quickly rejected her first thought of running well during last year’s lockdown culminated to as she felt the main road would in her spending a recent afternoon off work be particularly tough. Instead, she set out completing a marathon, but that’s exactly from her home in Wharekaho and ran all what happened, a feat that brought both the way to taking the short ferry ride agony and ecstasy. across and back, eventually being met by Although extremely active with a passion her PhysioFirst colleague and housemate, for high adrenaline activities like MotoX Terri Evanson, who ran the final kilometre and snowboarding, distance running was with her. not among the notable skills or indeed on “I don’t think Terri had ever seen me so the bucket list for the young professional grumpy,” Grace laughs. “The body was who relocated to in January definitely hurting by then. There were a few this year. times out there when I was asking myself “It wasn’t something I had done before or why I had decided to do it and it was pretty had planned,” Grace says. “It started with hard to keep going. Luckily I am a physio just wanting to have a plan for getting out and I live with another physio, so we were and moving during lockdown. I was living in able to put me back together.” Auckland at the time and a lot of my activity However, the agony quickly gave way to a was based around the gym, so with that not real sense of accomplishment. “Within half available I wanted to make sure I was doing an hour I was a lot better, it’s almost like you something else to stay well both physically forget how bad it was,” Grace says. and mentally.” Although it wasn’t in the plan, her 365-day By the time lockdown came to an end, challenge has seen Grace develop a bit of a the 5km a day had become an enjoyable habit, but the seeds of a new challenge had love affair with running. “I’m fully addicted been sewn - running 5km every day for a now,” she says. “I can’t stop now, I just year. “Then you start talking to other people love it. Some days it is hard to get out there, and they are suggesting things that you but you always feel better when you do.” should do,” Grace says. “So on the 200th day Asked if her sister was proud, Grace says I marked my 25th birthday by running 20km for sure. “Although when I talked to her at and that went okay, so I decided I would do the 30km mark when I wasn’t feeling all that 30km on the 300th day. Then I was talking great, she laughed at me,” she says. to my twin sister, Sophie, who is in the UK, As to whether another marathon might be and she said you’ve got to do a marathon for on the cards, it’s possible but not planned the 365th day.” at this point. “Terri and I are going to a half Initially, Grace wasn’t sure how she felt marathon in Hawke’s Bay, so we’ll work about the idea, or even if the 42km distance towards that for now,” Grace says. would be achievable. “The weekend before I In the meantime, the tracks and trails of was hanging out with my friends who were Mercury Bay provide the perfect backdrop all encouraging me to do it, but even then I for Grace’s newfound passion. “Sometimes didn’t want to commit,” she says. “But it got I’ll go on a run, maybe to Hahei or Cathedral to the night before and I just thought if I feel Cove and I look around and think is this okay tomorrow I will do it. So I left work at really where I live,” she says. “It’s pretty physiotherapist, Grace Smith, has recently celebrated 365 days of running 5km midday, came home, had some coffee and a special and I feel really lucky.” a day with an imporomptu marathon from Wharekaho to Hahei and back.

Distributed throughout the , coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz Newest Aero Club life member “someone special in New Zealand aviation” By Tony Stickley For a man who has achieved so much in the of fuel and get back again, and John had his reasonably competent because I did okay, so I to receive it. world of aviation, pilot Grant Biel is remarkably part to do.” just continued.” It was not until 1985 that he started flying down to earth about his accomplishments. In fact, the flight in a single engine Squirrel Grant describes himself as a fortunate helicopters. From being involved in some of the most helicopter at night across the Southern Ocean man whose career has been “interesting, In earlier years, Grant worked for James daring aerial rescues off the New Zealand took over three and a half hours in each challenging, satisfying and rewarding,” Aviation, delivering New Zealand-made coast to competing in the London to Sydney direction, so the margin for error was very particularly in regard to the people he helped Fletcher agricultural aircraft to places such air race, Grant has done it all. slim indeed. save on the rescue missions. as Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and the Last week when Grant was made a life Grant was involved in another noted rescue He added that there was an added incentive Solomon Islands. member of the Mercury Bay Aero Club in July the following year when a crewman on to take up flying, as prior to 1963 there was Grant said that flying the slow Fletchers (MBAC) - the highest accolade the club can the vessel Mary Ann was crushed by a pallet of a subsidy of around 90 pounds in old money over water for many hours taught him a lot confer - a bullet point list of his achievements frozen fish 350 nautical miles northeast of the for people to get their private pilot’s licence. about preparing meticulously for flights and in 60 years of flying was outlined. Chatham Islands. The crewman was winched That was a policy carried over from the war leaving nothing to chance in order to make But bullet points don’t really do justice to a into the aircraft with just 10 minutes to spare years and Grant said he was the last person sure he reached his destination. “You learn man who has made his mark in so many areas before dark for the return flight. of New Zealand aviation. It was one of those quirks in life that Grant, a member of the MBAC for 56 saw Grant, a young engineering student at years, was employed as a pilot by the club, Auckland University, take up a career in flying regular services between Whitianga and flying in 1961. In those days, the engineering Auckland from 1965 to 1968. After moving faculty was based at Ardmore Airport, south from Whitianga, he remained a member of the of Auckland, and students lived in two hostel club and often returned to Mercury Bay for air buildings on site. shows and staying at the family holiday home On the first day, during a free period from at Opito Bay. lectures, Grant got on a bike to go exploring However, other major milestones in his and chanced upon the Auckland Aero Club career set him apart as someone special in which had just moved there from Mangere. New Zealand aviation, both with regard to He was invited to go for a flight - the first time fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. he had ever been in a plane - and has never Grant was involved in many helicopter looked back. rescue missions with his friend and business But to say Grant was instantly hooked or partner, John Funnell, including the dramatic that adrenalin took over and that he suddenly rescue of meteorologist, Mike Fraser, from discovered the passion of flight, is something Campbell Island after he had been severely that he adamantly denies. “To me flying was mauled by a great white shark in April 1992. primarily a convenient and rapid means of “I was only flying from A to B, but the hard transportation in a country that wasn’t easy to part was John Funnell’s who did the work get around,” he said matter-of-factly. “There locating Mike and transporting him to the wasn’t much to do at Ardmore except work, hostel where the medic worked on him for an so it became a form of recreation. hour and a half,” Grant said. “I had my job to “But I don’t get too passionate about Grant Biel (left) receiving his Mercury Bay Aero Club Life Membership do, which was to get us there, not to run out things. It was interesting and obviously I was award from club president, Brian Wigley, last week.

What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information provided and sponsored by Week of Wednesday, 28 April to Wednesday, 5 May - Jupiter and Saturn will be easy to spot this month. Like all planets they can be distinguished from stars as they don’t appear to twinkle. The International Space Station (ISS) received a new set of four astronauts last week and will have an unusually large crew of 11 for a few days, almost twice the normal crew of six. It will be visible for a few minutes on some nights as a bright moving “star.” Thursday, 29 April - The very bright Moon sits at the head of Scorpio this morning with bright Jupiter and fainter Saturn overhead. Friday, 30 April - The Moon, Saturn and Jupiter form a nice line in the sky today with Saturn the faintest of the trio. Astronomy Tours and B&B Monday, 3 May - The pre-dawn sky shows the Moon sitting in Sagittarius above Saturn with brighter Jupiter below. A short ISS pass low in the SW starts at 7:08pm. Phone (07) 866 5343 Tuesday, 4 May - The Moon is now in Copernicus just to the right of Saturn at dawn with Jupiter below. A very low ISS pass starts at 6:20pm in the SW. Wednesday, 5 May - The Moon now sits just above and to the right of bright Jupiter with fainter Saturn above. Another very low and short ISS pass from 7:10pm in the SW. www.stargazersbb.com

