American Muscle, Street & Custom Club to celebrate first birthday in style - The Mercury Bay Informer
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80
Issue 826 - 2 January 2019 Phone 07 866 2090 (07) 867 15 Circulation 7,500
Telephone the Coromandel
ppo rt
Proud to su Helicopter Trust
Rescue
American Muscle, Street & Custom
Club to celebrate first birthday in style
By Stephan Bosman
The American Muscle, Street & Custom Club
Whitianga will be celebrating their first birthday
in style this coming Sunday (6 January)
with a car show in Albert Street, Whitianga.
The show, called the ‘Frankies Beach Street
Meet,’ is organised by club founders Reg and
Julie Smith and fellow Whitianga residents
Peter and Penny Murray.
Reg says the American Muscle, Street &
Custom Club Whitianga is not a club in the true
sense of the word. “We don’t have a committee,
a formal list of members and a set of rules or
a constitution,” he says. “We’re really just a
group of like-minded individuals who love
interesting vehicles.
“Our first meeting was on Sunday 7 January
last year at Frankies Sports Bar & Grill in Albert
Street in Whitianga. We expected about 20 cars
to turn up and ended up with 57. Since then,
we’ve met the first Sunday of every month at
Frankies. We average about 20 cars per meeting.
“We park up in Albert Street and have
breakfast and coffee and we ask a member
of the public, just someone admiring the
cars, to choose a ‘People’s Choice’ winner.
We then normally go on a cruise somewhere
and sometimes end up at someone’s place for a
BBQ afterwards.
“We’ve been on some really fun cruises the
past year. Highlights were trivia trails to Colville
Café and Mercury Bay Estate in Cooks Beach,
and a picnic at racing legend Rod Millen’s
Leadfoot Ranch outside Hahei.
“Other fun events we’ve been part of include
the 4th of July celebrations at Grace O’Malley’s
in Whitianga and a Frankies Grease evening.
Several of us have also participated in the
Movember fundraiser for men’s health issues,
in which we raised $500, and we’ve had a great
The organisers of the Frankies Beach Street Meet on 6 January. From the left - Reg and Julie Smith, and Peter and Penny Murray.
Christmas party in December.
“The Frankies owners are also car lovers should enter,” says Reg. “The entry fee is only come along. away. The vehicle categories will be judged
and they were on board with us from day one. $25 and includes a Frankies drinks voucher.” “The Mercury Rockers Rock ‘n’ Roll Club by Whitianga Waterways developer Leigh
They put on $10 breakfasts during our meetings Albert Street will be closed to traffic between will do a bit of dancing and it will be great if Hopper and Darren Hartley of Coastal Signs in
and always donate a $50 voucher to the People’s Lee Street and Monk Street at approximately people dress up in a 50 s and 60s theme too. Whitianga, who’s a keen speedway driver.
Choice winner. They’ll have live music during 9:00am on 6 January and will remain closed We’ll have a prize for the best-dressed person. “We expect the show to be a lot of fun.”
our car show on 6 January and $10 breakfasts until the end of the car show. “The show will “We’ll be selling raffles and have six category There’s still an opportunity for vehicle
will again be on the menu.” start at 10:00am and continue until 2:00pm,” prizes to give away for the most impressive owners to enter the show, but space is
More than 60 vehicles have so far been says Reg. “It’s free for members of the public vehicles, including a People’s Choice award. limited. Anyone interested can phone or text
entered in the Frankies Beach Street Meet. “If to appreciate the cars on display and we want Three lucky draw prizes, all donated by very Reg on (027) 493 5822 or email him at
your vehicle is outside the ordinary, you really to encourage as many people as possible to generous business owners, will also be given glasspro@xtra.co.nz.
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Fundraising for new skatepark
formally underway
Fundraising for a new skatepark in Whitianga spectators and to potentially incorporate other
is formally underway. A sign close to where sports like basketball and parkour.
the new skatepark is earmarked to be built at “We hope to get good traction with our
Taylor’s Mistake has been put up. The sign fundraising,” says Chris. “Skateboarding and
contains a barometer indicating how much scootering is something the whole family
of the newly established Mercury Bay Skate can do. It’s convenient, fun and cheap.
