Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,000 New face at the helm at Game Fishing Club By Gillian O’Neill A changing of the guard got underway at the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club on Thursday last week as new manager, Louise Davis, arrived for her first day at the helm. The native just recently made the move to and is excited about her new position, taking over the reins from Alan Proctor who is moving on after seven-and-a- half-years in the role. “I have no immediate plans apart from getting out there for some fishing,” Alan told The Informer. “I’ve enjoyed my time here and I felt I had done as much as for club as I could. Seven years is long enough. It is time for someone new who will bring in some fresh ideas. Everyone has different skills and strengths and will add something different and I wish Louise every success. The Fishing Club is just the latest organisation to benefit from the pulling power of Mercury Bay and the wider Coromandel in attracting a growing number of new residents from Auckland and other larger urban centres. After spending some time in the town in late 2020, Louise said she had already made her mind up to move to Whitianga before she even secured her new position. “I was coming here one way or another,” she said. “I knew I wanted to leave Auckland and after a few visits, I just thought Whitianga was a lovely town, the people were really friendly. Then I just picked up [The Informer] and saw the job advertised and it all happened pretty quickly New manager of the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club, Louise Davis, officially took over on Thursday last week after that.” and will replace Alan Proctor, who is moving on after more than seven years in the role. Previously Louise was with the New and enjoys furniture-making as hobby. of her new job, Louise has been enjoying Club which has just seen its single biggest Zealand Automobile Association holding a “My father was a carpenter and my mother getting to know people in the community. monthly increase in membership for at variety of senior administration roles over was a machinist, so I got the knitting and “Everyone I have met so far has been really least 30 years. “We now have in excess of the past eight-and-a-half years. Before that, sewing from her,” she said. “I was lucky to welcoming,” she said. “There is a lot to learn, 2,700 members and that number is growing she spent 20 years in hospitality. “That was get some of the creativity from both sides.” but I know I also have great support from Alan constantly,” said Alan. “The club is in a good one of things that really appealed to me about A mum to two adult sons, Louise also has and the team.” She is also looking forward position and that’s a good way to go out, this position, being able to combine my two a grandson and a granddaughter, all based in to embracing the Coromandel lifestyle by I think. I would certainly like to thank all most prominent skill sets,” she said. Auckland, but very much looking forward to rekindling her love of kayaking. those who have supported and helped with Outside of work, Louise counts woodwork visits to Whitianga. Louise takes over at a time of unprecedented the positive steps we have taken during my among an impressive line-up of talents As well as getting to grips with the demands growth for the Mercury Bay Game Fishing time here.”

Distributed throughout the , coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz Former Gumtown School to become a recognised historic place By Gillian O’Neill

The former Gumtown School at , followed by the creation of a purpose built “Classes began in the new building in early name, to Coroglen in 1921. complete with an original desk and even the school in 1898 to 1899.” The school initially 1899 and it was also regularly used by the “Over the twentieth century Gumtown hooks where children hung their coats as far had a roll of 19 students. wider community, particularly for church School (Former) was adapted for changing back as 1900, is set to be added to the official As well as highlighting the former school services and Sunday school. As the timber educational requirements. When the list of ’s historic places. as a very well-preserved example of rural industry declined in the early twentieth building was no longer needed as a main Heritage New Zealand is currently schools of the era, the report also details the century, so did the population of Gumtown classroom in 1978, the community took consulting with the public regarding plans building’s history and how it has continued and the surrounding area converted to dairy over its management and maintenance. to classify the one-one room kauri structure to play an education and social role in the farming. The new community changed the Gumtown School (Former) was subsequently as a Category 2 site recognising it as a place community right through to the present day. town’s name, and by association the school repurposed for use by a playgroup for over of historical or cultural heritage significance 40 years, has hosted jubilee celebrations and or value. The building currently sits near the remains in use by Coroglen School.” centre of the wider Coroglen School site on The building has also served as a polling Rangihau Road, where new developments booth and more recently as a second-hand have grown up around it over the years. shop. The Coroglen School Board of Trustees It is one of two buildings which date along with the Mercury Bay Museum from the turn of the century township, provided extensive information to support the the other being the former Gumtown Hall, proposal to list the site as an historic place. now the Coroglen Hall, on State Highway 25, The report concludes that the former which already has Category 2 status. school has historical significance as it is the The Heritage New Zealand report notes original school building at a rural settlement how the growth of the timber and later gum and reflects the importance of education to digging industries over the 19th century led the local community for 120 years through to the establishment of Gumtown beside its community led creation and consistent the Waiwawa River from 1879 within the use for educational purposes. “The place rohe of Ngāti Hei. “In 1883, the future site includes the oldest surviving building of Gumtown School (Former) was owned from Gumtown and demonstrates the size by Repiu Tokata of Ngāti Hei who claimed and relative permanence of the turn of the ownership by descent and occupation. century settlement which was able to support A leading centre for the collection and a purpose-built school. Being one of only shipping of which supplied the two surviving buildings from Gumtown, timber camps, Gumtown was a thriving the place also reflects the origins of the town commercial hub by the turn of the century as a leading centre which supported the with a wide range of established businesses timber and gum digging industries.” and supported a substantial Pākehā and Māori The full report is available to read at population. To provide an education for those The former Gumtown School at Coroglen is set to be added to the official www.heritage.org.nz with submissions families, Gumtown School opened in 1896 list of New Zealand’s historic places. accepted until Tuesday, 9 March.

What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information provided and sponsored by Week of Wednesday, 17 February to Wednesday, 24 February - This week, the Moon can be used as a good guide to find the twin stars Castor and Pollux in the constellation of Gemini. These two bright stars form the heads of the twins lying on their sides. Pollux looks slightly pinkish as it is a red giant star while fainter Castor is actually a rare and complex system of six stars orbiting around each other, although we see only one with the naked eye. The American “Perseverence” rover lands on Mars this week with its tiny experimental helicopter as a passenger. Wednesday, 16 February - The crescent Moon lies to the right of reddish Mars in the evening sky. A bright International Space Station (ISS) pass tonight from 8:37pm in the NW. Friday, 19 February - The first quarter Moon lies just above and to the right of reddish Mars which greets the American “Perseverence” rover today along with its “Ingenuity” mini-helicopter passenger. Saturday, 20 February - The Moon is now just below the slightly reddish red giant star Aldebaran in Astronomy Tours and B&B Taurus. Sunday, 21 February - In the pre-dawn sky faint Saturn, bright Jupiter and faint Mercury form a nice triangle low in the east with much brighter Phone (07) 866 5343 Venus below. Monday, 22 February - The Moon lies to the left of Castor and Pollux. Castor is lower than Pollux. Tuesday, 23 February - The bright Moon sits to the left of Castor and Pollux. Wednesday, 24 February - The almost full Moon is now to the right of Castor and Pollux. www.stargazersbb.com

Whitianga and tides Tides data sponsored by

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Page 2 - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Council split on timeframe for new vote on Climate Change Declaration

“Get on with it” was the message several Plan consultation process which would run elected members of Thames-Coromandel until June. Bringing the date forward would District Council delivered to the mayor, likely involve the use of external expertise at chief executive and some of their council an additional cost at a time when questions colleagues in a debate over the response to a were frequently asked about spending court ruling that their decision not to sign the on consultants. Local Government Leaders’ Climate Change However, the revenue argument didn’t sit Declaration was made unlawfully. well with South East councillor, Terry Walker. In April 2019, TCDC resolved not to “We’ve challenged the judicial review and approve Mayor Sandra Goudie signing the lost, $50,000 gone down the trap,” he said. declaration. However, the High Court found “This is a priority. [The High Court] told us to that in making this decision, council had not do it, so let’s get on and do it before April… carried out proper analysis or considered We spend money on a lot of things, but this is if there was a need for public consultation. a good one to spend money on.” The decision was therefore quashed and the Council voted 6 - 3 for the April deadline, elected members ordered to go back to the requesting staff to compile a report that table and reconsider the matter, following the considers the strategic issues of climate correct process. change, as per the requirements of the However, frustration emerged at last Local Government Act and council’s own Tuesday’s full council meeting when Significance and Engagement Policy. councillors were told it would be August The members resolved to reconsider its before a report from staff recommending decision to not authorise the mayor to sign how to proceed further would be available. the Local Government Leaders’ Climate Thames councillor, Sally Christie, argued Change Declaration once that report has that the information should be supplied by been received. April and was supported by the majority of The mayor and the two Mercury Bay her colleagues. councillors, Murray McLean and Tony Fox, “I would have thought, in the scale of refused to support the amended resolution things that are happening, this is extremely bringing the timeframe forward to April. important and staff can be shuffled around, Mr McClean said he did not believe there this is top priority,” said South East councillor, would be sufficient time to prepare what Gary Gotlieb. Chief executive, Rob Williams, would need to be a substantial and strategic said the reason for the August date was report, particularly given that the High Court because the work in preparing the report judge had found that signing the declaration would be done by policy staff who were could create enforceable legal obligations also largely responsible for the Long Term on councils.

