Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,000 One of the most impressive boats ever built in By Tony Stickley

Whitianga boat builders, Harkin Boat Works, have just dispatched a “mind-blowing” game fishing vessel constructed to order for French Polynesian sea-adventure company, Sea Wolf Expeditions. And in a delightful twist, the owner of the new craft, aptly named “Seawolf,” was once an apprentice working for boat building company owner, Brian Harkin, who was formerly based in . Initially, Brian had intended to steam the boat up to Papeete with the new owner, whom he named only as Tom. But because of border closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the plan has changed. On Saturday last week, a crew of three set sail for Auckland where the multi-million dollar, top-end launch will be loaded onto a purpose-built yacht-carrier leaving for Tahiti later this week. Tom is the skipper of the luxury 26m sport fisher, Ultimate Lady, which he worked on with Brian as a boat building apprentice in Auckland 22 years ago. According to Sea Wolf Expeditions, the plan is for wealthy clients to use the Ultimate Lady as a “mother ship” or a floating, upmarket hotel while using the new vessel for a range of water activities, including scuba diving, deep sea fishing, snorkelling trips, shark encounters, whale Seawolf, a brand-new 50-foot launch built in Whitianga, setting sail for Auckland on Saturday last week. watching, surf safaris, spear fishing, jet skiing and island picnics. Polynesia, he knows exactly what he wants “It is one of the most impressive boats Brian said that Tom would be marketing “Tom and I know each other very well, in a boat.” ever built in Whitianga and possibly New the vessel’s concept and design to potential having worked so closely over the years and In total, Brian estimated that Seawolf has Zealand. Most people are blown away by it. purchasers in the US and Europe once it we have been in constant contact on this taken up two-and-a-half years of his life - They think it is amazing. It is not just another had been put to work and proved itself. project,” said Brian, who was unwilling to just about the length of time he and his wife, white launch - most boaties will know what I In initial sea trials, the vessel has exceeded reveal how much Seawolf cost. “This boat is Jenny, have lived in Whitianga - but says it mean by that.” expectations. “There are already some people his concept from start to finish based on what was worth it, working on such an exceptional During the 20,000 man-hours taken to showing an interest, but because it is a new he needed in French Polynesia and he worked craft. “This boat is utterly unique,” he said. construct Seawolf, Brian said he was able design they are not going to rush in straight closely with naval architects, Lomocean “It is designed to travel long distances to call on local expertise for all the different away and sign up,” he said. Marine, on the design. economically in different sea conditions. trades. “There is a small, but thriving marine In the meantime, Brian has plenty of “Having spent years sailing around the Undoubtedly, it is one of the most advanced industry here in Whitianga, so we have had general boat building work to keep him Pacific with his parents as a young boy and 50-foot fishing boats in the world, with the no trouble finding the best people for the busy and besides, it was good to have a “bit now having sailed so many years as a skipper most sophisticated electronics and the best job,” he said. “I would love to name them all, of a breather” and continue to enjoy life in of one of the most famous boats in French gear available. but there are so many.” “wonderful Whitianga.”

Distributed throughout the , coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz “Man of Steel” - a cycle ride that continues to grow in prominence By Jack Biddle Overnight rain and a predicted bleak forecast for Tuesday at 5:15pm and head off to ride to the us with an enduring memory and a challenging Jack and Steven, plus a group of hardened the day ahead that thankfully never eventuated top of the 309 and back,” he says. “There were bike ride and one that has grown in status over mountain bikers led by Whitianga holiday home did not deter over 30 cyclists from taking part no rules on these rides, you rode at your own the years, plus it is ridden in the spirit that owner, Duncan McLay. in Bike ’s annual “Man of Steel” pace and waited at the top for the last rider to very much typified his personality,” says Bike And in keeping with the “steel” theme, ride last Saturday. It’s a cycle ride which appear, catch your breath and head back down Mercury Bay president, Robbie Stephenson. local cyclist Grant McDonald turned up and has grown in prominence over the years and the hill for home. Joining Chris on Saturday’s ride were conquered the ride for the second time on a brings together cyclists of varying abilities and “The last rider to appear at the top was other local cyclists who rode regularly with single-gear vintage steel Raleigh bike from the disciplines within both the local community and invariably Kieran, but he didn’t care and neither Kieran in the past, including Tony Courtenay, mid-1940s, finishing ahead of many who were also from outside the Mercury Bay area. did anyone else. It wasn’t a race, it was more Bryan Layton and Graham Eccles. Graham is aboard far more expensive machinery. It’s certainly not a ride for the fainthearted about companionship and the friendships which more adapt at swinging a golf club these days, The ride was also used as a fundraiser for the either with a course that start in Whitianga grew from it. It is fitting that the Man of Steel but the grit and determination that saw him ride Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust, a cause and includes ascents of the 309 Road, and the ride heads over the 309 as for many of us, it’s a the length of a few years back with obvious links to Kieran during his battles tough Mania and Kerata hills before a push up place to look skyward and have a quiet word to were very much on display, especially on those with cancer. and over the Tapu- Road where the an old mate once the top is reached.” big hill climbs where by his own admission, Kieran McCarten was a man many cyclists finish line and much appreciated and needed The same theme that Kieran and Chris were the lack of hill work leading up to the ride was riding this edition of the Man of Steel never had the privilege to meet, but by virtue of being refreshments awaited at the Coroglen Tavern. part of all those years ago continues to this day definitely taking its toll. with the emphasis on the Man of Steel ride being At the other end of the scale, the ride drew humble and tough as steel, he has left behind a Hard seal and gravel surfaces are all included solely based around participation. “Kieran left the interest of the legendary Swart brothers, long-lasting legacy. in the mix with an all-up cycling distance just shy of 100km. Add onto that an elevation gain of around 1,500m and it’s definitely no cycle in the park. The end result is tired legs, but a great feeling of satisfaction. The ride has become one of the most anticipated events on the Bike Mercury Bay calendar and is held in memory of former member of the organisation, Kieran McCarten, who passed away in May 2017 after a brief and unexpected battle with cancer. Kieran is affectionately remembered as the “Man of Steel” within the local cycling community which reflects back to the days when he ran an engineering business in Whitianga and also the way in which he rode his bike. The Man of Steel tag is a perfect fit says Kieran’s close mate and long-time cycling companion, Chris Brown. “For well over 10 years and in all seasons, Kieran and I would join a hardy group of mountain bikers at the Whitianga Fire Station roundabout every Local cyclists, Chris Brown (left) and Grant McDonald, after conquering this year’s Bike Mercury Bay “Man of Steel” ride.

What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information provided and sponsored by Week of Wednesday, 19 May to Wednesday, 26 May - The Moon is the star of the show this month since there will be a total eclipse of the Moon visible on 26 May. The eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through the Earth’s shadow, at first only through the edge then gradually moving into the darkest part of the shadow which can often give it a distinctly reddish colour. Each eclipse is different with the redness depending on many things, including the amount of volcanic dust in the atmosphere at the time. The International Space Station (ISS) will also be visible some mornings. Wednesday, 19 May - The first quarter Moon now sits right in the middle of the upside down question mark that makes up the constellation Leo.Thursday, 20 May - The Moon is still in Leo, but just to the right of its upside down question mark. Friday, 21 May - A bright ISS pass this morning from the NW starting at 6:27am and passing right beside Jupiter. Sunday, 23 May - A good ISS pass this morning from 6:30am in the west. Monday, 24 May - Another bright morning ISS pass from Astronomy Tours and B&B 5:44am high overhead towards the west. Wednesday, 26 May - A lunar eclipse occurs tonight starting from about 9:45pm, but the best viewing will be Phone (07) 866 5343 during totality from 11:11pm to 11:26pm. www.stargazersbb.com

Whitianga and tides Tides data sponsored by

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

Page 2 - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Local fire brigades proud hosts of national golf tournament

The and Volunteer Fire Brigades were the proud hosts of the 58th PBI New Zealand Firefighters National Golf Tournament at The Dunes Matarangi last week. “It was a great week,” says Stuart Arnold, Chief Fire Officer of the Matarangi Volunteer Fire Brigade. “On Monday and Friday, two fun competitions were held, while the serious stroke play competition took place on Wednesday and Thursday. A total of 148 firefighters from across New Zealand, as far South as Stewart Island, participated. The prize-giving dinner on Friday evening was attended by more than 170 people. It was just outstanding. “I would like to give a huge shout-out to the team at the The Dunes Matarangi. They have gone above and beyond. The golf course was in perfect condition and to cater breakfast and dinner for such a large group of people over several days was no mean feat. I also would like to thank my fellow Matarangi firefighters for their support over the course of the week. I would like to think that we’ve set the standard for future competitions.” Kevin Adlam from the Whangapoua Volunteer Fire Brigade and his wife, Janice, worked alongside Stuart in organising the tournament. Fittingly, both Stuart and Kevin finished in the prizes. Max McLean of Coromandel Town was one of the top performers in the stroke play competition and was chosen for the New Zealand Firefighters team that will compete against an Australian team later this year. Sausage sizzles on Monday and Friday and two raffles raised $1,485 for the Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust (CRHT). “We really wanted to support the rescue helicopter as we all know how important the service is they provide in remote areas,” says Stuart. “We’re very happy with the amount that was raised. In addition to The Dunes Matarangi, the following Mercury Bay businesses have also sponsored the tournament - Four Square Matarangi, Beach Realty Matarangi, Puku & Kerre’s Liquor Outlet, Uncle Dunkle’s Sauces and Whangapoua Builders. Pictured are Kevin (on the left) and Stuart handing the money that was raised for the rescue helicopter to CRHT chairman, Merv George (in the centre), on Monday this week.