Park Trust’s initial target of $150,000 has It’s a never-ending challenge. There’s always
been raised. an envelope that can be pushed.
Thames-Coromandel District Council “The existing skatepark in Whitianga is
allocated $10,000 to be spent on the new very popular, but is woefully inadequate.
skatepark in their current financial year The Mercury Bay area really needs a good
and $14,000 in their 2019/2020 financial quality skatepark that will be able to serve the
year. They’re planning for the skatepark to community for many years to come.
be built in their 2020/2021 financial year “If our fundraising goes well, we hope
and allocated $469,000 towards the to see the new skatepark being built earlier
construction costs. than planned.”
“Council is expecting the community Allan Tiplady says it’s possible for
to raise half of the $469,000 earmarked construction of the skatepark to start before
to be spent in our 2020/2021 financial TCDC’s 2020/2021 financial year, but that
year,” says Allan Tiplady, TCDC District will require Mercury Bay Community Board
Manager North. and council approval.
The Mercury Bay Skate Park Trust has The sign that has been put up at Taylor’s
The trustees of the newly formed Mercury Bay Skate Park Trust at the fundraising sign Mistake containing the fundraising barometer
assumed responsibility for the community for a new Whitianga skatepark at Taylor’s Mistake and their children.
fundraising that’s required to build the has been sponsored by TCDC, David Bayer
From the left - Ford Leins, Chris Devenoges, William Lockhart, Benson Lockhart, Designs and Coastal Signs. PlaceMakers
skatepark and will also work with TCDC on Ruben Jennings, Caleb Jennings and Lennox Jennings.
the design of the skatepark. The trustees of the Whitianga is also on board with the new
trust - Chris Devenoges, Benson Lockhart, a Givealittle page where people can donate to community project funders. “A design brief skatepark and will supply some of the
Caleb Jennings and Ford Leins - are not only the cause,” says Chris. “People are also more for the skatepark has been finalised and sent materials that will be required during the
keen skateboarders and scooterers willing to than welcome to donate directly into our bank out to prospective contractors who have the construction process at cost price.
put in the hard yards to make the skatepark account. We’ll be incorporating some form capability to design and build the skatepark,” To donate to a new skatepark in Whitianga,
happen, they are also happy to put their of recognition, something like a plaque, into says Chris. “We’ll take the preferred design go to www.givealittle.co.nz (search for
money where their mouths are. Through the skatepark, embedding the names of those to the community for their input before it’s “Whitianga Skatepark”) or make a deposit
their own contributions and a generous who supported us into eternity.” signed off.” in the Westpac bank account of the Mercury
sponsorship from The Informer, the trust has The design for the skatepark has not yet The design brief requires the skatepark Bay Skate Park Trust, account number
already $6,000 in its bank account. been finalised. Once that has been done and to be an open, safe and transparent area for 03 1578 0110921 000.
“We’re in the process of printing t-shirts construction quotes have been obtained, young people to get together and socialise, The Informer will report at least monthly on
which we’ll be selling around the Mercury the Mercury Bay Skate Park Trust will apply to be shaded, to cater for all levels of ability, how planning of and fundraising for the new
Bay area to raise funds and we’ve also set up for grants from gaming trusts and other to have viewing areas and seating for skatepark are progressing.
The Mercury Bay Informer is published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed throughout the
Coromandel Peninsula. What’s that Number?
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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 of
The Informer. If we were unable to address your concerns ONLINE POLL FOR JANUARY 2019
to your satisfaction, you can complain to the New Zealand
Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or
www.presscouncil.org.nz.
Have you made any New Year’s
See page 5 for what’s happening Like us on Facebook.
resolutions for 2019?
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Hot Water Beach tides.