Issue 937699 - 1627 FebruaryJuly 2016 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3 NCEA achievements celebrated at Mercury Bay Area School

Mercury Bay Area School celebrated their outstanding 2020 NCEA achievements at a whole in Year 12. The Proxime Accessit (runner-up achiever in NCEA Level 3) was Hannah Murphy, school assembly on Wednesday last week. while the Dux of the School (top achiever in NCEA Level 3) and recipient of the Phyllis Simpson At the assembly, 25 students (this year in Year 12) received certificates for endorsing NCEA Level Memorial Cup was last year’s head girl, Juliet Lidgard. 1 with Merit and 10 NCEA Level 1 students received certificates for endorsing with Excellence. Making the achievement for Juliet more special was the fact that Errol Moore, her Year 1 teacher At NCEA Level 2 (this year’s Year 13 students), 13 students received certificates for endorsing at School, who’s now retired at Waihi Beach, attended the assembly on Wednesday. with Merit and seven students were recognised for endorsing with Excellence. The NCEA “Juliet has done very well,” Errol said. “She has always been a kind and a hard worker, I’m very Level 3 students have also done very well with 13 endorsing with Merit and seven endorsing happy for her.” with Excellence. Pictured in the photo on the left are the top NCEA students. From left to right - Holly Smith, The top NCEA Level 1 student and recipient of the Board of Trustees Prize for Best Academic Austin Morcom, Juliet Lidgard and Hannah Murphy. In the photo on the right is Juliet with her Performance in Year 11 was Holly Smith. This year’s head boy, Austin Morcom, was the top NCEA Year 1 teacher at Te Rerenga School, Errol Moore. Level 2 student and recipient of the Board of Trustees Prize for Best Academic Performance

Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5 New home for popular Poetry provides inspiration second-hand bookshop for new Four Sight exhibition The Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust’s second-hand bookshop in Whitianga is on the move to new, more spacious premises. The shop will farewell its Albert Street location this Saturday, 20 February, and re-open at 5 Blacksmith Lane on Friday, 26 February. Last week, a group from the Whitianga Menz Shed led by Brian Mearns and Wayne Wilton demolished two existing offices at the new premises, with Eccles Electrical taking care of the power needs, in order to make way for the bookshop and some storage space for the trust’s range of equipment that they provide for cancer patients and their families. The trust is very grateful to all the men who gave their time and expertise. Once the new premises is ready to go, the next task will be to relocate the 10,000 plus books and all the shelving, but the trust hopes their loyal customers, book donors and volunteers will really enjoy the bigger space. Pictured is bookshop manager, Anne Pendray, inside the new premises.

A challenge was thrown down to four northern Coromandel artists to create four works each on a common theme for an exhibition at Hauraki House Gallery in Coromandel Town that starts on Friday this week. Riding on a former successful two-woman show, “Double Vision,” Diann Cade and Jan Linklater have this year combined with two well-known artist friends, Jan Panther and Linda Sampson, to produce 16 paintings inspired by the William Butler Yeats poem, “He Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven.” This has given them huge scope for their varied styles and interpretations, resulting in exciting and contrasting compositions. The exhibition is aptly named “Four Sight.” Diann, whose background is in architectural design and graphics, has been experimenting with a looser paint application leading to moody cloudscapes or lively semi-abstract works with fluid lines. Jan Linklater, scientist turned painter, uses landscapes, abstracts and figures to express her love of strong colour. She has found a sense of drama in the poem which is reflected in this year’s paintings. Jan Panther expresses her passion for landscape in large, vigorous oil paintings she describes as modern realism. Favouring a blue/green palette with lots of colour mixing, her energy is apparent in her brush strokes and individual take on local scenes. In huge contrast, Linda Sampson uses a limited palette of just five colours, mainly unmixed, to create super-real paintings which often reflect her sense of humour. Subjects vary from a series of cars to swimming figures and a still life with flamingo. Her more serious stunning textile piece (pictured) inspired by the poem title, “Cloth of Heaven,” will take centre stage. Four Sight, curated by Ed Bucket, will open at 5:00pm on Friday and run until Sunday, 7 March.

Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 SeniorNet Update By Mavis Hicks

Our new term is ready to go. The first class of please put in a nomination (but get permission 2021 is happening this week. Our Open Day last from the person you are nominating). week saw members renewing their subscriptions You and the person who are nominated must be and new people joining us. Both existing and SeniorNet members. new members registered for the classes we offer This term we have been offered three talks for this term. by Michelle Patient. We are very fortunate. It is not too late to join us and register for Michelle is a genealogist, computer geek our classes. Just phone Lorna or Megan, and DNA enthusiast with qualifications and talk to them regarding joining or what in chemistry, geology and family history. classes or workshops you would like to She grew up with a grandmother whose family participate in. We also offer one-on-one classes. stories, photographs and memorabilia sparked That’s when members have the undivided her lifelong interest in genealogy and for some attention of a tutor for one hour to help resolve years she has been speaking to audiences in New the difficulties they are having with a particular Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom software programme. We must ensure that the about technology and family history. tutor concerned is available. As these classes are Michelle also volunteers for several very popular with our members, book in quickly genealogical societies and is one of the to avoid disappointment. DNA consultants behind the Australian SBS Our AGM will be held on Thursday, T V s e r i e s , “ E v e r y F a m i l y h a s a S e c r e t . ” 18 March at 2:00pm. The venue is at Whitianga The dates and times for Michelle’s talks - Social Services, Cook Drive (where our classes • The first is on Tuesday, 23 February are held). Notices are in the mail together with from 11:45am - 1:45pm on “The Internet nominations for our committee. Any Notice of Archive.” Motion must be with our current committee by • The second is on Tuesday, 9 March from Thursday, 11 March. Please note only financial 2:15pm - 4:15pm. The topic is “What’s All members can vote. The Fuss About DNA.” Our current committee look forward to seeing • The third is on Tuesday, 30 March from you at the AGM and the chat time afterwards. 11:45am - 1:45pm on “Google Tips It will be good to meet people other than those and Tricks.” immediate members we meet through our The cost is $10 for members and $12 for individual workshops. non-members. For more information on any We need a secretary. Linda, who has done a of the talks phone either Lorna on (027) 486 wonderful job, has left town and it would be 0150 (daytime only please) or Megan on helpful if you would think about filling that (07) 866 5777 (daytime only please). position and helping SeniorNet to continue to We look forward to offer our great service to the mature members seeing you at our classes, of our lovely community. If you or someone our AGM and Michelle you know would like to be our secretary, Patient’s talks.

Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7 Volunteers queue up to help local tattoo artist get creative By Gillian O’Neill

It was a bit of an experiment when tattoo various ideas and then I looked at how we artist, Lee Jones, advertised on social media could blend them together. So in terms of looking for volunteers to provide a canvas design, it was about 50/50 which is the first for his own creative designs. Wanting the time I’ve done that.” opportunity to combine his love of art with Like many of Lee’s images, the inspiration his tattooing skills, he hoped a discounted has come from a face. “It’s what you might rate would persuade a couple of open-minded call a surrealist style,” he says. “I like to people to step up. distort the face slightly so it takes on a moody Within an hour, the post had to be taken feel. We also incorporated mountains at the down after a long list of willing bodies came top which represent where Nik comes forward to offer arms, legs and other parts from and we have a wave at the bottom to of their anatomy. In fact, Lee discovered, reflect his passion for surfing.” far from being deterred by the idea of handing While his designs are all pre-sketched so over creative control, people were excited at clients can see the overall concept and decide the prospect of a tattoo that they could never on the best placement, Lee says one of the themselves have imagined. best things about doing his own work is it “We realised there were a lot of people can adapt and evolve during the tattooing out there that really wanted to get a tattoo, process. “So you may see opportunities as but were maybe being held back by not you go along that will make it even better,” knowing what to choose,” Lee says. he says. “That has happened quite a bit with “They were so open to my designs. I’ve been wanting to start doing my own stuff this one and I’ve chatted to Nik and said, for a while, so to have such enthusiasm from what would you think about doing it like this, people is very exciting.” you have the freedom to be able to do that, Among those signing up was Blue Ginger you are not confined to what’s in a picture.” Restaurant chef, Nik Brandt, who was one of While he has been tattooing now for 15 the first to spot the advertisement and says the years, Lee’s love of art and drawing goes back much further. The prospect of being able Chef, Nik Brandt, is one of more than a dozen people who volunteered themselves as a canvas, opportunity was too good to miss. “I knew handing over full artistic licence to Whitianga tattoo artist, Lee Jones. Lee and his work and I already liked his style, to now take his trade down this artistic route so I wasn’t worried at all,” he says. points to how far the tattoo industry has come tattoos, but there is also now a real trend chance to do before for various reasons.” As we chat, Nik is two hours into his second in recent years. towards larger designs. Back in the chair, latest customer, Nik, day in the chair at Evolution Tattoo Studio in “Tattoos have gone from being seen as “Close to 50 percent of our new clients is feeling good as he nears the end of this Whitianga. The tattoo was expected to take a bit unusual to pretty much mainstream,” are women and there is a real cross section process of creative collaboration. “I’m really 12 hours, but Lee says it’s progressing well says Tiffany Reed who co-owns Evolution of ages. For example, we are seeing more happy,” he says. “For me it’s about telling the and he will probably finish in 10. with Lee. “Perception around them has also women in their 60s and 70s who are getting story of where I am at this time in my life and “This one ended up being a bit different changed. It means not only are we seeing their first tattoos. Usually, it’s something they that’s exactly what Lee has done - aside from actually,” Lee says. “Nik and I talked about an increasing number of people getting had always thought about but never had a that it also looks super cool!”

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 and Suzanne Hansen Civil Defence ...... 868 0200 Advertiser Management - Petra Bosman and Alex Kennedy Mercury Bay Medical Centre (Whitianga) ...... 866 5911 Administration - Diane Lodge Medical Centre (Tairua)...... 864 8737 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 ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online), © 2021 Mercury Bay Media Limited Whitianga Social Services ...... 866 4476 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 FEBRUARY 2021 the New Zealand Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or Do you have any concerns about www.presscouncil.org.nz. taking a COVID-19 vaccine? See page 2 for what’s happening Like us on Facebook. 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 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Issue 699937 - 2716 JulyFebruary 2016 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9 Kiwi sanctuary off-limits for new chicks after presence of stoat confirmed The island sanctuary serving as a dedicated and the predator trapping system is being the where they’ll be reared until korimako/bellbird and native skinks. nursery for Coromandel brown kiwi has been intensified. “Work continues to track down they’re around 1kg in weight.” “To the Motu and Back” aims to establish temporarily closed to new arrivals after the the stoat/s and Kiwis for Kiwi hopes the motu The Department of Conservation said how a breeding population of Coromandel brown presence of a stoat was confirmed last month. will be safe to continue transferring kiwi the stoat made its way onto the island is kiwi on Motutapu where they will create DNA tests proved that a tūturuatu (shore chicks to in the future,” says Paula. “In the undetermined, however it is most likely that a robust population that can eventually plover) body found on its nest on Motutapu meantime, the safety of kiwi vulnerable to it swam. be returned to safe sites on the Peninsula. in December, had been killed by a stoat. stoat predation is of utmost importance. Until Motutapu has been officially pest free since The goal is to see the first birds returned to the Two further tūturuatu were since found dead a zero-presence of stoat is determined on 2011 and provides a safe haven for threatened Coromandel in the next four to five years with on the island. News of a predator at large Motutapu, kiwi chicks will not be transferred. and at-risk native wildlife including kiwi, efforts continuing with Regional prompted an urgent response from the Kiwis “All chicks due for release onto Motutapu takahē, tūturuatu/shoreplover, tīeke/ Council to provide sufficient predator- for Kiwi organisation, which coordinates the will be moved to crèching facilities around saddleback, kākāriki/red-crowned parakeet, free areas. work of multiple local kiwi care groups on the Coromandel who have collectively sent more than 100 kiwi chicks to the pest-free island as part of the “To the Motu and Back” project. This included the launch of an immediate rescue operation for two vulnerable recent transfers. “Prior to having an awareness of a stoat presence on Motutapu, Kiwis for Kiwi had released two Coromandel brown kiwi chicks this season to join the 107 already transferred to the motu,” says Paula Williams, Coromandel coordinator for Kiwis for Kiwi. “These chicks from Kuaotunu were around four weeks of age and weighed 450 grams at release. “[We] sent a kiwi-certified dog and handler team to the island on New Year’s Eve to recapture these chicks and relocate them by helicopter to the National Kiwi Hatchery in Rotorua. The team was successful in recatching one of the two chicks.” After an assessment by a predator control expert, alongside the Department of Conservation and Ngāi tai ki Tāmaki, more The young Coromandel brown kiwi chick that was rescued from Motutapu on New Year’s Eve traps and field cameras have been installed after confirmation that a stoat was present on the island.

Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Issue 699937 - 2716 JulyFebruary 2016 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11 The Small-time Investor By Whitianga resident, Max Ross

Sunrun From week to week, the value of my would be silly not to convert to the new investments climbs and drops. Last week it technology and I believe this time is soon for was five percent less than the week before solar energy and batteries. and this week it has made up that five percent. Switching to solar power makes sense Short term it’s interesting, but it’s always the for the environment. Solar is a clean and long term that matters. Especially when you sustainable energy source. Moving away are a buy-and-hold investor like I am. from non-sustainable energy is by definition My investments are currently up 18.9 inevitable, the question is just how quickly percent. This is $575.13 more value than I will it happen? The faster it happens, have put in myself. My best performer is still the better for the planet and I am hoping that Tesla, up 80 percent, and my worst performer my investment into Sunrun will help speed is Plexure, down 21.5 percent. Eighteen this up. of my picks are up and four are down. As more and more people move towards Some weeks I doubled down and bought more electric cars, small savings on power can add of a share I already have. Of these, Tesla, up. If we are using electricity to power our Apple and Mainfreight are up and Fisher and homes, our bikes and our cars, then investing Paykel Healthcare is down five percent. more money upfront can make sense. I like to invest in companies that help to As solar power costs fall, I think more make the world a better place. One company and more people will transition their homes. has as its mission, “To create a planet run When this happens, I believe Sunrun will be by the sun.” Sunrun provides solar services well positioned to grow and take advantage for residential properties. If you want to of this change. That is why this week I am convert your home to solar power in America, investing USD72 (NZD100) into Sunrun. then Sunrun is a leading provider. Please remember that what I write in this Any new technology is expensive at the column is all my personal opinion. Some start and the cost falls over time. The drop in of my investments will lose money. I am the cost happens quickly as the manufacturing sharing my thoughts and strategies so you processes scale up and new research and can learn from my mistakes. Be careful with economies of scale help. I believe that in your money. the area of solar panels and batteries, we are If you wish to join in and buy shares through in a time of falling costs. As the costs come online platform, Sharesies, you can use this down, the value proposition of converting link, https://sharesies.nz/r/KHQQWP, and to the technology gets better and better. you and I will each get $5 into our Sharesies There will come a tipping point where you accounts.

Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Tickets on sale for Mercury Bay Art Escape’s Gala Opening Night A contribution by the Mercury Bay Art Escape It’s one of the favourite social events on the with members of the public and to answer Coromandel’s art scene - the Gala Opening questions about how we do things, what tools Night of the annual Mercury Bay Art Escape. and equipment we use and to talk about work- The gala evening kicks off the start of the in-progress,” he says. “And visitors really do participating artists’ Open Studios around the enjoy getting a proper look inside the artists’ eastern Coromandel, as well as the Showcase workspaces, to see what sort of environment Exhibition featuring one piece of work from they’ve created, to ask about how they learn every artist involved in the event. This year, and practise their craft and to buy something it’s happening on Friday, 5 March at 6:00pm directly from the maker.” at Hot Waves Café, Hot Water Beach. The artists opening their studios include flax At the launch party, guests can meet artists weavers, furniture makers, jewellers, glass and fellow art lovers, and preview work for and mosaic artists, painters, photographers, sale in the Showcase Exhibition before it’s potters, printmakers, sculptors and opened up to the public. All enjoyed with a woodworkers. backdrop of live music, canapés and a glass of A piece from each artist will be on display wine thanks to sponsors, Greywacke Wines. Mercury Bay Art Escape chairman in the Showcase Exhibition at Hot Waves and Kuaotunu photographer, Ian Preece, Café from 6 March until Easter Monday. is looking forward to a great night out. For more information about the individual “It’s fantastic bringing together so artists and for maps and guides to design many interesting people from our creative your own self-drive art tour, look on community,” he says. “Supporters of the the Mercury Bay Art Escape website, arts appreciate the opportunity to meet local www.mercurybayartescape.com. artists whose work is on display right in There are also lots of photos on the Art front of them. As making art can be a solitary Escape’s Facebook and Instagram pages. process, meeting up at our annual gala launch artist, Gary Nevin, one of the participants in this The Mercury Bay Art Escape organisers is something I and many other artists really year’s Mercury Bay Art Escape Open Studios. would like to thank these local businesses look forward to. I’m also thrilled that amazing out. Tickets are available on the Mercury arty roadtrip to studios all over the eastern for their generous support - Bayleys, New Zealand glass artist, Di Tocker, is our Bay Art Escape’s website for only $45, Coromandel Peninsula, from Tairua to Rings The Breeze, Magic, More FM, The Mercury guest speaker. She’ll be very entertaining and www.mercurybay-artescape.com/shop--cart. Beach. It’s a free event and an excellent way Bay Informer, Guthrie Bowron, New is putting up a beautiful piece for auction on During this year’s Open Studios, to explore our own backyard. Zealand Holiday Homes, Hot Water Beach the night.” 50 artists are opening up their workspaces Ian says the Open Studios are a great Top 10 Holiday Park, Rennie Cox Lawyers, Ian recommends getting in quickly to on the weekends of 6 and 7 March, and 13 experience for artists and the public alike. Sunlover Retreat, The Pourhouse and Hotties buy tickets as the evening is always a sell- and 14 March. Visitors can plan their own “For the artists, it’s so nice to engage Beachfront Eatery.

Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13 Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Issue 699937 - 2716 JulyFebruary 2016 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15 Peninsula Past - 1950

Every now and again, Informer contributor, be,” scoffed one newspaper. One great feature about this field was that it but the cutter still drifted rapidly out to sea. Meghan Hawkes, reads through the There was also considerable interest in land was simple to reach. The fare from Auckland There were two crew and three passengers newspapers that circulated in Mercury Bay lying between and Mercury to Mercury Bay was 30 shillings followed on board - Mrs Taylor, a school teacher, and on the Coromandel Peninsula in earlier Bay. At the Otama goldfield there was by a tramp of 12 miles. , it was and her two children. Their water supply ran years. Here are several interesting nuggets of room for four or five thousand men. There reported, was now quite deserted, its glory out the next morning but Mrs Taylor had with history she uncovered from 1889. were miles of quartz and gold could easily departed. her a couple of bottles of Elderflower water, be seen by the casual observer. It was even The cutter Evening Star, when off Tairua, used as medicine, and this was served out in The Mercury Bay correspondent to the visible in boulders in the creek. Numbers of met a strong gale and the mainsail was blown teaspoonful’s. After five days and when the Observer newspaper upset a local resident men had set to work and others in Auckland away. Heavy seas washed away the dingy Evening Star was about 100 miles eastward who complained bitterly to the editor, “As I were waiting for the fine weather to get and a full cask of water. A mainsail was of the coast, the wind suddenly changed and have been accused of sending you the ‘par’ down to Mercury Bay and try their luck. rigged with carpets, tarpaulin and a blanket, the cutter was able to head for land. which appeared in last week’s Observer, stating that W L had opened a butcher’s shop, I wish to state that I did not. Both Mr W L and his wife are particular friends of mine and I wouldn’t like them to think I was such a blackguard as to have had any hand in this business.” The editor replied “We had no idea of the offensive meaning of the item or it would never have appeared. One by one our country correspondents are cutting their own throats.” There was a great rush to Kuaotunu where a large gold reef had evidently been discovered. An inspection of the area found there was a fairly good boat landing, but nothing like a harbour. There were several Māori whares on the flat and a store owned by Mr Lee and it was here that a township would have to be, though it was thought there would be another township up near the diggings at the end of the proposed road. “The usual exaggerated stories are flying about such as the reef showing dabs of gold in the stone for a distance of three miles and that £10,000 has been offered for a claim. This is not confirmed, nor is it likely to The Kuaotunu goldfield (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections NZG-18900628-8-1).

Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Issue 699937 - 2716 JulyFebruary 2016 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17 Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Issue 699937 - 2716 JulyFebruary 2016 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19 What’s On In the next few weeks