Whitianga and tides Tides data sponsored by

nzwindows.co.nz 4 Dakota Drive Whitianga Tel 07 869 5990

Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Newest Aero Club life member how to read winds and how to read weather, salvage sectors across Australia and the South and how to navigate with reasonable accuracy Pacific, and overseeing the construction of the because there were no navigation aids to help main runway on Great Barrier Island. you, except a compass,” he said. Over the years, Grant has had occasional run- When things went wrong, there was no point ins with New Zealand officialdom, including in panicking. “Even when you get caught up the purchase by him and two co-owners of a in St Elmo’s fire and electrical static on the Piper Comanche in the US in 1969. aircraft, it is interesting but there is no point Grant said that after buying the plane, he had in being scared,” Grant said. “Just hang on in two extra fuel tanks fitted for the flight home there and keep it the right way up… you can’t to New Zealand. “That was the first time, do anything about it.” I think, any New Zealander had ever flown While Grant always tried to stay calm a single engine aircraft over from the US on whatever the circumstances, he admits that a personal delivery flight,” he said. “I know the air races he competed in from London to that the powers that be were pretty upset at the Sydney in 1969 with co-pilot, Peter Pellew, time and spent weeks with Crown Law trying and from Singapore to Christchurch in 1987 to stop me from coming home. with his son, Qwilton, got the adrenalin “But the plane was registered in the USA flowing and the heart pumping. and I had an American licence, so it was none “Air races were a different thing for me,” of their business. Grant said, who at one time held the record Grant said he is immensely proud of his life (which may still exist) for the fastest turn- membership of the MBAC and was glowing around at Singapore of just 25 minutes. in his tributes to the club, saying they are “Yes, I did enjoy them. It wasn’t just going “great people.” He said that after the original from A to B. It was competitive and enjoyable, Whitianga airstrip on land near the end of and it was great.” Buffalo Beach became unusable, due to the Grant has many other memorable construction of a bridge on the approach achievements to his name, including being that made it too difficult for planes to land, a director of Airways Corporation and a life the club made arrangements for the member of the Aviation Industry Association, construction and further development over the helping build an airstrip on Raoul Island, being years of the current airfield. instrumental in the deployment of pressurized, “It showed great financial bravery and turboprop and then turbofan aircraft for capability,” Grant said. ambulance and organ donor flights, setting up At 79, Grant said he will continue flying heavy-lift helicopter company, Heli Harvest, as long as he meets all the medical and other in 1993 with John Funnell and pioneering requirements. When asked what he thought sustainable harvesting of native timber, was his greatest aviation achievement, delivering firefighting services in Australia, he replied in a single word, “surviving.” Indonesia and Turkey, providing aerial crane “With every flight, the greatest achievement is services to the construction and marine getting out at the end,” he said.

Issue 947699 - 27 AprilJuly 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3 Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5 Festival evolves to support recovery of Coromandel’s scallop beds One of the Coromandel’s favourite festivals is trading one seafood delicacy for many as it plays its part in a community-driven effort to protect a vulnerable species. The 16th Whitianga Scallop Festival will become the Whitianga Oceans Festival as organisers rebrand and pivot the much-loved event to support the regeneration of local scallop beds. A rāhui is already in place preventing the collection of scallops in the Opito Bay area, while consultation is underway on a request from Ngāti Hei for the formal closure of most of the scallop fishery along the eastern Coromandel for a period of at least two years. “The sustainability of scallops locally and nationally is a priority for Whitianga Scallop Festival Inc,” the festival organisers confirmed. “In observing the need for the ār hui and the need to ensure the regeneration of scallops, the festival… will focus on offering a variety of seafood from New Zealand waters this year as the local scallop beds are left to rest.” The festival branding has been evolved to recognise the scallop which sits at the heart of the event and the need now to champion its cause, along with the New Zealand-caught seafood that will instead be enjoyed at this year’s event, officially titled “Whitianga Oceans Festival - From Dock to Dish.” The move has the support of those leading the call to protect the scallop beds, including Ngāti Hei, the Opito Bay Ratepayers Association and LegaSea. The organisers said the format of the iconic event will be unchanged, so while the treats on the menus and in the cooking demonstrations may change, the overall flavour of the festival will remain the same. “The festival has grown into one of New Zealand’s iconic kaimoana celebrations and we do not expect that to change,” they said. “Once again, we have a great line-up of celebrity chefs. The live music line-up will see seven great bands across the main stage as well as the acoustic stage. We hope our valued followers will embrace our reason for change and join us once again for what promises to be another fantastic event set against Whitianga’s stunning harbour.” The site for the 2021 festival on 18 September has also been altered due to construction taking place at the Whitianga Marina. The new location will be spread across Lyon Park (the Mercury Bay Rugby Club grounds) and the marina’s southern carpark reclamation area. The marina management has advised users that, in order to support this important community event, the marina boat ramp and hard stand will not be accessible on the day of the festival. However, boat owners will be able to use the Thames-Coromandel District Council boat ramp to launch and retrieve their boats.

Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Moving tribute concert by the Mercury Bay Big Band to commemorate ANZAC Day By Anusha Bhana The Mercury Bay Big Band (MBBB) “Forces’ Sweetheart” and remained active in delivered a stellar concert of the greatest the music industry for an incredible 96 years. wartime hits last Sunday afternoon in front She passed away last year at age 103. of a packed audience in the Whitianga Town “This is the first time the MBBB has put Hall. The concert, titled “Lest We Forget,” together authentic arrangements of these was staged in honour of ANZAC Day. songs,” said Yvette Audain, who plays alto The audience thoroughly enjoyed seeing saxophone and clarinet in the band. “It feels and hearing the 15-piece band perform very fitting to be performing these songs a selection of songs that reached peak on ANZAC Day, such an important day for popularity during World War II. “These are New Zealanders.” the songs that soldiers had with them, the Once the audience returned to their seats songs they turned to for comfort when they after a short intermission, former MBBB were away from their loved ones,” said Kevin band leader, Trevor Hildreth, handed a life Robinson, the MBBB’s new band leader. membership award to band founder, Helen The set list of more than 20 songs was Lee, in recognition of her unwavering put together by Kevin and guest conductor, commitment to ensuring the success of Alistair McMillan. “We did a lot of research the band. to seek out the songs that were most That was followed by a member of the popular in that era of uncertainty and grief,” audience encouraging everyone to give Helen said Kevin. “Some of them were written a standing ovation. “My wife and I have lived before the war, but ended up becoming here for 40 years and Helen is a huge reason extremely popular later during the war.” The Mercury Bay Big Band after their “Lest We Forget” ANZAC Day concert why Mercury Bay is the place it is today, she in the Whitianga Town Hall last Sunday. Big band jazz orchestras were at their has contributed so much to the community,” most popular during the 1930s and 1940s, said Kevin. “The music kept them going.” audience and were carried out with expert the audience member said. composing and performing music that was The concert featured performances of musicianship, each song complimented The grand finale had Jenny Jackman energetic, easy listening and dance worthy. Glenn Miller’s “In the Mood,” “Moonlight by solos on either alto saxophone, bass back on vocals to perform the Vera Lynn Their songs became wartime classics listened Serenade” and ‘Chattanooga Choo Choo,” saxophone, flugelhorn, trombone, trumpet classic, “We’ll Meet Again,” an emotional to on radios in army camps, factories and Count Basie’s “April in Paris” and “One or clarinet. song which had everyone on their feet and hospitals, helping to boost morale, provide o’Clock Jump,” the Andrew Sisters’ “Boogie Guest vocalist, Jenny Jackman, performed singing along. solace and lift spirits. “If we think about Woogie Bugle Boy,” and jazz standard tunes a medley of well-known Vera Lynn songs, “We didn’t get to perform at all last year,” what it’s like with COVID-19, people not “My Funny Valentine,” “Stompin’ at the emulating the iconic singer’s rich and said Kevin. “But after today’s performance seeing their loved ones for long periods of Savoy” and “Sentimental Journey.” sonorous voice. Vera Lynn became popular and the overwhelming support from the time, imagine what it was like back then, The toe tapping, uplifting tunes were during the World War II with her songs of community, we will definitely be back again not seeing your family for five or more years,” greeted by murmurs of recognition from the love and longing. She became known as the on ANZAC Day next year.”

Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7 Tips for Business Owners By Christine Petrie

For many organisations, the start of a new leadership role, eg personal wellbeing, caring financial year is a time of reflection on for others, solving a problem or generating what aspects have served operations well an income? If a community organisation, over the last year and where there are areas has there been any reduction in the issues for improvement. Often organisations use you intended to address? By focusing on and performance targets to measure how well measuring results against their definition of individual employees, departments and the success, organisations are much more likely entire business are doing. For example, to achieve the results that they desire. converting the sales pipeline, new product Employment legislation continues to development, orders received, no accidents be reviewed with up to three day’s paid or incidents, and delivery in full on time bereavement leave now being allowed for and in specification (DIFOTIS). While miscarriage or still births. valuable measures, they tend to drive Make sure your employment agreements performance rather than the achievement of are up to date, including variations for hours the organisation’s goals, mission and vision, and wage rates. Be alert to the inflationary ie organisational success. pressures that these changes might have In looking to a new season, try adding and clear on what cost increases you can in some measures of success to gain an realistically absorb. understanding of how well your organisation Information included in this column is of is doing at delivering its intended impact. a general nature and is not a substitute What personal goals did you have when for tailored legal, accounting and other starting your business or taking up your professional advice.

Christine Petrie, the author of this column, is the owner of Shifting Focus Business Consulting. She can be contacted on telephone (021) 775 571 or email [email protected].

Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Day Camp back with a bang

The Mercury Bay Day Camp was back with a bang last week with 300 excited children, aged six all those who had been a part of the success of the 2021 camp, including the sponsors and the to 13, enjoying three days of adventure, challenge and fun. Whitianga Lions for taking on barbecue duty for the final day’s sausage sizzle. It was a slightly belated 20th birthday for the camp after COVID-19 saw the milestone event “I also want to thank all the parents, grandparents and caregivers for bringing their children to cancelled last year. Once again, a huge team of adult organisers and supervisors and an even camp, they have all done so well,” Tina said. “Wherever you went as you walked around camp bigger crew of teen leaders came together to run an action-packed programme that included over the past three days, they have been amazing to deal with, so polite and so well behaved.” rock climbing, kayaking, a confidence course, woodwork, sack sliding and a massive water As well as presenting two individual $1,000 leadership scholarships sponsored by Whitianga slide among the activities on offer. residents, Richard and Diane Vetter, to the outstanding male and female teen leaders, The Mercury Bay Community Support Trust organises the camp each hear at Graham and Tina praised the efforts of all the 14 to 18 year olds who volunteered their time helping the Selma Morcom’s property on Purangi Road, . All 300 spots were snapped up within children have a great time. “You have inspired all of us on this camp,” she said. days of the online booking system opening. Most of the adult helpers are drawn from various Tina’s leadership was acknowledged with the presentation of a handwoven traditional Tongan Mercury Bay church communities and the camp has a Christian ethos with the children also taʻovala worn by leaders on ceremonial or special community occasions. learning faith-based songs and stories. Pictured in the photo on the left is the massive water slide at the camp. In the photo on the right Speaking at the finale and farewell on Thursday, camp director, Tina Bartlett, acknowledged is the final day sausage sizzle.

Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9 New face at the helm of the Wanted - artists to participate Coromandel National Party in major exhibition There’s a new face at the helm of the Coromandel The new chairperson wouldn’t be drawn on any National Party with Sue Edens taking over the further strategies to reverse the trend in the last role of chairperson for the next three years. two elections in particular that saw the National Mrs Edens was elected at the recent AGM and Party relinquish a hefty chunk of its party vote succeeds retiring chair, Lawrie Smith, who held to Labour. However, she said the fact that the position for nine years. “Lawrie has been a the electorate had successfully returned their very steady hand for the Coromandel National National MP to Wellington in 2020, despite the Party over the years. He never gets flustered, party’s poor performance, was testament to the he takes everything that comes and deals with it work being done by supporters on the ground with calmness and sound counsel. He has been across the Coromandel. great to work with for all our local National Congratulating Mrs Edens on her election, Party supporters and we’re all very grateful Mr Simpsons said, “I am looking forward to to have had his knowledge and guidance,” working with Sue in her new role as I have Mrs Edens said in tribute to her predecessor. done for several years through her capacity as Coromandel MP, Scott Simpson, also vice-chair.” acknowledged Mr Smith’s dedication and service as chair of the local branch for nearly a decade. “The contribution he has made to the Coromandel and to the National Party cannot be overstated,” he said. Mrs Edens who resides at Opito Bay and has long connections to that area has been involved The Lions Club of Whitianga is looking for artists to participate in a major art exhibition they are with the National Party “since the turn of the planning for Queen’s Birthday Weekend this year. century,” playing an active role in the local administration and serving as vice-chair for “The exhibition will be held in the Whitianga Town Hall,” says Lions president, Ian Robbie. several years. She said the timing was right to “We will be doing all the leg work, including setting up and packing down, organising the take on more responsibility. “I’ve always been catalogue detailing all the artworks and processing the sales. All the artworks on display will a National Party person, I already attend all be for sale. The Lions will receive part of every sale price as commission. All the money we the conferences so have that knowledge that I raise through the exhibition will be funneled back into the community through other projects can bring to the role. My business life has been we support.” very busy in the last few years completing a The Whitianga Art Group is already onboard with the exhibition and several members of the successful subdivision up at Opito Bay. That is Mercury Bay Art Escape have indicated that they are keen to be involved. now coming to an end so it’s a good time for a change of direction and a new challenge,” “We expect a lot of people in Whitianga over Queen’s Birthday Weekend,” says Ian. “It will be she said. a great opportunity for local artists to have their artworks available to a large audience right in Mrs Edens said getting the membership more the heart of Whitianga.” engaged in planning for the future direction of The exhibition will be formally opened on Friday evening, 4 June with public viewing days on the National Party was important. “I think we Saturday 5 and Sunday, 6 June. need to be hearing more from our membership, Artists interested in participating can email the Whitianga Lions at [email protected]. so we are looking at things like bringing our smaller branches together into area groups with Outgoing Coromandel National Party Details of all artworks forming part of the exhibition will need to be with the Lions no later than more events where we can get different thoughts chairperson, Lawrie Smith (on the left), Saturday, 15 May for inclusion in the exhibition catalogue. and ideas being shared. From there we can feed with Coromandel MP, Scott Simpson, and newly Pictured are Ian and Jenny Cotterell, a Whitianga Art Group member who will be involved in that back to our MP,” she said. elected chairperson, Sue Edens. the exhibition.

