Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,000 Blind Little Blue Penguin found at Matarangi Beach By Gillian O’Neill

Mercury Bay optometrist, Brett Howes, had a pretty unique appointment on Thursday last week when he was called in to examine a Little Blue Penguin found on Matarangi Beach disoriented and seemingly blind. The tiny bird was found on the Tuesday after Labour Weekend by a couple walking along the beach and was taken to Kuaotunu Bird Rescue for examination. “The two people saw the penguin coming out of the water during the day and it is very unusual to see them on land at that time which suggested there was something wrong,” said Annemieke Kregting, who’s running the centre. “They described how he was disoriented and walking around in circles.” Examining the fledgling, Annemieke and volunteer, Dr Sue Grieg, were both concerned about what they discovered. “He was in great condition,” Annemieke said. “He was a good weight, there were no signs of any injury, it was exactly what you would want to see in a bird of this size.” However, the hugely dilated pupils and the penguin’s inability to react to any light or movement in front of his eyes was troubling. “His pupils were absolutely huge when he came in, they have decreased quite a lot since then, but he is still not responding to any visual stimulation,” Annemieke shared with Brett before the patient was brought out for his eye exam. The penguin, estimated to be around four to six months old, was a little sleepy when Kuaotunu Bird Rescue volunteer, Dr Sue Grieg, holds onto a seemingly blind Little Blue Penguin he first came out of his temporary home in while optometrist, Brett Howes, conducts an eye exam. the centre’s dedicated room for native birds, but quickly sprang into action when given “It looks perfectly fine. There is no sign of any penguin and otherwise in good health, there is a Auckland will be taking the penguin,” she said. the opportunity to gulp down some fish. eye injury and that being the case, my best guess strong possibility that he will recover,” he said. “They have wildlife vets on site.” “He is eating well, we have him on a short at this stage is he has suffered a thump or a bang “I think there is a good chance we will see the The penguin will be monitored for a few course of anti-inflammatories just in case there to the head, or potentially has had a little stroke, pupils continue to reduce in size and then the weeks to see if his sight improves and this will is anything going on that we cannot see, but although given his age I would say that is eyesight will improve.” determine what happens next in terms of his there is just nothing obvious that would explain less likely.” On that positive note, the Little Blue Penguin, future. “It would be cruel to just release him what is going on here,” Annemieke added. Brett said it is was very common in birds fresh from his consultation and with a full if he cannot see,” Annemieke said. “He would In the end it was a brief and reasonably for systemic issues, a wider health problem, tummy, was returned to his nesting box for have no idea where he was going and no ability stress-free time under the optometrist’s scope, to impact the eyes. He also described how some well-earned peace and quiet. to defend himself, so we will just have to wait with Brett concluding the penguin’s eyes the extensive dilation is normal for penguins, Although hopeful that the patient will recover and see.” were unlikely to be the cause of the problem. essentially exposing parts of the eye that enable sufficient sight to return to the wild, Annemieke Annemieke also thanked Brett for coming “So what I’m looking at is the retina and right them to see when in the water. The pupil then decided, given the likelihood that an injury to assist. “We are really lucky to have such through to the back of the eye to see if there is restricts again to enable them to see on land. had been suffered, that some specialist vet care fantastic support from our local community,” anything amiss and there is nothing,” he said. “I think if it is an injury, as this is a young was appropriate. “Green Bay Bird Rescue in she said.

Distributed throughout the , coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz MBAS “Lifers” assembly a truly unique occasion

On Wednesday last week, Area School farewelled 19 “Lifers,” students who Teacy, Floyd Ross. Isabel Lunn, Alice Robinson, Corbin Duerre, Rory Trebes, Woody Teacy and spent all 13 years of their school career at MBAS. “Thirteen years ago, when these students Vincent Dowling. New entrants, from the left - Jasper Beck, Seazyn Tansey, Levi Szparagowski, started out with us, our roll was only 700 students, now we’re over 1,000,” school principal, Fisher Moody, Marlo Cosgrove, Kaleesha Davies, Willow Pepper, Mackenzie Williams, Brandon John Wright said at the whole school assembly. “We’re New Zealand’s largest area school and Carse, Addison Davidson, Hannah Ribet, Sylvia Faiva, Rosie Wylie, Marli Jarvis, Mila Taylor-Dean the number of Lifers we’re acknowledging today makes this a truly unique occasion.” All the and Lizzy Van Tonder. Lifers who attended the assembly were handed a certificate by one of the new entrant students In the photo on the right are the new senior student leaders for 2021. From the left - Ava Lamason who started their school careers this year. (deputy head girl and learning leader), Alban Ribet (learning leader), JJ (John) Twemlow During the assembly, the Year 13 student leadership team also handed over their responsibilities (hauora leader), Austin Morcom (head boy), Georgia Land (communications leader), Jasmine to the senior student leadership team for 2021. McCleery (deputy head girl and sports leader), Tiana Tiro (sports leader), Louisa Murie In the photo on the left are the Lifers who attended Wednesday’s assembly with the new (head girl), Keegan Wright (communications leader), Finlay Archibald (Board of Trustees entrants who handed their certificates to them. Lifers, from the left - Shayla Taylder, representative) and Ibuki Nishida (deputy head boy and hauora leader). Absent from the Dana Ohlson, Olivia Brown Douglas, Kenjia Campbell, Julia Williscroft, Zoe Smith, Levi Driver, Jake photo - Paige MacPherson (arts leader) and Izzabella Park (arts leader).

What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information provided and sponsored by Week of Wednesday, 4 November to Wednesday, 11 November - This is a good week to try and spot the International Space Station (ISS) as it will be making some bright passes early in the evenings. The ISS, like other satellites, is only visible for a few hours after sunset (or for a few hours before sunrise) as outside these times it will be in the shadow of the Earth. Sometimes we get a chance to see two passes on the same night as it only takes about 90 minutes for the ISS to go around the Earth travelling at 8km per second. Jupiter and Saturn remain very noticeable high overhead in the early evenings, with reddish Mars conspicuous lower down in the east while bright Venus is unmistakable low in the eastern dawn sky. Wednesday, 4 November - Two ISS passes tonight with the first brighter one from 8:23pm in the SW, followed by a very low passfrom 10:01pm in the west heading northwards. Thursday, 5 November - A low ISS pass tonight from 9:12pm in the SW and heading northwards. Astronomy Tours and B&B Friday, 6 November - The brightest ISS pass of the week tonight from 8:25pm in the SW and passing right beside Jupiter and Saturn high overhead. Phone (07) 866 5343 Sunday, 8 November - The last ISS pass for a few weeks tonight from 8:27pm low in the west. Wednesday, 11 November - Mercury will be at its furthest from the Sun today (its “greatest elongation”), but still very hard to pick in the dawn sky as it will be very low on the horizon and quite faint. www.stargazersbb.com