Regular Activities - please contact the organisers of each group/activity to determine if meetings/gatherings Social Services, Cook Drive. Members range in age from 14 to in their 90s. New members welcome to join and share their have recommenced after the summer holidays quilting knowledge, and help make charity quilts for the neonatal unit at Auckland Hospital and the children admitted to Op-Shops Starship Hospital. Phone Margaret on (07) 866 0411 for more information and the days the group meets. Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street Mercury Bay Community Choir (west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm. This “all-comers” choir rehearses every Monday from 6:00pm - 8:00pm in the Mercury Bay Area school Music Room. The Church Op-Shop - At St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to New rehearsals start on 8 February. New singers always welcome. Phone (22) 643 7462 for more information. Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm. AA Driver Licensing St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday The second Friday of every month at St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. 10:00am - 2:00pm. Mercury Bay Table Tennis Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open seven days a week from Meets every Tuesday from 9:30am - 11:30am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Phone Anne on 10:00am - 3:00pm. 869 5162 for more information. Whitianga Senior Citizens Club Mercury Bay Badminton Meets Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street from 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie Meets every Wednesday from 9:30am - 11:00am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. etc. Afternoon tea, 55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. Phone (07) 866 5476 for more information. Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Mercury Bay Pickleball Club Meet the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Meets Every Tuesday from 4:00pm - 6:00pm and every Sunday from 3:00pm - 5:00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School Phone Joan on 866 3801 or (027) 275 1372 for more information. gym, South Highway, Whitianga, $5 per session. Paddles and balls supplied. Tuition available. SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated Mercury Bay Tennis Club Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their Club night every Thursday at 6:30pm at Lyon Park, Albert Street, Whitianga. computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on Tour de Friends Biking (027) 486 0150 for more information or to join. A 23km ride social ride around the flat areas of Whitianga. Meets every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 9:00am Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga opposite Taylor’s Mistake, Whitianga. Followed by coffee. Phone Lance Cook on (021) 048 8475 or John Gregory on Meet every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in Room 10 at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive , Whitianga. (027) 278 0002 for more information. Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals and eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone 869 5648 for more information. Specific Activities/Events Whitianga Playcentre Mercury Bay Community Swimming Pool (Located at the Mercury Bay Area School grounds) Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon at 1D White Street, Whitianga. For children 0 - 6 years, Opening Hours free entry. Visitors welcome. From 10:00am - 5:00pm every Saturday, from 1:00pm - 5:00pm every Sunday, from 6:00am - 8:00am for early Matarangi Craft Group morning lane swimming every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Opening hours subject to weather conditions. Meet fortnightly at the Matarangi Fire Station. Phone Lesley on 866 0788 for more information. Entry $4 adults, $3 senior citizens/students/children, $2 pre-schoolers. Concession cards available. Scrapbags Quilting Group Four Sight Exhibition Meet every Wednesday from 9:00am - 3:00pm at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Albert Street, Whitianga. All welcome. Friday, 19 February - Sunday, 7 March at Hauraki House Gallery, Kapanga Road, Coromandel Town. Four artists phone Shelley on 866 0236 for more information. created 16 paintings inspired by WB Yeats’s poem, “The Cloths of Heaven.” Open from 10:00am - 4:00pm every Mercury Bay Creative Fibre day. Free entry. Meet the first and third Wednesday of every month from 10:00am - 2:00pm. in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street, Whitianga Art, Craft & Farmer’s Market Whitianga. Phone Wendy Russell on 866 3225 for more information. Saturday, 20 February from 8:30am - 1:00pm at Soldiers Memorial Park, Albert Street, Whitianga. Whitianga Art Group Smitty’s Sports Bar Singles Night Meet every Thursday and Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm at 23 School Road, Whitianga. Visitors are invited to join us for Saturday, 20 February at 8:00pm. Drinks specials, live music and prizes. More information at www.smittys.com. a day of painting. Start-up materials supplied. Phone Jenny on (027) 210 0160 for more information. Coroglen Farmers Market Garden Circle Sunday, 21 February from 9:30am to 1:00pm at the Coroglen Hall, State Highway 25. Meet the last Thursday of every month from 11:15am - 2:30pm. New members welcome. Phone Leila on 866 3264 or Whitianga Marathon Anne on 866 0268 for more information. Saturday, 22 May. Four course options - 42.2km, 21.1km, 10km and 5km. Entries now open. Mercury Bay Quilters See whitiangamarathon.co.nz for more information. Meet the first and third Mondays, and second and fourth Saturdays of every month from 10:00am - 4:00pm at Whitianga

Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Scott’s Thoughts By Scott Simpson, National Party MP for Coromandel

You could be forgiven for thinking the most Unfortunately, it was used regularly during pressing issue confronting New Zealand its January trial period, which just highlights right now is about male MPs wearing ties at how important it is to our region. I’ll provide Parliament. Such is the nature of some of what updates throughout the year as Stephan happens in Wellington. Bosman’s petition, which I presented to the But in among that sideshow was the very House of Representatives, progresses through serious business of the Labour government the Health Select Committee. pushing through the establishment of In other news, recent data shows that the compulsory Māori representation in local economy is recovering with unemployment government as well as their plans for what falling to 4.9 percent, but hidden behind turns out to be a very long and slow process this good news is confirmation of what I’ve to replace the RMA. The plan is to replace been hearing for many months, businesses the current RMA with three new acts as a are finding it hard to employ new staff and start and possibly with a further three more to quality candidates are in short supply. With the follow. Anyone hoping for a quick solution to situation overseas and our delayed vaccination the housing issues confronting New Zealand programme preventing the usual movement of will be disappointed. It’s going to take at least people, particularly seasonal workers from the a year or two to get the new laws through Pacific, some sectors will continue to struggle Parliament and then another couple of years to fill positions. before local councils will be able to implement This skill shortage will have a knock-on the changes. effect to many industries and will make it For the first time in several years, I went particularly difficult to solve the housing up to Waitangi to acknowledge the 181st shortage. Nevertheless, that does not mean anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of that we cannot ease some of the regulatory Waitangi. Worries about COVID-19 meant burden that the construction sector faces. fewer people there than is usual. While Dr We have extended an offer to the government Shane Reti delivered a good address on behalf to work together to fix the issue that it’s simply of the National Party, it was great to hear that too difficult to build houses in New Zealand. next year Judith Collins will be allowed to After the Christchurch earthquakes, speak on the marae. This is a big win and long- emergency powers helped streamline the awaited change for all women politicians, consent process and keep house prices they don’t need their male colleagues to speak affordable. We need to establish a Special for them. Select Committee to draft legislation which Now that the Parliamentary year has begun, would allow the immediate rezoning of council I’ll be keeping the pressure on the government land and free up space for decades of growth. to reinstate our rescue helicopter service for I’m disappointed the Labour government the summer peak and over long weekends. rejected our offer out of hand.

Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21 Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23 Let’s Talk About Pests By Sharon Clay of Peninsula Pest Services - Tel (027) 778 8836

This month’s problem insect is one that hits occurring, but will keep other insects or our food and is one of our most maddening rodents away and it also helps to keep your ones - it’s the pantry moth. foodstuffs fresh for much longer. Several species of these pests can be If you already have an infestation, dispose found in New Zealand. They infest our dried of all infested foodstuffs in sealed plastic foods stored in the pantry. The meal moth or bags and remove all foodstuffs and utensils pantry moth is often found flying around the from the pantry or other affected areas, and kitchen. These grey moths lay their eggs on wash or wipe down carefully as you clean. dried stored goods such as flour, cereals and Clean all affected shelves, drawers, grains, and their larvae feed on the foodstuffs, cupboards and floors with detergent and producing a webbing that is often the only allow to dry thoroughly. A spray treatment to indication of spoiled food. all these surfaces should be done, leaving the Other pests of dried foods are biscuit and spray to fully dry before putting the foodstuffs spider beetles, and weevils. Small holes in back. Any loose or dried foods should be put cereal or flour packaging in particular show into airtight containers. that these insects have bored their way into You can install moth traps, but these do not your food. prevent pantry moth. They will only monitor Preventing an infestation is easy if you the number of adults in the area, but will can keep flour, rice, polenta, cereals, grains, not trap the larvae. Use the traps as a guide pulses, etc in sealed plastic or glass containers. only to see how large the infestation is and if Not only will this prevent infestations follow-up treatments are required.

Page 24 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Letters to the Editor See page 8 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions

Dear Editor - Te Whanganui o Hei’s special place in the history of New Zealand available is erected well out of sight of most members of the public. Perhaps we should fix this. I’m sure everyone with some connection to this Bay and region and with even just a passing If such an artwork was to come into being, it must stand out and to assist this could I suggest interest in New Zealand history, will have found Joe Davis’s comments in The Informer of last Thames-Coromandel District Council immediately commences removing the wilding trees of week of very great interest and significance. They certainly deserve widespread and repeated various types that have been allowed to flourish in an area that is foreign to them? After all, this exposure and I certainly endorse everything said. is a sand spit and there is nothing wrong with maintaining this piece of nature in its natural state. The place of Te Whanganui o Hei in the story of Pacific voyaging, and therefore its significance Trevor Ammundsen in New Zealand history, is needing now to be better known and elevated beyond just our local Whitianga audience. Joe’s call for action and for greater recognition is very timely as the focus comes back Dear Editor - Freshwater supply in Whitianga on to New Zealand history in the national curriculum. As he says, the Taputapuatea Spit and Thank you to Dennis Jones for his well-written Letter to the Editor in The Informer of 9 February Stream enjoy an almost unique place in this, providing virtually the opening chapter of an 800- regarding the availability of potable water for Whitianga. Thames-Coromandel District Council’s year story. In this context, the Waitangi Day commemoration, for example, could be viewed as answer to the article is woeful and does not address the issues raised. just a more recent chapter. The questions all the residents need to know from the council are - It is not too far-fetched to argue as Joe does, that “Whitianga could even be considered the • What is TCDC’s planned action going forward to ensure a continuous supply of fresh water birthplace of our nation.” After all, it was Ngāti Hei chief, Toawaka, and who first for the ratepayers of Whitianga given the growth of the town? sowed the seeds for a “dual heritage” nation here - a full 70 years before Waitangi. • What is in the Council’s Long Term Plan to address this issue? Whether one agrees with this “birthplace” proposition or not, Ngāti Hei should be given all the • Where is the additional water supply coming from going forward? support needed to assemble the high-level group proposed, to re-focus the national mind again • What additional storage is planned going forward? on the history here and specifically the Polynesian heritage links. The Auckland University’s • How much of the developer contributions collected by TCDC are being assigned to spectacular Geat Mercury Island archaeological project continues as a great basis for wider freshwater infrastructure? balanced research. As Joe says, things must not be “overcooked,” but it’s certainly time now to Would it be possible for TCDC to answer all five of these questions in a concise manner dig deeper into Te Whanganui o Hei’s special place in the earliest phases of New Zealand history. without referring me to a council pamphlet or webpage? John Steele Des Robinson Cooks Beach Whitianga Dear Editor - The Taputapuatea Spit in Whitianga Dear Editor - The Mercury Bay Tennis Club Your article in The Informer of 9 February regarding the new planning for the Taputapuatea I just wanted to let you know what an asset the Mercury Bay Tennis Club and the tennis members Spit in Whitianga provided a good insight into the thoughts of Ngāti Hei and the development are to your community. direction they would like to put in place for this piece of land, a development direction which On Thursday, 4 February, I was a visitor at the Mercury Bay Tennis Club’s club evening. is far more beneficial to our town than the previous gardening project which has thankfully Peter Grant and the members were very welcoming - they quickly organised me onto the court been halted. for mixed doubles and over an hour or so I had lots of fun tennis with a very friendly bunch of The significance of Mercury Bay, not only as being “ka poua te toko” (the first landing place locals of all ages and abilities - a highlight of my visit to Whitianga. of Kupe) and the site of the first powhiri given to a European man, James Cook, should be Thank you to the town for supporting tennis. recognised. After all, there is no degrading Murderers Bay or Poverty Bay namings in our If any Whitianga tennis players visit Taupo, make sure you find out about the Taupo region, so let us celebrate this. Something of significance that can be seen far out by seafarers Tennis Club’s club days (every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday) and lob along - visitors are approaching the beach, a huge kūwaha perhaps, or possibly a large statue of Kupe with staff always welcome. firmly planted. This could be complemented with details of the history of the area being made Shirley Barnes available to the public to view as they wander through the spit. Currently the only such detail Member of the Taupo Tennis Club

Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 25 Crossword © Lovatts Puzzles

Crossword Puzzle 937

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. Make familiar 1. Verb modifier 2. Improper 5. Wicked 3. Gold brick 7. Empty space 4. Journey 5. Glowing coals 8. Clutching 6. Heritage 9. Fairly modern 10. Drinking vessels 11. Plant stem lump 12. Attentively 12. Child’s bed 15. Examine 13. Unfasten 19. Vitality 14. Large jug 15. Deduces 21. Improves 16. Procession 22. Bridal headwear 17. Agree 18. Rode bicycle 23. In no peril 19. Lessens 24. Struggled against 20. Imps Last week’s solution

Last week’s winner - Tom Dicks

Page 26 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Sport Results

MERCURY BAY CONTRACT BRIDGE CLUB Stuart King. Drawn Pairs - Wednesday, 10 February Longest Drive (Division 1) - Brett Goodger, Nearest North/South - 1 Gavin Hedwig and Colin Day 68.75, the Pin (Division 1) - Jacob Wainwright. 2 Annette Cummings and Giorgio Allemano 61.98, PURANGI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 3 Anne Knowles and Deidre Stevenson 45.31. Eighteen-hole Opening Day Dunn Trophy - East/West - 1 Tadek Gawor and Vivienne Leigh Saturday, 13 February 60.63, 2 Robyn Hogg and Augusta Canegallo 56.25, Results - 1 Equal Laurie Phillips, Paul Deverall 3 Myra Hoogwerf and Bill Cummings 54.38. and Neil Robertson 36, 4 Grant Webster 35, 5 Bob MERCURY BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Walker 34. Nine-hole Tutti Frutti - Tuesday, 9 February Dunn Trophy Won on Countback - Laurie Phillips. Results Men - 1 Kelvin O’Leary, 2 David Langdon, MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER 3 Gavin Green. Wednesday, 10 February Results Women - 1 Del Langdon, 2 Gaylene Imms, Best of three frames. 3 Lee Pudney. Thirteen players. Only Barry Roach, Paul Bean and Eighteen-hole Ladies 4BBB - Brian Codyre achieved two straight wins each to Wednesday, 10 February progress to the finals. Brian won the bye draw and Results - 1 Debbie Holmes and Marg Maher, Paul beat Barry in the semi-final. Paul looked very 2 Kay Buckeridge and Jandy Morton, 3 Yvonne good going into the final, but veteran, Brian, was Mehrtens and Gail Doughty. having nothing to do with that and came out on top. Longest Putt - Jandy Morton, Nearest the Pin Paul Bean (runner-up) finished the day with three #18 - Sharon Young, Twos - Kay Buckeridge. wins and the highest break of 28. Two wins for Eighteen-hole Men Scramble - Barry Roach, Willie Jones, Ian Baumgren and Wednesday, 10 February Dave Coleman. Results - 1 George Still, 2 Steve Geach, 3 Jim MERCURY BAY BOWLING & SPORTS CLUB Kirkham. Optional Triples Tournament - Twos - Pete Maher, Mike Franklin, George Still and Sunday, 14 February John Lister. Ten teams entered the very successful tournament. Gross - Steve Geach. Four games of an hour and 20 minutes each were Nine-hole Twilight - Thursday, 11 February played in pleasant conditions, culminating in some Results - 1 Geoff Lowe, 2 Kevin Smith, 3 Clive close games and excellent bowls. Barriball. Results - 1 Dave Vujcich, Jayne Skinner and Judy Twos - Kevin Smith. Russell (four wins), 2 Graeme Goss, Irene Goss and Andrew Fleming 36-hole Men - Derek Corbett (three wins 20 ends), 3 Shane O’Hara, Saturday, 13 February Johnny Johnstone and Keneti Taogaga (three wins Results - 1 Kerry Allan and Phillip Wheeler, 2 John 19 ends), 4 Kerry Suckling, Peter Mead and Gail The winners of the Mercury Bay Bowling Club’s Optional Triples Tournament last Sunday. Bradshaw and Craig Lowery, 3 John Bow and Knight (two wins 19 ends). From left to right - Judy Russell, Dave Vujcich and Jayne Skinner.

Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 27 Sudoku

Sudoku Puzzle 937

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 - Mary Masters

“Kīwaha o te wiki” (saying of the week) “He iti kahurangi” - A small 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 members meet 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 28 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Fishing Report Junior sailors to compete By Wayne Barnes of the Tairua- Sports Fishing Club Sponsored by Mercury Bay Marine - Tel (07) 867 1280 in Burgess Trophy