The Mercury Bay Informer is published weekly on Tuesday afternoons and is distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. What’s that Number? Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are Emergency (Ambulance, Fire, Police) 24 hours ...... 111 entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address. Police (Whitianga) ...... 866 4000 Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. Police () ...... 864 8888 Statement of scientific fact needs to be accompanied by evidence of the fact. Police (Coromandel Town) ...... 866 1190 Published by Mercury Bay Media Limited Fight crime anonymously - Call Crime Stoppers ...... 0800 555 111 Editors - Stephan Bosman and Gillian O’Neill Dog and Noise Control ...... 868 0200 Contributors - Meghan Hawkes, Jack Biddle, Anusha Bhana, Suzanne Hansen Civil Defence ...... 868 0200 and Tony Stickley Mercury Bay Medical Centre (Whitianga) ...... 866 5911 Advertiser Management - Petra Bosman and Alex Kennedy, Medical Centre (Tairua)...... 864 8737 Administration - Diane Lodge Need to talk? Call/text anytime for support from a trained counsellor...... 1737 Office 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Mail PO Box 426, Whitianga 3542 Telephone (07) 866 2090, Fax (07) 866 2092 Harbourmaster (Whitianga) ...... 027 476 2651 Editorial email [email protected], Advertising email [email protected] Coastguard Radio Operators ...... 866 2883 Whitianga Social Services ...... 866 4476 ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online), © 2021 Mercury Bay Media Limited Whitianga Locksmith Services ...... 027 446 6921 The Mercury Bay Informer is subject to the principles of the New Zealand Media Council. Please contact us first if you have concerns about any of the editorial content published in The Informer. If we were unable to address your concerns to your satisfaction, you can file a complaint with ONLINE POLL FOR APRIL 2021 the New Zealand Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or Are you in favour of a temporary ban on all scallop www.presscouncil.org.nz. See page 2 for what’s happening Like us on Facebook. harvesting in the waters of the eastern Coromandel? in the night sky, and the Whitianga and Follow us on Twitter. Hot Water Beach tides. Check us out on Instagram. Have your say at www.theinformer.co.nz.

Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Issue 699947 - 27 AprilJuly 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11 Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Issue 699947 - 27 AprilJuly 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13 ANZAC Day in Mercury Bay

The ANZAC Day services around Mercury Bay were very well attended on Sunday last week. In Whitianga, more than 2,000 people attended the Dawn Service at Soldiers Memorial Park. For the first time, the Mercury Bay RSA displayed photos and details of the names listed on the cenotaph in the park on a big screen. The display was the result of years of research by a dedicated RSA team. A highlight of the service was the performance of “Sons of Gallipoli” by a choir especially formed for the service. After the service, many of those who attended enjoyed breakfast at the Mercury Bay Club. The Civic Service was attended by approximately 300 people. It was once again an opportunity for everyone present to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. More than 250 people attended the first ever Hahei Civic Service at the Kotare Reserve Memorial Garden. An address on behalf of the New Zealand Defence Force was given by Lieutenant Commander Matt Harrison, followed by a speech by School student, August Popadich. “Many people within our community were involved to make the commemoration a success,” says Gilbert Bannan, organiser of the Hahei Service. “I specifically would like to thank the Mercury Bay RSA, Penne Clayton for her valuable assistance with organising the day, Kevin Milroy who officiated, piper Carroll DePape, sound engineer Dave Burton, Fire and Emergency Hahei, Whenuakite School and Richardsons Real Estate.” Pictured in the top photo is the crowd at the Whitianga Dawn Service. In the second photo is the parade arriving at the Matarangi Civic Service. In the third photo is August Popadich addressing the Hahei Civic Service. Kevin Milroy is behind him. Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Issue 699947 - 27 AprilJuly 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15 Free school lunches on the way for Coroglen School By Gillian O’Neill

Kai time will look a little different at Coroglen School from the start of next term with all 30 students set to receive a free lunch every day courtesy of a national programme to support learning through healthy, nutritious food. Coroglen will become the sixth school in the Thames-Coromandel District to join the Ka Ora Ka Ako scheme which is funded through the government’s Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy. School principal, Jean Saunders, says, as of March this year, over eight million free lunches had been served in 542 schools to more than 132,600 learners. Coroglen will be one of the 960 schools due to be part of the programme by the end of this year. “The students are enthusiastic about it,” Jean says. “There is certainly a novelty about the idea of seeing what they will get every day. Our parents are also very happy with the initiative. It isn’t Coroglen School students will be enjoying a free school lunch every day from next term. compulsory and any parents who wishes to can still send a homemade lunch with their child.” that they have come on board.” that with us. “We just see this as a good way for us to further Jean says while schools had the option of As well as meeting the $5 per serving “We will also be monitoring the amount support our students and whānau,” Jean says. preparing the meals in-house or outsourcing, budget, lunches must meet a range of of food that is being supplied to ensure we “It also provides a real focus for learning for limited space and facilities at Coroglen nutritional guidelines and cater for specific do not have wastage. Students will be able the children, not just about healthy eating, School meant an external supplier was the dietary needs. “It has been quite a process of to take any leftover food home to share with but also where their food comes from.” only practical option. “We are delighted that putting together menus that don’t just meet other whānau.” With the lunches set to be rolled out from New World Whitianga have agreed to be all the requirements, but that students will The Ka Ora Ka Ako scheme is a response to the first day of term, Jean is optimistic but our supplier,” she says. “It really is quite a enjoy and want to eat,” Jean says. “We also inequitable outcomes in education across New also practical. “We are suggesting that parents challenge for them and given the dollar value had other considerations that were important Zealand, with food and nutrition identified as still send a lunch for that first day, just in involved, there certainly isn’t a huge amount to our school such as ensuring the packaging one of the causes. Evidence shows regular, case things don’t quite go to plan,” she says. in it for them financially, so they are really just was compostable or recyclable as part of our nutritious food is vital for children’s physical, “I’m sure there will be great excitement among doing it to support us and we are very grateful environmental commitments, and New World mental and educational development. It affects the students and hopefully they’ll be open to have been fantastic in working through all their ability to focus, concentrate and learn. trying some new things.” Thumbs Up To the organisers of all last Sunday’s ANZAC Day services in Mercury Bay. A job well done!

Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Issue 699947 - 27 AprilJuly 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17 What’s On In the next few weeks

Regular Activities (07) 869 5162 or (027) 565 5575 for more information. Op-Shops Mercury Bay Badminton • Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street Meets every Wednesday from 9:30am - 11:00am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. (west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm. Phone (07) 866 5476 for more information. • The Church Op-Shop - At St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Whitianga Menz Shed Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm. Open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway, past the diesel • St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday truck stop. All welcome. 10:00am - 2:00pm. Alcoholics Anonymous Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop - Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Monday - Saturday from Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6:30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 10:00am - 2:00pm. 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information. Whitianga Senior Citizens Club Serenity Al-Anon Group Meets Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street from 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie Meets every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by etc. Afternoon tea, 55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. someone else’s drinking. Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga Meets the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Meets every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in Room 10 at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Joan on 866 3801 or (027) 275 1372 for more information. Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals and eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely. SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated Check out our Facebook page or phone (027) 294 1750 for more information. Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on (027) 486 0150 for more information or to join. Specific Activities/Events Whitianga Playcentre Archaeology Week at the Mercury Bay Museum Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon at 1D White Street, Whitianga. For children 0 - 6 years, Tuesday, 27 April - Going Potty. free entry. Visitors welcome. Wednesday, 28 April - Archaeology is Rubbish. Scottish Country Dancing Friday, 30 April - Digging Deep. Meets every Tuesday from 7:00pm - 9:00pm in the Supper Room of the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Phone Anthea Friday, 30 April - “HMS Buffalo - A ship and its Survey.” A presentation about the HMS Buffalo Re-examination on 866 4516 or (021) 158 1522 for more information. Project from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at the Monkey House Theatre, Coghill Street, Whitianga. Nibbles and cash bar, Whitianga Tramping Group $5 entry. Meets every second Sunday at 8:30am. Phone Wally on (021) 907 782 or Lesley on (021) 157 9979 for more information. District Libraries’ Holiday Programme at the Mercury Bay and Tairua Libraries Whitianga Art Group Tuesday, 27 April - Bug Motels Meets every Thursday and Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm at 23 School Road, Whitianga. Visitors are invited to join us for Thursday, 29 April - Art from Recycled Materials. a day of painting. Start-up materials supplied. Phone Jenny on (027) 210 0160 for more information. Sessions run from 10:30am - 11:30am. Bookings essential. Mercury Bay Contract Bridge Club Coromandel Town Seafood Fest Meet every Wednesday at 1:00pm and every Thursday at 7:00pm at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Saturday, 1 May from 9:00am - 4:00pm at Coromandel Area School, Woollams Avenue, Coromandel Town. A variety Phone Gavin on (07) 866 2343 or (021) 146 9203 for more information. of stalls, cooking demonstartions and a variety of entertainment. Gold coin entry. Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club Thames Valley Senior Rugby - Saturday, 1 May Meets every Thursday at 6:45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Come along and join in or phone Alan on Senior A - Silcock Shield finals. 866 4024 or Cheryl on 0274 527887 for more information. Mercury Bay Senior B v Thames in Whitianga. Kick-off at 12:25pm. Mercury Bay Pickleball Club Whitianga Marathon Meets Every Tuesday from 4:00pm - 6:00pm and every Sunday from 3:00pm - 5:00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School Saturday, 22 May. Four course options - 42.2km, 21.1km, 10km and 5km. Entries now open. gym, South Highway, Whitianga, $5 per session. Paddles and balls supplied. Tuition available. See whitiangamarathon.co.nz for more information. Mercury Bay Tennis Club Whitianga Town Garage Sale Club night every Thursday at 6:30pm at Lyon Park, Albert Street, Whitianga. Saturday 5 - Monday, 7 June. Entries now open, $15 fee. All fees to be donated to a Mercury Bay community group Mercury Bay Table Tennis or charity. Meets every Tuesday from 9:00am - 11:30am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Phone Anne on

Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Earthy creations at Mercury Bay Library

There was an abundance of creativity at the Mercury Bay Library in Whitianga during the first week of an Earth Day-inspired school holiday activity programme. It was all about the great outdoors with handmade birdfeeders and seed bombs on the menu at two busy and highly productive sessions. “Charlotte Allen (pictured) showed innovative thinking and decorating skills to make an outstanding bird feeder from a recycled milk bottle on Thursday last week,” said librarian, Christine Towgood. “The birds can be fed on bird seed and peanut butter, but they can also enjoy a swing before or after eating, and they could make use of the top storey eating platform too.” Other children made birdseed feeders from other recycled materials, including pine cones, drink cartons and ice cream sticks. Meanwhile, on Tuesday last week, 19 participants relished getting their hands dirty making their own seed bombs. After pulverizing the clay, mixing it with water and potting mix with wild flower seeds, the children pushed the mix into moulds and then took their seed bombs home to dry and scatter around the garden. The holiday activity programme continues at the Thames-Coromandel District Council libraries in Whitianga, Tairua and Thames on Tuesday and Thursday this week with Bug Motels and Recycled Art. Bookings are essential.

Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19 The Fire Siren Sponsored by Safety + Apparel - tel 0800 726 726

The last four weeks have been very quiet for a donation tin available at Whitianga Sports the Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade with We are still looking for another two new only eight calls for assistance. We responded firefighters. If you think you have what to three private fire alarm activations and it takes, want to do something for your three motor vehicle accidents and we assisted community and would like to be part of a St John Ambulance twice. great group of people, drop in and have a The call-outs may have been quiet, but the chat with me or come along to our training at brigade is always busy. The arrival of a brand- the Whitianga Fire Station every Wednesday new fire appliance got the crews excited and night at 7:30pm. of course we have five firefighters that are Be careful and stay safe in serious training for the Sky Tower Stair out there. Challenge on 22 May. Support them if you Deputy Chief Fire Officer see them out and about and if you would like Derek Collier to make a donation to a great cause, I have

Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Open Day offers unique The Small-time Investor labyrinth walking experience By Whitianga resident, Max Ross

ERoad My shares are up 9.87 percent, which is I see this software fulfilling a need for $401.36. I am really happy with this return delivery companies. When thinking about and pleased things have bounced back. a new company, I consider the idea of a The fluctuations in the share prices when moat. This is something that makes it harder investing is always interesting. It does help if for other companies to enter the space and you don’t need to sell. It’s a good idea to not compete. What makes it difficult for ERoad’s put everything into investments, in case there competitors to start up a similar company? is a dip and you have to sell. Once a client has committed to software like Seventeen of my picks are up and 14 are this in their business, I think it is difficult to down. However, four of these are my new switch to another company. By increasing the dollar cost averaging investments, so we are different things companies like ERoad can do, talking cents down only. My biggest winner they are locking in their existing customers. is Tesla, up 50.1 percent. My biggest loser The software looks at the driving style is still Plexure, down 39 percent. It’s down and safety of drivers. You can set virtual all the time. I thought about selling it. The speed cameras near schools or other safety problem is I’ve lost $40 and maybe one day measures. Having a reputation as a business it will go back up. Is it worth my time selling A chance to experience what it is like to wander through an 11-circuit medieval labyrinth is being offered with safe drivers helps the entire business’s the $60 left and putting it somewhere else? to anyone interested in a unique walk in a very special environment. reputation. Probably, but I’m going to keep it as the Te Moata Retreat Centre north of Tairua is marking World Labyrinth Day on Saturday, 8 May with an Open Recently, online share trading platform original plan always was to invest each week Day for anyone who would like to walk an earthy labyrinth, a hidden treasure and living work of art nestled Sharesies announced the removal of their in the native bush. and not sell. This week I’m going to invest my $75 into subscription price, a month after I’ve paid According to Te Moata, “The labyrinth is an ancient pathway of quiet contemplation and inspiration. It can for the next 12 months. So please, if you be approached as a walking meditation, a path of prayer, a crucible of change, a way to reduce stress and a New Zealand fleet management software find balance in life. Walking the labyrinth quiets the mind, opens the heart and grounds the body.” company called ERoad. I’m dollar cost are following along, don’t pay the yearly subscription because it’s being removed soon. Those new to the experience are assured that the labyrinth is not a maze and you cannot get lost. There averaging the other $25 into an Exchange is one entrance and as long as you take one step after another you will eventually arrive at the centre. Traded Fund (ETF), so I have $75 left over Please remember that what I write in this column is all my personal opinion. Ancient spiral and circle labyrinth patterns are found in many cultures around the world, some dating as from my $100 a week I am investing. far back as 5,000 years. The labyrinth design at Te Moata (pictured) is a replica of the labyrinth at Chartres As my investment in Mainfreight is doing Many of my investments are losing money. Cathedral in France. so well and there is growth in online shopping I am sharing my thoughts and strategies so Te Moata will be open for visitors from 9:30am to 5:30pm during the Open Day. Visitors can arrive at any and deliveries, I was looking for a company you can learn from my mistakes. Be careful time, take their time to walk the labyrinth and to look around. Hot cuppas will be available. Entry is by that helps to enable transportation. ERoad with your money. koha and Sonya Lyn, a Veriditas-trained labyrinth facilitator, will be on site. Those who would like to visit produces software that helps commercial If you wish to join in and buy shares with are asked to register in advance on the labyrinth page at temoata.org or text Maniisha on (021) 273 9946. fleets to manage its compliance. It deals Sharesies, you can use this link - https:// Te Moata is 6km north of Tairua. A short drone video of the labyrinth and Te Moata surrounds is also with health and safety, road user charges and sharesies.nz/r/KHQQWP. You and I will each available on the website for those who would like a preview. tax compliance. get $5 into our Sharesies accounts.

Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21 Crossword © Lovatts Puzzles

Crossword Puzzle 947

Name: ______

Tel no: ______Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver or mail or scan and email your entry to The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk St, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or [email protected] to reach us by 3:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World check out manager directly before the Wednesday of the week following the issue in which they were announced the winner.