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Page 2 - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Uncertainty about Destintion Coromandel and i-SITES future Uncertainty is emerging about the future said. “I am a firm believer too that this council of Destination Coromandel as doubts are cannot afford the $625,000 that goes into raised about continued funding of the tourism Destination Coromandel.” marketing organisation by Thames-Coromandel TCDC’s current contract with the marketing District Council. body runs until June 2021. Council’s $625,000 annual contribution to Mrs White said all the information centres Destination Coromandel is one of the things on the Coromandel Peninsula had been put on ratepayers will be specifically canvassed on notice that their continued funding would be during upcoming Long Term Plan consultations. a matter for discussion during the Long Term However, funding issues have already emerged Plan consultations. Apart from the i-SITES, with TCDC warning that the two Destination several local information centres are supported Coromandel-operated i-SITES in Whitianga by council through annual grants. and Thames are under threat as the organisation In a statement to The Informer, Destination is battling to meet its budgets. Thames may even Coromandel chair, John Sandford, provided close before summer and alternatives are already no further clarification on the future of the being explored. i-SITES in the wake of the council decision, In a written letter to council, Destination but emphasised the importance of tourism Coromandel asked to reduce the weekly marketing in a post-COVID-19 environment. opening hours of the Thames i-SITE “Questions around the benefits of tourism from the contract-stipulated 48 hours per marketing are not unusual, particularly in times week during the peak holiday period to 25 of pressure,” he said. “And, from a Destination hours, something TCDC said would have Coromandel perspective, we welcome the financial consequences. opportunity for our function and role in our “If the operating hours are to reduce, the level communities to be questioned and tested. of funding would need to reduce accordingly,” “While many people appreciate the Laurna White, TCDC’s Economic Development economic significance of visitors to the region, and Communications Group Manager told $459 million for the year ending 30 June elected members in a report tabled at last 2020, the wide range of beneficiaries is often Tuesday’s council meeting. “This would be a not recognised. In simple monetary terms, further threat to the operation and likely cause service stations and supermarkets are bigger the i-SITES to be closed, as it would not be beneficiaries of visitor spend than standard economically viable to continue to operate.” ‘tourism businesses.’ Tourism is a job-rich However, during discussions she clarified and highly dispersed sector. Jobs that might that the immediate concern was around the not exist otherwise bring a social benefit to Thames i-SITE. our communities. Councillors unanimously rejected the “The impacts of COVID-19 have hugely request from Destination Coromandel to alter increased competition among the New Zealand its contract. There were also warning bells for regions. Now, more than ever before, it is the tourism organisation about where it will sit vital that Destination Coromandel continues on the priority list as TCDC slashes spending promoting the region as a preferred place to across a variety of non-essential activities. visit. We are confident this summer will be “I am firmly in the camp that industry strong, however beyond this period we need could fund the i-SITES,” deputy mayor and to maximise every opportunity that the visitor Mercury Bay councillor, Murray McLean, market presents.”

Issue 922699 - 327 November July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3 A war zone, a treehouse and Rescue Helicopter Update a rainbow in LEGO challenge

We are pleased to resume our monthly year - has been requested to provide a written update in The Informer after a break of submission to the Health Select Committee of several months. Parliament. We are working with Stephan on The one thing everyone would like to know the submission. We all plan to have it with is what is happening with regard to a rescue Parliament by 13 November. helicopter being based in Whitianga. We are At our AGM in July, former chairman, in discussions with the Auckland Rescue Brian Bowering, stepped down after eight Helicopter Trust about a chopper operating years of service to the Coromandel Rescue from Whitianga during the upcoming Helicopter Trust. I was elected in his place. summer season. They have agreement Joining me on the board were existing trustees from the National Ambulance Sector Office Walter Russell, Jennie Turner () to base a third helicopter in Whitianga, and Andrea McCarthy (Thames), and new but need to continue to operate two helicopters from Auckland. This requirement trustees John Stephenson from Whitianga, is creating a number of obstacles, including Nigel Strongman from Coromandel Town their financial ability to base a chopper and and Doug Walters from Whangamata. Please be assured that we are working crew in Whitianga. Construction skills and creativity shone at School’s recent LEGO Masters competition with an We hope to have a clearer picture on the tirelessly to have emergency care on the impressive line-up of structures vying for honours on judgement day. Coromandel restored to the levels it used way forward by the middle of this month. The event, now in its second year, was organised and run by Year 7 student, Ryley Youl, who is passionate In the meantime, Stephan Bosman - owner to be. about LEGO. Merv George of The Informer, who spearheaded the rescue Among the imaginative displays entered were a war zone, a treehouse and a rainbow. helicopter petition that was presented to Chairman Coromandel Rescue the House of Representatives earlier this Helicopter Trust The children were challenged to design a LEGO masterpiece that fitted the theme of “My Imaginary World” and work on it during the last school holidays. “Ryley has done such a good job, he organised the flyers and made sure everyone knew what they needed to do,” says school principal, Mary Kedzlie. “We love seeing students stepping up and showing initiative like this, we were all very impressed.” Former bus driver, David Blake, made a return visit to the school for both the honour and tough task of selecting the prize winners with individual awards in three age groups as well as the top Family Team and top Friends Team. The results were as follows - Year 1 - 2 Individual: 1 Rosie Adams, 2 Evie Martin, 3 Kruz Drake, Highly Commended Robbie Lendrum. Year 3 - 5 Individual: 1 James Waugh, 2 Stella James, 3 Mekhi Follas, Highly Commended - Hunter Jones. Family Team - 1 Sophia and Darrell Adshead, 2 Ben and Emily Aston, 3 Charlie and Danny Bay, Highly Commended - Isabella and Violet Comer, and Tula and Bruna Guy. Friends Team - 1 Simon Wilson and Lachlan Waugh, 2 Ava Hendrikson and Ivy Baylis. Pictured is James Waugh, winner of the Year 3 - 5 individual category, with his creation.

Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5 Whitianga teen experiences his big OE COVID-style By Gillian O’Neill Long-haul flights, lengthy layovers and says. “But when I got to Charles de Gaulle was closed, I had no Euros, no food or water. he was approached by a group of people rapidly changing plans are staples of the and went to the Lufthansa desk to get my I decided to try and find somewhere to sleep calling themselves an “awareness party.” big OE for every young Kiwi who flies the connecting flight, they told me I couldn’t get and I eventually found a little booth and I tied “They explained to me they were trying to nest. But throw in the added complication on the plane.” my bags onto me and put all my valuables in raise awareness about the plight of people like of a global pandemic and things really got It was May and Germany had extended my pants.” me who were stuck sleeping in airports and interesting for one Whitianga teenager. its ban on all but essential travel from Expecting a hungry and uncomfortable asked if I wanted a meal,” he says. “They had Nineteen-year-old Timothy Brown Douglas neighbouring countries. “I had no idea what night as he waited until morning to reassess a trolley with food and water, it was amazing, is back on Coromandel soil after a memorable to do,” Timothy says. “It was late, everything his options, Timothy was stunned when I couldn’t believe it.” six months that was frequently shaped by plain and simple timing - some lucky and some not quite so lucky. On Saturday, 24 October, Timothy was finishing up his two weeks of mandatory isolation at the Novotel at Auckland Airport, just four days before Germany, the country he had just flown in from, announced its second lockdown. “I do feel relieved to be back in New Zealand,” Timothy says. “I didn’t want to leave Europe, I loved it there, but the COVID situation is pretty bad and it was clearly getting worse. I just felt there was no way that I could stay any longer.” While he might feel fate was kind to him on this occasion, the pandemic gods haven’t always been on his side. Deciding earlier this year to forge ahead with his plans to travel to Germany, the former Mercury Bay Area School student found himself stranded at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. “I had been in the US travelling for a bit and I just assumed they wouldn’t let me board there if there was any issue,” Timothy Timothy Brown Douglas at Berlin’s famous Checkpoint Charlie during his recent OE. Thumbs Up To a lady by the name of Jackie who, without having met her before, helped an elderly Whitianga resident move a large load of firewood that was delivered in the resident’s driveway.

Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Whitianga teen’s big OE

With no way into Germany, Timothy made the “We weren’t allowed to touch anyone else’s decision to take a taxi to the train station and luggage. Someone from the Defence Force head south to Lugano in Switzerland where gave us a briefing on how managed isolation he had relatives, his Swiss passport ensuring would work, what we could and couldn’t too. him easy passage. About a week later after He was really clear, but also friendly. It just border restrictions began to ease, he was felt very well organised and from what I saw, back on the rails - literally - and headed for they are really doing an excellent job.” Germany, arriving just days after the lifting Daily health checks via phone and two of lockdown restrictions. COVID-19 tests were part of the procedure. “It all felt very normal,” Timothy says. “You would be notified when your test was “No-one was wearing masks, except in the and what time to report to the COVID centre, shops. They also had restrictions on large which was on a separate floor,” Timothy says. events and there were limited numbers at the “The test was pretty uncomfortable, but both major tourist sites, but it didn’t feel like there mine were obviously negative. The food was a pandemic going on, people were just was great, you could choose from a number getting on with things.” of options, you were given vouchers to get After an exciting summer of soaking your laundry done. We were very well looked up the culture, travelling around and even after. I honestly couldn’t say a single bad working making plates in a plastics factory, thing about it.” Timothy made the tough call to come home Back on home turf in Whitianga, while after Europe’s second wave really began to finding a job is now his top priority, Timothy take hold. “There were only six of us on the is already dreaming of a potential return to flight into Singapore and 35 into Auckland,” Europe sometime in the future, possibly even he says. “On the first flight those of us to study. “I’m interested in filmmaking or connecting onwards were kept separate from possibly music, and there are just so many those who were just travelling to Singapore. opportunities there, not just for study but also Once we got to Auckland, we were given after you qualify,” he says. clear information before we even got off However, Timothy recognises it’s a not a the plane about what would happen. We did realistic option for now. “We’ll have to see our health checks and were bused literally how things go over the next few months,” across the road to the Novotel and escorted to he says. “As of now I do feel relieved and our rooms. happy to be home in New Zealand.”

Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7 Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9 Car Talk By Jack Biddle A question for Jack? Just email us or drop us a note.

Land Rover - still a shining light of the former British motoring industry Without sounding unkind, history shows Leith, who is the manager of the rescue the once proud British motoring industry helicopter base in Whitianga, doesn’t do ended up becoming a complete shambles things in half measures, however, and over which would ultimately led to its demise. the two years it took to complete the project, It was an industry that initially got off to a the Land Rover has undergone a major great start, but over time was plagued with overhaul, including a total strip down of the worker unrest, poor build quality, ongoing aluminium body to bare metal, chassis repaint reliability issues, government intervention, and anti-corrosion sprayed internally into the inefficiencies, mergers and finally the failure chassis rails. The body colour was formulated to adapt to change. using the long-outdated original factory While the British did produce some real paint code. gems like the iconic Mini in their time, The Land Rover’s engine is one of the few it was sadly surrounded by some very average major mechanical components untouched stablemates. The Austin Allegro and Morris during the restoration. Leith says apart Marina, for example, are often referred to as from a tune up, it ran like a Swiss Watch. some of the worst built passenger vehicles to Apart from adding a brake booster and ever roll off the assembly lines in their day. relocating the battery away from the heat of But out of the doom and gloom there still the engine, the vehicle is totally genuine. stands a vehicle which is rich in English Leith doesn’t plan on keeping the Land history and is still very much revered to Rover for too long. He says the pleasure is this day as an absolute classic and virtually in the journey, not the destination. “For me, unbreakable. It is the Land Rover, a vehicle originally designed by Rover’s chief designer, there was nothing more satisfying to do at Maurice Wilks, to be used as a cross between night but sit down with a cold beer and start Whitianga resident, Leith Jackson, with his most recent Land Rover restoration project, dismantling the entire instrument cluster, a light truck and tractor. It was to become an a 1963 Series 2A SWB 2,286cc petrol engine ute. instant success from its birth in April 1948, repairing any faults and then over time with the name tag still in bright lights some Rover fanatic, Leith Jackson, is one of the 1983 until 2005, before being relocated from cleaning each individual component before 72 years later. committed faithful and judging by his recently Christchurch to Whitianga where it sat for a beginning the reassembling process,” he says. The secret to its success was in its simplicity finished restoration of a 1963 Series 2A SWB further two years without hardly ever turning “I have to say it took more than a few beers, and ability to go where many other vehicles (short wheel base) 2,286cc petrol engine ute, a wheel. “I’m not sure of its exact history, but I enjoyed every single one of them.” and their owners would fear to tread. It would the passion burns bright. “Over the years, but the registration was placed on hold the Leith already has his eyes set on his next go on to become the go-to vehicle for the I have owned around 17 vehicles with the whole time it was in storage, which means the project, which will of course be a Land Rover many adventurous types desperately wanting Land Rover, Range Rover or Discovery badge original number plates have been retained,” of some description. to undertake overland trips around the globe and the current one is my sixth restoration,” says Leith. While there are other British vehicles that where there were no roads, only rough tracks. says Leith “The early models are really easy “From my research, I also believe the are sought-after for restoration projects, At one stage it also appeared as if the British to dismantle, repair and put back together, odometer reading of only 29,640 miles to the original Land Rover must win the prize Army and the Land Rover were joined at the which is helped by a huge aftermarket be genuine. It certainly wasn’t in showroom for being the one that won the most acclaim hip with one never venturing too far from business both here and in the UK to call on.” condition when I came across it, but it had around the world for its toughness, durability the other. The amazing thing about this particular solid bones and only needed a bit of TLC and longevity. Yes, it still is a shining light of Whitianga resident and diehard early Land Land Rover is that it sat idle in storage from rather than a full-on major rebuild.” the former British motoring industry.

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 Police (Whitianga) ...... 866 4000 accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address. Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. Police (Tairua) ...... 864 8888 Statement of scientific fact needs to be accompanied by evidence of the fact. Police (Coromandel Town) ...... 866 1190 Fight crime anonymously - Call Crime Stoppers ...... 0800 555 111 Published by Mercury Bay Media Limited Dog and Noise Control ...... 868 0200 Editors - Stephan Bosman and Gillian O’Neill Dental Emergency (Mercury Bay) ...... 869 5500 Contributors - Meghan Hawkes, Jack Biddle 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 Office 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Mail PO Box 426, Whitianga 3542 Need to talk? Call/text anytime for support from a trained counsellor...... 1737 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), © 2020 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 NOVEMBER 2020 the New Zealand Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or Are you in favour of the installation of water meters at private www.presscouncil.org.nz. residences in the Thames-Coromandel District? 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 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Issue 699922 - 273 November July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11 The Small-time Investor By Whitianga resident, Max Ross

Infratil - dividend investing Last week I reviewed all my investments the companies that provide the infrastructure and since then there has been a bit of a that we all use - electricity, power grids, ports, drop across the markets. Currently I am data centres roads, water, etc. up $25.43, which is a 1.66 percent return. These are services that people require Five of my investments are up and five are in positive financial times as well as hard down. The value of the US dollar has also financial times. fallen, which has impacted my returns as two Infratil owns and runs energy generation, of my investments are in American dollars. data centres, mobile networks and airports. Things were looking much better last week, Airports are a concern in the COVID-19 however it is the long term that counts. environment. With current interest rates so low, it doesn’t This week I bought $100 worth of shares in make sense for people to put their money Infratil - 17.6 shares at $5.66 a share. Infratil in the bank. Many people are looking for has a gross dividend yield of 3.79 percent. I am other places to invest their money and get a hoping that this dividend level will continue better return. This money looking for returns over the next few years. I am also hoping that has pushed up house prices, commercial others will think the same and will also want investments, the share market and a range of to invest in Infratil. I am hoping this will push other investments. As more and more term the share price up, which will then also give deposits finish, I believe one of the places me a capital gain on my investment. people will be looking to put their money is Please remember that what I write in this dividend share investments. column is just my personal opinion. Some Dividend shares are shares in companies of my investments will lose money. I am that have consistently provided a dividend sharing my thoughts and strategies along with pay-out. These tend to be well-established my results so that you can see how easy it is companies. They prioritise paying their to invest, even a small amount, and maybe shareholders a percentage of their profits and learn from my mistakes. Be careful with they have consistently done this over a long your money. time period of time. Remember, with Sharesies you can invest You can see the dividend yield of a company as much or as little as you wish. If you within the Sharesies app. It is essentially a want to invest through Sharesies, please use percentage return on your investment. this link - https://sharesies.nz/r/KHQQWP. Focusing on infrastructure companies can You will get $5 into your account to get be a good idea in uncertain times. These are started and I will get the same.

Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 District Plan appeals cost Catherine’s Column TCDC $4.3 million to date By Catherine Delahunty - Coromandel Peninsula resident and former Green Party MP Drinking the Kool Aid Its a tricky situation when you have no leverage The fact that the Greens hold the Climate and you are negotiating with a mammoth. Change ministry should mean radical and The Greens mostly believe the deal they are inspiring action, but during the last term of signed up to with Labour is a victory. I would Parliament we got a toothless Zero Carbon really like to drink the Kool Aid and support Bill which set voluntary targets. The work this view, but I cannot. I understand why people for consensus watered down the possibility want the Greens in Parliament and possibly in of real change. Therefore I am not hopeful this government, but some people do not have that a centrist, populist government with full much idea about leverage and the way power spectrum dominance over Parliament will operates behind the scenes where the public allow any kind of radicalism on climate change. never goes. Sometimes incrementalism is necessary, Behind the scenes, politics is about fighting but not when the house is on fire. tooth and nail, and the rhetoric of kindness I do understand the importance of issues like is left far behind in the public domain. homelessness and domestic violence, but while Do not get me wrong, unlike many voters in allowing the Greens to have a ministry on this electorate I am deeply relieved we do not those issues there is nil commitment to raising have a National government. The pandemic benefits or a wealth tax. is not over and inside our bubble of relative So call me cynical and jaded, but I was hoping calm we should thank Jacinda Ardern and the the Greens would take a very independent More than $4.3 million of ratepayer money has been spent in the past four years dealing with challenges Ministry of Health for protecting our nation. position this term and call out the weaknesses to the latest Thames-Coromandel District Plan, with several appeals still be to resolved. It could be so much worse. But as a former of populism. The risk of compliance and The money does not include the costs of preparation, submissions and hearings which took place between Green MP, I cannot celebrate the nil policy submission inside the mammoth Labour 2013 and 2016, or the staff time Thames-Coromandel District Council has allocated to their District Plan gains and the two co-leaders being ministers machine is high. I know the Greens have Appeals Centre, which has to date fully resolved 65 of the 72 appeals received. without real control of their budgets. It is a some great people with an utter commitment Legal expenses accounted for $3.1 million of the $4.3 million total. A report provided to council members recipe for the wrong kind of cooperation. to change and I wish them very well, but at their most recent meeting says the costs were calculated from 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2020, with the Climate change is the most drastic crisis of history teaches us painful lessons about power July date chosen because this was when the appeal period closed. our human experience on our planet. Created and leverage. The list of appeals covers a range of aspects of the plan, from zoning issues to environmental concerns. by our dislocation from the natural world and My dear and much-loved friend, Jeanette Of the seven remaining appeals, two are awaiting an Environment Court decision and thee relate to the obsession with growth, we have a terrifying Fitzsimons, once turned down a ministerial plantation forestry and Significant Natural Areas. These are still “live issues” according the report. future which we collectively can barely position because of the risk she saw. The other two unresolved appeals relate to structure plans with agreements close to being finalised. acknowledge. People are understandably The Greens will do their best, but Labour While TCDC chief executive, Rob Williams (pictured), assured elected members that the volume of appeals overwhelmed. But the politicians talking about can now blame them for the climate failure. and associated costs would be typical for a council of TCDC’s size, he also supported a staff proposal the “nuclear moment” are not acting on the We cannot allow any more failure on climate to review the plan by section in the future, rather than as a whole document. Members noted that much emergency in terms of leadership for a change issues and Labour will only take strong steps of what was now being agreed would need to be amended again once spatial plans and shoreline in economic behaviour. We have to stop if there is pressure from the outside, so back to management plans for the Thames-Coromandel District had been finalised. “growth” if we want to survive as a species. the streets we go!

Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13 Whitianga Marina looks to the future with new fuel dock A major upgrade of the fuel dock at the our marina users. We are also seeing more Whitianga Marina will be completed next and more petrol-powered vessels now, year, with construction expected to start so having petrol available at the marina will in May. also be a real asset.” In a significant investment in the future of If construction moves ahead on schedule, the marina, the revamped fuel dock will allow refuelling will not be possible at the marina up to six vessels to refuel at any one time. during the months of June and July when A new 70,000 litre fuel tank will almost pipe-laying work is underway. “It is important double the volume of diesel at the marina, for people to be aware of that and to fill up while petrol will become available for beforehand if they intend to do quite a bit of the first time. winter fishing,” says Dave. “This is a very exciting development and “Once in place, the new tank will hold an it is part of a long-term focus,” says marina additional 40,000 litres of diesel and 30,000 manager, Dave Munday. “We are not just litres of petrol. Up to four 20m boats will be talking about the next five years, we are able to refuel at the same time along with two looking 20 years down the track to ensure smaller power boats. This triples the current the Whitianga Marina is ready to meet capacity and will be fantastic for our users, the increasing and changing demands that lie ahead.” especially during the busy summer period.” The new tank will be located beside the The marina’s development team are also existing 40,000 diesel tank which currently working with Ngāti Hei to install a unique serves marina users. Where possible, art piece at the outermost point of the narrow local contractors will be used during strip of land beside which the fuel dock will construction and the goal is to have the be located. “We’ve been talking to [Ngāti Hei work complete by September to avoid any kaumātua] Joe Davis who has always worked disruption to the Whitianga Scallop Festival closely with the team here and supported which uses the adjacent site. us,” says Dave. “From what we understand, The increasing number of larger boats he is consulting with other Ngāti Hei members using the marina is the main reason for the and with artist, James Webster, to come up development. “Some of these boats take with a suitable design and we are very much 5,000l at a time,” says Dave. “We want to looking forward to seeing what I think will be be able to continually cater for the needs of a special piece.”

An artist’s impression of the new fuel dock at the Whitianga Marina.

Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Issue 699922 - 273 November July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15 Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Issue 699922 - 273 November July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17 Festive flavour for Bellyful’s latest cookathon

Bellyful Whitianga’s latest cookathon on Saturday last week had a distinctly festive flavour of the children at Peanuts Childcare and Education Centre in Whitianga. as the volunteer chefs and bakers conjured up some tasty Christmas treats. Fran says the carrots were added to Bellyful’s beef Bolognese recipe. “Having young people As well as 120 community meals, the crew turned out 1,200 mince pies and 120 cookie jars from the community supporting us like this while also learning about nutrition and the value which will be sold as a fundraiser for the charity. of growing their own food is awesome, and we are very grateful to all the team at Peanuts,” Bellyful delivers ready-to-heat meals to families with with newborn babies or young children she says. struggling with illness. Bellyful will also hold a “Pictures with Santa” fundraiser at Grace O’Malley’s Irish Inn in The mince pies will be sold in packs of six for $10 with the jars of cookies available for the Whitianga on 28 November. same price. In the photo on the left are some of the volunteers who baked mince pies on Saturday. From the “We are very excited about this new project,” says Fran Jack, one of the Bellyful Whitianga left - Fran Jack (Bellyful Whitianga coordinator), Ella Mae Powell, Sandra Brown, Emily Pavey coordinators. “A big thank you goes to our wonderful volunteers and our cookathon sponsors - (Bellyful Whitianga coordinator), Karen Barr and Johanna Walker. In the photo on the right are Coromilk, Mercury Bay Marine, The French Fig and New World.” Peanuts children and staff showing off their home-grown carrots. From the left - Letti Kennedy, The latest batch of community meals also features some organic, home-grown carrots courtesy Amanda Roche, Sadie Grason, Julie Coughey and Blake McLeod.

Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19 What’s On The next few weeks