Though the warmer water certainly is here, members. There were also five yellowfin southeasterly winds and associated sea tuna and several large kingfish, including a conditions have made fishing difficult in the “beauty” of 29.600kg landed by Mark Henry past couple of weeks. fishing on R &R. The Top boat was Heavy The most positive effect of warmer water Tackle, Brady Ruthe was the Top Junior and temperatures has been the arrival of post the Top Lady was Kelly Stevenson. spawning quality snapper into our shallower Our next two competitions, the DAIWA waters with good bags of kahawai, snapper Top Ten Tuna Tournament and the DAIWA and legal kingfish around The Aldermen Light Tackle Tournament, will be run in Islands, Slipper and The Watchman. conjunction with the New Zealand Nationals Striped marlin, yellowfin tuna and commencing at 6:00am on Saturday, associated baitfish are now a lot closer to the 20 February and concluding at 4:00pm on mainland with many catches being made in Saturday, 27 February. An added dimension beautiful azure blue water from depths of 130 to these competitions is the addition of a cash to 200m. prize of $4,000.00 to be shared between all Our major competition of the year, competing anglers tagging marlin during the Shimano Stand Up Competition, was this period sponsored by Fluid and General. held on Auckland Anniversary weekend. For further information check out our A group of Mercury Bay Boating Club (MBBC) junior sailors are heading to the Hamilton Yacht Club Originally scheduled for Saturday 30 and to compete for the Burgess Trophy on Friday, 19 February. This is a high school team regatta where club website. Sunday, 31 January, an extra day, Monday all competitors can score points for their school. Our Fish of the Month for January was 1 February, was added due to the heavy Ten Mercury Bay Area School students and one Whenuakite School student are participating. southeasterly swell forecast for the first yellowfin tuna and the winning fish of 40.450kg was landed by Malita Dean fishing Volunteer coaches Russell Chaney, Tara Corley, Hugh Fairweather, Fred Acke, Chris Devenoges and two days. Jonathan Kline are finalising plans to transport a number of privately-owned and club-owned boats One-hundred-and-ninety-one anglers on Tale Chaser. Malita wins a bottle of Black to the regatta. Support parents Jackie Dagger, Keith Goodall, Paddy Stewart and Alex Samson are landed over 200 fish. Nine striped marlin Heart rum sponsored by Independent Liquor. also assisting with the logistics. Our Fish of the Month for were tagged and none weighed. Each of these Last year's competition was cancelled due to the Covid-19 Alert Levels. The year before, the MBBC February is billfish. brought a reward for the angler of $778.00 sailors placed second in what was their return to the event after a long hiatus. cash from an overall pot of $7,000.00 Tight lines, Wayne Barnes “Our sailors don’t get to attend too many regional events and so we really do our best to get as sponsored by a group of nine local club many of our junior club members as possible to Hamilton for this one,” says Jonathan Kline. “The host club runs an excellent regatta and the fact that we collect points as a team makes it fun and challenging for our squad. MBAS principal, John Wright, and sports director, Leisa McCleery, are extremely supportive with transportation, administration assistance and general assistance.” Pictured are some of the club members who participated in training on Wednesday last week. From the left - Zach Greenfield, Jackson Goodall, coach Jonathan Kline, Wilf Asquith, Euan Stewart, Sam Ribet, Tama LaPuente, Troy Aickin, Kael Robertson, Lily Lindner, coach Russell Chaney, Josie Fairweather, Tinca Samson, Kizzy Samson, Coach Chris Devenoges and Brynn Ramage.

Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 29 Brain Teaser - Binary Puzzle © Lovatts Puzzles

Brain Teaser Puzzles 937

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.

Binary Puzzle Instructions - 1. Each square in the puzzle may contain either 0 or 1. 2. No more than two adjacent squares may contain the same digit, ie you cannot have three adjacent squares in a row or column of the same digit. 3. Each row and each column must contain the same number of 0s and 1s, eg for a 10x10 grid, each row and column will contain five 0s and Five 1s. 4. No row may be the same as another row and no column may be the same as another column. However, a row may be the same as a column.

Last week’s Brain Teaser solution - Hexoku

Last week’s winner - Paul Bean

Page 30 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Thrill of a lifetime for local mountain bikers A contribution by Bike Mercury Bay

On a fine sunny Saturday morning in January, but rewards those who have the stamina sandwiches and plenty of electrolyte powering up those long winding, seemingly 14 local mountain bikers experienced the with some breathtaking coastal and fluid, the peloton led out by Corey Rix, never-ending hills with Bob Duncan, the sole ultimate thrill of a lifetime, a dream come true mountain scenery. and Grimmy Martin and his wife Sharon - the ebike rider in the group, regularly slipping for some of them. With ages ranging from 13 to 70-something, solo female rider - set off in an anticlockwise back to keep an eye on him. It was a moment to remember and treasure the riders all shared a common characteristic direction. With the field spreading, Grimmy and Ross having completed the gruelling, challenging - a sense of adventure and excitement. One of the regular ebike riders (known as Wallace employed some sensible strategy and and relentless ride known as the “Colville They wanted something challenging, exciting eKev) took on the most significant challenge communicated to the riders that they should Connection.” This 72km circuit at the northern and stimulating and they certainly weren’t by ditching his ebike for a real mountain bike. split into two groups and meet up at Stony end of the Coromandel Peninsula features disappointed. Luckily he had the group’s youngest member, Bay. Rik Walkley was the team leader for the in excess of 1,700m of vertical climbing, Loaded up with bananas, protein bars, Joshua Lee, keeping him company while second group and got them safely into Stony Bay about an hour behind the others. The next leg from Stony Bay to Fletchers Bay was a testing time for most, but everyone showed irrepressible spirit and self-motivation. They all did a superb job and were extremely relieved to see the tranquil site of Fletchers Bay, none more so then eKev who was cramping up badly and had to make the decision to end his ride there after a terrific effort and managed to source a lift back to Colville. Once all the riders knew eKev was in safe hands, they were pumped for the final leg. It was time to unwind, have some fun and laugh all the way to Colville… well kind of. Ross and Robbie Stephenson showed they had all the right skills to repair a badly cut tubeless tyre on James Atkinson’s bike and had him back in action in no time. The riders’ best summary of the Colville Some of the Bike Mercury Bay members who rode the Colville Connection route last month. From the left - Harry Mourits, Grimmy Martin, Connection was, “A thrill that gives you Joshua Lee, James Atkinson (kneeling), Ross Wallace, Robbie Stephenson, Corey Rix, Morris Flynn and Bob Duncan. pleasure and a challenge beyond expectation.”

Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 31 Classifieds and Public Notices

SITUATIONS VACANT

Pipers Café & Courtyard Bar are requiring additional staff to join our friendly team • BARISTA • COOK • WAIT STAFF Full-time and part-time positions. Experience preferred, but full training will be given to the right person. Suit someone living in the Matarangi-Kuaotunu area. Phone Brenda (027) 393 6284 Email [email protected]

Permanent full-time ECE-qualified kaiako We are in search of a caped superhero, a singing legend who will love our tamariki unconditionally here at Peanuts. We know these people do exist as ECE teachers perform these roles all in a single day. If this sounds like you and you wish to join an incredible team of like-minded kaiako, please send your CV to Julie, [email protected] or call (07) 211 9499.

Page 32 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Classifieds and Public Notices public notices

This notice is to let you know about the Right2BSafe campaign which has been implemented before in Mercury Bay and is going to be implemented again in 2021 The Right2BSafe campaign is a Primary Prevention Project with a focus on the prevention of the sexual abuse of children. CAPS Hauraki is the agency that holds the contract with the Ministry of Social Development. The Broad Aims of the Campaign are - • Increasing community awareness around the issue of child sexual abuse. • Promoting the view that talking about children’s safety from sexual abuse within the Mercury Bay Community is acceptable, encouraged and supported. • Providing the opportunity for families/whanau and community members to engage and be part of the Right2BSafe campaign so that there is a sense of Annual General Meeting ownership, direction and responsibility as part of a community wanting kids to Coroglen Darts Club be safer from sexual abuse. Thursday 18th February, 7.00pm, Coroglen Tavern. All welcome. As a member of the Mercury Bay community, Kathy Archibald, project leader Right2BSafe campaign, and Whitianga Social Services are inviting you to a meeting to discuss the planning of this campaign and information regarding becoming a WORK WANTED champion of the campaign on - Thursday 25 February 2021, 5:30pm to 7:00pm Rubbish Removal coromandel garage doors Whitianga Community Services Trust Trees, Lawns, Garden Bags For new door installations, auto openers 2 Cook Drive Phone John 866 5511 and full maintenance service. Whitianga Phone Don McLean (022) 453 2188 Food and refreshments will be available. Email [email protected]

DAVE’S DRAINAGE Drainlaying, Public & Private, 1.8 Ton Digger Hire. 30 Years Experience. Free Quotes or Advice. Call Dave 027 727 0348 [email protected] HOUSE WASHING Detergent Soft Wash, Handyman Services. Phone Russell Short on 866 2097 or 0273 602 937