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Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019
Small fun park a big hit
The small Funco fun park that popped up on Friday last week at the Whitianga Waterways
opposite the Mobil service station, is a big hit. A big slide, an obstacle course, teacup and giant
caterpillar rides and three water tricycles are providing a huge amount of enjoyment to Mercury
Bay locals and visitors alike.
The park will operate until Tuesday 8 January. Funco will also have rides and attractions
available at the Mercury Bay Seaside Carnival on 8 January.
Funco will donate part of their proceeds from the pop-up fun park to Mercury Bay Area School.
Whitianga Waterways is making the pop-up fun park site available to Funco free of charge.
Pictured are Whitianga locals Cullen West (left) and Mateo Shute enjoying the giant caterpillar
ride at the pop-up fun park on Saturday last week.
702 - 217January
Issue 826 August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
Open 6 days a week from Tuesday to Sunday 9am till late.
Free ride from the ferry if you book with us at night.
Full menu at www.eggsentriccafe.co.nz, phone 866 0307, bookings essential.
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Wide selection of seafood,
Dine In • Takeaway • Delivery One main, rice & naan. vegetarian & gluten-free.
13 / 1 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga Minimum 2-person party. Children’s menu available.
Authentic Greek and Free deliveries Hours
Italian cuisine with orders Open from
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with stunning water views over $25 Seven days
We are open for breakfast Full menu available from Try a pint of the Check out our new 1.8 litre
from 9am - 11:30am, 11:30am until late only Guinness on
jugs of Speights, Macs Gold,
7 days a week. every day. tap in town,
Free bottomless cup of filter coffee Try out our new menu new drink 100 and get Panhead APA &
with every breakfast. items & old favourites!! into our 1759 club. Macs Cloudy Apple Cider.
Burrrrrrritos! Taaaaacos! 7 days
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Available on tap at Gracies Breakfast/Brunch Plus
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from 9am to 11.30am daily coffee!
9 The Esplanade, Whitianga • (07) 866 4546
Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019
Badly Pool Tables
REDZONE Lazy Sunday Bistro open
Vegas stuffed
ONE ONE ONE from 12 noon
Dart Boards
TWO TRIO animals
9 - late
Open from Pokies
Check out our
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Garden Bar new menu
Open from 11am
Check out our Lunch Specials and OPEN FOR Closed Open 6 Days
LUNCH and
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33/3 Albert Street, Whitianga
Upstairs above Fagans
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HAPPY LIVE TONIGHT HAPPY HOUR SUNDAY CHECKLIST: Yum Burgers “PUT YOUR FEET UP
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JEFFRIES 1PM 5:30pm
••• ••• ••• $10 LUNCH TUES - SAT 12pm - 2pm ••• ••• •••
Kitchen Open LIVE Whitianga’s TAB $16 Steak
VEGAS Frankies Beach
All Day SPORTS Famous Street Meet Special!
Black Caps v Winning Wheel BROWN 10am - 2pm & 200g sirloin steak
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from 10am
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POKIES served with salad,
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with an egg!
Check out the Frankies Sports Bar and Grill Facebook Page for more details on our events
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surch lic Serving breakfast
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on pu s from 9am every day.
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holida Enjoy your lagoon view.
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of Wednesday 2 January - Tuesday 8 January 2019 Data and images from the New Horizons spacecraft’s never to be repeated close
encounter with dwarf planet Ultima Thule on Tuesday 1 January will really start arriving this week. However, as the planet is the most distant
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Thursday 3 January A lovely sight in the early dawn eastern sky will be a very thin crescent Moon with brilliant Venus above it and to the left, Astronomy Tours and B&B
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Friday 4 January The Moon has moved a bit lower and now sits just below Jupiter with a very faint Mercury slightly below and to the right,
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Whitianga
Jan 2 Jan 3 Jan 4 Jan 5 Jan 6 Jan 7 Jan 8 Jan 9 Tel 07 869 5990
702 - 217January
Issue 826 August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Free community lunch a very special
Christmas feast
On Christmas Day, a free lunch was enjoyed in. Even two days before Christmas Day community garden in Whitianga and with cheese sauce and salads. Dessert
130 guests in the Whitianga Town Hall. someone gave us $500.” potatoes were donated to us all the way from included Christmas pudding, trifle and small
The whole community was invited. No cutlery or crockery needed to be hired. Pukekohe,” says Maureen. Christmas tarts.
