The

K -TownKid The Coromandel

feature artist A Family of Creative Characters at The Artists’ House The Seagull January 2021 - number 6 - Out the first Monday of every month editorial

appy New Year and thank goodness the debacle design and advertising thatH was 2020 is over! The Seagull magazine apreciates the support of all Well, maybe not for our frontline health professionals and it’sadvertisers. border staff, not to mention the epidemiologists and the If you would like to advertise with us please have your like who are working to keep us safe. artwork or ad through to us by the A huge thank you to everyone on the Coromandel who has a played a part in the Covid response, including all our 10th of the month. 2021: The Future email [email protected] doctors, nurses, supermarket staff, pharmacists and rubbish We are simply privileged to have not faced that collectors and the like, who have had to keep going as We made it to the New Year! particular problem in our life. It does not mean you are essential services. If you need an advertising designed for you 2021 baby! The future! “problem free” or your life is “easy”. Whether it’s able, We can’t drop our guard but here’s hoping there are some please call 027 506 3110 Electric bikes are everywhere, spatulas still work very straight, white, cis, male, wealth, education, or passing good news stories coming our way really soon. or well, and hash browns never tasted so good! There privilege, 2021 is time to learn a bit more about it. Speaking of keeping us safe we’ve got some timely summer email [email protected] are stingrays in Stingray Bay, Front Beach is still facing The why part is very simple: if we learn more about advice from three of our emergency organisations, Fire, forward, and Lonely Bay is lonely no longer. our privileges it’s less likely our ignorance will blindly Coastguard and surf lifeguards at Hotty…be sensible and Digital Artwork All digital greyscale and color art should be at 300 dpi. In short, let's bask in the bizarre way we measure time hurt people. To find solutions in 2021, we need to hear make their summer a boring one. They’ll be very grateful. The following digital file types are accepted: to create momentum and mark our lives. The problems from those that are facing the problems otherwise There’s a real old-style Coromandel feel to our two Acceptable file formats: All Adobe Products – Acrobat (PDF are the same as yesterday, but a New Year still brings we’ll probably get the solutions wrong. features this month; the first about Luke Reilly owner files with fonts embedded), InDesign (INDD or IDML files with zest to the most practical of us. 2020 is in the dust as One thing acknowledging my privilege looked like of Luke’s Kitchen in ‘The K-Town Kid’ and the second accompanying links and fonts included), Illustrator (EPS or AI files), we have been wishing since March, yet how will 2021 for me last year, was reaching out to a friend from about the marvellous Burns-Nevin family of artists at Photoshop (JPG, PNG, TIFF, PSD). be better? Area School. After 13 years of friendship Whenuakite. We can’t just rely vaguely on the world to be better, I realised I had whitewashed her to make it easier We’re extremely grateful to the wonderful Dmitri Not accepted formats: Freehand, Corel Draw, Paint, let's grab the fallacy of New Year momentum by the for me to be her friend. I ignored her important rich Kotelevski for the beautiful cover shot of a very happy Quark most sensitive part so it knows WE are taking it for culture and pretended she was exactly the same as me. doggo running on Beach at dawn. We think it I didn’t learn how to be an ally and was ignorant to the Vector artwork should be saved in an .EPS format with fonts and a ride this time! Among many things, 2020 showed us encapsulates the joy of summer on the Coromandel extra issues and set backs she faced because she didn’t perfectly. images embedded, or all images and fonts must be supplied. that change can happen and introduced us to the now All screen and printer fonts must be provided. familiar concept of ‘bubbles’. I think one of the most have my white privilege. I had a million butterflies Wishing you, and the ones you love, a happy, healthy and reaching out to acknowledge and apologise, but am so prosperous New Year! We will substitute with similar fonts if originals are not submitted. important changes we can make to our own bubbles Text can be converted to outlines, but if proofing errors are grateful I did. Enjoy all that our beautiful Coromandel has to offer, I that will also make the biggest change in the world discovered, new art may need to be submitted. It shouldn’t be left up to the oppressed to do all the certainly will be…if only the ‘Bronzies’ at Otama didn’t around us, is examining our own privileges. If that sentence induced a frown and made you feel a hard work toward equality. I view it as my duty as keep sniffing around the shoreline every time I want a someone with a platform to bring light to this and swim! Images from the web are not suitable for bit uncomfortable, you aren’t alone! Me too. But let me printing. state very clearly that acknowledging privilege is not a open the conversation. So I am taking The Seagull’s moral judgement on your life. It just means that we are beautiful first issue of the year to kindly call you out Please call David if you have likely to underestimate how bad a problem is when we on your privilege, because I want 2021 to be better for questions or would like to haven’t personally experienced that problem. everyone. advertise with us.

Graphic Designer David Bayer Graphic Designer and illustrator Editor www.davidbayerdesigns.com Deli Connell 027 506 3110 [email protected] [email protected]

Reader’s contributions of letters and articles are welcome. Publication of these is at the discretion of the editorial team and may be edited. Contributions will only be considered for publication with the author’s full name, residential address and contact number. Opinions expressed in The Seagull are not necessarily those of the publishers. The Seagull is published by Oystercatcher Enterprises Ltd.

Disclaimer: No responsibility is accepted for loss or damage suffered by anyone relying on the information within. No endorsement of any service or product advertised or featured is implied or assumed.