ACROSS DOWN 1. Massaging 1. Water boiler 2. Modify 5. Multiple-birth child 3. Angry 7. Canned fish 4. Brief look 5. Waited in line 8. Nonprofessionals 6. Refuse to acknowledge 9. Detest 10. Charismatic air 11. Brave man 12. Tribal leader 12. Belonging to him 15. Pastures 13. Opposed to 19. Tendons 14. Fashion 15. Disguised 21. More humane 16. Benumb 22. Courageous 17. More cautious 18. Incidental comments 23. Small, soft feathers 19. Varieties 24. Admires 20. Aristocratic Last week’s solution

Last week’s winner - Liz Sims

Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Farmer Autovillage expanding into the Coromandel The Bay of Plenty’s largest new and used vehicle dealership has expanded into the Coromandel Peninsula. On 1 April, Farmer Autovillage became the new owner of SubLab Whitianga. The purchase included a rebrand of the business’s premises at 6 Abrahamson Drive to Farmer Autovillage Coromandel. A wider range of servicing options are now available to customers and five new vehicle brands - available on the Peninsula for the first time - have been launched. Farmer Autovillage Coromandel will remain committed to Subaru customers as an authorised centre. In addition to Subaru, the other brands represented by the business are Jeep, RAM, Haval, Great Wall and SEAT, all part of the 12 international vehicle brands available at Farmer Autovillage’s Mt Maunganui headquarters. “For some time now we have been looking for an opportunity to expand our services into the beautiful Coromandel area,” says Mike Farmer, Farmer Autovillage managing group director. “After a long relationship with Sublab Whitianga owners, Brent and Sue Willcox, it made sense to take this step which will not only provide the residents of the Coromandel Peninsula an expansion of the existing brilliant, authorised Subaru servicing centre, but also provide authorised servicing and parts for other brands that we represent in the area. “We will also have a selection of new demonstrator vehicles on display for service loan and test drive purposes as we have done in the past with the Subaru brand.” SubLab Whitianga was established in 2006 and purchased by Brent and Sue in 2015. Brent is remaining on with the business as divisional manager. “I’ve been with Sublab Whitianga almost since day one, first as an employee and then five-and-a-half years ago my wife and I bought the business,’’ says Brent. “The SubLab team are excited to stay on at Farmer Autovillage Coromandel as we expand our service and sales offering with the backing of a large-scale dealership. Our customers will continue to find all same the familiar faces when they call in to see us and we also welcome Daniel Finlay from Farmer Autovillage as the workshop foreman.” Farmer Autovillage Coromandel services all makes and models of vehicles with customers benefitting from the award-winning Total Care Services offered by Farmer Autovillage that also includes warrants of fitness, repairs, wheels and tyres, genuine parts and accessories, roof racks, windscreen repairs and replacements, The Farmer Autovillage Coromandel team. From the left - Brent Willcox, Ethan Dagger, Shelly McPherson, and courtesy transport. Tyron Fong, Daniel Finlay and Bevan Sheppard (Farmer Autovillage service manager).

Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23 Sudoku

Sudoku Puzzle 947

Name: ______

Tel no: ______Win two Trumpet ice creams. Hand deliver or mail or scan and email your entry to The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk St, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or [email protected] to reach us by 3:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Buffalo Beach Four Square directly before the Wednesday of the week following the issue in which they were announced the winner. Sudoku Puzzle Instructions Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of nine boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.

Last week’s solution Last week’s winner - Peter Sheehan

“Kīwaha o te wiki” (saying of the week) “Tāu mahi rā, e te iti kahurangi!” - You’ve done that well, my little treasure! Saying of the week supplied by Te Puna Reo o Whitianga - a playgroup with a focus on Māori tikanga and te reo Māori. The group meets every Monday and Tuesday at 9:00am at the old dental clinic at Mercury Bay Area School. All those with pēpi or young tamariki are welcome to join.

Page 24 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Silver for two Mercury Bay Fishing Report Sponsored by Mercury Bay Marine - Tel (07) 867 1280 touch players

After an action-packed few days on the game fishing front the week before last (when more than 10 marlin were landed or tagged and released), the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club (MBGFC) members enjoyed good snapper fishing success last week. “There’s a lot of kahawai in the Bay at the moment,” said keen angler, Peter Maxwell. “They are very good snapper bait. Those who fished from the shore have also caught great snapper at dusk. “Somewhat deeper into the Bay, around Centre Island, quite a few anglers caught some nice John Dory, they’re a beautiful fish to enjoy around the dinner table.” The MBGFC Junior Tournament took place last weekend. A total of 59 anglers fished off 33 boats. Whenuakite School student, Jaxon Walker (pictured), came very close to catching the first marlin in the history of the tournament on Saturday when he managed to get the marlin he hooked up on to the boat, but somehow the fish managed to get away at that point. At the prize-giving on Sunday evening, he received a consolation prize from club president, John Neighbours, for his effort as well as a round of applause from the packed MBGFC clubrooms. The winners of the categories in which prizes were handed out were Kingfish - Thomas Joblin (14.14kg), Kahawai - Masen Schlaepfer (3.01kg), Trevally - Kate Stables (2.89kg), Tuna - Kolbie Fraser (3.05kg) and Snapper - Lexi Ford (9.25kg).

Two Mercury Bay athletes, Haven McLean and Tiana Tiro, played for the Thames Valley Open Mixed touch team in the New Zealand Touch National Tournament that was played in Christchurch over the weekend of 17 and 18 April. The Thames Valley team was undefeated heading into the final against Auckland, but was unfortunate to lose the final by only one touchdown. Haven and Tiana and can add their silver medals to the bronze medals they won playing for the Thames Valley Under 18 Mixed touch team in the New Zealand Junior Touch Nationals earlier this year. Pictured are Haven and Tiana with the silver medals they won in Christchurch.

Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 25 Brain Teaser - Vexagon © Lovatts Puzzles

Brain Teaser Puzzles 947

Name: ______

Tel no: ______

Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver or mail or scan and email your entry to The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or [email protected] to reach us by 3:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Cafe directly before the Wednesday of the week following the issue in which they were announced the winner.

Instructions - Nine words can be found in this vexing hexagon, but some letters have been replaced by colours. Find out what letters are hidden behind those colours. They are the same for each of the words reading across. Then you’ll have solved the vexagon.

Answers 1. ______. 2. ______

3. ______4. ______

5. ______6. ______

7. ______8. ______

9. ______

Last week’s Brain Teaser solution - Vaki Puzzle

Last week’s winner - Ian Johnson

Page 26 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 500 Club helps support another busy season for Hot Water Beach lifeguards The Hot Water Beach Surf Life Saving Club financial demands of operating its vital and we really appreciate the support from across the Eastern Region. While final figures has come off a landmark summer season service, including training new lifeguards and everyone involved,” said Amy Hodge, are still being collated, around 23 rescues moving into their long-awaited brand-new replacing equipment. Several of those who club treasurer. were carried out at Hot Water Beach, Hahei rescue base thanks to huge support from the donated, signed up for both seasons. With the summer patrol season now at an and Cathedral Cove as compared to 68 the local community. “We are so grateful to all those who have end, the club is turning its attention towards its previous year. The season also saw the club continuing been part of our 500 Club over the last two winter training programme, already hosting “Although the beaches were still extremely with its 500 Club, an initiative that started seasons. The club members’ names are now a highly successful Eastern Region Wahine busy, Kiwis are generally more aware of our during the 2019/2020 season. Over the two all featuring on a board at our rescue base. on Water event. The day saw 20 female New Zealand conditions, as well as being seasons, more than 30 individuals, families Our long-term goal is to reach 50 members, lifeguards from across the region gaining IRB more familiar with typical safety messages and business each generously donated $500 so to be at the point where we are now in just experience with a view to encouraging more like swimming between the flags and so on,” to help support the club meet the ongoing the second year of the initiative is awesome, to qualify as crew and drivers. said Amy. Meanwhile, the Hot Water Beach lifeguard In addition, the Hot Water Beach lifeguards team has cited the absence of overseas visitors attended to eight major first aid incidents and as the reason for a significant drop-off in the 82 minor first aid events during the season, number of recuses required this summer and conducted four searches and 1,634 season, something which is mirrored at clubs preventative actions involving 8,106 people.