Issue 950699 - 1827 MayJuly 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3 Whitianga solar farm set to power up in 2022 By Gillian O’Neill

Work on a new 80,000 panel solar energy consenting path for the development. farm in Whitianga could be underway “Because this is so new, we’ve within a matter of months. discovered councils are needing to The development will be part of a figure out where exactly it sits, so for $300m investment by new company, example in the Bay of Plenty it is already Lodestone Energy, which will see five a permitted activity,” Mr Holden said. such projects completed across the North “However, whatever the councils require Island. Managing director, Gary Holden, of us, we will be fully engaging with the revealed that, following discussions with community, in particular our neighbours, lines company, Powerco, the timeframe throughout the process and keeping them for establishing the Whitianga farm informed about what’s happening.” is likely to be brought forward and the The farm will be on the south side of facility could be supplying local homes Whitianga close to the town and tree by 2022. screening will be used to hide the panels “Although it is listed as Loadstone Five from the road or from neighbouring in the information we put out, Whitianga homes. “There is no other impact in is likely to be one of our more urgent terms of the environment other than the areas and that has been driven by the visual aspect,” Mr Holden said. response we’ve had from the local area,” Due to their design, most farming Mr Holden said. “Powerco are very keen operations will be able to continue to have this project. They have a huge underneath the panels. The panels will amount of capital investment they need move to track the sun across the sky to make on the Coromandel Peninsula in and electricity will be produced from terms of infrastructure and they feel this both sides of the panel, capturing light will help with that.” from both the sky and reflected from A digital image of what the Lodestone solar farm south of Whitianga will look like. Powerco has recently been asking for the ground. community feedback on potential solutions to Lodestone Energy would be actively working arrangements where Whitianga residents Once they are all complete by 2023/24, address the increasing risk of power outages to ensure that having a cheaper source of would be able to source their electricity the five farms will be the country’s largest during periods of peak demand, including power on their doorstep benefitted local directly from their local solar farm.” network of solar power generating stations, summer and long weekends. One proposal is residents. “Solar is now just about the most At its planned 54Gw capacity, the farm delivering enough electricity to power a city the installation of modern diesel generators economical way of producing power and will serve the current Whitianga population the size of Hamilton. The other locations in Whitianga, Matarangi and Coromandel so is a cheaper source for power retailers,” with potentially some flow-on to the wider are Dargaville, Kaitaia, Whakatane and Town to boost supply at critical times. he said. “Initially, we’ll be actively monitoring area, however, Mr Holden said further Edgecumbe. Mr Holden said the Whitianga farm could the retailers serving Whitianga and making developments on the Coromandel would be Lodestone is privately funded and 100 play a role in addressing this peak demand by it known which ones are passing on those likely in the future. percent New Zealand owned and operated. becoming the first of five locations to include savings to their customers. Early talks have taken place with both Financial backers include well-known Kiwi battery storage, enabling the facility to supply “Looking further down the track, we’re Regional Council and Thames- investor, Guy Haddleton, and Sir Stephen local homes at night. He also undertook that also looking towards establishing retail Coromandel District Council to establish a Tindall’s investment company, K1W1.

Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Peak numbers down, but demand for water rises Over 116,000 people saw in the New Year on the Coromandel according to Thames-Coromandel District Council’s Peak Population Survey. The figure calculated on 31 December 2020 was more than double the estimated number of people who were on the Peninsula a month earlier and compares with a standard residential population of 32,000. However, the population swell was down on previous years with the absence of international visitors due to COVID-19 identified as the primary reason. Previous studies found the peak population on the Coromandel on New Year’s Eve to be 126,300 in 2016/17, 120,874 (2009/10), 137,700 (2007/08) and 142,375 (2003/04). The estimates are drawn from cell phone, water supply and wastewater data. “Solid waste collection volumes were 18 per cent lower in 2020/21 than 2019/20, indicating a lower peak population,” the survey revealed. “However, notably peak water supply was 24.8 million litres, ahead of a 22.3 million peak on the same day in the 2019/20 summer.” The statistics also showed that domestic tourism spending on the Peninsula was 31 percent higher in December 2020 than the previous year. “Even though numbers overall were down, we did have lovely sunshine and very little rain which may have encouraged an extended peak period for domestic tourists,” said Laurna White, TCDC’s Communications and Economic Development Group Manager. TCDC undertakes periodic peak population studies so that information is available to monitor the impact that the summer population has on existing and future infrastructure and services, including water, sewerage, roads and parks and reserves. This helps council to plan and make informed decisions regarding the services it provides. Before 2016/17, the last peak population study was in 2009/2010 over the Christmas and New Year period.

Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5 The Small-time Investor By Whitianga resident, Max Ross

Freightways My shares are up 4.4 percent, which is +38.5 percent, Infratil +31.16 percent, $193.98. It’s half the returns I was getting Kathmandu +31.5 percent, Mainfreight last week. It’s more than four times what I +42.7 percent and Tesla +36.5 percent. would be getting in the bank, but I am taking The following investments are down over 30 on more risk. percent - Microstrategy -31.2 percent, Plexure When you have money to put somewhere, -43.2 percent and Sunrun -42.7 percent. all options come with risk. Even the safest Last week's investment into Coinbase has bank holding has a risk with it. I feel that started poorly and is currently -13.4 percent. while the official inflation rate is low, Maybe I moved too early after the IPO. the prices of the things I need to buy seem This week, Mainfreight passed Tesla as my to be on the rise. I feel like my money isn’t best performing stock. I looked around for buying as much as it did only recently. other companies like Mainfreight to invest in. The changing value of the underlying Freightways has had some huge growth this currency is a risk you take with safe year and hopefully will continue to grow. bank deposits. I think freight companies are well placed I see two main risks with share trading. to take advantage of our move from retail Business risk and economic risk. Economic shopping to online shopping. I also believe risk is that the economy will suffer a that this space will be disrupted in the correction or an event. In this case all stocks next decades as we move more and more fall. These events impact all investments. into robotic delivery. I think the larger I manage economic risk by investing long incumbents will be well placed to make the term. I don’t trade, I buy and hold. Business investments required. risk is that the business you have picked will This week I am investing my $75 into make poor decisions and lose value. Some of Freightways. my picks are in this situation at the moment. Please that what I write in this column I manage business risk with a diversified is all my personal opinion. Many of my portfolio. Investing in a wide range of stocks, investments are losing money. I am sharing I’m hoping that most of them will go up. my thoughts and strategies so you can If I pick a few poor investments, they will be learn from my mistakes. Be careful with helped by the other, better investments. your money. Twenty of my picks are up and 15 are If you wish to join in and buy shares with down. My biggest winner is Mainfreight, the online platform, Sharesies, you can use up 42.7 percent, and my biggest loser is this link - https://sharesies.nz/r/KHQQWP. Plexure, down 43.2 percent. The following You and I will each get $5 into our investments are up over 30 percent - EBOS Sharesies accounts.

Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Hilarious good news story shared at successful “Pink Drinks” fundraiser By Anusha Bhana

There were plenty of laughs at the “Pink pink in honour of the cause. Event organiser “Cancer isn’t a pleasant topic to talk about,” the journey was for her and how her sense Drinks” held at the Whitianga Baptist Church and BSC founding member, Sangita she said. “We generally hear a lot of bad news of humour got her through,” said Sangita. last Friday evening. The event was organised Ranchhod, was elated with the event outcome. stories and not so many good news stories. “Her story is an important one to share by the new Business Support Community Trust “The evening exceeded my expectations,” My story, thankfully, is a good news story.” with others.” (BSC) as a fundraiser for the Breast Cancer she said. “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed Adele had the room captivated with Overall, Pink Drinks raised $1,688 for the Foundation New Zealand (BCFNZ). themselves, there were important discussions her address, “Thanks for the Mammary,” BCFNZ from ticket sales, silent auction bids and May is the national appeal month for the and plenty of funds raised.” sharing in a very real and hilarious way what donations. The event was proudly supported by BCFNZ with thousands of Kiwis around Breast cancer affects one in nine New the experience of breast cancer diagnosis, several local businesses who donated products hosting events to educate people Zealand women over their lifetime. It is the treatment and recovery was like for her. “I used and services for door prizes, the silent auction about breast health and raise funds for most common cancer for Kiwi women and my sense of humour to process what was going and catering, including Stilo Hair Co, Vogue cancer research. the third most common cancer overall in New on,” she said. “It was a scary time, but I didn’t Beauty, The Goods Coromandel Catering Co, Pink Drinks attracted local women of all Zealand. Friday evening’s guest speaker, want it to be all doom and gloom. The Mercury Bay Informer, Espy Café, Super ages, and a few men too, most dressed in Adele Bindon, was one of those one in nine. “Pink is now a colour that exists in my Liquor Whitianga and SMART Mortgages wardrobe. I wear the ribbon. I’ve rattled the and Insurance. collection bucket outside of supermarkets The Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust and I’ve been fortunate to speak at a couple was also present with information about the of events like this. If the only thing you’ve services they provide to cancer patients and learned from tonight is to talk to the important their families. women in your life about regular self-checks This was the Business Support Community and enrolling in a screening programme, Trust’s first fundraising event. Planning for then my job is done.” the next fundraiser, a golf day in support Adele engaged with event attendees after of the Whitianga Menz Shed, has already her presentation, chatting to them and offering started. “BSC is not exclusive, any Mercury advice. One 50-year-old woman who had Bay business can get involved and all ideas never had a mammogram plans to book one are welcome,” said Sangita. “We ultimately in immediately. want to be a vehicle to help local businesses Free breast screening is available to women to support the community. Feel free to get in after the age of 45. Women under 45 are touch with us with your ideas.” encouraged to do regular self-checks and see If you would like to donate to the Business a doctor if there are any unusual changes. Support Community Trust’s fundraising efforts The BCFNZ website (breastcancerfoundation. for the BCFNZ, visit pinkribbonbreakfast. org.nz) is an excellent resource. co.nz/page/businesssupportcommunitypage. Some of the ladies who attended last Friday’s “Pink Drinks,” a fundraiser for the Breast “I invited Adele to speak at Pink Drinks To know more about the activities of BSC, Cancer Foundation New Zealand which was held at the Whitianga Baptist Church. because I’ve seen firsthand how challenging follow them on Facebook (@BSC.Whitianga).