1 The Seagull

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K -TownKid Polynesian food in general.” Sometime later, Luke’s Dad called to say he’d Apparently, you can take the kid out of the found a commercial kitchen on Trade Me and Coromandel but you can’t take…well…you know asked the question; “Do you want to come the rest. home?” An idea had been percolating about There’s something magical about the place and creating an eatery, a “Kiwi/Coromandel thing”. those lucky enough to have been raised here “Friends said Kuaotunu was too far away and always feel the pull to go back ‘home’. no-one would come” he laughs. Luke’s Kitchen Luke Reilly is one of those lucky ones, Kuaotunu opened in 2009 and hasn’t looked back. born (well, Thames Hospital) and raised in the Punters are happy to sit on re-purposed furniture idyllic bush and beach setting, this is where he has in a very ‘Coromandel’ setting, a backyard type of settled to raise his own family with partner Steph. vibe, heels and designer dresses mix with shorts Now better known as a successful chef and and jandals and no-one bats an eyelid. restaurateur, scratch gently and you’ll find the humble Kuaotunu kid roaming ‘free range’ on the “I’ve always been drawn back to the Coromandel, beach. it just ‘had me’”, Luke muses, “Every spot holds a special memory.” He seems unaffected by his “We actually lived at Waitaia Beach until I was 6 back in time for dinner, having lost track of time success, usually in shorts and a T-shirt, a relaxed months old and then Mum and Dad bought the with their outdoor pursuits. Dad with a wee family now of his own with his garage and we moved to Kuaotunu,” says Luke. A succession of birthday parties was held in the partner Steph. The garage is now the site of Luke’s Kitchen Kuaotunu Hall over the years, usually attended Kuaotunu is “different but the same” now and it is Restaurant and the main building houses Kua by all the same kids who bumped over the gravel Luke and Steph’s hope for their children that they Kawhe café. roads to school in a dusty bus. can have the kind of childhood that he enjoyed… “It was the ultimate ‘free-range’ kids’ lifestyle, By the time Luke was 13 he was biking over to harvesting kaimoana and fresh veg, running building huts in the bush, dragging logs off the Omara’s restaurant in to work as a around the beach and “keeping it real”. What beach…fishing,” Luke reminisces, “Dad would ‘dishie’, his first association with the hospitality more could any kid wish for? send us around the rocks to get mussels and Mum industry. “I did a cooking course at Mercury Bay Luke has stitched together all his experiences in always had something growing in the garden, Area School and went on to Tauranga where I food, and life, to create the fabric of both who he that’s where your veges came from.” studied further, learning chef skills.” He is grateful is and the business he has created. In a way he has One of the mums would yell “home-time” from to Omara’s who paid for his course on the proviso come full circle, there is a humility in what he is her hillside house, the call reverberating around that he did two seasons in the restaurant. doing, he’s not pretending to be anyone, this is it. the valley and inevitably the kids would straggle “But you’re a bit protected on the Coromandel, This is Kuaotunu and he’s a K-town kid. life is easy here and it’s good to get out and experience the bigger picture, open your eyes a bit,” he says. Temp-chefing in a variety of restaurants in Queenstown, working in Perth in one of the top ten Spanish tapas restaurants, as well as an Italian restaurant which pumped out hundreds of delicious pizzas a day, all contributed to his food knowledge and palate. A stint at a Samoan resort encouraged a Pasifika twist to his repertoire. “I was tour guide, surf guide and chef,” Luke laughs, “I learned a bit of Samoan but a lot about the fresh seafood and

2 3 The Seagull summer The Lifeguards looking out for us It’s arguably the best outlook in the Mercury Bay…but it needs to be. The Trust Lifeguard Service need to have ‘eyes’ everywhere. The grand opening of their long-awaited clubhouse finally took place on the 20th December last year, just in time for what is expect- ed to be a bumper season of domestic visitors to New Zealand beaches, potentially coinciding with a La NiÑa weather pattern, which may bring some bigger easterly swells. Rest assured the guys and gals of the ‘Hotty’ team will be extra vigilant…but they can’t patrol all the beaches in the Bay. Summer Safety Tips from Surf Lifesaving NZ SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS If you are heading out to the beach, choose a lifeguarded one and remember the red and yellow flags show the safest area to swim. 3RS RIP SURVIVAL PLAN Rips are a major hazard on New Zealand beaches and can be deadly. Learn the 3Rs Rip Survival Plan – it could save your life! TALK TO THE SURF LIFEGUARDS Even though conditions can change quickly, our lifeguards keep a constant eye on the beach situation as they continuously scope the beach for hazards and keep on top of weather forecasts and understand the swell and tide conditions – they’re a friendly bunch too! CLOSE ENOUGH TO CUDDLE Keep your kids within arm's reach at all times in or near the water – rogue or large waves move really quickly and unexpectedly and can sweep kids away or knock them off their feet. KNOW YOUR LIMITS Too many people get into trouble in the water because they simply overestimate their abilities and under-estimate the conditions. ALWAYS BETTER TOGETHER There is safety in numbers. If you get in trouble in the water and you have your friends or family with you, you have instant back-up. They can help you out or get help if needed! IF IN DOUBT, STAY OUT If you feel uncomfortable about getting into the water, go with your gut feeling and stay out. It's better to be safe than sorry. ROCK FISHING Rock fishing was the highest-risk activity for fatal drownings in 2018/2019. Take care. Wear your lifejacket, shoes with tread (not gumboots) and never turn your back to the sea as large waves can sweep you off the rocks unexpectedly. IF YOU SEE SOMEONE IN TROUBLE If there are lifeguards on patrol, let them know. If you can’t see any lifeguards, CALL 111 & ASK FOR THE POLICE. They have a direct line to our emergency call out squads across New Zealand and Coastguard NZ as well. Check out www.sporty.co.nz/hotwaterbeachlifeguards for tide and weather information, registration for beach club, to join the crew or to do- nate. Remember not all beaches in Mercury Bay are patrolled…if in any doubt about the conditions…don’t swim! Pick up the February Issue of The Seagull for a feature story on the history of the club.

Thank you to DMITRI KOTELEVSKI PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEO www.fernvision.co.nz