SITUATIONS VACANT Mercury Bay Spouting For all types of guttering and spouting Youth Worker Wanted for Respite Tony 021 505 109 We provide a mentoring program that empowers rangatahi/young males MIKE’S MOWING to make positive life choices. $25 empty sections, The role is to provide respite for two fortnightly or monthly mowing. days and nights per week. Free edge spraying. Phone Mike or Deb 866 4678 The requirements are - or 027 320 1703. • A passion to work with young males and make a positive difference in their lives. • Being able to multi task. • To be honest, ethical and keep information private. • To pass a police and Oranga Tamariki check. For more information ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING phone 021 247 0226 or 021 646 459. Te Tokotoru Tapu Whare Karakia o Parawai Vestry THE BESS HANDZ EMBROIDERED MONOGRAMS Date Tuesday 9th March 2021, Alterations, repairs, zip and hem service. Coordinator for Artists 5:00pm, St George Anglican Phone 866 5277. in the Making programme Church Hall, Thames based in Whitianga • Mihimihi, Karakia, Apologies An energetic, outgoing person is required • Annual Report, Priest Report for this Vocational Services programme • Financial Report, for people with Disabilities. This position is 15 hours per week, Election of Officers (Wednesday and Friday) with a • General Business monthly meeting in Coromandel Town Nau mai haere mai on Thursdays. whanau katoa Details on our website - Chairperson Pare Reynolds https://www.cilt.org.nz/vacancies/

Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 33 Classifieds and Public Notices FOR SALE TO LET

FIREWOOD Green wood for next winter - Poplar $90, Macrocarpa $120, Mixed Hardwoods $130. Dry wood for now - Old Pine $130, Red Gum $160, Black Wattle $180. www.goodwoodfirewood.co.nz Chris - 021 240 9909

STORAGE SHEDS, various sizes, dry and secure. Affordable rates. CHURCH SERVICES 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

community bus

MERCURY BAY COMMUNITY BUS For your door to door travel to hospitals and related services in Thames, Waikato, Auckland and Tauranga. Small office space in central Whitianga location Available long term, affordable rent. 866 4273 To book phone 866 4993 or Phone (021) 672 748 for details. 867 1333 or 021 0270 6897 Advertisement sponsored by the Mercury Bay Club DEATH NOTICES

Rees, John DOG GROOMING Passed away on Sunday, 7 February at home suddenly but peacefully, aged 83. Much loved husband of Anne and father to Jeff and Sue. A private cremation has been held. We wish to thank the Coromandel town HEALTH AND NUTRITION community for embracing the Jafa/Welsh couple over the last six years with an extra BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM big thank you to their close neighbours. WITH THE BEST NUTRITION Any communication to Jeff Rees - Stay healthy. [email protected]. Phone 027 947 8311 or email [email protected] ST ANDREW’S EUNICE FLORA ENCHMARCH Born 11 September 1927, passed away peacefully in her sleep 10 February 2021. BY THE SEA HOLISTIC HEALTH Loved and adored wife of the late Norman, mother and mother-in-law of Community Church Tony and Heather, and Jan and Keith. Albert Street, Whitianga INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALER Dearly loved nana of Adam, Luke, Renee, late Chris, Ryan, Jem, Kylie and Kelly, WORKSHOP FACILITATOR and great-nana to all her great-grandchildren. She will be sadly missed. COMMUNITY WORSHIP Eunice’s funeral will be held Thursday, 18 February at Whitianga Baptist Church at 11:30am. EVERY SUNDAY 9:30am. TAROT CARD READINGS A graveside service will follow. Pastor Mike Walker will be officiating. SPIRITUAL MENTOR Come, join the family CLAIRVOYANT of God! SPEIRS, Rodney John (Rod) VERNA (027) 320 0079 Of Whitianga, peacefully at Waikato Hospital on 12th February 2021, after a short illness. Enquiries 869 5452 vernacarrspiritualhealing.com Beloved eldest child of the late Roy and Brenda of Levin. www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz Beloved partner and friend of Kim Elliot, and dearly loved brother and uncle. In accordance with Rod’s wishes a private cremation will take place. POSITIVE YOU 2021! TWENTYMANS Wednesday classes - MARKET PSYCHIC MEDIUM Personal and Spiritual Growth 13 weeks of healing mind/body/spirit. week 2: February 10 WHITIANGA ART, DEVELOPING YOUR INTUITION THROUGH TAROT CARDS CRAFT & FARMERS VERNA (027) 320 0079 MARKET WANTED Saturday, 20 February 2021 Soldiers Memorial Park, Albert Street, Whitianga, YOGA THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST 8:30am - 1:00pm. OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Unique locally created Everyone Welcome art, craft & local produce. Sunday 10 am – 12 noon Phone Doreen @ 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga 866 5237 (Community Service Bldg) or 021 061 6489 Enquiries - 021 113 0566

Page 34 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 937 - 16 February 2021 Expert help now at hand for mini golf fans By Gillian O’Neill

In terms of the essential skills required day running of the business, Krissy will help for running a mini putt business, Darren out behind the scenes while also continuing Prole probably ticks more boxes than are her software development career by working strictly necessary. remotely. “It has been really busy the last few The current New Zealand Mini Golf weeks, but things are settling down now and Open champion, alongside partner Krissy I’m definitely looking forward to getting out Robinson, is now co-owner of Birdwood and about and meeting more people,” she says. Springs Mini Putt, soon to be re-named “When we first looked at doing this, we were Wildwood, in Whitianga. The couple recently thinking about maybe building something in relocated to Mercury Bay after a pretty simple Auckland but, with the costs just of property re-evaluation of their work-life balance led alone, there’s no way we could have made it them in this direction. work. So we started looking on Trade Me and “For me, it was about being able to take found this place and it has become a whole something that you really enjoy and make new lifestyle for us.” that part of your job,” says Darren who, after Completing the family trio is Cooper the growing to like the game as a kid, started golden retriever who is also loving his new playing competitive mini golf around three Coromandel lifestyle but, as Krissy reveals, years ago. “In my early 20s I was a national is struggling a bit with his golf etiquette. level sprinter and was even lucky enough to “He loves greeting all the people coming in represent New Zealand. But I had to give that and all the attention, but he has been stealing away after an Achilles injury. golf balls so we’re working on that one,” “I dabbled in a bit of cricket for a while and she says. then I discovered there was a New Zealand For Darren, whose previous day job Federation for mini golf who organised Krissy Robinson and New Zealand Mini Golf Open champion, Darren Prole, involved driving heavy machinery in competitions around the country. I decided to are the new owners of Birdwood Springs Mini Putt in Whitianga. Auckland, it’s simply no contest. “Now I enter a couple and it grew from there.” want to come to work,” he says. “Everyday Darren’s growing passion for the sport led top players coming from Auckland, Hamilton to a new “Wildwood” theme based on an I’m out there doing something that is making him to claim the New Zealand Open title for and other parts of the country. But it is an enchanted forest concept, night-time golf an improvement to the course, so we can give 2020, the trophy now taking pride of place open tournament so anyone can play and we with glow in the dark balls, a kids club twice people an even better experience. You just in his new office. He is currently leading this really want to encourage lots of local players a week and dedicated sessions for seniors. feel proud of what you are doing.” year’s championship which, as a result of the to get involved, especially the kids. It will be “We plan on being here for a while,” And, for those of us whose mini golf couple’s new business venture, will feature great fun and it’s an opportunity to compete says Krissy. “We want to be part of the efforts might be considered well below par, a Whitianga Open among its tournament in a national competition.” community and the support we have had Darren is also more than happy to offer some schedule for the first time. The pair say getting to know the community so far has been amazing. People have been advice and tips. Naturally, he will be allowing “We’re pretty excited about the Whitianga and being able to provide services that locals popping in and introducing themselves and himself time off for those all-important mini Open,” says Krissy. “It will be happening on will enjoy and benefit from is a big focus making us feel welcome, it has been lovely.” golf tournaments and is determined to retain 22 May, so we will have at least 14 of the for them. Plans include a complete rebrand While Darren will look after the day-to- his national title this year.

Issue 937699 - 1627 FebruaryJuly 2016 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 35