The lunch was organised by Whitianga Virtually everything was donated by the Preparation of the food began on On Christmas Day, Snapper Jacks
residents Maureen Kerr, John and Madeleine op shops in Whitianga and Tairua. “About Christmas Eve in the St Andrews Community Takeaways opened their kitchen where the
Saunders, Dorothy Preece, Tania Iti and Yvette a week before the lunch we were 10 plates Church kitchen. In charge were Tania Iti last food preparations took place.
Simpson. Armed with a whiteboard and a short,” says Maureen. “I mentioned that to (who’s looking after the free Monday meals The town hall doors opened at 11:30am on
marker pen, these six determined individuals one of my neighbours who said that’s not a at St Andrew’s) and well-known local chef Christmas Day. On the beautifully decorated
got together in June last year to commence problem. They opened their cupboard and Richard Shelford-Woodcock (better known tables were 200 Christmas crackers, all hand
planning. “It’s amazing, on Boxing Day last invited us to take whatever we needed.” as Chocky Brown). made by a local family. Local performer
week I went back to look at what we set out Much of the food was donated. The menu was a feast - ham, roasted Anita Prime entertained the guests before
to do back in June and we’ve achieved every “We’ve received great support form the vegetables, gravy, cauliflower and broccoli lunch was served at midday and face painting
single thing,” says Maureen. was available to everyone. The atmosphere
The goal was for a lunch that would cater was festive and joyful.
for everyone, including individuals and Among the guests was Gwen Hamilton,
families in need, people without family and at 101 years old Whitianga’s oldest resident.
friends to spend Christmas with and tourists Tourists from the US, Germany, France
in Mercury Bay who longed for the company and the UK have also enjoyed the lunch.
of others. One of the tourists entertained everyone with
The Mercury Bay Community Trust a touching French song between the main
(the trust responsible for the Mercury Bay course and dessert. Some of the US tourists
Day Camp and the free Monday meals at St took selfies with locals which they sent to
Andrew’s Church in Whitianga) “adopted” their families back home.
the initiative. Monthly meetings commenced Santa and Mrs Claus arrived after lunch
and duties were handed out. A local business and handed packets of lollies out to all
donated $1,500 as soon as it became known the children.
that the lunch was being organised. There were lots of leftovers. Some of
A call was made for volunteers and further the food was frozen to use for the Monday
donations. The response was overwhelming. meals at St Andrew’s and the rest was
“We’ve had jobs for 50 volunteers,” says given to people to take home to share with
Maureen. “Many more wanted to help, their neighbours.
but we just couldn’t accommodate them. “The lunch was a very special event,”
Several families volunteered, parents and says Maureen. “It was hard work and at
children, it was heart-warming to see. Maureen Kerr (left), one of the organisers of the free Whitianga Christmas lunch, and Gwen times very stressful, but absolutely worth it.
“Donations have also kept on coming Hamilton, Whitianga’s oldest resident, on Christmas Day in the Whitianga Town Hall. We can’t wait to do it all over again.”
Squids Seafood
Restaurant
Whitianga’s only seafood restaurant
serving the best fish and seafood
from around the region.
Open every day for lunch 11:30am - 2pm
and dinner from 5:30pm
www.squids.co.nz Fb Squids Seafood Restaurant
Blacksmith Lane 07 8671710
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019
Locals crowned as Miss
and Mr Whitianga
Carly Allan, the owner of Infinite Fitness in Whitianga, was on Saturday last week crowned
as Miss Whitianga 2018. Seven ladies, some from overseas, participated in the contest in a
packed-out garden bar at The Whitianga Hotel.