4 5 The Seagull culture

WouldA youMaori like to introduce a little Te PhraseReo Maori into your day to day a Month conversation but feel too nervous? Don’t be! Each month we’ll introduce a commonly used phrase to help kick start your Te Reo journey. As it is January/kohitātea and it is summer/Raumati let’s learn some phrases for the beach. Summer Sensation Wordsearch 1. He rangi pai tēnei mō te kaukau – It’s a good day to go swimming Circle the words from the list below…careful they may run backwards! Maze Change kaukau (swim) to another activity depending on the weather We are humbled and delighted to – walk start Hīkoi have the support of Hemi Kelly who – run F A H S P I R T D A O R B U R Oma is generously providing the phrases – stay indoors Noho i te kāinga for us from his most recent book. If C I N C I P G C O N C E R T A 2. Kuhuna ō kahu kaukau -Put your togs on you’re impatient and can’t wait for a K O O S M N T O G S O M W V S Other beach gear includes: new phrase next month then purchase tāora – towel, mōwhiti kaukau – goggles and kārewa – floaty Hemi’s book and enjoy a new phrase C F F O I A H P F E T U A E H 3.Kei te mahana te wai – the water is warm every day! P P A D D L E B O A R D T N V Replace mahana with: J O A N X S S R S C E F E I E wera – hot makariri – cold J E H D I U W U C U C R R R S mātao – freezing! R E N U N B N I C E R U M A T 4.Me hanga whare onepū tāua? Shall we build a sandcastle? T A T H T S Y E M P C S E T S Whare onepū – sandcastle Pākete - bucket S I A S C U B L I M R I L C L Kāhuru – spade V T U R K R K K L C I C O E A Koko - shovel G Z E R A I M A P I E N N N D Y E O B F X T K W Y H U G D N Penne Clayton N M O S Q U I T O A H C L H A Hometown Hero E K A H S K L I M E Y E X A J There were five representatives from the Hauraki Coromandel BARBECUE ICECREAM NECTARINE READING SURF region – Julia Te Huia from Turua, Carleen Paterson from Kaiaua, Peter Sephton from Coromandel and Penne who were invested CHILLYBIN JANDALS PADDLEBOARD ROADTRIP SWIMMING as Members and also Bruce MacDonald, the long-time District Operations Manager for Hauraki Coromandel (now retired), CONCERT JETSKI PICNIC SAND TOGS who was invested as a Commander. “He got the cool cape!” adds FRUIT MILKSHAKE POHUTUKAWA SUNHAT WATERMELON Penne. Fin Penne’s nomination was for the work she did helping get the ICE MOSQUITO RASHVEST SUNSCREEN Mercury Bay South Ambulance station () off the ground: fundraising, building and staffing it. “It’s very flattering to have been nominated but the new Get a Wheelie station was a team effort, I particularly want to acknowledge Happy New Year  om Richard Vetter and Ken Robertson, from the Mercury Bay Area Bin for your It has come to the attention of The Seagull that Hahei local Penne Committee, who were the driving force behind the construction, Home or Bach Clayton has received a prestigious award for her services to the Peter Hawley, the unofficial Mayor of Hahei and also the world’s Smart Environmental this year! local community. greatest fundraiser, and Mike Burrows Station Manager for helping me get my station up to scratch operationally.” That award is Membership of ‘The Most Venerable Order of the 3 SIZE There are 6 volunteers who cover the area from Boat Harbour Hospital of St John of Jerusalem’ and is by nomination only. This OPTIONS British royal order of chivalry was constituted in 1888 by royal Road to Ferry Landing as first responders. They range in skill charter from Queen Victoria and continues to require approval from Paramedic to First Responders. from the reigning monarch. It’s an independent part of the NZ “I’m lucky that two of my First Responders are a physiotherapist Royal Honours System of which there are 4 levels: Member, and an ex ED nurse and that one of my two Paramedics has over Officer, Commander and Knight or Dame. Admission and 25 years’ experience in St John. I’m also proud of the diversity of Contact us promotion for this award is based on merit. my team too, which really helps during the summer when most of today! “It takes quite a while to get approval,” says Penne, “I found out our work is helping tourists!” over a year ago that I had been nominated. My Investiture was Penne adds that they are a small crew and could always do with PHONE 0800 4 MY BIN (0800 469 246) meant to be in Christchurch in June, but then…Covid! So, it more volunteers to help them. eventually happened on 28th November at St Patricks Cathedral “If people think volunteering is for them, they need to visit EMAIL [email protected] in Auckland.” https://join.stjohn.org.nz/ and apply ONLINE www.smartbins.co.nz online. St John provides uniforms and training, all we need is your time.” Proudly 100% Kiwi owned

6 7 The Seagull places t all started as a hobby, with Ia passion and a love for food and Fire Brigade fishing… inspired by the Coromandel STREETS Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade Peninsula’s spectacular pristine waters of Whitianga and amazing array of seafood. Fire was a constant threat to the many wooden houses and structures in Whitianga. In 1894, to safeguard its mill, the Kauri Timber Company established the area’s first fire protection system, which included a piped in water supply and a series of wells. Unfortunately, when fire struck in 1904 the bucket brigade was unable to fight off the flames and the mill 3 Whitianga Fire Station, May 2010 burned down. In 1945, a disastrous fire destroyed the 60-year-old Whitianga public hall with Renee Oberboersch and library. Two years later, in 1947, the Chamber of Commerce discussed fire protection for the town, followed by numerous attempts over the was with a group of friends wondering how I could create a home next five years to address the issue. I But it wasn’t until 25 February 1952, at a public meeting called by Mr business. I began experimenting with smoking seafood with a group Online deal Malcolm Niccol, that the process of creating a fire brigade was begun. of friends. Using the traditional methods of smoking by hand with At a subsequent meeting on 16 April 1952, the Whitianga Volunteer Fire brine, manuka and wood smoke plus some tasty recipes, resulted in January Special Brigade was officially formed with 12 charter members led by Chief a succulent delicious mussel. So, requests from family and friends Officer Mr J S Bongard. See Bongard Road, page 40. began rolling in. The mussels were so popular I thought I would Public subscriptions financed a secondary Urban Fire Brigade and the give the local markets a go. Eventually I was approached by bigger $8 off 4 bags Coromandel County Council subsidised savings to buy the first trailer companies and started producing for the likes of Foodstuffs. pump in 1953. The first fire station opened 9 December 1954 in Monk I loved the story of the famous pirate Blackbeard. He wore his black $40 instead of $48 Street beside the Whitianga Town Hall and the first fire appliance arrived beard and hair very long, and the stories tell he would light his enter the code 10 February 1955. dreaded beard on fire, that would give off smoke, giving the pirate a A little over a year later, the brigade faced its first major challenge with a Whitianga Hotel Fire, 23 March 1956 fearsome, demonic appearance. In battle, this intimidation worked: fire at the Whitianga Hotel. On 23 March 1956, Mrs Dorothy Dale, who his foes were terrified of him. Old Seafarers tales and the history of the "Local" owned the hotel with her husband Roy, raised the alarm at 1:45am, with sunken ship “HMS Buffalo” that ran aground on our local shore, here at our online store checkout the brigade arriving two minutes later to find smoke pouring out from all in Whitianga, during a storm in 1840 led me to create our funky local sides of the building. The guests were safely evacuated and the fire that brand with a twist. www.blackbeardsmokehouse.co.nz started in the kitchen area was brought under control by 3:45am. To tie our brand to our beautiful Peninsula we have created funky Unfortunately, the recently renovated hotel was gutted but the brigade, names that refer to local iconic places. Chilli & Lime using water from the estuary and Carina Creek, was able to prevent the / Sailors Grave Garlic/ Coromandel Gold/ Hot Water Beach Bum fire from spreading to any other buildings. To show their appreciation, the Burner. Dales gave the brigade a £10 donation. When the donation was brought During the cooler winter months we also have available a gluten up at their next meeting, the brigade members felt the Dales had lost and dairy free smoked mussel and coconut chowder. And if we have enough in the fire, so the chief returned the money with thanks from the enough time, we also produce some extra goodies for our customers brigade for their gesture. at the markets. Like our smoked garlic oil, the smoked mussel pate The fire station, replaced in 1975, remained the brigade’s home until 5 May and sometimes we also have our popular hot smoked salmon. 2010, when the current station on Joan Gaskell Drive opened. However, We also cater for restaurants and some local restaurants offer our the siren at the Monk Street site remains in use ... and it is loud! 1 First Monk Street Fire Station,1955 mussels on their platters. The present Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade membership is thirty men Excerpt from “A Brief Guide to the History of Whitianga” We like our customers to know that they are buying real, hand-crafted and five women. 90 pages of Historic photos and personal Whitianga food that has been created with a passion for healthy, good, tasty food. stories. We don’t use any additives or preservatives. Available at Mosaic, 53 Albert St Summer Safety with [email protected] our Fire Brigade Deputy Chief Fire Officer Derek Collier would really like a quiet summer for himself and the Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade team. It seems the messaging doesn’t change from year to year, but some folks still just don’t get it. “There’ll be a total fire ban in place again on the this summer,” says Derek, “You can use a barbecue that is gas or has a spark suppresser but absolutely no open fires.” Our volunteer fire-fighters are the ones picking up the pieces That’s no beach fires or braziers on the back lawn either. Derek on our roads in summer too. adds that things dry out pretty quickly, especially with a bit “Take care on the roads and be patient, of wind, and a small spark or flame can go on to cause untold we’ve got a great rescue team here but damage. Those fireworks you saved from November 5th are a no- no at this time of year too. we’d rather we didn’t have to use them.” If in doubt Fire Emergency New Zealand has a Patience is key, often tourists are unfamiliar with our winding EVERY roads and may be a bit cautious, try and wait for the passing FRIDAY fabulous website which will answer your bays to attempt to get by…or crank up the tunes, relax fire-related questions. and increase your following distance and enjoy the drive. www.checkitsalright.nz