Regular Events Mercury Bay Creative Fibre Op-Shops Meets the first and third Wednesday of every month from 10:00am - 2:00pm. in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street, Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street Whitianga. Phone Wendy Russell on 866 3225 for more information. (west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm. Whitianga Art Group The Church Op-Shop - At St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Meets every Thursday and Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm at 23 School Road, Whitianga. Visitors are invited to join us Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm. for a day of painting. Start-up materials supplied. Phone Jenny on (027) 210 0160 for more information. St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday Garden Circle 10:00am - 2:00pm. Meets the last Thursday of every month from 11:15am - 2:30pm. New members welcome. Phone Leila on 866 3264 or Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open every Monday - Saturday from Anne on 866 0268 for more information. 10:00am - 2:00pm. AA Driver Licensing Whitianga Senior Citizens Club The second Friday of every month at St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Meets Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street from 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie Mercury Bay Table Tennis etc. Afternoon tea, 55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. Meets every Tuesday from 9:30am - 11:30am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Phone Anne on Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) 869 5162 for more information. Meets the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Mercury Bay Badminton Phone Joan on 866 3801 or (027) 275 1372 for more information. Meets every Wednesday from 9:30am - 11:00am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated Phone (07) 866 5476 for more information. Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their Mercury Bay Pickleball Club computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on Meets Every Tuesday from 4:00pm - 6:00pm and every Sunday from 3:00pm - 5:00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School 866 4215 for more information or to join. gym, South Highway, Whitianga, $5 per session. Paddles and balls supplied. Tuition available. Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga Tour de Friends Biking Meets every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in Room 10 at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive , Whitianga. A 23km ride social ride around the flat areas of Whitianga. Meets every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 9:00am Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals and eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely. opposite Taylor’s Mistake, Whitianga. Followed by coffee. Phone Lance Cook on (021) 048 8475 or John Gregory on Check out our Facebook page or phone 869 5648 for more information. (027) 278 0002 for more information. Serenity Al-Anon Group Mercury Bay Tennis Club Meets every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by Club night every Thursday at 6:30pm at Lyon Park, Albert Street, Whitianga. someone else’s drinking. Dog Walking Group Meets every Thursday at 2:00pm at Lovers Rock, Robinson Road, Whitianga. An opportunity to socialise your dog. Specific Events Phone Jenny on (021) 186 5797 for more information. Whiti Village Markets - Friday, 6 November from 5:00pm - 8:00pm at Buffalo Beach Reserve, Buffalo Beach ICONZ for Girls Road, Whitianga. Every Tuesday from 4:00pm - 5:30pm at the Kuaotunu Hall, corner of Blackjack Road and Irish Town Road. For girls Whitianga Coastguard Open Day 8 - 13 years old. Phone Robyn on (020) 409 39674 for more information. Sunday, 8 November from 11:00am - 3:00pm at the Coastguard Shed, Dundas Street, Whitianga. Have a look at the Whitianga Playcentre rescue vessels and incident room, and discuss joining as a crew member if you are interested. Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon and every Friday from 12:00 noon - 2:45pm at 1D White Street, Mercury Bay Big Band Jazz Concert (followed by the Whitianga Dixieland Band) Whitianga. For children 0 - 6 years, free entry. Visitors welcome. Sunday, 8 November at 3:00pm at C3 Church, Coghill Street, Whitianga. Great tunes and refreshments. Tickets at Matarangi Craft Group the door, $10 adults, children free. Meets fortnightly at the Matarangi Fire Station. Phone Lesley on 866 0788 for more information. Presentation on a Loop Bus for Whitianga Cooks Beachcare Group Tuesday, 10 November at 4:00pm at the Monkey House Theatre, Coghill Street, Whitianga. Please phone Make new friends, learn about conservation and make a difference. We meet Thursdays for hands-on weeding and (021) 619 952 for more information. To RSVP, email [email protected]. planting, 9:00am - 11:00am. Register on our website, www.cooksbeachcare.org.nz or phone Adele on (021) 201 6625. Whitianga Santa Parade Scrapbags Quilting Group Saturday, 5 December at 12:30pm. Float entries now open (free entry this year). Please phone (07) 866 2090 Meets every Wednesday from 9:00am - 3:00pm at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Albert Street, Whitianga. All welcome. or email [email protected] for an entry from. phone Shelley on 866 0236 for more information.

Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Construction of new toilets at Pepe Reserve delayed

The long-awaited upgrade of the public toilet facility at Tairua’s Pepe Reserve will no longer be carried out before the summer season with COVID-19 being blamed for the delay. Work on what is one of the most heavily used toilet blocks on the Coromandel Peninsula was initially due to begin in March this year, but was subsequently rescheduled to last week and has now been postponed until after the 2021 Waitangi Weekend. The postponement will ensure the facility is not out of action during the busiest time for Tairua in terms of local visitors and through traffic. “While we are disappointed that we haven’t been able to complete the upgrade ahead of the peak summer period, this is the impact that COVID-19 has had on our infrastructure programme,” a spokesperson for Thames-Coromandel District Council said. “Two factors were in play, a supply chain problem for the toilet contractor securing equipment and a backlog in the planned construction programme while the contractor finishes other planned works. “The current facility is still completely functional and meets health and safety requirements. As a busy facility, it is one that will be cleaned more regularly over peak summer, thanks to a grant from the government’s Responsible Camping Fund.” TCDC was awarded $646,000 from the Responsible Camping Fund to manage the impacts of freedom camping across the Coromandel. The government also contributed $412,00 through the Tourism Infrastructure Fund towards the construction of the new Pepe Reserve facility which will contain eight toilets. Pictured is an artist’s impression of the upgraded toilets.

Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21 Crossword © Lovatts Puzzles

Crossword Puzzle 922

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. Lamp 1. Hoisted 2. Grasp 7. Daily (occurrence) 3. Across 8. Pasture 4. Body-search 10. Economic slump 5. Prudent 12. Action-packed 6. Swan chick 9. Decompose 14. Manner of walking 11. Annoying 16. Clap (of thunder) 13. Sick 17. Illuminated (arena) 15. Hip or knee 20. Perceiving wrongly 16. Face blemish 18. Taunted 23. Violent criminals 19. Yields 24. Clemency 21. Ethnic group 25. Used axe 22. Clarified butter Last week’s solution

Last week’s winner - Brian Codyre

“Kīwaha o te wiki” (saying of the week) “E mea ana koe” - You bet/certainly 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 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Letters to the Editor See page 10 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions

Dear Editor - Sewage odours at the northern end the Wharekaho dwellings increase. Now that Later, when a new sewage system was Dear Editor - Thank you of Brophy’s Beach summer is again approaching, the odours will operating, a few of us were invited to the new On behalf of the Department of Conservation, Since Christmas 2019, we have been worsen and the frequency will increase as beach plant to “taste” the recycled water. As far as I’m I would like to thank all those who came experiencing a strong, regular, pungent and houses in the area increase in occupancy. concerned, it was fit for humans to consume. together in an effort to refloat the pilot whales offensive sewage odour in Stormont Lane, I have contacted the Ministry for the I think some procedure with blue light was which stranded at Colville Bay last month. Whitianga. Feedback from residents on Environment, MP Scott Simpson, used. It’s a well-known fact that recycled water The stranding, which took place over two Harbour Lights Terrace and Buffalo Beach Regional Council, TCDC Chief Executive Rob is used worldwide. For example, Londoners use days and nights between 17 and 19 October, Road confirmed that they experience regular Williams and TCDC Mayor Sandra Goudie. the “stuff” multiple times over, I know this from demonstrated the great community spirit of the sewage odours as well. I have had replies from all but Mrs Goudie, my brother who was in that line of business. northern Coromandel, with local community The odours have become increasingly more but sadly still no effective remedial action or a But if this isn’t the “flavour” of the month, members first on the scene in an immediate pungent and more frequent. The odours cause specific action plan, with timelines, has resulted. so to speak, here’s another thought - desalination response which largely contributed to the much distress among residents and I believe Whitianga is in growth mode. As the could surely be a way to alleviate the problem. successful refloating of the pod. it is also a public health issue that needs town grows, so does the need for effective Whitianga is allowed to grow like the proverbial I would particularly like to thank Hauraki immediate remedy. I have sent Thames- infrastructure to cope with current and future topsy. Water is the most important problem we iwi, Dave Hamon, members of the Colville Coromandel District Council considerable growth. I would encourage residents to have, it has been that way for a very long time, community and the area’s rural fire brigade, correspondence in relation to the odours and contact TCDC when they experience odours. it’s not going away any time soon. the Colville Sailing Academy, MEG, Project have more recently requested specific planning This is a public health issue and it is completely Water meters won’t be the fix-it remedy. Jonah, the Waikato Regional Council information via the Local Government Official irresponsible for council not to effect The longer we are kept waiting, the more costly harbourmaster, Massey University, James Information and Meetings Act. immediate remedy. to us, the ratepayers, it will be. Drainage and the Mahamudra Centre for The correspondence and telephone Steve Williams It is my sincere opinion that Thames- Universal Unity for their collective efforts conversations I have had with various council Whitianga Coromandel District Council has had more during the stranding. representatives have not produced any specific than enough time to solve this very serious, Marine mammal strandings are difficult Editor’s Note - We have passed Steve Williams’s dates or timelines for remedy of the odour escalating issue. I wonder if thought has been and emotional events. People have a strong letter on to Thames-Coromandel District issues. TCDC has recently advised me that given to approaching our sitting Member of connection to these animals and whales in Council for comment. We will publish their they intend to install an extended flue vent and Parliament. He would be aware of this growing particular. Pilot whales are notorious for reply as soon as it comes to hand. carbon filter in the Harbour Lights Terrace area dilemma we, the residents of Whitianga, are multiple strandings and with both tide and to neutralise the sewage gas odours, but when Dear Editor - Water supply in Whitianga finding ourselves in year by year. One ofhis time against our efforts, it was a remarkable asked for commencement and completion dates Thank you for publishing both Peter Mackenzie duties is to look after his constituents’ interests. achievement to save the majority of this pod. these were not forthcoming. and Corinna Mitchell’s Letters to the Editor Come to think of it, Waikato Regional Council I am continually humbled by the passion, The odours are a result of pumping raw in The Informer of 20 October regarding the also has a great amount of muscle. They are also commitment and dedication shown by those sewage from the new Wharekaho subdivision. serious problem we have with our water supply paid by us ratepayers. They should be aware of who support these efforts. The events that I understand that raw sewage from the dwellings in Whitianga. the predicament we are facing in Whitianga. unfolded over the course of the stranding on Centennial Drive are also being pumped by For many years water, or the lack of, Recycling and desalinating water would be became a superb demonstration of cooperation the same facility. The raw sewage pumping has been of grave concern. Back in the 1970s of advantage to the environment as well as and a commitment to conservation of wildlife. displaces air in the sewage pipes and this air is and 1980s, a few Whitianga residents took the human wellbeing. Thank you all. then discharged into the atmosphere (without bull by the horns and had a bore drilled some A long overdue wake-up call is very timely. Nick Kelly resource consent). 30 feet (10m) to source water good enough for Karen Campbell Coromandel District Operations Manager The odours have become more pungent as human consumption. Whitianga Department of Conservation

Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23 Sudoku

Sudoku Puzzle 922

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 - Mark Earle

Page 24 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Exciting bowls at Triples Fishing Report Sponsored by Mercury Bay Marine - Tel (07) 867 1280 Club Championships In the waters of the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club, the two main target species - snapper and kingfish - are being caught in good numbers and are all in excellent condition. There has been the odd day when people have struggled with snapper not on the bite, but these periods tend to be fairly short. Once again, the best reports are coming from fishers around the rocks and reefs, especially out around the . There are people successfully using soft baits between Great Mercury Island and . The scallops seem to be in bad shape, There were no reports in the last few weeks of people who have come across an abundance of them, most people blowing a whole tank of air and not even getting their limit.

The Mercury Bay Bowling Club was unable to play more than half of the first round matches in their 2020 Men and Women’s Triples Club Championships due to the rainy weather on Saturday last week. However, all the qualifying games as well as the women’s championship were completed last Sunday. Excellent bowls resulted in the women’s team of Jayne Skinner, Dolly Welch and Irene Goss being crowned as the champions. An enthusiastic audience were entertained with a very high level of skill by the four teams that battled out the men’s semi-finals. In the one semi-final, the team of Wayne Edmonds, Johnny Johnstone and Shannon Marino started with a hiss and roar before being overtaken by Les Small, Dale Tegg and Alan Roberts, but then pulled back to hold a 13 - 8 lead at the halfway mark only to concede eight unanswered points. After the required 16 ends, the scores were even at 17 all with an extra end being played. The lead changed several times throughout the extra end with Les drawing the kitty with his last bowl to score an exciting 18 - 17 win. The other semi-final was equally as entertaining with the team of Shane O’Hara, Doug Sargent and Don Bates beating Graeme Goss, David Weatherley and Kerry Suckling with the last few bowls of the last end. The teams were tied at three all, seven all and nine all before Graeme’s team clinched a 14 - 12 victory. A highly anticipated men’s final will be played on Friday, 13 November at 4:30pm. Pictured are the 2020 winners of the Women’s Triples Club Championship. From left to right - Dolly Welch, Jayne Skinner and Irene Goss.

Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 25 Brain Teaser - Figures of Fun © Lovatts Puzzles

Brain Teaser Puzzles 922

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.

Figures of Fun Instructions - Each letter has a different numerical value between one and nine. Find out what each letter represents to reach the added totals by reading across and down. Two values have been filled in.

Last week’s solution - Calkuro

4 6 1 2 3 5 5 2 3 4 6 1 1 4 2 3 5 6 6 1 4 5 2 3 3 5 6 1 4 2 2 3 5 6 1 4

Last week’s winner - Jenny Upsall

Page 26 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Raising funds for Hospice Challenge Cups celebrated in a Volvo station wagon at Football Club prize-giving Four Whitianga apprentices participated last Sunday in an eight-hour endurance race at Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park in Taupō. The event was a Hospice fundraiser. It took the young men just 50 hours to convert a Volvo station wagon into a suitable and safe racing vehicle. Each of the team drove for two hours during the race. The team raised funds through sponsorship from local businesses and would like to thank the following businesses for their support - Coastal Signs, Vlex Photography, Overdrive Automotive, Peninsula Engineering and Marine, Autopoint, Macs Hydroseeding, Masta Plasta, Peninsula Auto Electric and Marine, Coastal Campers, Hard on the Gear Customs, and Barnett And Son Builders. Pictured are the men at their Volvo station wagon. From left to right - Ethan Wheeler, Fletcher Bale, Jordan Richards and Brandon Cooper-Barnett.

With both the Mercury Bay Senior Boys and Senior Girls football teams finishing the 2020 season as holders of the Country Secondary Schools Senior Boys and Girls Challenge Cups, there was much to be celebrated at the club’s senior prize-giving on Tuesday last week. The Challenge Cups are a new addition to the Waikato Secondary Schools Football Association’s line-up of awards and are competed for by country teams in the Waikato. “It’s highly unlikely that anyone thought one club would end up holding both cups at the end of the first season they were in play,” said Carl Gubb, the master of ceremonies on Tuesday. The following club members received awards on Tuesday - President’s Award (sponsored by The Lost Spring) - Phil Jowsey, Red Devils (adult team) Most Valuable Player - shared between Dean Allen and Gregg Murray, Red Devils Best Goalkeeper - Tady Ito, Red Devils Best Female Player - Freda Ngahuia, Senior Girls Most Improved Player - Hannah Hardy, Senior Girls Most Valuable Player - Olivia McDonald, Senior Girls Players’ Player - Beth Simpson, Senior Boys Most Improved Player - Taiju Watanabe, Senior Boys Most Valuable Player - shared between Jake Teacy and Woody Teacy. Pictured are the award winners with their trophies. Back, from left to right - Taddy Ito, Taiju Watanabe, Dean Allen, Adison Murray (Gregg Murray’s daughter), Gregg Murray, Phil Jowsey, Woody Teacy, Jake Teacy and Hannah Hardy. Front, from left to right - Freda Ngahuia, Olivia McDonald and Beth Simpson.

Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 27 Sport Results Classifieds and Public Notices SITUATIONS VACANT MERCURY BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Smith), Intermediate Kerry Allan (runner-up Geoff Lowe), Eighteen-hole Ladies Vice Captain’s Trophy Junior Graeme Heathcote (runner-up Jeff Dixon), Super Stableford - Wednesday, 28 October Junior John Bow (runner-up Stuart King). Results - 1 Sharon Young and Davinia Schofield, 2 Kay Mixed Magic Best Ball Par - Sunday, 1 November Buckeridge and Kim Allan, 3 Robyn Anderson and Results - 1 Jane Deadman and Jacob Wainwright, Jandy Morton. 2 Mikke and John Sedcole, 3 Jenny Layton and John Bow. Hole-in-one - Debbie Holmes, Twos - Sharon Young, Twos - Kerry Allan. Norma Hart and Kay Buckeridge, Nearest the Pin (#4) - PURANGI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Debbie Holmes, Nearest the Pin (#18) - Kay Buckeridge, Nine-hole Men and Ladies Stableford - Longest Putt (#9) - Chris van Veen. Tuesday, 27 October POSITIONS AVAILABLE Eighteen-hole Men Stableford - Results - 1 Jim Brown 20, 2 Meryll Hawke 19, 3 Jan OP Columbia (OPC) is a major participant in the aquaculture industry on the Wednesday, 28 October MacKinlay 18. Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand. Results - 1 Graham Eccles 40, 2 Steve Geach 38, 3 Stuart Nine-hole Men and Ladies Stableford Minus Putts - King 38. Thursday, 29 October We specialise in processing Greenshell™ mussels. Twos - Alan Hill and Dave Enright. Results - 1 John Hughes +8, 2 Jock Peacock +4, 3 Chris If you are motivated, reliable and have an excellent work ethic, Nine-hole Ladies Stableford Hidden Holes - Ellett +3. then this job would suit you. We pay competitive rates with the opportunity Thursday, 29 October Eighteen-hole Men and Ladies Stableford - Results Division 1 - 1 Christine Godden, 2 Gaylene Imms. Saturday, 31 October to increase pay based on performance. Results Division 2 - 1 Julie Rutledge, 2 Kyung Rodgers. Results - 1 Lauchie Phillips 41, 2 Richard Agnew 37, 3 Phil Travellers are required to commit to a minimum of three months Twilight - Thursday, 29 October Ander 36, 4 Bob Walker 35. and provide a current work visa. Results - 1 Matt Kurth, 2 Dan Ray 3 Matty Menzies. 4BBB - Jeff Bright and John Hamilton 47, Nearest the NZ applicants need to have NZ residence or a valid NZ work visa. Twos - Matty Menzies. Pin - David Young, Best Gross - Tim Bartlett 78, Club Championship Finals - Saturday, 31 October NAGA - Meryll Hawke. Shift times available: Winners Ladies - Silver Kay Buckeridge (runner-up THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB Dayshift processing 6:00am to 3:00pm Sharon Young), Bronze 1 Rachel Johnston (runner-up Eighteen-hole Men Net Medal - Wednesday, 28 October Hygiene (cleaning) shift 3:30pm Debbie Holmes), Bronze 2 Jandy Morton (runner-up Results - 1 Mike Friis 59 Net, 2 Bett Titchmarch 72 Net, (times are subject to change) Chris van Veen), Bronze 3 Davinia Schofield (runner-up 3 Jim Dale 73 Net. Fiona Gardien). Twos - Mike Friis, Jim Dale and Doug Smith, Nearest the Applications can be made online at www.opcolumbia.co.nz or Winners Men - Senior Dave Enright (runner-up Kevin Pin (#18) - Brett Titchmarch. call into the office to submit an online application. (Continued on page 31)