For the first time ever, a Mr Whitianga contest was also held. Six contestants particpated.
The judges ultimately declared Aidan Connor of Whitianga the winner.
“It was a great event,” says Arron Bartrum, operations manager of The Whitianga Hotel.
“It was great to see the crowd enjoying themselves. Great food and cold drinks kept everyone
in the spirit of the event and with lots of Corona merchandise being handed out, everyone went
home happy.
Pictured is Carly Allan with her daughter, Milia Parata, after the Miss Whitianga contest
on Saturday.
Issue 826
702 - 217January
August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Wishes and hopes for the New Year
Last year has gone by in the blink of an eye. The world is an unsure place, but we have lots to Harold Abrahamson - Well-known businessman Looking ahead, 2019 is a particularly exciting
be thankful for in Mercury Bay. Now that we’re into 2019, it’s a good time to think how we would Last year has shown us that the world is a bit year. Not only is it the 12th year of our vibrant
like the future to look. Meg Tatton-Brown has spoken to a number of locals about their wishes of a mess at the moment and it would be great arts community, we also have the national
and hopes for the New Year. to see some good international leadership. Tuia - Encounters 250 events. With generous
New Zealand has strong leadership and I hope support from the Tuia 250 Lotteries Fund, we
Mike Walker - Pastor of the Whitianga I hope that 2019 will see us continuing to future decisions that are made continue to be in
Baptist Church grow in our ability and attitude to care for each are proud to host the Tuia 250 Whitianga Street
the spirit of bettering the lives of all of us. Art Festival from Monday 4 March to Friday 8
In Hebrew the word for righteousness and other and to welcome the stranger, the newbie The Whitianga town centre upgrade is
justice is the same. So, if we choose to live and those looking for a place to belong in March 2019. It is a nationally significant event
absolutely fantastic. It shows just how much
right, then we must also seek just living. our midst. that also celebrates the Whitianga town centre
consideration and hard work is being put into
It’s about caring for each other and ourselves. This sort of life will see a change in ourselves our town. upgrade and will provide a permanent testament
This is something I love about our town, and in our community and help keep Whitianga to the vitality of the arts in the Coromandel.
even if people don’t claim the same faith as I Ian Preece - Chairman of the Mercury Bay Art
a great place to live. Escape Trust Shirley Wilson - Owner of Fagan’s Furniture
have, they still care and look out for each other.
Are we perfect? No, there are those who don’t Peter Jones - Owner of Grace O’Malley’s On behalf of the Mercury Bay Art Escape, Beds & Homewares
think how their actions will affect others or I wish for Whitianga and the entire Mercury I would like to thank all of our artists, I wish for Whitianga to continue to maintain its
don’t care or are simply unaware as they might Bay area to remain an enjoyable and prosperous volunteers and members of the public who have reputation as a town that’s going places with lots
be wrapped up in their own circumstances. place, where businesses find success and the supported and visited us throughout a busy and of lovely people. Let’s all enjoy this stunning
But they are much the minority. residents are happy and healthy. successful year. paradise we are so lucky to call home!
From the left - Mike Walker, Peter Jones,
Harold Abrahamson and Ian Preece.
Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019
New Year’s wishes WHITIANGA PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC
Robert Lindsay Dip Phty(Otago) ADP(OMT), Dip.MT.
Jack Biddle - Informer contributor 250th anniversary commemorations have been
With so much tension on the world’s political given. It means to weave together, symbolising Co-author of ‘Treat Your Own Shoulder’
stage currently, New Zealand heads into 2019 bringing people together in unity.