8 9 The Seagull feature artist A Family of Creative Characters at The Artists House Whenuakite A sign beckons to me…Artist’s excited to make some short Julie – Has always been an developing her film-making skills. House, from the side of the documentaries here on the integral part of both ‘Animal Confident behind the camera or main road between peninsula. She’s re-joining the Crackers’ and ‘The Artist in front of it she is now home and Whenuakite. Another sign fold and to form a triptych of House’, producing her own and painting! instructs me to park in a grassy creators, makers, painters and work in clay and patiently “Last Christmas New Zealand layby and walk up to the house. a documentary film-maker! instructing groups over was calling me, then Covid It’s quite an enticing, if steep, Gary – has been working the years to create small came and I wanted to be here,” wee walk…a rambling garden with clay for more than four masterpieces. Recently she she says, “I can take the time on either side of the concrete decades, a life-long passion has been “playing with” black to focus on art and making with the occasional surprise of which was initiated by his very clay to create her much-loved documentaries whereas in sculptures popping out of the first pottery lessons at night birds, small enough to fit in Australia life was pretty manic.” undergrowth along the way. school in Bondi, then just a your hand, each has a quirky Using pastel and pen Cassandra Levelling out at the top, just youngster in his twenties. little character which makes is painting/drawing in a naïve past a well-worn workshop, Two ceramic exhibitions, also them so popular. In the last 8 style inspired by the energy, is a verdant garden, bathed around that time, served as a years Julie has become a very sculpture and architecture of in sunshine, a curious steer catalyst in firing (excuse the proficient flax weaver, she has Rome. peers over the fence. There is pun) his imagination regarding a beautiful tactile practice using “I’d love to get into acrylic and a sense of being in a fairy-tale the possibilities of clay as a the harakeke sourced from the throw some pots with Dad too.” setting, not quite reality…or an medium. One showing the property to create baskets/ alternative reality that I’d like to work of Chester Nealie, kete, both coloured and natural Watch this creative space!!! stay in for a while, and idle away famous for his salt-glazing and in appearance. The Artists House Facebook a few hours with a book. still working in his late 70s, “Raewyn Hildreth, Fiona Hare page is Inside the French doors of the and the other an exhibition and Bess Kingi were doing www.facebook.com/ house I’m greeted with a riot of contemporary Japanese formal studies in raranga artistshouseNZ of colour and creativity of all ceramics. around eight years ago and I and kinds…I don’t know where Older now, ‘mature’ one could joined in with their group,” she Instagram @artistshousenz to look first…the paintings, say, Gary’s work has evolved, says. Find Cassandra Nevin sculpture, pots and weaving, he still does a bit of ‘clay-work’, “The flax has a lovely aroma, at and then there is the interior of but he is currently enjoying a feels good and the cat enjoys www.ofwhatweare.com new medium. it,” adds Gary with a grin. the house which is a wonderful, and Instagram@cassandranevin “My latest passion is carving Julie has also woven and whimsical creation in its own The Nevins will be welcoming concrete,” he enthuses, “It stitched a kakahu/cloak right. Virginia O’Sullivan to their has a spontaneous feel to it, using traditional methods But, it’s the inhabitants who gallery space for the Art Escape you have to work while it is but contemporary materials, hold my fascination for today, weekends in March. what a rare and marvellous still wet, with only a couple all learned from books and thing to have three artists of hours as your window of something she worked on under the same roof…the opportunity before it hardens.” when completing her Diploma result of some osmosis of It requires a clear vision before of Adult Education. A very creative juices and definitely launching into the work, personal piece each section has a passing on of DNA to the with no firing and removal of a meaning. youngest. ‘negative space’ rather than Traditional designs reference, Gary Nevin and Julie adding elements to a work, it is for example, the stairway to Burns-Nevin have been almost the opposite of potting. heaven and matariki and there creating on the Coromandel Gary also paints from time to is a section honouring the for over thirty years with a time, his voluptuous imagery passing of a local lad. Is is both studio called ‘Animal Crackers’ often references his equally beautiful and poignant in turn. in , before hand- buxom clay sculptures with Julie is telling stories with her building their adobe home. their inviting curves, definitely hands. After 10 years in Australia, appealing to those with his Cassandra – Born at Cooks daughter Cassandra is home, work on their walls or in their Beach, and the youngest of the making art and renovating the gardens. artists, spent time in Australia sleepout to live in. She's