Hot Water Beach Lifeguard Service 500 Club Members Members - 2019/2020 and 2020/2012 seasons Container It Self Storage, Go Kiwi Shuttles, The Coroglen Tavern, Destination Coromandel, The AutoBarn 2004 Limited, The Mercury Bay Informer, Smart Environmental, Dog Zen Limited and Hahei General Store. Members - 2019/2020 season Oceanside Cottage, Ngāti Hei, Derek Barwood Orthodontic Limited, Johanna Bonnar, Hot Waves Café, Mike Davis and Family, New Line Electrical Limited, Geoff Hick Builders Limited, Stone Terrace Villa Estate, Beach Habitat, The Melde Family, Van de Ven Builders, Kelly and Stephen Whiting and The Fyers Family. Members - 2020/2021 season Dive Zone Whitianga, The Corkill Family, A1 Whitianga Towing & Transport Limited, The Hinds Lifeguards Gary Hinds (left), Logan Carter (centre) and Michelle Carter at the Hot Water Family, The French Fig, Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga, Coastal Greenery, Riverglen Campground Beach Surf Lifesaving Club’s 500 Club board, acknowledging those businesses and individuals and Percival Construction. who are supporting the club financially.

Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 27 Page 28 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Sport Results

MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER Autumn-1 Competition Round 2 - Thursday, 22 April MERCURY BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB PURANGI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Wednesday, 21 April Results - 1 Deidre Stevenson and Faith Stock 67.85, Nine-hole Tutti Frutti - Tuesday, 20 April Nine-hole Men and Ladies Stableford - Thursday, 22 April Best of three frames. 2 Larisa King and Rose Tegg 59.52, 3 Hillary Scott and Results Men - 1 Eddie Lyle, 2 Rod Stewart, 3 David Results - 1 Neil Gollan 19, 2 Wayne Morrison 18, 3 Jock Ten players. Ken Gibson and Peter Schultz were the only Debbie Cragg 57.14 Langdon. Peacock 17 players to achieve two straight wins to fight out the final HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB Results Ladies - 1 Del Langdon, 2 Maree Denney, 3 Maria Eighteen-hole ANZAC Strokeplay Stableford - frame. Ken was on form and took a good win over veteran, Hahei Pairs Week 1 - Tuesday, 20 April Duxfield. Saturday, 24 April Peter. For his achievement, he was awarded the day’s pork North/South - 1 Val Dwight and Annette Cox 58.33, 2 Frank Eighteen-hole Men Scramble - Wednesday, 21 April Results - 1 Phil Ander 40, 2 Jock Peacock 37, 3 Richard roast. Those with two wins were Peter Schultz (runner-up), Geoghegan and Don Barry 53.13, 3 Bev Dickie and Robyn Results - 1 Richard Steel, 2 George Still, 3 Neal Robinson. Agnew 36. Brian Codyre, Willie Jones and Ian Baumgren. Hogg 51.56. Twos - Wayne Malcolm, Mike Franklin and John Sedcole. 4BBB - Phil Ander and Al Sims 47, Best Gross - Al Sims Highest Break - Ken Gibson 20. East/West - 1 Robyn Waters and David Wilkinson 63.75, Nine-hole Ladies Combined Stableford Invitational - 83, Nearest the Pin - Phil Ander, Twos/Net Eagles - Saturday, 24 April 2 Barry Scott and Bill Cummings 58.13, 3 Lynn Hickey and Thursday, 22 April Neil Robertson. Only six players, so a friendly round robin tournament Jean Myles 50.63. Results - 1 Julie Routledge and Gail Doughty, 2 Merrin THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB was held. Phil Jones and Peter Schultz progressed to the TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB James and Fiona Gardien, 3 Lee Pudney and Shay Geach. Eighteen-hole Men 4BBB Top Dog - Wednesday, 21 April fourth frame final with three wins each. It must be pointed Monday, 19 April Eighteen-hole Men Scramble Stableford - Results - 1 Ross Gwyn and Mike Friis 44, 2 Peter Sharp out that that Peter was on a 14 handicap having won the North/South - 1 Dave Dylla and Jocelyn Taylor 59.90, Saturday, 24 April and Tony De Coek 42, 3 Glen LeLievre and Ray Green 42. last three Saturday tournaments. However, Phil potted Twos - Barry Titchmarsh and Ray Green, Nearest the Pin 2 Janet Taylor and Lynnette Fowers 53.65, 3 Peter McNeil Results - 1 Micky Henderson, 2 Brett Proctor, well and kept ahead of veteran Peter to take home the #18 - Daniel Wright. and Shirley Smith 50.00. 3 Ken George. marinated lamb chops. Best Gross - Micky Henderson, Twos - Mark Burcombe, Eighteen-hole Stableford - Saturday, 24 April East/West - 1 Robyn Waters and Wendy Morris 63.25, Highest Break - Doug Pascoe 21. Dan Ray, Ken George, John Sedcole, Micky Henderson and Results - 1 Kevin Verner 39, 2 Chris Dominick (Waitemata) 2 Christine Meinhold and Lynn Kime 53.25, 3 Celia Young MERCURY BAY CONTRACT BRIDGE CLUB Carl Mitchell, Nearest the Pin - Alan Henderson, Longest 36, 3 Tony Gracie (Apiti) 35. April Competition Round 2 - Wednesday, 21 April and Nolene Kirkpatrick 51.88. Drive - Mark Burcombe. Twos - Barry Bowen, Nearest the Pin #18 - Darren Gribble. North/South - 1 Colin Day and Robyn Hogg 63.57, 2 Giorgio MERCURY BAY SENIOR RUGBY Allemano and Don Barry 56.79, 3 Deidre Stevenson and Saturday, 24 April Sue Gill 54.29. Mercury Bay Marlins (Senior A) 59 v Whangamata 7 (game East/West - 1 Bill Cummings and Augusta Canegallo played in Whitianga). Confident performance by Mercury Bay’s 61.25, 2 Dave Dylla and Lynn Hickey 56.67, 3 Rose Tegg Mercury Senior B 5 v Coromandel Town 14 (game played and Phillip Hensman 54.58. in Coromandel Town). junior sailors Seventeen Mercury Bay Boating Club junior sailors took to the water for a three-race Centreboard Sunday Regatta in Whitianga on 18 April. Cooler temperatures prevailed, but the steady southwest wind and flat seas made for smooth sailing and tight competition on the triangle and windward leeward courses set by Classifieds and Public Notices veteran sailing coach and principal race officer, Russell Chaney. Coach Jonathan Kline said after the event, “We now have at least 20 junior sailors who have the skills and confidence to go head-to-head against their peers on challenging courses. DEATH NOTICE Congratulations to all of you who came out and sailed those back-to-back races. Your coaches and parents are very proud and you should be proud of yourselves too.” It is with deep sadness we share the news of the passing of The first place finishers were - Laser Tinca Samson, Micron/Starling Josie Fairweather and Hari Bansh Giri on 24 April 2021 Fusion Wilf Asquith/Jackson Goodall. Husband to Nandita. Father and Father-in-law to Neera, Sujata and Craig, Rekha and Damian, Harish and Megan. Proud Nana ji / Dada ji to Tara, India, Rohan, Liam, Bela, Reuben, Yasmin and Jesica. Dad's life will be remembered at a service the date and details to be confirmed. Thank you for everything Dad. You will always be in our hearts. Rest easy, your job is done. Communications to the Giri family c/- 1 Yankee Lane, Whitianga. In lieu of flowers, a donation to St John would be appreciated. Classifieds and Public Notices

ACCOMMODATION WANTED PUBLIC NOTICES TO LET

Wanting to rent A 2 - 4 bedroom house long term for a house-proud father and 11-year-old daughter. Reliable, clean and respectful tenant with references. Please contact Michael on 022 023 3566. HOME FOR SALE

STORAGE SHEDS, various sizes, dry and secure. Affordable rates. Ph: 0800 944 660 STORAGE SHEDS Whitianga Total Storage opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660 Container It Self Storage, 17 Moewai Road, Whitianga. Ph: 0274 817 258 STORAGE, Self storage/boat storage, Matarangi - Kuaotunu. Ph: 07 866 5693

PSYCHIC MEDIUM

Small office space in central Whitianga location Available long term, affordable rent. Phone (021) 672 748 for details.

Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 29 Classifieds and Public Notices FOR SALE community bus situations vacant

FIREWOOD MERCURY BAY Dry wood - COMMUNITY BUS Red Gum $160, Black Wattle $180, For your door to door travel Poplar $100, to hospitals and related services Mixed Hardwoods $150. in Thames, , Auckland www.goodwoodfirewood.co.nz and Tauranga. Chris - 021 240 9909 To book phone 866 4993 or 867 1333 or 021 0270 6897 BUSINESS FOR SALE Advertisement sponsored by the Mercury Bay Club Lawn Mowing business for sale $14,500 DOG GROOMING Phone 020 4184 7423

CHURCH SERVICES

HOLISTIC HEALTH POSITIONS AVAILABLE INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALER OP Columbia (OPC) is a major participant in the aquaculture industry on the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand. WORKSHOP FACILITATOR We specialise in processing Greenshell™ mussels. TAROT CARD READINGS SPIRITUAL MENTOR If you are motivated, reliable and have an excellent work ethic, then this job would suit you. We pay competitive rates with the opportunity CLAIRVOYANT to increase pay based on performance. VERNA (027) 320 0079 Travellers are required to commit to a minimum of three months vernacarrspiritualhealing.com and provide a current work visa. NZ applicants need to have NZ residence or a valid NZ work visa. Shift times available: 866 4273 POSITIVE YOU 2021! Dayshift processing 6:00am to 3:00pm Hygiene (cleaning) shift 3:30pm Wednesday classes - (times are subject to change) Personal and Spiritual Growth 13 weeks of healing mind/body/spirit. Applications can be made online at www.opcolumbia.co.nz or week 13: APRIL 28 call into the office to submit an online application. LEARN HANDS-ON ENERGY HEALING VERNA (027) 320 0079 WORK WANTED WANTED DAVE’S CHIMNEY SWEEP 25 years servicing the area. DRAINAGE Phone Chris (021) 082 47928 Drainlaying, Public & Private, 1.8 Ton Digger Hire. 30 Years Experience. coromandel garage doors Free Quotes or Advice. For new door installations, Call Dave 027 727 0348 auto openers [email protected] and full maintenance service. ST ANDREW’S BY THE SEA Phone Don McLean (022) 453 2188 Community Church Email [email protected] Albert Street, Whitianga COMMUNITY WORSHIP EVERY SUNDAY 9:30am. Mercury Bay Spouting Come, join the For all types of guttering family of God! and spouting Enquiries 869 5452 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz Tony 021 505 109

MIKE’S MOWING $25 empty sections, fortnightly or monthly mowing. Free edge spraying. Phone Mike or Deb 866 4678 or 027 320 1703.

Vehicles wanted Top cash paid for any THE CHURCH OF VANS, UTES, TRUCKS, 4X4s, CARS - dead or alive, damaged, de-registered, JESUS CHRIST mechanical problem, no WOF - OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS we buy it. Everyone Welcome Call 0800 333 398 Sunday 10 am – 12 noon WORK WANTED @ 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga (Community Service Bldg) Rubbish Removal Trees, Lawns, Garden Bags Enquiries - 021 113 0566 Phone John 866 5511

Page 30 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Rising MotoX stars say a local track would be their ultimate prize By Gillian O’Neill Two Mercury Bay teenagers are desperately from Whitianga over the hill,” he says. hoping their MotoX success and the growing “It would be really great to see a facility here. number of local riders getting involved in Our riders are already pretty good, imagine the sport will help further the case for the how great they would be if they had a track development of a track in Whitianga. to practice on.” Fifteen-year-old Tane Skelton from Tane and Cody are also convinced that there Coroglen and his mate Cody Scott (14) is serious potential that a local track and club from Kaimarama have just come off a would help foster. “Having the opportunity hugely successful season with the Patetonga to ride after school and at weekends would Motorcycle Club, Tane winning the 85cc definitely encourage more people to get Summer Series for the second year in a row involved,” says Tane. “The sport is growing, and Cody scooping the Most Promising there is a lot of interest and I think more Junior Rider Award. junior riders would participate if we had the As much as they have appreciated the facilities here.” support and comradery at Patetonga, Mercury Bay MotoX has been negotiating the boys would dearly love the opportunity to with Thames-Coromandel District Council be part of a club closer to home where they about the establishment of a MotoX track at could train and be part of the growing MotoX the Sheriff Block, a large section of council community in Mercury Bay. land adjacent to the Whitianga Airfield. After three years of competing, the boys This is also the proposed location of a new and their families have learned a huge venue for the Whitianga Summer Concert and amount about what it takes to successfully Avid MotoX competitors, Tane Skelton and Cody Scott, would love to similar events. In September last year, TCDC participate in the sport and believe there is see a local track developed in Mercury Bay. told The Informer a “concept plan” for the enough local skill, knowledge and interest Cody’s first introduction to MotoX came half trip to Patetonga as well as attending entire site was being developed taking into to support a vibrant and competitive club. from watching competitors on television with many tournaments all over the North Island. consideration all of the expressions of interest While the Mercury Bay MotoX Club has his dad, but he was encouraged to give it a go “The Nationals are in Invercargill next year, for the use that have been received from the been established to help co-ordinate local by a family friend who was involved in the so we’ll probably be heading down there community. “Once an overall concept plan competitors, the lack of a local facility to sport and saw him trail riding. Both boys say too,” laughs Tane’s mum, Louana. is completed, this will be shared with our train or hold events is limiting progress. they were hooked pretty quickly after their Cody and Tane are also part of an expanding communities,” council said at the time. “Seeing where you can make improvements, first time around the track. team of riders representing Mercury Bay Area At the latest meeting of the Mercury Bay getting better each year at what you do, “It’s exciting but it’s also nerve-wracking, School in interschool MotoX competitions Community Board, TCDC’s northern area that’s the best part of it for me,” says Tane especially at the start gate when you have and say helping out the newer riders with manager, Alan Tiplady, said he expected to who is aiming to move up a class next year. 20 riders heading down into that first bend,” advice and tips is something they really enjoy. be able to update the board on negotiations in “We don’t really get to do any practice on the says Cody. Cody’s dad, Garth, says there is great relation to the Sheriff Block by July this year. bike except at events when we go to compete. The boys’ success on the track has involved support among all the local families who However, it is unclear if this will include the So, for me, the training is mainly in the gym huge commitment from their families, have kids involved in the sport. “For the overall proposal for the site which has yet to and keeping fit.” taking it in turns to make the hour-and-a- most recent event, we took seven riders be made public.

Issue 947699 - 27 AprilJuly 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 31