with many unknowns and more than a little Smriti Taneja - Manager of That Curry
and Associates
uncertainty. My new year’s wish is for some Place Restaurant Crystal Vause BHScPhysiotherapy
common ground to be reached sooner rather I hope more young people will be encouraged
than later and that the attention turns to global to call Whitianga and Mercury Bay home
unity rather than ongoing political conflict. and that they will be provided with fantastic
Manipulation / Back and Neck Pain / Work Injuries
There’s no such uncertainty in the greater opportunities for personal growth and career Sports Injuries / Post Surgery and Fracture Rehab
Mercury Bay area, however, with lots happening success. The younger generation is the future of Acupuncture / Hand Therapy / Women’s Health Clinic
in 2019. The highlight will be the planned our town.
commemorations to mark 250 years since
Physiotherapists with the qualifications to provide
Rekha Percival - Mercury Bay Community Board
Captain James Cook made his first landfall member and owner of Percival Construction excellence in physical health care
in New Zealand which, of course, included Wow, 2018 flashed by in the blink of an eye!
Mercury Bay.
There’s never been a better time to live in
It was an exciting year for Percival
Construction. As with everyone in the building
Dr Adam’s and Hemmes’s Surgery - Ph (07) 868 9579
our part of the world and to make a New Year’s industry, it has been a busy year and we are
resolution to embrace Tuia, the Maori name the enjoying the Christmas/New Year’s break.
(Continued on page 10)
WAITAIA NURSERY
Native • Ornamental
Big Trees • Fruit Trees
Citrus • Hedging
Jack Biddle (top left), Smriti Taneja (bottom left)
Palms • Hire plants
and Shirley Wilson (right).
and more
Bagged Products
Bulk mulch
Open
Thurs - Sun 9am - 5pm
other days by phone
appointment
(07) 869 5910
Waitaia Road
Kuaotunu
Issue 826
702 - 217January
August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
Wishes and hopes for the New Year
(Continued from page 9)
In my role on the Mercury Community Board, TCDC Mayor Sandra Goudie. the wonderful upgrades to the Whitianga town participating in national charitable drives.
I am excited to see Stage 2 of the Whitianga The Community Menz Shed, membership centre will encourage more people to spend time Gillian Reid - Priest of St Peter’s Anglican Church
town centre upgrade, including the children’s of which is open to both men and women, in our community. I really hope those who have celebrated the
playground on The Esplanade, getting underway has been running a set up operation for some John Hoyte - Master of the Whitianga Lodge of beginning of this New Year are also able to
in the first half of 2019. It will be fantastic to see time, but as from 14 February it will be fully the Freemasons celebrate the New Year again at the beginning of
this space improved for the little ones. open and start to work on a number of projects. My personal wish is that politicians of local, 2020. Life is a constant step into the unknown,
My personal wish for the New Year is to So, if you would like to do some woodwork national, and international office put aside their so I pray that everyone keeps, and is kept, safe.
enjoy more downtime with my family. So, from or metalwork or would like some help or egos and party lines and strive to do what is best However, for those whose life on earth may
my whanau to yours, we wish everyone a happy advice, please come along to South Highway in for the towns, cities and countries of the world be coming to a close, I wish for a peace-filled
and prosperous 2019. Enjoy the holidays. Whitianga (next to the BP sign) any Thursday and all the people who they claim to represent. departure.
Ernie Pitchfork - President of the Whitianga from 14 February onwards and you will be I wish for common sense and traditional values Also, may we always value the best in
Lions Club assured of a warm welcome. to replace petty bureaucracy and PC-driven each day, never taking anything or anyone for
The Whitianga Lions Club look forward to Sheeree Prisk - Owner of Frankies Sports Bar actions and that we move away from the divisive granted. So many of the changes in our lives are
again serving the local community in 2019. and Grill rhetoric that seems to invade our everyday news completely unpredictable and regret for words
In addition to supporting local good causes, We are looking forward to commemorating the and lives. said or unsaid, or things done or not done, is a
our major contribution to the community in 2019 250th anniversary of Captain Cook’s arrival in My wish as Master of the Whitianga Lodge is sad burden to carry.
will be a Community Menz Shed, which will be Mercury Bay, where we are keen to dress to that the Lodge is able to continue our policy of Pamela Ferla - Informer contributor
officially opened on Thursday 14 February by the theme. We hope for a busy year and that supporting local charities and causes, as well as I wish for more time with family and friends.