10 11 After living in Tokyo The Seagull for 18 years, my wife and I found our food spiritual home here, in 65 acres (MOL) of Chargrilled Dishes from the Charcoal Oven, Low & Slow Cooked Meat & Fish from the Smoker beautiful native bush, south of Whitianga. Yes Chef ! Fresh Local Seafood - Craft Beers - New Zealand Wines We built a house that It’s got to be one of the best views in town and sitting at Stoked Ohakune. (They’re not afraid of jolly hard work!)“We’d had holidays incorporates many Restaurant on the Esplanade Whitianga, with a craft beer or a fine and done road trips to the Coromandel and Whitianga in the past Japanese elements, 363 Mill Creek Rd wine, and watching the boats coming in from a day on the ocean and relocated to the Peninsula in 2013 working in both Tairua and like a tatami mat For Sale is pure bliss. You might also catch a waft of deliciousness from the Hahei. room, deep wooden Char-Coal oven out back and you’ll be forgiven for salivating. ofuro bath and a dojo During this time, we set up our own outside catering business with (training hall); where, Stoked was established in 2016 by owner-operators Andy and Bex a Woodfired Pizza Oven on the back of a custom built Trailer this I could continue to Driscoll. They each have more than 25 years’ experience in the is where Stoked evolved from. An exciting opportunity came up practise and teach international cuisine and hospitality industry and it’s been their life- to purchase a three-bedroom Bach on the Esplanade we grabbed aikido… “The Way of long dream to open their own restaurant. it with Excitement and converted it into a Restaurant and Bar.” Harmony”. Sounds easy but then with two young children in tow there was a Away from the Hailing from Newcastle, England they’ve taken a circuitous route fair bit of clever juggling to see the project to fruition. clamour and crowds to Whitianga, having travelled extensively and enjoyed working of big cities, we have in different locations in the UK and New Zealand…including a Bex and Andy held true to their vision to provide a relaxed enjoyed the health Sanctuary ski-season at Mt Ruapehu and a 6-year stint running a motel in Waterfront dining experience and with a talented team of staff they and well-being SHARING OUR work hard to ensure their customers are warmly welcomed and benefits of being have the best experience of food and hospitality...every time. The surrounded by Nature couple says they love the fact they have so many repeat customers – that which the and regulars…it is the greatest compliment. Japanese call, “forest bathing” It has been a privilege Call Rob to share our sanctuary 021 0238 9767 with fellow Kiwis and international visitors and to pass on some aspects of Japanese culture - via classes in aikido and meditation; however, the time has come to pass this rare 3 and special place to other, like-minded 2 guardians ‘kaitiaki’ 1 2 4

“Rob was brilliant to work with when we were purchasing our The Restaurant offers a unique style of cooking using a Charcoal property. Rob took the Oven and a Smoker. This enables them to serve up Char-grilled stress out and made Meats, Seafood and Vegetables with a charred finish and smoky the whole process aroma to the dishes. The offset smoker allows them to smoke very easy explaining their own seafood, cheese and low and slow cooked cuts of meat each step clearly. like their famous ‘16-hour brisket’ or salmon “to die for”. Communication from both Rob and the office staff was professional, They also serve up local Seafood, including Coromandel mussels timely and courteous and oysters. To accompany these dishes, they have a range of and he was always Craft Beers and Cider on Tap, local Wine and Fusion Coffee. They contactable to answer support local up and coming brewers and food suppliers. any queries. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend With daughters Chloe and Nieve now 15 and 7 respectively it’s Rob not quite as hard and the family love to get out - in, on and under to any the water together whenever they can find a gap. prospective vendors or buyers” They enjoy the buzz of the busy summer season and meeting Mark & Lisa D new people as well as greeting their regulars as old friends.

See you on the deck at Stoked this January! Licensed Agent REAA 2008

12 13 The Seagull community

Grand Opening y interest in hostingCoro these events came from Scootthe Each event J will haveam two stages. Skatepark recentM investment in the Peninsula skateparks from the - The 1st stage will be for beginners and younger Not only will there be a whole heap of scooter fun, but the 9th January council and the local communities. It has been amazing kids who just like speeding around on their will mark the opening of the brand new Whitianga Skatepark. Local skaters of a ‘certain to watch the New Whitianga Skatepark Facebook page scooters. We’ll run timed speed races around the skatepark and give away prizes for the winners. age’ are delighted their children will see the benefit of and see how the community has got behind this, so the something they’ve wanted for a very long time. The skate and will be for the more experienced locals could have somewhere to ride. - The 2nd stage scooter community have put a lot of effort into raising their Keep supporting I approached the council to chat about running a series riders who can do tricks. There will be more information part of the funds required, unanimously supported by the OUR PARK of events under the Ethic DTC brand over summer to on the format closer to the time. There will be prizes to Mercury Bay Community Board, and finally get to enjoy the utilise these skateparks for the local riders. the winners also. facility this summer. Scootering is one of the fastest growing freestyle Our sponsored riders Thomas and Michael will be doing Mayor Sandra is officially opening the Whitianga Skatepark The Skate Park sports in NZ. There aren’t many organised events apart some judging and commentating throughout the day as at 9am on Saturday 9 January 2021. Following the opening Fundraising Cookbook. from the nationals once a year and the events put on well as a couple of local riders helping us out. there will be the inaugural Coro Scooter Jam, an Ethic-DTC sponsored event. $20 cash only at the by Bayskate/Napier City Council, which have proved We will have our Ethic DTC marquee there on the day where our riders will hang out and chat to the locals “Whitianga just keeps getting better and better with all the front desk of Evakona popular. We want to be a bit different in our approach work that’s gone into the town centre, making it a place for and give some tips to help with their riding. An Ethic Education 18 South to the industry and hold events in different regions, so all ages to come together and enjoy. First, we had the main that local riders can have some fun and show off their DTC shop will also be in the marquee so riders can street and Esplanade redeveloped – and now it’s a new skate Highway. skills. see and buy our Ethic DTC scooter parts and Eretic facility. Congratulations and thank you to all involved. From Along with the local council and More FM, Snow and Snowscoots. the Skatepark Trust who showed how it’s done to raise funds Street is hosting Scooter Jams in Whitianga, Whangamata Every one that registers through our website will go in for a great cause, to the contractors involved in the build, and Thames. the draw to win an Ethic Prize pack to be drawn on the to the Mercury Bay Community Board who have partnered day for all three locations. with their local people to see another project successfully Dean Calland completed. I look forward to seeing this public asset well Director It’s free to register!! u s e d .” Skate Park Cook Book

Member of the Skatepark Trust, Benson Lockhart, is understandably pretty excited about the completion the park. “I just want to acknowledge everyone that has worked so hard to get the skatepark for Whitianga it’s going to be an epic facility for both skaters and spectators. It has been a long road. We are thankful to TCDC staff and councillors and the community board for supporting it in the location that it is. We have had so much support from so many individuals and businesses in the community there too many to list and I don’t want to offend anyone by missing them. The results have the whole community frothing to roll around this classy facility. I can’t wait to see the kids progress and develop their skills at the park.”

The design includes three main areas 1. A street drain run, which follows the Carina Creek edge and consists of low height obstacles maintaining the views through the facility. 2. An open flow section, consisting of beginner to intermediate transition features, with some unique and challenging obstacles. 3. An isolated bowl section, consisting of intermediate to advanced quarter pipes. The design incorporates seating and terraces that are located at the main entry point of the skate park, which connects to the Taylors Mistake/Whakau Reserve open grass area. Seating has also been incorporated into some of the facility’s platform areas, along with shelter. This is a family-friendly facility for all ages with a variety of challenges suitable for beginners to the experts. Check out the December Issue of The Seagull where we talk to Chris Charteris, sculptor, about the wonderful granite stones in the skatepark.