4

Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7 Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Issue 699950 - 2718 JulyMay 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9 A rare pale banded rail spotted Letters to the Editor See the bottom of this page for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions at The sign pictured here has appeared at the western end of Cooks Beach and has some of Dear Editor - The Local Government Leaders’ regional anarchy that many seem to want to the community a bit puzzled. However, there is Declaration on Climate Change foist on us. But until the pigs stop flying, I will a very real and compelling reason for it. The article in The Informer of 11 May regarding support our mayor and urge her to continue the the pressure being put on Thames-Coromandel good fight for her ratepayers. Over the years people walking over the nearby District Council mayor, Sandra Goudie, to sign Trevor Ammundsen bridge have caught sight of a small dark bird the Local Government Leaders’ Declaration Whitianga feeding in the mangroves or on the side of on Climate Change was well constructed and the stream. Dear Editor - The SuperGold card on the informative. Public opinion on this matter Whitianga ferry The bird glides in and out of the vegetation and is being sought and therefore I must start by I write in response to Barney Bowen’s letter in such is its camouflage that often you see it commending the mayor on her principled stand. only when it moves. It does not stay in the open This country appears to have a fetish for The Informer of 11 May on making the SuperGold Card available for use on the Whitianga Ferry. for long and just as quickly disappears back signing innocuous looking agreements or into the mangroves. In recent years, there have declarations so that we “are seen to be doing the To be eligible for SuperGold Card funding, a public transport service must be contracted to been families of the bird living on each side of right thing.” As an example, you only need to the stream and the chicks have been sighted. consider the political mess we are now in due to a regional council and be considered integral to John Key signing a United Nations Declaration the region’s public transport network. It is the banded rail. Formerly found throughout on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, reportedly Because the Whitianga ferry is a wholly New Zealand, it is now more prevalent in the because he didn’t think it meant anything. commercial service, central government’s upper . The species is described as The problem is declarations that “do not mean criteria are clear that it is not eligible for funding declining, at risk. of free off-peak travel for SuperGold Card anything” seem to take on a life of their own Recently there has been added excitement holders. There are historic exemptions for some once the minority that support them get into among those who watch the bird. A white or Auckland ferry services, but these pre-date the action and an ill prepared majority have to face pale coloured rail has been spotted. It is not the consequences. This declaration on climate government’s current criteria. Waikato Regional Council must, of course, a true albino - the pale colouring is called change is yet another of this ilk. “leucistic” and reference texts indicate that such specimens occur very rarely. Last week, Mayor Goudie is working for us when she work with the current funding eligibility requirements set by central government. the bird walked out of the mangroves and stayed feeding in clear sight of three residents for refuses to sign this document, stating that sufficient time for them to see that this was a fully pale white bird. It was an “oh for a camera she is concerned about unknown financial For the ferry service to become a contracted or phone” moment. repercussions for TCDC. She is quite correct to public transport service with a SuperGold Card take this view and as reported in The Informer subsidy, it would require to be 51 percent funded Cooks Beach is fortunate to have two international wildlife experts in the community. article, this view is supported by a High Court by local ratepayers who benefit. The other Tracey Thornton is a nature and wildlife photographer who has travelled the world capturing Judge. TCDC is already involved with projects 49 percent is funded by central government. amazing images. Nigel Milius has a lifetime experience and interest in ornithology. He is usually and policies that are focused on the perceived This applies to all public transport services. found on Antarctic cruises delivering lectures on wildlife to his fellow passengers. Hopefully effects of climate change, some of them sensible One possible solution therefore would be for Tracey or Nigel can capture a photo of the bird. and some quite odd. the Mercury Bay Community Board to agree to It appears that none of the reference texts have been able to publish such a photograph, If the group of people who continue to argue provide a direct subsidy to the ferry operator, such is the rarity of the small, pale bird. for this declaration to be signed, would like but only for every SuperGold Card ride. Local to convince us of their integrity by releasing a ratepayers would be obliged to contribute Because these pale, leucistic rail are considered to be so rare, it is an added reason to protect defined list of what policies they seek to lump under government criteria anyway. So, in this the rail’s habitat against human and canine invasion. Hence the sign and the efforts of the on us, presumably at our cost, then ratepayers exceptional case, why not bypass that system Cooks Beach Dunecare group to close off the track which runs through that area. Alan Henry, would be able to make an educated decision and have local ratepayers provide a direct chair of the group, says, “If that track has been part of your usual route, we hope you can adjust on this matter. We would be able to reach an subsidy for the aged? your pattern by using the marked access track 20m away. There will still be the remaining opinion on whether their proposed actions Denis Tegg 2km of beach available for exercise. Please do not throw away our signs or remove our fences. made sense or were just another version of the Thames-Coromandel representative on WRC They are there for a good reason.”

The Mercury Bay Informer is published weekly on Tuesday afternoons and is distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. What’s that Number? Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are Emergency (Ambulance, Fire, Police) 24 hours ...... 111 entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address. Police (Whitianga) ...... 866 4000 Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. Police () ...... 864 8888 Statement of scientific fact needs to be accompanied by evidence of the fact. Police (Coromandel Town) ...... 866 1190 Published by Mercury Bay Media Limited Fight crime anonymously - Call Crime Stoppers ...... 0800 555 111 Editors - Stephan Bosman and Gillian O’Neill Dog and Noise Control ...... 868 0200 Contributors - Meghan Hawkes, Jack Biddle, Anusha Bhana, Suzanne Hansen Civil Defence ...... 868 0200 and Tony Stickley Mercury Bay Medical Centre (Whitianga) ...... 866 5911 Advertiser Management - Petra Bosman and Alex Kennedy, Medical Centre (Tairua)...... 864 8737 Administration - Diane Lodge Need to talk? Call/text anytime for support from a trained counsellor...... 1737 Office 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Mail PO Box 426, Whitianga 3542 Telephone (07) 866 2090, Fax (07) 866 2092 Harbourmaster (Whitianga) ...... 027 476 2651 Editorial email [email protected], Advertising email [email protected] Coastguard Radio Operators ...... 866 2883 Whitianga Social Services ...... 866 4476 ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online), © 2021 Mercury Bay Media Limited Whitianga Locksmith Services ...... 027 446 6921 The Mercury Bay Informer is subject to the principles of the New Zealand Media Council. Please contact us first if you have concerns about any of the editorial content published in The Informer. If we were unable to address your concerns to your satisfaction, you can file a complaint with ONLINE POLL FOR MAY 2021 the New Zealand Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or Do you have any concerns about www.presscouncil.org.nz. See page 2 for what’s happening Like us on Facebook. being vaccinated against COVID-19? 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 950 - 18 May 2021 Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11 Take on the pros at Wild Wood Mini Golf’s Family Day Out Locals who enjoy a round of mini golf will have a chance to take on some of New Zealand’s best players this Saturday, 22 May, as the inaugural Whitianga Singles Open Championship welcomes some of the country’s most dedicated mini golfers. Twelve top players are travelling to Whitianga for the contest ready to challenge current New Zealand Champion, Darren Prole, who co-owns Whitianga’s Wild Wood Mini Golf with partner, Krissy Robinson (both pictured). “It’s going to a really fun family day, with lots to do and opportunities for everyone to get involved,” says Krissy. “Anyone can enter the tournament,” says Darren. “They will play four rounds and the winner is whoever has the lowest aggregate score at the end of the day. But if four is too much, there is also a team competition, so each person in the team can play one round.” Alongside all the golfing action will be a market, outdoor games, food trucks, face painting and balloon animals. “Thanks to the generosity of our neighbours, we will be extending into the site next door and we’ll also have our new barbecue area open which is really exciting,” says Krissy. It was Darren’s love of mini-golf that inspired the couple to purchase the local business several months ago and since then they have put their heart and soul into transforming the venue. “We’ve freshened up the whole place, we also did a huge amount of work on the course and we have our gift shop up and running,” says Krissy. “The support we have had from the community, including more than 20 teams taking part in our business house competition, has been amazing.” Saturday’s competitions are open to all ages and a junior section will be available if enough kids want to enter. All those keen can register in advance right up until Saturday morning. The action will run from 11:00am until 6:30pm with the singles championship getting underway at 1:00pm and the teams event at 4:30pm. Entry for the tournament is $10.