Whitianga Community Services Trust provides a range of services and clinics that support the health and wellbeing of families and individuals, and we reach across communities from Coromandel Town to Tairua, including Cooks Beach and . The winners of the Mercury Bay Golf Club championship finals that were played on Saturday One-hundred percent of our donations and proceeds last week. Back, from the left - Dave Enright, Kay Buckeridge, Kerry Allan, Rachel Johnston, go back into the community. Graeme Heathcote and Jandy Morton. Front - John Bow and Davinia Schofield. Our vision - A high quality and effective social services centre that is respected, visible, sustainable and integral to our community. Our mission - Provide services which empower people in our community to become self-reliant Our values - Integrity, Empathy, Respect, Confidentiality, Diversity - all with aroha. We are looking for an experienced Accounts Administrator to work alongside our General Manager and Funding Coordinator. The Accounts Administrator is a part-time role, spread over three days, with a total of 20 hours per week. Hours and days are flexible, however Mondays must be included for payroll. The Mercury Bay Under 12 basketball team that participated in Hoop Nation over Labour Tasks and responsibilities include - Weekend. From the left - Kyson Mansell, Lyric Jackman-King, Zinny Mataiti, Reo McQueen, • Arrange creditor/supplier payments. Ridge Ngataua, Taj Lorimer, Jaken Holmes, Dylan Reihana and Ngaru Hinds. • Issue weekly/monthly customer invoices/statements. • Process and keep records of financial transactions, including monthly journals. • Bank reconciliations. • IMS Payroll for 10 - 15 staff members. Classifieds and Public Notices • Month end reconciliations. • Prepare monthly financial reports to the Board of Trustees. HOMESTAY FAMILIES WANTED • Budgeting/yearly forecasting. • Prepare PAYE/GST returns. Qualifications and experience - Evakona Education is looking for more kind • Must have one to two years experience in a similar role. and caring host families to host young international • Math skills and a strong understanding of accounting principles. students over December 2020 and January 2021 • Strong knowledge of current accounting packages. Students need their own room, and houses should be clean and tidy, Reckon Accounts Hosted experience preferred, but fulltraining and of a suitable standard to host an international student. will be provided. Payment is $260 per week, plus there is an additional payment of $100 • Intermediate Excel skills. over the Christmas and New Year weeks. Please call Lisl on 867 1178 if you would Contact the General Manager - [email protected]. like further information. Closing date - 6 November.

Page 28 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Classifieds and Public Notices SITUATIONS VACANT

Peninsula Aggregates Ltd Due to Peninsula Aggregates Ltd’s ongoing growth within the Eastern Coromandel, we are looking for experienced Heavy Machinery Operators to join our team. Our mobile plant includes - Loaders, Excavators, Dump Trucks and Dozers. Portable and Fixed Plant, Crushing and Processing Equipment. You will need to be reliable, have a willingness to learn new skills and a genuine commitment to Health and Safety. You will also understand and embrace our living safely approach, operate earth-moving equipment and general maintenance to best practice. You will take personal responsibility for the safety of your workmates, the environment, the public and yourself, and you will help your teammate/s do their job. You will have had a minimum two years’ experience within a quarry or similar construction environment. A full Class 1 & 2 driver’s licence is essential. W,T,R endorsements preferred, but not essential. You will be a team player with a positive attitude and will have an unwavering commitment to living safely with a safety record to match. Be reliable and punctual. Successful applicants will be required to pass a pre-employment medical, including drug and alcohol screening. To apply for this position please [email protected], phone (021) 034 7749. Applicants should have NZ residence or a valid NZ work visa.

DEATH NOTICE

Stephen Ronald Hicks on 1st November 2020 Peacefully at home. Husband of Mavis and his boys, Ethan & Kalyn. 027 268 4350 WORK WANTED

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

LONG-TERM RENTAL DAVE’S DRAINAGE Required for her Drainlaying, Public & Private, (my 12-year-old Jack Russell) and I. 1.8 Ton Digger Hire. She is toilet-trained and cute. 30 Years Experience. I am a 40-year-old professional male, Free Quotes or Advice. Rubbish Removal also toilet-trained and handsome. Trees, Lawns, Garden Bags Anything considered. Whitianga area. Call Dave 027 727 0348 Please phone (027) 471 7785. [email protected] Phone John 866 5511 TRANSPORT Mercury Bay Spouting DOG GROOMING For all types of guttering and spouting Tony 021 505 109

HOUSE WASHING Detergent Soft Wash, Handyman Services. PROPERTY SERVICES/PROJECTS Phone Russell Short on WANTED 866 2097 or 0273 602 937.

Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 29 Classifieds and Public Notices for sale TO LET

FIREWOOD FIREWOOD Pine, shed stored, $120 per cube Pine, Gum, Macrocarpa, Phone (07) 867 1361 Poplar, Wattle Free delivery locally www.goodwoodfirewood.co.nz

Abstract Painting CHURCH SERVICES

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866 4273 STORAGE SHEDS, various sizes, dry and secure. Affordable rates. Ph: 07 866 5147 community bus STORAGE SHEDS Whitianga Total Storage opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660 Container It Self Storage, 17 Moewai Road, Whitianga. Ph: 0274 817 258 MERCURY BAY COMMUNITY BUS STORAGE, Self storage/boat storage, Matarangi - Kuaotunu. Ph: 07 866 5693 For your door to door travel to hospitals and related services in Thames, Waikato, Auckland and Tauranga. To book phone 866 4993 or 867 1333 or 021 0270 6897 Advertisement sponsored by the Mercury Bay Club

HEALTH AND NUTRITION

BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM WITH THE BEST NUTRITION Stay healthy. Phone 027 947 8311 or email [email protected]

HOLISTIC HEALTH

YOUR CONSCIOUS HEART INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALER WORKSHOP FACILITATOR SPIRITUAL MENTOR Small office space in central Whitianga location CLAIRVOYANT ST ANDREW’S Available long term, affordable rent. Phone (021) 672 748 for details. VERNA (027) 320 0079 BY THE SEA PUBLIC NOTICES Community Church HOMEOPATH Albert Street, Whitianga COMMUNITY WORSHIP Mercury Bay Health Support Group Trust EVERY SUNDAY 9:30am. Invite Members and Non Members Come, join the family of God! Thursday November 5th, 1:30pm Enquiries 869 5452 Social Services Building, Cook Drive, Whitianga www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz Guest Speaker - JoAnne Lilley, Mercury Bay Branch NZ Society of Genealogy Everyone Welcome PUBLIC NOTICES