14 15 The Coromandel The Seagull

With the dawning of spring, local wedding industry Local Whitianga beach vendors ramp up their Makeup Master Jodie Elizabeth is a Coromandel local artist having Known by many as ‘Flea’ she grew up on the Coromandel babe Helena Lucia was creativity and look to the grown up in Tairua and Whitianga and is still here at 32yrs! She is in K town in Blue Fridge Valley in the bush. Her passion for the perfect model, with Coromandel wedding renowned for her flawless make-up application and pristine make up photography started 20 years ago when she starting driving her season ahead. Felicity looks. Using only the highest quality make-up products. Her signature tour buses around New Zealand for Kiwi naturally sun-kissed skin. look is glowing radiant skin, complemented by a soft moky eye. As Experience. She was often in beautiful places and with Jean Photography and you can see Jodie has demonstrated this beautifully throughout the She looked stunning in Brooke of Dooley Street a great bunch of beautiful subjects to photograph - her the jumpsuit and was a stunning shoot. Her inspiration comes from ‘Old School Hollywood’. passengers. Styling always see Spring She loves the glamour of the 1920s/30s/40s/50s. Jodie’s signature look dream to as prime time to was inspired by Bridget Bardot, a French model of the 1950s who She moved back to the Coromandel 8 years ago and now photograph,we had so collaborate on a creative made it big in Hollywood with her beautiful smoky eyes and nude lips. offers wedding, family portrait, travel, event and commercial much fun! photo shoot, showcasing She absolutely adores many other old Hollywood beauty icons such as photography. She loves photographing people. Two years local stunning scenery Marilyn Munro, Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor. ago, as a winter project prior to the busy wedding season, and some of what local she created and published her first photography book. wedding vendors have to ‘A Colourful Community’ capturing the spirit of the offer. local people of Kuaotunu, Otama, Opito, Matarangi and .

Prop hire, florals & styling of your special event

Pulled together in a relatively short amount of time, this sneaky wee shoot was created to celebrate golden sunsets and the impending glow of summer. Elopement hotspot Otama Beach on a Brooke’s creation of Dooley Street Styling began with an obsession late November afternoon for creating, what some might have called crazy, but she says delivered the goods, beautiful, parties for her daughter Charlie. It was an outlet for complete with a pod of crafting and creativity and a way of making use of her many dolphins ambling past. collections. Interest grew for not only kids party planning, but for Elizabeth May’s Asana wedding styling also, and so Dooley Street Styling was born. jumpsuit was chosen as a She now provides unique and beautiful props, styling and coordination of wedding & other special events on the Coromandel point of difference, and Peninsula & beyond. florals in soft orange and As you will see from the photos in this photo shoot Brooke also warm peach mirrored the creates floral arrangements, such a talented lady. golden glow of the setting sun.

Phone - 021513095 email - [email protected] www.dooleystreetstyling.nz

16 17 people The Seagull own arts events. With events experience, they’re well aware of the support needed right now for artists and event organisers. Now’s OUR PLAYGROUND, definitely the time to show your support and COASTAL help grow your local events industry by getting WALKWAY out the house, going to gigs, and spreading the YOUR PLAYGROUND word. The idea is to grow audience numbers, which in turn helps create a more stable environment for events to happen. Think Gig Take a fresh look at Guide also preaches to us to show our support by buying tickets early. No more leaving familiar places your plans to the last day, that’s just not cool anymore. The Think Gig Guide has taken a team of loyal volunteers and supporters to keep it going. Last December the community got solidly behind Emma Mudgway the Think Gig Guide crowdfunding campaign to give them a boost NEW CHUM & BEACH Kenzie Sampson to keep this project growing and thriving. ‘The support was overwhelming, and we want to thank everyone who helped us out by donating or sharing our message, and for all the kind words of encouragement we received during the COROMANDEL campaign. Crowdfunding has been a real journey and challenge, TOWN and we highly recommend it’ - Summer is here and our favourite part of this beautiful season Kenzie Sampson is the chance to get out and enjoy the many events happening Visit www.thinkgigguide.com to view this month's guide. While across our little slice of paradise. It can be tricky to find out you're there, subscribe to get it direct to your inbox each month. WHITIANGA CATHEDRAL COVE what’s going on sometimes, but two local girls (Emma & Kenzie) You'll also find a printable version and they encourage folk to have been working hard to make it super easy for us. Enter print it out and display it at your place of business, shop windows, the Think Coromandel Gig Guide, born so we don’t have to billboards, i-sites, as a way of promoting the local events even suffer from FOMO anymore. It’s your absolute go-to for what's further. HOT WATER BEACH happening around the peninsula. 2021 is a new year, and now it’s easier than ever to find out what’s “The Think Coromandel Gig Guide is focused on connecting our on. So no excuses, get out the house, support your local arts communities, and recognises the value the arts play on mental scene and connect with your community! wellbeing. We are a grassroots project, which all began with us being willing to travel for a good gig but wondering where Go to we could find out what was going on without having to trawl WAIOMU through a bunch of different websites. Now we do that mahi for www.thinkgigguide.com TAIRUA everyone.’- Emma Mudgway. insta/FB @thinkcoromandelgigguide to follow them. The girls are extremely dedicated to supporting artists and KAIAUA creating opportunities for the community to engage with the arts. Alongside their gig guide, they profile artists and host their See you out there! SHOREBIRD COAST THAMES PU-KOROKORO/ MIRANDA VALLEY

WHANGAMATA- NGATEA

PAEROA KARANGAHAKE GORGE WAIHI WAIHI BEACH

18 19 The Seagull places summer KUAOTUNU LIBRARY A walk along Kuaotunu beach and glimpse under a huge macrocarpa whose branches sweep the sands, shows us theres a discreet library builder living in the village ,whose quiet work has added a quirky touch to the way people do things out here . The mystery of who dunnit comes comes right to the doorstep of locals Wayne and Jo Mullins and some enquiries. Coastguard Summer When did you set about with this cute project hanging a mussel buoy filling it with books and hanging it off a tree ? Advice for Boaties The library is a straight copy of one Jo and I discovered while walking on the beach at Little Bay a couple of years ago. We chose a place/tree near an area of relatively high use and placed it there figuring there was much to be gained if it was used and nothing to lose if it wasn’t. Did the Mullins manage this project alone? No, it was a a community thing. I collected the buoy it from Thames coast on the way to Auckland brought it back, borrowed a water blaster from Hamish Noble, a neighbour, to clean it up then set about modifying it. Did you design and build the interior shelving ,build the door with its impressive clicking locking system ? Yes I did, with some guidance and perseverance. I am not a skilled carpenter and this was really more of a job for a boat builder with all the curves involved. The construction process was much more difficult than I had anticipated, for example when I came to attach the door I found it had changed shape significantly and needed a framework inside to reform it so it would work. I'm not sure it would pass as a year 12 MBAS technical project but I'm sure none of its users cares. It doesn't have building consent, code of compliance or meet earthquake requirements but it does have drainage holes in case of a tsunami. Whats its user system? ,how is the library maintained ? Jo supplied the books to fill it initially and periodically checks it and adds more.The community readers' library nearby also provides books that are no longer needed there. During Covid lockdown I taped the door closed with a note saying "closed during lockdown". Apart from this there has been 24 hour access if weather and tidal conditions allow.