(Continued on page 12)
From the left - Rekha Percival with her children, India and Rohan,
Ernie Pitchfork and Sheeree Prisk.
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019Catherine’s Column
By Catherine Delahunty - Former Green Party MP
2019 - Seriously serious stuff
It’s pretty obvious that the world is a bit and calls for stronger central government
of mess. It’s also obvious that we are all action. It commits to helping communities
interdependent and no one can avoid the prepare for the changes that are happening
impacts of changes ahead. The obvious crisis now and for “ambitious action” on fossil fuel
is called climate change, but really it’s about reduction in council practices. It’s a serious
humans and how the way we live affects example of leadership and it offers a road
the climate. All over the world, including in map for councils to start leading change.
the Hauraki/Coromandel, people are getting Anyone who saw the map of regions
frustrated with the lack of urgency on these which will be most affected by climate
issues and the way leaders in positions of changes can see that we are in that zone.
power seem content to talk but not to act on Huge questions arise for us about homes
the issues. and relocation, compensation, planning and
The current new wave of the climate fairness. Huge questions arise about councils
movement is called “Extinction Rebellion” issuing consents in sea level rise zones and
and it’s a global movement, but there are also in fostering projects like the Coromandel
some local waves building. People in this Harbour redevelopment without a strong
region are challenging Thames-Coromandel climate lens.
District Council to sign up to the Local Our Council cannot take strong action
Government Climate Change Declaration without our encouragement and support and
(written by Local Government New Zealand it’s going to take a national effort with local
for mayors and CEOs to sign up to) and to support to address the big picture sensibly.
start planning seriously to deal with emissions But like it or not, those of us who have been
and climate effects on our coastline. People campaigning on this since the 1980s are
are worried about storm surges and flooding seeing everything we predicted come to pass
for good reason, but we also need to think and there’s no joy in this whatsoever.
about reducing emissions. Expect to see this We need community courage, not
challenge become more visible and powerful individual denial, if we’re going to hold
in 2019. our communities together. Let us all remind
Elected leaders are voted in to respond to Thames-Coromandel District Council that
public concerns and to think ahead. The Local they are not alone with this challenge and that
Government Climate Change Declaration we want them to join with their colleagues
is more than a symbolic gesture and many across the country to use the resources we give
councils have embraced it, but not our council them for the common good in 2019, because
yet. The declaration commits to action locally ignoring the challenge is just unthinkable.
702 - 217January
Issue 826 August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11Wishes and hopes for the New Year
(Continued from page 10)
I also wish I don’t have to ask a young grandson be celebrated. during 2018. I hope 2019 will be a year where What I mean by empathy is really trying to
how to work the TV remote, that the rubbish The arrival of a New Year inevitably brings a we will see the local business scene thriving, understand the experience of other people,
man wouldn’t zoom by as I drag my rubbish bag raft of resolutions that often become good, but with locals coming out in force to support all by putting our minds into what the individual
up the steep drive early morning in my dressing are sometimes failed intentions. So how about the local businesses in Mercury Bay. might be bringing to the interaction at hand.
gown, that my bunion would go away so I each of us thinks about how we can look after I look forward to a very busy year. We will By trying to put yourself into their shoes
can wear glamorous shoes and that I can do at our town and our big backyard in any way we be celebrating the 150th anniversary of The and cutting them a little slack, perhaps the
least one thing to alleviate the suffering around can. Simple things such as cleaning gear before Whitianga Hotel in 2019 with a variety of interaction will take a different course.
the world. walking in the bush and keeping to tracks to events. On top of that, commemorating the If every individual took at least a part of their
Closer to home, as I’m an active member of day to understand and be empathetic with least
help keep kauri dieback disease at bay in 2019. 250th anniversary of Captain Cook’s arrival
the performing arts scene in Tairua, I wish I
Take part in art festivals. Plant some trees. in Mercury Bay is going to be huge and the one other person around them, maybe the world
can build a small theatre or activities centre in
the town. Pull some weeds. Set traps to catch those pests Whitianga Scallop Festival is making a return would improve one person at a time.