WHITIANGA SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB Notice of Special General Meeting To be held on 30 November 2020 Notice is hereby given of COASTGUARD OPEN DAY at 3:00pm at the the Mercury Bay Area Whitianga Town Hall, Secondary School Rugby Sunday November 8th, 11:00am to 3:00pm Monk Street, Whitianga. Club AGM We invite you to come to the Whitianga Coastguard Shed, Business of the meeting - • MBAS Library next to the rugby pitch at the bottom of Dundas Street, • Thursday, 12 November Changes to the constitution. to find out how we achieve our mission of Signed • 6:00pm N Chaney New and existing committee members Saving lives at sea by ensuring you come home safely, every day. Secretary are welcomed for the 2021 season. Have a look at our modern, well equipped rescue vessels, find out how our radio room works, see how we locate you when you are overdue and how we chart the progress of our rescue I See, I Hear, Am I Clairvoyant? vessels as they race to your assistance. Learn to tap into your energy to create the better you. Oh yes, and have a sausage or two from our master chefs on the BBQ! A fun-filled “informative” one-day workshop in Whitianga hosted by international If you have a PFD (personal flotation device) we can test that for you clairvoyant/medium, Mary Sharp, on Saturday, 7 November 2020. while you are there. And if you are interested in joining us as a volunteer • Cost $65 per person • Time 9:30am - 4:00pm on the boats, in the radio room, or on our maintenance crew, • Venue The Art Centre, 23 School Road, Whitianga we can talk to you about that as well. We look forward to seeing you there. For information and bookings, please call Mary on (021) 722 062. The Whitianga Coastguard Team

Page 30 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 922 - 3 November 2020 Several Thames Valley awards at MBAS rugby prize-giving Sport Results

(Continued from page 28) A special mention needs to be made of Mike Friis’s to watch some entertaining games. Everyone looked to score. An exceptional round of golf as Mike plays off a be having fun and it’s nice to see teams bringing their 16 handicap, so he only shot two over par for a 75 gross. families along and getting to know one another. This was even more remarkable as the weather was The results were as follows - Blue Balls 2 v That Team 2, miserable with a constant drizzle all day. Kroos Control 1 v Brazilliant FC 2, Chewbacca the Net 4 v MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Amigos Rapidos 0, Mangialafifa FC 0 v The Magnificent Thursday, 29 October Seven 1. Winners - John Taberner and Colin Everett. The match of the round was between the teachers and Runners-up - Alan Henderson, Marie Denney and students from MBAS in “That Team” and the tradies Kathy Everett. and friends from “Blue Balls.” Both these teams always Good Sports - Merle Ward, Doreen Davies and Jenny play with great social competitiveness and enjoy the Goodwin. banter as part of the game. The game provided many TAIRUA INDOOR BOWLING CLUB opportunities and each team found the back of the net Annual Prize-giving - Monday, 26 October twice. The teachers are looking good just sitting outside John Mooney Cup - Joan Smith, Winston Gallot and the top four and the tradies picked up their first point of Mike King. the competition with a well-earned draw. Drawn 4s - Joan Smith, Perrine Busby, Mike King and MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER Jenny Healey. Runners-up Mike Jackson, Shirley Morris, Wednesday, 28 October Winston Gallot and Gary Healey. Best of three frames. Nine players. Only Ian Pudney and Triples - Joan Smith, Steve Morris and Dot Lidgard. Barry Roach (with “new eyes”) achieved two straight Runners-up Mike Jackson, Mike King and Gary Healey. wins to fight out the final frame. With only the pink and Pairs - Ken Lowe and Celia Morrison. Runners-up Joan the black to decide the frame, Ian potted the pink with Smith and John Morrison. what one may call a very unusual but very lucky shot to The Mercury Bay Area School Rugby Club celebrated a difficult but successful season at their prize- Men’s Singles - Steve Morris. Runner-up Mike Jackson. take the win and the pork roast. Those with two wins were Ladies Singles - Shirley Morris. Runner-up Joan Smith Barry Roach (runner-up), Brian Codyre and Willie Jones, giving on Thursday evening last week. To top a season off where the Girls XV and Under XV teams Champ of Champs - Steve Morris. Runner-up who also had the highest break of 22 won their Thames Valley Rugby Union competitions and the First XV reached the semi-finals of their Shirley Morris. Saturday, 31 October competition, three of the club teams won their recent Thames Valley sevens tournaments. Points - Ladies Joan Smith, Men - Mike Jackson Best of three frames. Nine players. With two straight wins, The Girls XV were also announced as the Thames Valley Secondary Schools Rugby Team of the Most Improved player - Jenny Healey. Peter Schultz and Bob Haase progressed to the final frame. HOOP NATION BASKETBALL This was an enthralling frame in which veteran, Peter, took Year, and Girls XV team member, Anna Stevenson, and Treenie Ford (the Girls XV manager) were Saturday 24 - Monday, 26 October the win, the pork roast and highest break of 20. Those recognised as the Thames Valley Female Player of the Year and Manager of the Year respectively. A large contingent of Mercury Bay residents headed to with two wins were Bob Haase (runner-up), Barry Roach, The following players received awards at the prize-giving - Tauranga for Hoop Nation’s 10th year. One-thousand- Phil Jones, and Roger Smith. Under 15: Pig Dog - Bryn and Jacob Corley, Best Back - Colville Green, Best Forward - Tyrese Melde, six-hundred players and 163 teams (from Under 12 to MERCURY BAY CONTRACT BRIDGE CLUB Men and Women’s elite) came together for a weekend of Championship Singles Round 6 - Wednesday, 28 October Most Consistent - Brodie Springer, Team Spirit - Kenzo Griffiths, Best All-rounder - Caio Fordham, basketball. Under 20 men, women’s social and Under 12 North/South - 1 Gavin Hedwig and Robyn Hogg 66.79, Most Improved - Bill Lipa, Best Trainer - Tayejhan George-Waterhouse, Player of the Year - Jamie boys teams represented Mercury Bay. The Under 20 men’s 2 Colin Day and Giorgio Allemano 51.43, 3 Val Dwight and Stevenson, Best Supporter - Daryl Springer, Player’s Player - Patrick Hargreaves. team was made up of past and present Mercury Bay Area Rose Tegg 48.57. Girls XV: Best Trainer - Ava Lamason, Most Improved - Scarlett Dowling, Team Spirit - Macy Costello, School students. The women’s social team was made East/West - 1 Dave Dylla and Ernie Pitchfork 58.75, 2 Sue Best Forward - Anna Stevenson, Best Back - Tiana Tiro, Player of the Year - Jordan Brear, Player’s up of MBAS and Whangamata Area School senior girls. Gill and Jenny Layton 53.75, 3 Vivienne Leigh and Alison Player - Jordan Brear. The Under 12 team was made up of students from MBAS Tichbon 52.92. and School. HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB First XV: Best Back - Tewhatiki Katene-Childs, Team Spirit - Adam Clague, Goat Chaser - Vinnie The women finished third in their division after losing by Te Pare Point Pairs Week 1 - Tuesday, 27 October Russell, Coaches Player of the Day - William Hau-Mirko, Most Valued Player - Te Mana Baker Paarman, only six points in the semi-finals to the team that ended up North/South - 1 Don Barry and Robyn Hogg 59.52, Best Forward - Ben Wharton, Most Improved - Daniel Cunningham, Best Supporter - Michelle Dent, winning the division. 2 Annette Cox and Sue Gill 58.33, 3 Chris Rendle and Player of the Year - William Hau-Mirko, Players’ Player - William Hau-Mirko. MERCURY BAY FOOTBALL CLUB Angela Butterworth 56.55. Seven-A-Side Social Soccer Tournament Round 3 - East/West - 1 Alison Tichbon and Peter Hogg 58.04, 2 Bill Pictured is Anna Stevenson receiving her Thames Valley Female Player of the Year award from Kaitlin Thursday, 29 October Cummings and Ngaire O'Brien 56.25, 3 Lynn Hickey and Russell of the Thames Valley Rugby Union. A cooler evening, but the supporters were out in force Vivienne Leigh 52.98.

Issue 922699 - 327 November July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 31