Which authors are most popular in the mussel buoy? I did see some early National Geographics there once along with Wilber Smith and Lee Child.

The Kuaotunu Beach Library is a brilliant community project, book- sharing at its best. All you need to add to enjoy its success is a beach towel and time.

Another of our amazing emergency organisations, run by to notify the team that you’re back safely so they don’t go volunteers, is looking out for us this summer…this time on looking for you unnecessarily! You could get a bill for the the water! wasted time and resources. Graham Caddy, operations manager for Whitianga One of the places that has great potential to cause grief Volunteer Coastguard, gives us some timely advice for safe, is the Whangapoua Bar between Whangapoua Beach and summer boating. Matarangi. “Planning for your trip starts the night before. Go over your “Check in with Coastguard for a bar crossing report,” says vessel and check for seaworthiness, is the battery charged, Graham, “It’s a long, flat bar that should only be crossed do you have plenty of fuel and what is the weather forecast within the hour either side of the high tide.” He adds if looking like?” there is any white water at all on the bar, don’t attempt it. Graham says one of the biggest problems is that folks are Did you know you can lodge a bar crossing report, call in to too rigid in their planning, they want to go out that day Coastguard on Channel 63 as you are about to cross, they life planning, Goal setting, come hell or high water, quite literally, and that is where will put the timer on and if you don’t call back within the the trouble starts. We need to be prepared to pull the pin if allowable time, they will activate the team presuming you Low tox living any of the above are not right. are in need of urgent assistance…an amazing service from “Make sure you have two forms of communication, VHF Coastguard for our boating community. radio and a mobile phone. We encourage you to lodge a Pop over to their website for more information, to become trip report with Coastguard; where you’re going, when, a member or to donate to this extremely worthwhile how many people you have on board and what time you are community organisation. expected back.” Graham adds that it takes 30 seconds to make a trip report, but it could save your life. Remember www.whitiangacoastguard.co.nz PHOTO BY DMITRI KOTELEVSKI PHOTOGRAPHY

20 21 The Seagull 2021 Anniversary weekend sees the return of the 10 Artists for another exhibition of diverse and engaging wellbeing art work in Kuaotunu. Mindfulness Colouring We will have a wide range of work on display and sale including sculpture, painting, photography, drawing, paper engineering, raranga (weaving), wood working, collage and mixed media. The 10 Artists are all local to the area and their work is strongly connected to their environment, culture and community - something that is especially important to the group.

The venue itself is very special and has been part of the Kuatounu community since it was built in 1896. It is a beautiful example of period architecture and the perfect venue for the exhibition. The exhibition runs from 10am on Friday 29th January until 4pm Monday 1st February. Entry is free so please come along and meet the artists, enjoy their art and our beautiful community by the sea. If you are here for the concert we are just a short 20 minute drive to the north.

22 23 The Seagull people Hidden Treasures of the 309 Road

About 6 years ago, long before I moved to Whitianga, my family and I were visiting the Coromandel. As we drove past the Coro end of the 309 Rd, we spied a group of what looked like little, wild, black piglets. We followed them up the road and got out to have a look at them, amazed that they didn’t run off. To our surprise, a rather wild-looking bush man appeared out of the trees on the roadside and followed the pigs off into the wilderness on the other side.

On the way home we had quite the lively discussion about who this eventually lets them move in instead. Clearly this is a man who has mysterious pig man could be and where he might live. found a second family amongst his beloved cloven-hoofed friends. Fast forward several years and the ‘Pig Man’ of the 309 Rd has been He fetched ‘Felicity’, one of the tamer babies, for me so I could have noticed by many more and has become somewhat of a tourist attraction, a cuddle and patiently explained how to hold her properly. He was even featuring on the 309 Rd Brochure which can be picked up at the generous with his time as many more cars of tourists stopped to Information Centre. check the place out, hop the fence, ask questions and cuddle piglets. Last year I was on a photography workshop when we stopped in. We If you’re looking for new places to explore this summer, take a drive were welcomed over the fence and I had a field-day photographing all the down the 309 Road. First you’ll find an epic water hole, further broken-down vehicles in the yard. Many families of pigs now occupy the along still you can take a short walk to see the mighty twin Kauri fenced off section of land. The ‘Pig Man’ himself appeared and I was struck trees, go a little further and you can take a dip at the stunning Waiau by his quiet and gentle nature. Falls and then finally stop in and say to the hidden treasure that is I met his brother who explained that many of the vehicles in the yard the Pig Man and his four legged family. were intended for the Pig Man but he loves his pigs so much that he Words and pictures by Debbie Lim Photography