Thumbs Up To New World employee, Aaron, who found a forgotten handbag in a trolley a few weeks ago and returned it to its owner the next day.

Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Scott’s Thoughts Survey proves Coromandel By Scott Simpson, National Party MP for Coromandel scallop beds are in decline A new report shows some scallop beds off the Coromandel coast are unlikely to recover from Labour’s so-called Fair Pay Agreements are over government departments has already their current depleted state and locals are concerned that ongoing dredging will threaten the just what used to be called National Awards been signalled with the proposed Māori Health future of the delicacy. back in the 1970s. They are yet another Authority and the legislating of Māori wards The report summarises a dive survey commissioned by the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council example of a government pushing through on district councils. The National Party’s in 2020. In some areas of Opito Bay, divers had to swim on average 26 square metres to find a their ideological policies regardless of the position on these reforms is clear, we do single legal-size scallop. Opito Bay was one of the last popular, surviving scallop beds around impact on the economy. not support the division of core government the eastern side of the Coromandel. This centralised wage process will see 90 services along racial lines. percent of a workforce at the mercy of the Speaking of radical changes, the health The dive survey was led by the Coromandel Scallop Restoration Team and Dive Zone Whitianga. other 10 percent and entire industries bound reforms proposed by the government are more Qualified divers conducted the data collection and marine scientists completed the report. by agreements whether they participate in the evidence that they want to centralise decision- Warren Maher, a Restoration Team member and president of the Tairua- Sports Fishing award setting process or not. I have serious making at the expense of local knowledge and Club, is shocked by the survey’s results. “In the past few years, it’s getting harder to find concerns about the legality of some of the accountability. I’m sure everyone has a story scallops anywhere around the coastline,” he says. “It’s a real concern to see all the damage proposed measures as they clearly breach the about their experience with the health system caused by dredging and that there are so few small scallops, which means our scallop beds are principle of “freedom of association.” and their own ideas on how it should be unlikely to recover any time soon.” This policy is compulsory wage controls. improved. It isn’t perfect, but we already have Divers involved in the survey found visible dredge tow lines that have damaged the seafloor. It is unionism gone universal and little more problems with decisions made in Hamilton The dive survey was developed to establish how many scallops remained in Opito Bay. than a Labour Party trying to make trade and I don’t see how we will be better served This action was prompted as the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) had not completed a unions relevant again. People have been used by shifting this process to Wellington. scallop abundance survey since 2010. However, MPI recently contracted NIWA to carry out a to having flexibility and choice in negotiating Adding to my scepticism about this thorough scallop survey of Coromandel and Northland recreational scallop areas. their wages and terms of employment since restructure is Labour’s track record when After years of limited success in engaging with Fisheries New Zealand over their concerns, National Awards were done away with in the delivering big projects. We have seen too many in 2020 the Opito Bay Ratepayers Association, Ngāti Hei, LegaSea, the New Zealand Sport 1990s. Going back to a system that was so political promises broken and unfulfilled, Fishing Council, the New Zealand Underwater Association and other Coromandel communities discredited last century seems totally bizarre just think about Auckland light-rail, Kiwibuild began collaborating to find solutions. They formed the Coromandel Scallop Restoration Team in today’s world. The National Party will and the so-called “shovel-ready” projects. with an aim to restore and sustain scallop populations. repeal these recycled National Awards at the If you have any concerns about these issues A restoration plan, including the survey of current scallop numbers and sizes, was developed. first possible chance. or have other topics you want to discuss with In addition, in December, a rāhui was put in place by , preventing the take of scallops from National Party leader, Judith Collins, me, I’m holding a community meeting at the Opito Bay area. “After years of worry it is good to be able to work with the community and is pressuring the government to answer some the Mercury Bay Boating Club on Tuesday, develop a shared strategy to restore our scallop beds,” says Joe Davis, Ngāti Hei rangatira. hard questions about whether they will enact 25 May at 5:30pm. This is a chance to let me “In doing the research it was important the survey was dive only, no dredging.” the proposals in the secret He Puapua report. know the issues which are important to you While some of the intentions of the report may and your family. Ngāti Hei has requested the closure of the Coromandel scallop fishery from the be well-meaning, in practice they will take I usually begin these meetings with an through to for a period of two years. MPI is considering the application and public the country down a path where the delivery overview of the latest political news, but there submissions on the proposal closed on Monday this week. of public services is decided by a person’s is plenty of time for questions and an informal Chris Severne of the Opito Bay Ratepayers Association says, “The passion and commitment to ethnicity rather than need. chat afterwards. I’m keen to hear from you and restore scallop abundance in Opito Bay is invigorating and we are pleased to see other coastal This shift toward separate Māori authority hope to see you there. communities having conversations around sustaining their seafood for future generations.”

Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13 The Fillery is all about affordable sustainability

Kathryn Mardell, who has just opened The Kathryn, 28, met Adam 29, when they Fillery eco-grocery store in Whitianga with were students at Mercury Bay Area School her husband, Adam, says her passion to fight where Kathryn came to finish high school. for sustainability stems from her childhood They moved to Auckland for nine-and-a- growing up on . half years where Adam studied boatbuilding “When you grow up on the Barrier you get at Unitech and later worked in the industry, used to using everything you have because and Kathryn became a teacher. we didn’t have supermarkets,” said Kathryn, When they returned to Whitianga, having whose new store in the former Mercury Bay had Xavier (3) and Ayla (18 months) in the Cancer Support Trust bookshop has been open interim, Adam started working with Harkin for about four weeks. “My mum used to order Boat Works. food in bulk to be delivered on the barge. Kathryn said she’s not ruling out getting So, if she forgot something we went without back into education at some point in time, or if we ran out of something, we had to wait.” but would first like to see where The Fillery Kathryn believes that we should all do is taking her. our bit to help protect the planet, including The eco-grocery store is very well reducing plastic where we can and making presented, but Kathryn is at pains to point wholefoods available to all at affordable out that its products are priced so that it’s prices. “The idea here is that we are trying affordable for everyone. “We were a single to provide the community with a sustainable, income family once, so we know what it is plastic-free, waste-free option at competitive like,” she said. “The reality is that we have prices,” she said. “Too many people just very competitive prices on a whole range of chuck stuff away. Food waste is a huge landfill everyday household foods, and items such as issue - between 50 percent and 70 percent of cleaning products and personal care items. landfill is food waste.” “We do offer an organic range, but that Kathryn started the store with Adam after is not our focus. Our focus is making these Adam and Kathryn Mardell, owners of The Fillery eco-grocery store in Whitianga, discovering that the products she wanted to foods and products available without all the with their children, Xavier (3) and Ayla (18 months). buy weren’t available locally. “When we lived packaging, and making them affordable. in Auckland, we had access to packaging- It should not be a privilege to live and eat In an effort to encourage sustainability, the The Fillery was trying to get as many local free wholefoods and I saw the need here,” sustainably. store will be running workshops on cooking suppliers as possible, such as their vegetables she said. “In Whitianga I found I was ordering “It can be quite expensive in some stores, and using wholefoods, how to create a kitchen which are grown on a local bio-dynamic farm. a lot of things that I wanted online because I so people go to the supermarket instead garden and how to compost kitchen waste. They are also offering a drop-and-collect service could not find them here and that wasn’t very where they can buy stuff cheaper, but it is “It is all about reducing the impact that where people drop off labelled jars which the sustainable, so I realised that there was a need all covered in plastic and that is what we are being a human being has on the Earth,” store fills ready for collection, while a click- that was not being met.” trying to avoid.” Kathryn said. and-and-collect service will be offered later.

Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15 Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Issue 699950 - 2718 JulyMay 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17 Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 New HMNZS Manawanui pays a visit to Mercury Bay By Gillian O’Neill In January 2018, HMNZS Manwanaui said morning in Whitianga. “It’s a beautiful part of just four people on board to continue basic COVID-19 pandemic. “We delivered a load farewell to her home port of Whitianga New Zealand, so it’s great to be able to visit maintenance. It wasn’t until Alert Level 2 that of medical supplies to Tonga,” Lt Barnett for the final time before the navy ship was and to also share some information with the we could go back to sea.” said. “We were able to use our crane to lift the decommissioned. local community about the work we are doing The Manawanui is a specialist search and stuff off without anyone needing to board or On Wednesday last week her successor here,” he said. recovery vessel with the ability to conduct disembark. It was fantastic to be able to use our (also named HMNZS Manawanui) made her The crew of the new Manawanui have been diving and hydrographic missions. “So for capability to assist in that way.” first visit to Mercury Bay where the crew spent building up her capability since first being example, in the case of a downed aircraft, Among the pieces of equipment being a day holding position off testing and assigned to the ship in June 2019. However, we would go in and first of all locate the plane tested for the first time at Hahei was the ship’s training on the ship’s new Surface Supplied the events of 2020 interrupted their planned and then send in a team of divers or a remotely wetbell, which is deployed through the centre Breathing Apparatus Dive System. schedule. “It’s a very different ship from the operated underwater vehicle to search for of the ship in a moonpool to allow divers to go Lieutenant Matthew Barnett said while previous one,” Lt Barnett said. “For a start, people or equipment like black boxes,” deeper and acts as an underwater safe haven for the crew had not served on the previous you could fit three of the old Manawanui on Lt Barnett explained. “We can also be deployed them. “As we test and trial, we integrate these Manawanui, they were aware of the strong top of the new one. The first seven months we to survey harbour entrances and accessways new pieces of equipment into our capability,” connections the vessel had to the area and were were carrying out upgrades and maintenance. after an earthquake or natural disaster to make Lt Barnett said. “We are at the point now where delighted to be able to visit. The first time we took her to sea was in March sure the channel is safe for other vessels.” we can scan and search, and by the time we A group of six crew members made the short 2020, three weeks before the first COVID-19 The Manawanui’s assets were also used for reach full capability next year, we will also be trip up the coast from the ship to spend the lockdown. We were immediately reduced to the ultimate contactless delivery during the able to complete a full retrieval.

Photo left - HMNZS Manawanui in Mercury Bay on Wednesday last week. Photo right - HMNZS Manawanui crew members at the Whitianga Wharf on Wednesday last week. From the left - Lieutenant Matthew Barnett, Able Marine Technician Jeremy Caccia-Birch, Leading Seamanship Combat Specialist Fineongo Leameivaka, Able Seamanship Combat Specialist C J Marychurch, Leading Seamanship Combat Specialist Victoria Clements and Leading Electronic Technician Tom Goodman.

Issue 699950 - 2718 JulyMay 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19 What’s On In the next few weeks

Regular Activities years old. Phone Robyn on (020) 409 39674 for more information. Op-Shops Dog Walking Group • Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street Meets every Thursday at 2:00pm at Lovers Rock, Robinson Road, Whitianga. An opportunity to socialise your dog. (west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm. Whitianga Playcentre • The Church Op-Shop - At St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon at 1D White Street, Whitianga. For children 0 - 6 years, Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm. free entry. Visitors welcome. • St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday Whitianga Art Group 10:00am - 2:00pm. Meets every Thursday and Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm at 23 School Road, Whitianga. Visitors are invited to join us for Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop - Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Monday - Saturday from a day of painting. Start-up materials supplied. Phone Jenny on (027) 210 0160 for more information. 10:00am - 2:00pm. Whitianga Menz Shed Whitianga Senior Citizens Club Open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway, past the diesel Meets Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street from 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie truck stop. All welcome. etc. Afternoon tea, 55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. Matarangi Craft Group Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Meets fortnightly at the Matarangi Fire Station. Phone Lesley on 866 0788 for more information. Meets the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Cooks Beachcare Group Phone Joan on 866 3801 or (027) 275 1372 for more information. Make new friends, learn about conservation and make a difference. We meet Thursdays for hands-on weeding and SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated planting, 9:00am - 11:00am. Register on our website, www.cooksbeachcare.org.nz or phone Adele on (021) 201 6625. Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their Tour de Friends Biking computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on A 23km ride social ride around the flat areas of Whitianga. Meets every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 9:00am (027) 486 0150 for more information or to join. opposite Taylor’s Mistake, Whitianga. Followed by coffee. Phone Lance Cook on (021) 048 8475 or John Gregory on Scrapbags Quilting Group (027) 278 0002 for more information. Meets every Wednesday from 9:00am - 3:00pm at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Albert Street, Whitianga. All welcome. Exercises for the Elderly and Those with Arthritis phone Shelley on 866 0236 for more information. Every Tuesday from 10:00am - 11:00am at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Albert Street, Whitianga. $2 entry. Mercury Bay Creative Fibre Phone Viv on (028) 403 6741 for more information. Meets the first and third Wednesday of every month from 10:00am - 2:00pm. in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street, Cooks Beach Garden Circle Whitianga. Phone Wendy Russell on 866 3225 for more information. Meet the last Thursday of every month from 11:15am - 2:30pm. New members welcome. Phone Leila on 866 3264 or Mercury Bay Quilters Anne on 866 0268 for more information. Meets the first and third Mondays, and second and fourth Saturdays of every month from 10:00am - 4:00pm at Whitianga Mercury Bay Contract Bridge Club Social Services, Cook Drive. New members welcome. Phone Margaret on (07) 866 0411 for more information. Meet every Wednesday at 1:00pm and every Thursday at 7:00pm at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Alcoholics Anonymous Phone Gavin on (07) 866 2343 or (021) 146 9203 for more information. Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6:30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information. Meets every Thursday at 6:45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Come along and join in or phone Alan on Serenity Al-Anon Group 866 4024 or Cheryl on 0274 527887 for more information. Meets every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by Mercury Bay Pickleball Club someone else’s drinking. Meets every Sunday from 3:00pm - 5:00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School gym, South Highway, Whitianga, $5 per Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga session. Paddles and balls supplied. Tuition available. Meets every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in Room 10 at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Mercury Bay Tennis Club Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals and eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely. Club night every Thursday at 6:30pm at Lyon Park, Albert Street, Whitianga. Check out our Facebook page or phone (027) 294 1750 for more information. Mercury Bay Table Tennis ICONZ for Girls Meets every Tuesday from 9:00am - 11:30am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Phone Anne on Every Tuesday during the school term from 4:00pm - 5:30pm at The Dwelling, Coghill Street, Whitianga. For girls 8 - 13 (07) 869 5162 or (027) 565 5575 for more information. years old. Phone Robyn on (020) 409 39674 for more information. Mercury Bay Badminton ICONZ (for Boys) Meets every Wednesday from 9:30am - 11:00am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Every Tuesday during the school term from 5:30pm - 7:00pm at The Dwelling, Coghill Street, Whitianga. For boys 5 - 10 Phone (07) 866 5476 for more information.

Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 20 What’s On In the next few weeks

Specific Activities/Events Elliot 5.9 Association National Sailing Championship Thursday 20 - Saturday, 22 May in Whitianga. Expect a spectacle of “trailer sailor” yachts on Mercury Bay. Whitianga Marathon Saturday, 22 May. Marathon starts at Ferry Landing at 7:00am. Half marathon starts at Buffalo Beach Reserve, Buffalo Beach Road, Whitianga at 8:40am. 10km starts at Buffalo Beach Reserve at 9:30am. 5km starts at Buffalo Beach Reserve at 10:15am. Prize-giving at 3:00pm at Buffalo Beach Reserve. See whitiangamarathon.co.nz for more information and to enter. Mini Golf Family Day Out Saturday 22 May at Wild Wood Mini Golf, Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga. Bouncy castle, face painting and balloon animals from 11:00am - 2:00pm. Whitianga Mini Golf Singles Open Championship from 1:00pm - 4:30pm. Whitianga Mini Golf Teams Open Championship from 4:30pm - 6:30pm. Also food trucks, market and outdoor games. Thames Valley First XV Rugby - Saturday, 22 May Mercury Bay Area School v in Waihi. Kick-off at 11:15am. Thames Valley Senior Rugby - Saturday, 22 May Mercury Bay Senior A Marlins v in Whangamata. Kick-off at 2:00pm. Mercury Bay Senior B v Ngatea in Ngatea. Kick-off at 2:00pm. Coromandel Town Senior B v Cobras in Coromandel Town. Kick-off at 2:00pm. Murder at the Museum (a “Murder Mystery Night”) Saturday, 22 May from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at the Mercury Bay Museum, The Esplanade, Whitianga. Tickets $30 each (must be 18 or older), available from the museum. Dress up as the character given to you on your ticket. Raffles and a best dressed prize. Light refreshments provided. Friends of Tairua Heritage Society Meeting Sunday, 23 May at 4:00pm at St Francis Church, Main Road, Tairua. Jenny Chalmers will be talking about her work cataloguing Tairua’s rich history as told through photographs and old newspaper clippings. New members welcome, the cost is $20 per year with several events hosted thought the year. Email Auriol at [email protected] for more information. Grey Power Mercury Bay Luncheon Thursday 27 May, following the organisation’s Annual General Meeting at 11:15am at the Mercury Bay Club. Phone Merle on 867 1737 for more information. Whitianga’s 13th Town Garage Sale (sponsored by The Informer) Saturday 5 - Monday, 7 June. To register your garage sale, pop into The Informer offices at 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, email [email protected] or phone 866 2090. $15 to register. All registration fees to be donated to a Mercury Bay charity.

Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21 Crossword © Lovatts Puzzles

Crossword Puzzle 950

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. Feeling pain 1. Features 5. Negative votes 7. Speak to crowd 2. Cultural symbols 8. Horseback sport 3. Commodities 9. Subside 4. Parked undercover 10. Preliminary copy 5. Lies snugly 11. Runs after 13. Pork cut 6. Tugging 14. African wildlife tour 12. Misjudge 18. Prescribed amount 15. Flight staff 21. Stepped (on) 22. Routines 16. Strenuous 24. Bring together 17. Intuition 25. Group of three 19. Eggs 26. Illuminating gas 20. Concentrated scent 27. Court attendant 28. Nocturnal birds 22. Inheritors 29. Veer sharply 23. Spree Last week’s solution

Last week’s winner - Jacqui Peters

“Kīwaha o te wiki” (saying of the week) “Whāia te iti kahurangi!” - Pursue excellence! Saying of the week supplied by Te Puna Reo o Whitianga - a playgroup with a focus on Māori tikanga and te reo Māori. The group meets every Monday and Tuesday at 9:00am at the old dental clinic at Mercury Bay Area School. All those with pēpi or young tamariki are welcome to join.

Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Long-running friendships help Whitianga ladies conquer 100km By Gillian O’Neill Two long-standing members of an informal I had a bit of an injury and I wasn’t feeling Whitianga running group have ticked off great in the run-up to the Ultra, a personal milestone completing 100km but Terri Evanason, the physio, sorted me out for the first time, racing from Greymouth and got me to the start line. to Hokitika. “There is definitely a sense of satisfaction Sandra Fitzsimons and Lisl Wollheim when you finish after being out there for so Jones, both 52, completed the South Island long. This particular trail was really stunning Ultra on the West Coast Wilderness Trail with some beautiful scenery. It wasn’t difficult on Saturday, 8 May, the gruelling 14-and- in terms of terrain, in fact it was a reasonably a-half hour run beginning and ending in easy course, so it was definitely all about the complete darkness. endurance and there were certainly times out “It was 3:00am when our alarms went off there when I was asking myself why the heck and we were getting out of bed, so that gives are you doing this. you an idea of what it looks like when you “Both Lisl and I looked ridiculous the next are setting off,” says Sandra. “Then we ran day, we could barely walk, but by Monday the last three hours in heavy rain and it was we were better and then Tuesday pretty much pitch black.” fully recovered.” In fact, it was friends and fellow members Despite the time and energy invested of the FOMO running group, Tanya Bernhard in their running and walking, Sandra says and Sheryl Humphris, that Sandra credits for the focus for the FOMO group is all about helping them get home. Tanya and Sheryl had At Arthur’s Pass en route to Hokitika to participate in the South Island Ultra are, from the left, participation. “We don’t take ourselves too completed the 54km walk section of the race. Sheryl Humphris, Lisl Wollheim Jones, Tania Bernhard and Sandra Fitzsimons. seriously,” she says. “We don’t worry too “We couldn’t have done it without them,” that distances are only a matter of personal has done what we call the Miler which is 100 much about times or any of that and we’ll says Sandra. “They were amazing. When you achievement and FOMO is totally non- miles or 160km, it doesn’t matter. Everyone certainly enjoy a beer and burger afterwards.” are out there for that long you absolutely rely competitive and purely about community and has their own personal goals and we all just One of the next big events for FOMO on a support crew to get you through and they support. “FOMO stands for ‘fear of missing encourage and support each other. Often it’s is the Rotorua Forest Festival in August. were just fantastic.” out,’ and running is a bit like that,” she says. about advice like the best running shoes or “We have about 12 of us going down to that,” Sandra says it’s an example of a comradery “Someone will post in our Facebook group energy snacks.” says Sandra. “Then there’s the Blue Lake and friendship that is shared among the they are doing something or going to an Their 100km effort marked the pinnacle of 24-hour Challenge which is different again, group, in particular a core bunch of ladies event, and others will be motivated because their running achievements to date for both so anyone can run or walk whatever distance who regularly take on challenges right across they want to be part of it too. But we have Sandra and Lisl. “The furthest Lisl had done they want. So we’ll pretty much give anything the country. all sorts of levels and abilities. Whether in an event before was 50km, so that was a go, we always look for new and interesting Sandra herself has completed 11 marathons it’s someone getting out and walking a few huge step up for her and I had done 85km things. It’s just about getting out there and and seven ultra events, but emphasises kilometres or the likes of Karen Aulelio who about 12 weeks ago,” says Sandra. “In fact. enjoying it.”

Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23 Sudoku

Sudoku Puzzle 950

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 - Jenny Upsall

Page 24 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Fishing Report By Wayne Barnes of the Tairua-Pauanui Sports Fishing Club Sponsored by Mercury Bay Marine - Tel (07) 867 1280 Sport Results

With the sea temperature cooling, snapper Tairua Harbour where the heaviest fish excluding MERCURY BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Year 7 and 8 - Tairua Hot Shots 3 v Coro Diamonds 34, are starting to gather in large numbers around sharks and rays wins. This was won by Jarrod Eighteen-hole Ladies - Wednesday, 12 May Coro Ferns 3 v The Stingerz 22, Cherry Bombs 5 v Blue the deeper offshore reefs and these fish are in Rook from the New Plymouth Surfcasters club Results Division 1 - 1 Diane Eccles, 2 Lynne Butler, Stars 29, The Blue Mustangs 5 v The Falcons 18. 3 Judith King. College - The Heat 30 v Hustlers 36, Baywatch 21 v The prime condition putting on fat as winter water with a kahawai of 1.505kg. Jarrod won a return Results Division 2 - 1 Robyn Anderson, 2 Kim Allan, Leprechauns 38, Ink 17 v Coromandel Area School 27. approaches. Tarakihi are getting harder to find, airfare for two to Queenstown sponsored by 3 Marg Maher. Senior/Social - Sweaty Betty’s 9 v Win or Booze 23, but there are still good numbers of john dory, Watts Group Investments. Twos - Robyn Anderson, Nearest the Pin - Lynne Butler, Tukana 12 v MBAS Senior A 65, Whiti Cross WODs 21 trevally and yellowtail kingfish on these reefs The first of our month-long tournaments, the Nearest the Pin in 2 - Robyn Anderson, Longest Putt - v Fusion 38, Hawkes 24 v Mid Courters 35, Darkside as well, and there are still plenty of excellent DAIWA Month Long, commenced on Saturday, Kim Allan. Domino’s 1 v Placies Ladies 36, Darkside Dynamo’s 21 fish in shallower water around the Aldermen, 1 May and concludes on Saturday, 29 May. Eighteen-hole Men Scramble - Wednesday, 12 May v MB Magic 30. Results - 1 Justin Wilson 41, 2 Stuart King 40, 3 Jack MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Shoe and Slipper Islands. With some excellent fish weighed already this Coldicutt 39. Thursday, 13 May On a recent trip, while passing the northern looks like being a “boomer” again this year. Eagle - Ken George, Hole-in-one - Ken George (#18), Winners - Keith Denney, Doreen Davies, Merle Ward and side of Shoe Island at first light, I counted 17 We have a new tournament in our schedule Twos - Jack Coldicutt, Greg Farrant and Gary Morton, Best Glynne Jackson. separate schools of kahawai and trevally on this year, The Big Three. This competition Gross - Steve Geach. Runners-up - Brian Codyre, Lee Pudney, Colin Everett and the surface. commences at 5:30am on Friday, 21 May and Nine-hole Ladies - Thursday, 13 May Ray Rout. Our harbour is still also holding very good concludes at 3:00pm Sunday, 23 May. Adult Results Division 1 Gross and Net - 1 Jenny Layton, Good Sports - John Taberner, Cheryl Henderson, Lionel Lawrence and Wayne McNeil. numbers of kahawai and trevally, and it would contestants/teams will be attempting to catch 2 Gaylene Imms. Results Division 2 Gross and Net - 1 Angela Cook, PENINSULA INDOOR BOWLING ASSOCIATION appear that this year’s trevally breeding season or land the heaviest wild boar, red crayfish 2 Claudia Atford. Open Singles Championship - Saturday, 15 May has been a good one as the piper fishermen at and snapper and the juniors will be hunting Eighteen-hole Men Scramble Net - Saturday, 15 May The tournament was held in Tairua with 20 players Paku jetty are reporting swarms of juvenile possums, rabbits and snapper. All participants Results - 1 Kevin Smith 68, 2 Osman Emer 70, competing, 11 from Mercury Bay, three from Cooks Beach trevally in their berley trails. Please remember will be required to have applicable licences 3 Bob Haase 70. and six from Tairua. (these will be checked before the competition Best Gross - Bob Haase 74, Twos - Mark Burcombe (2), After six rounds, with four games each, seven players that these fish are a quota species and that MPI had qualified with six points or more to go through minimum length rules apply. commences) and MPI rules will be enforced for Jeff Dixon, Steve Geach and Tony Foster, Nearest the Pin (Division 1) - Pete Maher, Nearest the Pin (Division 2) - to next round. Perrine Busby (T) had the bye, Wayne Our club’s DAIWA Land-based tournament the fish species. Graham Dun, Longest Drive (Division 1) - Ken George, McNeill (MB) defeated Walter Posel (CB), Ray Rout (MB) was held on 24 and 25 April, and attracted local A competition briefing will be held on Longest Drive (Division 2) - Paul Lupton. defeated Keith Denney (MB) and Joan Smith (T) defeated Coromandel-based anglers and teams from Thursday, 20 May commencing at 7:00pm and PURANGI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Cheryl Henderson (MB). In the semi-finals, Wayne McNeil Auckland’s North Shore and Taranaki, with 76 at least one member from each team must be Nine-hole Men and Ladies Stableford - defeated Perrine Busby and Ray Rout defeated Joan Smith. This set up the final between Wayne and Ray and after an contestants landing 119 fish. present at the briefing to collect starter packs, Tuesday, 11 May Results - 1 Wayne Morrison, 2 Equal Jim Brown and Meryll extremely tense and exciting game it was Ray who took Heaviest snapper of 8.300kg was landed etc. For more information on this exciting new the win, this is his first Peninsula win after joining the competition, please contact Cie on telephone Hawke. by Tairua local, Steve Singer, second a fish Nine-hole Men and Ladies - Thursday, 13 May Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club earlier this year. of 6.350kg landed by Mike McGregor from (021) 448 168. Results - 1 Meryll Hawke, 2 Equal Wayne Morrison and MERCURY BAY FOOTBALL CLUB New Plymouth, and third a fish of 5.260kg by Our Fish of the Month for April was won Phil Costello. Saturday, 15 May Christian Winfield from the North Shore. by Steve Singer with that land-based snapper Eighteen-hole Men and Ladies Net - Saturday, 15 May Mini Kickers - The team played against and what a difference a week makes. The skill level was The North Shore Anglers and Surfcasters of 8.300kg. Steve wins a 1l bottle of Black Results - 1 Equal Bob Walker and Richard Agnew, 3 Neil Vowles. fantastic and there were plenty of quality goals scored on Club won the interclub competition for the Heart Rum sponsored by Independent Liquor. very small pitches. Well done to Max Corkill and Soren Our Fish of the month for 4BBB Net - Richard Agnew and Jeff Bright. “Orange Roughy” with a total catch weight of MERCURY BAY NETBALL CENTRE Murray who were the Small Whites Players of the Day. 54.070kg. May is john dory. Wednesday, 12 May 8th Grade - The team played against Whenuakite. On Sunday, 25 April, the main competition Tight lines, Year 5 and 6 - Black Panthers 1 v Gold Ferns 11, We showed excellent footwork skills with some fantastic was followed by a speed fishing event in the Wayne Barnes Whenuakite Aurora 6 vs Whiti Fire 16. (Continued on page 27)

Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 25 Brain Teaser - Anagram © Lovatts Puzzles

Brain Teaser Puzzles 950

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.

Themed Anagram Instructions - Unscramble the letters of the phrases to make five words relating to the theme, each starting with the given letter. The letters in the shaded squares will spell out another word relating to the theme. This is the mystery keyword.

Answers

1. ______

2. ______

3. ______

4. ______

5. ______

Mystery keyword ______

Last week’s solution - Binary Puzzle

Last week’s winner - Maureen Douglas

Page 26 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Sport Results

(Continued from page 25) first game 2 - 0, with goals scored by Oliver Anderson of the Day - Barnaby Roche, Player of the Day Chosen by Jones Trophy. Margaret, a past president of the club and Lennox Jennings. We won the second game 3 - 0 Waihi - Liam Ramage. was a treasured member over many years. To make the goals. Congratulations to Sol Kurth for great goals and with goals scored by Lennox, Oliver and Harry Williscroft. Year 7 and 8 - The team travelled to play Paeroa away. competition interesting, teams were drawn which resulted to be awarded Player of the Day. Jack Murray and Zeke Our Players of the Day were Harry Williscroft for outstanding Pearoa started really strong pinning the Bay on their line. in some different combinations. Included in the teams Calder received Player of the Day also for their awesome defending and Kaitlyn Cornwall for her awesome skills The Bay forwards had some good runs and with a brilliant were the club’s three life members, youngest member, fair play. in defending also. Thank you for another great game, individual effort by Lyric Jackman-King, scoring a 50m 10-year-old Kayden Te Manu and oldest member, 98-year- 10th Grade Stingrays - A first home game of the season well played team. runaway try, Mercury Bay took the lead. Both teams had old Peter Sheehan. against Whangamata. The weather turned out to be MERCURY BAY JUNIOR RUGBY some good passages of play and scored some good tries, Following the games, an enjoyable happy hour was held amazing. We went down fighting, losing 4 - 0. A great Friday, 14 May but Mercury Bay were able to go into half-time leading with partners and other family members joining in prior second half with lots of shots showing real promise. Year 6 - The team played Waihi in an away game. Mercury 29 - 12. The Bay dominated the second half, scoring to most participating in a Pot Luck Dinner. Five teams Jack and Jackson where our Players of the Day. Jack was Bay had a great start matching Waihi try for try in the first plenty of good team tries and winning 60 - 29. finished with 2 wins from 3 games and there was only on form and was all over the park, Jackson got stuck in quarter. Waihi ultimately proved to be a very strong team, Players of the Day - Lyric Jackman-King and Henni Puke. one team with three wins - Shane O’Hara (skip), John taking opponents on and did not give up. taking the win convincingly. The team would like to thank Guthrie Bowron, their team Saunders (two) and Derek Corbett (lead). 10th Grade Sharks - The team was in Whangamata again, Saturday, 15 May jerseys sponsor. TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB this time taking on the Whangamata Red Dragons. We lost Year 4 - The team travelled to Ngatea to play Hauraki MERCURY BAY AREA SCHOOL RUGBY Monday, 10 May both games, 5 - 0 and 2 - 1. Ruben Jennings scored our Plains. Our team played really well together and we came Saturday, 15 May North/South - 1 Ron Evans and Jocelyn Taylor 57.14, only goal. The Players of the Day were Ruben Jennings away with a comfortable win. Tries - Rimaati Joshua (6), Year 9 and 10 - MBAS 14 v Paeroa 38. 2 Don Barry and Peter Hogg 56.25, 3 Equal Sue Poland and Callum Sharp. Alex McLean (4), Theo McLean (1), Ryder Goodall (1), Coco First XV - MBAS 15 v Paeroa 34. and Peter McNeil, and John and Christine Meinhold 55.06. 12th Grade Marlins - The team played Whangamata Shepherd (1), Charlie Bay (1), Reuben Percival (1) and Boh MERCURY BAY SENIOR RUGBY away. The Marlins were far too strong, scoring some great Boyd (1), Player of the Day - Alex McLean, Try of the day Senior B - Mercury Bay 50 v Waihou 3. East/West - 1 Lee Hughes and Gillian Martin 59.52, team goals and conceding none. Goal scorers were Cody - Coco Shepherd, Outstanding Effort - Summer Yeomans, Senior A - Mercury Bay Marlins 17 v Thames 22. 2 Wendy Morris and Shirley Smith 55.36, 3 Jenny Price Hickey-Courtenay (6), Ben Collins (3), Tom Lamason (2), Player of the Day Awarded by the Opposition - Boh Boyd. MERCURY BAY HOCKEY and Celia Young 54.76. Hunter Jackman (2), Lexi Rasmusen (2), Noah Candalaria, Year 5 -An exciting, nail biting game against Waihi at Thames Valley Secondary Schools Mixed Team MERCURY BAY CONTRACT BRIDGE CLUB Marlie Candalaria, Elliot Ribet, Oscar Williams and an own home. Halftime had us in the lead by one try. We fought Competition - Thursday, 13 May Championship Pairs Round 1 - Wednesday, 12 May goal. Players of the Day were Wilfred Asquith and Liam hard for the win, but unfortunately Waihi came out on The first game of the season. Mercury Bay won 4 - 0 North/South - 1 Giorgio Allemano and Robyn Hogg 64.64, Robertson for their improving skills shown throughout top with a final score of 35 - 40. Tries were scored by against Hauraki Plans College. A great game. 2 Colin McAnnalley and Bob Schibli 61.79, the game. Lennox Austin (3), Lachlan Mikkelsen (1), Patrick White (1), MERCURY BAY BOWLING & SPORTS CLUB 3 Don Barry and Tadek Gawor 51.43. 12th Grade Orcas - The team played against Tairua Sharna Proctor (1) and Zaan Mayo (1), Try of the Day - Closing Day Triples Tournament - Sunday, 16 May East/West - 1 Annette Cox and Pete Hogg 65.42, White in Whitianga. We played two games, winning the Sharna Proctor, Tackle of the Day - Phoenix Kurth, Player Thirty-eight club members competed for the Margaret 2 Alison Tichbon and Pauline Van Groenedaal 60.83, 3 Gavin Hedwig and Kate Palmano 59.17. Autumn-2 Competition Round 1 - Thursday, 13 May 1 Alison Gibson and Deidre Stevenson 64.58, 2 Kate Palmano and Larisa King 62.50, 3 Hillary Scott and Angela Cook 56.25. MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER Saturday, 15 May Best of three frames. Ten players. Only Phil Jones and Ian Baumgren achieved two straight wins to contest the final. This was a very close frame, coming down to the last two balls, with Ian ultimately taking the win, and the pork chops and chicken Photo left - Tyrese Melde gaining ground for the Mercury Bay Area School First XV in their game against Paeroa College on Saturday last week. drums. Those with two wins were Phil Jones (runner-up), Photo centre - Ray Rout (left) and Wayne McNeill, the finalists in the Peninsula Indoor Bowling Association’s Open Singles Championship on Saturday Ben Hibbert, Willie Jones and Doug Pascoe. last week. Photo right - Oliver Anderson on his way to score for the Mercury Bay 12th Grade Orcas against Tairua on Saturday last week. Highest Break - Phil Jones 20.

Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 27 Classifieds and Public Notices SITUATIONS VACANT

POSITIONS AVAILABLE OP Columbia (OPC) is a major participant in the aquaculture industry on the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand. We specialise in processing Greenshell™ mussels. If you are motivated, reliable and have an excellent work ethic, then this job would suit you. We pay competitive rates with the opportunity to increase pay based on performance. Travellers are required to provide a current work visa. NZ applicants need to have NZ residence or a valid NZ work visa. Shift times available: Dayshift processing 6:00am to 3:00pm Hygiene (cleaning) shift 3:30pm (times are subject to change) Applications can be made online at www.opcolumbia.co.nz or call into the office to submit an application.

Insulation Installer Experience working with insulation on residential properties preferred but not essential. Confidence in working in confined spaces and difficult environments preferred. Excellent pay if proven - based on contract rates (the more you install, the more you earn!) • Must have a clean, full drivers' licence. • Be physically fit. • Good positive attitude, honesty and reliability. • Be keen to work on your own and ability to work in a team environment. Please email directly to [email protected] for more info.

Page 28 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Classifieds and Public Notices SITUATIONS VACANT WANTED

LAND WANTED Liquor Store 2-4+ ha Cooks Beach/Hahei area Duty Manager Needed 027 483 2403 or 09 431 4749 Must have a relevant management qualification and experience in the liquor industry. Vehicles wanted Applicants must have a Top cash paid for any General Manager’s certificate VANS, UTES, TRUCKS, and LCQ. 4X4s, CARS - Email your CV to dead or alive, damaged, [email protected] de-registered, or see our team in store at mechanical problem, 118 Wharf Road, no WOF - we buy it. Coromandel Town. Call 0800 333 398

WORK WANTED

coromandel garage doors For new doors, auto openers and full maintenance and repair service. Phone Don McLean 022 453 2188 Email [email protected] www.corogaragedoors.co.nz

GARDEN IRRIGATION Water your borders and veggies from the couch. Contact me for a free quote. Email: [email protected] Facebook: Water My Garden

Rubbish Removal DAVE’S DRAINAGE Trees, Lawns, Garden Bags Drainlaying, Public & Private, Phone John 866 5511 1.8 Ton Digger Hire. 30 Years Experience. Free Quotes or Advice. Call Dave 027 727 0348 [email protected]

THE BESS HANDZ EMBROIDERED MONOGRAMS Alterations, repairs, zip and hem service. Phone 866 5277.

MIKE’S MOWING $25 empty sections, CHIMNEY SWEEP fortnightly or monthly mowing. 25 years servicing the area. Free edge spraying. Phone Chris (021) 082 47928 Phone Mike or Deb 866 4678 or 027 320 1703. HOUSE WASHING Detergent Soft Wash, Handyman Services. Mercury Bay Spouting Phone Russell Short on 866 2097 or 0273 602 937 For all types of guttering and spouting Tony 021 505 109

PENINSULA CHIMNEYS Chimney Sweep Clean and efficient service. Phone or text John (021) 138 3295. A member of

Issue 699950 - 2718 JulyMay 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 29 Classifieds and Public Notices for sale cattery TO LET

DRY FIREWOOD DELIVERED Red Gum $160/metre, Macrocarpa $150/metre www.goodwoodfirewood.co.nz Chris - 021 240 9909

Firewood for sale Dry pine $100 cube delivered local. Also kindling wood, $15 box. community bus Phone 027 247 7410 HEALTH AND NUTRITION MERCURY BAY COMMUNITY BUS For your door to door travel to hospitals and related services in Thames, BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM Waikato, Auckland and . WITH THE BEST NUTRITION To book phone 866 4993 or Stay healthy. 867 1333 or 021 0270 6897 Phone 027 947 8311 or email Advertisement sponsored by the Mercury Bay Club [email protected]

PUBLIC NOTICES

Matarangi Boat & Fishing Club AGM Sunday 6th June, 4:00pm Matarangi Fire Station All Welcome STORAGE SHEDS, various sizes, dry and secure. Affordable rates. Ph: 0800 944 660 STORAGE SHEDS Whitianga Total Storage opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660 WHITIANGA SENIOR CITIZENS Container It Self Storage, 17 Moewai Road, Whitianga. Ph: 0274 817 258 CLUB INC STORAGE, Self storage/boat storage, Matarangi - Kuaotunu. Ph: 07 866 5693 NOTICE OF THE 35th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING To be held on Monday, May 31 2021 at the Whitianga Town Hall at 12:00pm followed by a finger food lunch. Signed N. Chaney, Secretary

grey power mercury bay INC annual general meeting The Annual General Meeting of Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc will be held at 11:15am on Thursday 27th May 2021 at the Mercury Bay Club, corner Cook Drive and Campbell Street. Doors will be open at 10:45am. If you have any queries regarding this meeting or Grey Power, contact Merle Edwards on 867 1737. Small office space in central Whitianga location Available long term, affordable rent. Phone (021) 672 748 for details.

CHURCH SERVICES

ST ANDREW’S BY THE SEA Community Church 866 4273 Albert Street, Whitianga COMMUNITY WORSHIP EVERY SUNDAY 9:30am. Come, join the family of God! Enquiries 869 5452 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Everyone Welcome Sunday 10 am – 12 noon HOLISTIC HEALTH @ 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga (Community Service Bldg) INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALER Enquiries - 021 113 0566 WORKSHOP FACILITATOR TAROT CARD READINGS DOG GROOMING SPIRITUAL MENTOR CLAIRVOYANT VERNA (027) 320 0079 vernacarrspiritualhealing.com

Page 30 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 950 - 18 May 2021 Making the most of opportunities key to rugby success By Jack Biddle If first impressions are anything to go by, players from the Under 20 squads of the the Mercury Bay Senior A side from where he at school,” he says. “I also enjoyed surfing, then 19-year-old Trinity McQueen, a born Crusaders, Chiefs, Blues, Highlanders and initially earned a spot with the Thames Valley snowboarding and riding dirt bikes, but it was and bred resident of Coroglen, has a bright Hurricanes Super Rugby franchises, along Under 23 representative team before going the team environment that rugby provided future ahead of him. with high profile coaches and support staff. on to be chosen for the 2020 Chiefs regional that eventually won the day. For me, nothing A gifted rugby player from a young age The Barbarians team was added to the Under 20 training squad. “After being part beats giving it all for your team come game who made the Mercury Bay Area School competition to provide valuable experience to of the wider training group, I missed out on day and I thrive in a team environment and First XV team as a 15-year-old and went on those players considered unlucky to miss the selection for the Chiefs final squad for the going into battle with my mates.” to captain the side for two more years, Trinity final cut from their respective regional teams. Under 20 tournament, but was nominated for Trinity is under no illusions about the was picked to play for a Barbarians side in a It is in essence a tournament for emerging the Barbarians team and was lucky enough privileges and opportunities a professional Super Rugby Under 20s national tournament talent to showcase their skills and potentially to get the call-up,” he says. “Up until and rugby career may hold but is realistic enough held in Taupo last month. take the next step in their careers. during the tournament, I had always played The newly created competition involved Trinity currently plays his club rugby for to know not everyone gets to play the game my footy as a lock or Number 8, but it’s a at the highest level, while some players have pretty crowded space on the national scene careers that last a lot longer than others. and as the tournament is very much about With that in mind, he has taken on a building future talent identification, it was suggested I apprenticeship with Chris Pollock of Hot move into the front row. Water Design & Construction Limited. “Propping a scrum is a whole new discipline “Chris is very supportive of my rugby to learn and, while rugby is a team game, ambitions while providing an opportunity it becomes very much a one-on-one battle for me to learn a trade,” Trinity says. “I think with the opposing prop come time to pack the rugby and being an apprentice builder have scrum. It takes not only strength but a certain technique and was, and still is, a huge learning a lot in common, especially at my age. I’m curve for me, but one which I’m thriving on, part of a team, always learning something thanks to some expert specific development new, and have certain responsibilities and coaching I am receiving. expectations to meet. I’m expected to pull “I feel I have been given an opportunity to my weight, work hard and interact well be the best player I can be and intend making with others.” every effort to turn basically raw potential As far as the future goes, Trinity is not into becoming a formidable all-round player taking anything for granted. “It’s very much and front row scrum opponent.” one small step at a time and not getting too Trinity was first introduced to the game far ahead of myself at this stage,” he says. by his fanatical rugby father who, at the “If there is one thing I have learnt so far, ripe old age of 50, is still playing for the it’s when you are given opportunities in life, Mercury Bay Senior B team. “I played ripper it’s very much up to you to make the most of Mercury Bay’s Trinity McQueen played for a Barbarians side in a Super Rugby rugby and touch as a young fella, while bull them and it invariably leads to hard work and Under 20s national tournament held in Taupo last month. rush was my favourite lunchtime activity being prepared to listen and learn.”

Issue 950699 - 1827 MayJuly 20162021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 31