24 25 The Seagull green page curling in on itself and flowers falling off, look for the little aphid-like TPP green page psyllid on the underside of the leaves (or the grainy so-called psyllid sugars which they excrete). If you don’t want to spray, pull out any affected plants immediately. Remember that uneven watering causes a range of problems for tomatoes too – from the large, black, sunken spots that appear on the non-stalk end (also known as blossom end rot), to splitting fruit. Water Don’t be a tosser… Firstly ……… to all our wonderful customers and readers, happy new deeply a few times a week, rather than a sprinkling every day, and give year to you all. We hope you had a wonderful Christmas season and them a dose of liquid potash which we sell to promote better fruit set. Keep spent it with your loved ones enjoying quality time together. pinching out your laterals to help increase air flow which in return helps We have decided to kick off this year by donating a percentage of to reduce diseases. This is our second year growing our tomatoes in the Minimise your footprint this our January sales to supporting suicide prevention in New Zealand. ezy-lift 35 litre bags. We absolutely love this style of growing. They have Our donation will help towards raising awareness in schools and excellent drainage, and it gives us more room in our vege beds for all the summer holiday communities, and helping to support the 24/7 phone and text helplines. other crops we like to grow. Nothing makes my blood boil more than Reusable shopping bags are great for By purchasing anything from us during the month of January, and If you fancy growing your own food but are stuck for space, you will be following a car the inhabitants of which feel groceries, beach trips and taking laundry to our donation to this much needed organisation, you could help to amazed at what you can successfully grow and harvest from a standard save a life. It saddens us that so many people walk among us in our 10 litre bucket. Success to growing crops in pots comes down to one is okay to toss their rubbish out the window. the laundromat. communities that face these daily struggles. If you or someone you thing – water. Without irrigation, you’re ultimately destined to fail. Plants Almost as much blood boiling happens when know, are having suicide thoughts, please know how much you are with their roots sunk deep into garden soil are naturally more forgiving of I see cigarette butts on the beach and plastic Refillable containers are fabulous for travel loved, and how deeply you would be missed if you were no longer here. occasional outbreaks of neglect, whereas plants left high and dry in pots will Please reach out to someone and share your thoughts and feelings. wilt in a matter of hours. Every time a container-grown plant is subjected interwoven with the shells and seaweed. toiletries, even better use solid bar shampoos, ‘It’s ok if all you did today was survive’. to drought stress it markedly reduces its lifespan. That leads to fewer fruit What’s that saying? “Take only photographs conditioners, moisturisers and the like which • 24/7 Helpline |0800 LIFELINE (0800 54 33 54) or on tomatoes, smaller roots on beets and carrots, and a tendency for leafy and leave only footprints”. True. can be popped in a jar. • Suicide Crisis Helpline | 0508 TAUTOKO (0508 82 88 65) crops like rocket and spinach to run to seed. And using one of our quality • Kidsline | 0800 54 37 54 premium grade Daltons potting mix’s is essential. Moving containers into I acknowledge that it can be a challenge to • In an emergency or if you feel you or someone you know is at semi-shaded positions over summer can also help, but you do need to be travel or holiday, especially with children, and Buy bulk sunscreen, keep it the boot and refill risk, dial 111. prepared to water your potted plants every day during hot, dry weather. practice the same waste minimisation as you a smaller container for outings. Until next month, have a safe and happy January. Come and see any of our This season we were a little late planting our tomatoes, so January do at home, but, with a little preparation, you amazing, knowledgeable and friendly staff to help and assist you with your is going to be all about harvesting in our household. Large slices can have a red hot go at having a greener Have lots of food containers in different sizes gardening and landscaping projects. of beefsteak on vogels with salt and pepper, homemade chutneys, holiday! for your picnics. colourful salads, slow roasted with sage and balsamic vinegar. Oh the Remember to slip, slop, slap and wrap. Be safe in the water and on the list goes on and on ……………. It’s important to keep an eye out on roads. Hope to see you soon. From the team at Mercury Bay Garden Don’t get sucked into buying cheap toys your tomato plants this month. If you notice foliage yellowing and Centre and Landscaping Supplies. Here’s The Seagull’s top tips and clothes in the New Year sales. ..they’ll Have a take-away kit: metal straws, reusable probably end up in landfill quicker than you’d take-away containers and keep-cups for all the like. If you shop…buy quality that will last or family. Get into the habit of giving them all a bring everything you need or want with you good wash at night, pop them back in the car from home. and be ready for the next day’s adventures.

It goes without saying that your water bottles are the refillable variety.

Pop a sanitiser pump bottle in the car and an old-fashioned face-cloth in a jar to replace your wet-wipes.

26 27 The Seagull

Festivals: The best and worst times Jordan Gower Late in February of 2020 I stood in a moshpit, surrounded by a few to use the portaloo, its inside walls covered in a variety of question- thousand others, watching one of my favourite artists perform as able substances. I hugged my friends tightly. A month later the entire country went By now it’s 11am so it’s obviously time for a drink. You get in line into lockdown and I was in physical contact with just one other AGAIN, to pay $35 for a very weak, very icy, gin and tonic. You’re person for five weeks. quickly running out of money, but the knowledge you can always A rather large concern of mine (after the safety of my friends and go into overdraft is there to save your worry. You’ll get paid on family, and the Thursday, it’s fine. It has been a crazy year that no one could have predicted, yet for many of us, our outlook on many things has changed. potential ensuing apocalypse) was not being able to attend that You stumble your way through the day, maybe going back to your Some of us embarked into the scary world of business, deciding we wanted to drop the standard work week and become same festival the following year. tent and attempting to restructure it, knowing that later that night entrepreneurs, following our dreams and being our own boss. And why not? Entrepreneurship is sexy right now. I was desperate to get back to the most disgusting and unhygienic, it’s very likely you’ll just use it as a blanket anyway. yet exhilarating, weekend of my year. Before you know it, the night is nigh and you’re alive again. The real Starting a business can be daunting and scary, not knowing where to start and oh the sleepless nights wondering if you Suddenly, we have made it back to January (although mentally I fun begins, gathering your friends in the most tent-shaped-tent have made the right decision. But this is where your passion and love for a for what you do kicks in and takes over and it am very much still in March) which means festival season is here. while you cover yourself in glitter. Heading toward the blaring mu- doesn’t seem so scary anymore! We are extremely fortunate to be in a country where toilet-pa- sic, you and your friends make a plan for the evening. But somehow per-hoarding is a thing of the past, and we are all relatively safe within 45 When you have passion, positive thoughts are second nature – failure is not an option! The fear of failure takes a back from COVID-19. Some of you have likely spent your New Year’s at minutes you’ve lost everyone. seat, with passion in control. Passion is the belief that you can do this, and this belief trumps fear every time! one of these grotty festivals, while others are tightly budgeting for A pivotal moment in each festival experience; give up and go to ones to come; preparing yourselves for the awful wonder ahead. bed, or go it alone? Always choose to go it alone. I promise you this Sometimes it comes down to the simple little things, stopping and asking yourself the following question, what makes you My first and largest issue with festivals are the queues. I have little is where the magic happens. excited about what you are doing? The difference between those in small business who succeed and survive and those to no patience on a daily Explore and dance to the best music and meet some wonderful who do not is a passion and love for what they have created and what they do. After all, you could have started a business basis, so perhaps I’m more susceptible to the annoyance of waiting strangers. Have a few in any field, but you chose the one you are in, that is saying something! in line. However, I feel I’m not alone when I say that waiting 20 epiphanies, then at some point in the early hours of dawn you’ll find minutes to order, followed by another 30 minutes just to receive your friends again, and you can exchange your best stories of the It has been a weird year for all of us, but for the ones who have followed their dreams and started a new business, well my oat cappuccino - that I desperately need to cure my hangover night. A post-party debrief is always the best part of a festival. done! It may be tough at times and you may want to give up – do not! - is exorbitant. But we do it anyway, we drain the caffeine into our Overall, festivals are just three-five days of waiting, not showering, Enjoy the ride, it is definitely worth it! veins and 10 minutes later you need the bathroom. and getting scarily close to bankruptcy, but it must be done. More But guess what? There’s a queue. So you wait another twenty now than ever we should appreciate being able to gather togeth- Clare minutes trying not to wet yourself right there, until it’s your turn er with our loved ones, and just let go of the outside world for a second. Enjoy it… in all its dirty glory.

"Your One Stop Auto Shop"

65 COOK DRIVE, WHITIANGA 07 866 0606

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