that eat our wildlife. It’s the combination of after a year off. Alison Gibson - President of the Lioness Club of
Alison Henry - Chair of the Kauri 2000 Trust many simple actions that we can all do that will I hope 2019 is a year where Mercury Bay will
Here’s to 2019 and all that the New Year will Mercury Bay
help look after this special place we call home. be offering something for everyone. The Lioness Club of Mercury Bay is looking
bring, especially the influx of visitors marking
250 years since Captain Cook arrived in Arron Bartrum- Operations manager of The Suzanne Hansen - Informer contributor forward to being very active in the community
Mercury Bay in his “Endeavour” and all that has Whitianga Hotel and Salt Restaurant and Bar What I wish for the world, and it is tangible, in 2019. We have over 40 members and several
happened since. The remarkable achievement All of us here at The Whitianga Hotel and Salt practical and everybody can contribute to this in good projects to complete that we hope will
of Whitianga’s town centre upgrade must want to thank our customers for their support their own personal way, is to have more empathy. prove successful.
Photo by Felicity Jean
Photography
From the left - John Hoyte, Gillian Reid,
Alison Henry and Pamela Ferla.
Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019New Year’s wishes
Suzanne Hansen (top left), Arron Bartrum (top right)
and Alison Gibson with a group of fellow Mercury Bay Lionesses (bottom photo).
No more
Plastic bags
No more Seagulls
No more Hassles
Issue 826
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August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13Museum Musings
Goodbye 2018 and welcome 2019!
I thought we should have a look back at what We are looking forward to a very busy summer.
happened at the Mercury Bay Museum in 2018 We will be at the Cooks Beach Gala and the
- a year in review. Mercury Bay Seaside Carnival - so look out
• Number of Visitors - 6,337 (January for our pop-up museum. We are also planning
to December 2018), 736 from Mercury a Night @ The Museum for mid-January,
Bay and the wider Coromandel, 3,565 see the advertisement on page 20 of this issue
from elsewhere in New Zealand and 2,036 of The Informer and check out our website and
from overseas. Facebook page.
• New Exhibits - five If your New Year’s resolution is to give back
• Visiting Groups - nine to your community and you have a passion for
• New Volunteers - seven history, come in and have a chat. We are always
• Volunteer Hours – 1,830 (front of house, looking for new volunteers.
collection and handyman) Have a safe summer and see you all soon.
• Museum Items Catalogued - 514 (more Becs Cox
than 1,021 hours). Manager of the Mercury Bay Museum
“A Coastal Port,” one of the five new exhibits created in the Mercury Bay Museum in 2018.
Timber & Cork Floor
Installation
Polyurethane
coating & colouring
Call
chris mcKibbin
M: 021 046 7169
www.mercurybayfloorsanders.co.nz
Mobility equipment available for locals and visitors.
Walking frames, crutches, walking sticks and wheelchairs.
Phone Roger on 07 867 1986 for more information
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019About kauri trees, Wabi-Sabi
and Helen Monroe Marilyn Clark
By Meg Tatton-Brown
Three distinctly different bodies of work by New Zealand’s cultural traditions, encouraged and wood. He also enjoys collecting discarded forgotten beauty of these rejected vehicles
talented Coromandel artist Daniel Kirsch are him to study Te Reo and Tikanga, allowing materials such as panels of abandoned and their often unusual positioning as
at the moment being exhibited at Bread & him to explore what is unique about Maori vehicles to act as canvases. interruptions to the natural landscape.
Butter Gallery in Whitianga. language and culture. Daniel’s first body of work in Bread & Daniel’s viewpoint could be attributed to
As a lover of the outdoors, Daniel has Daniel uses a variety of media in his work, Butter focuses on the beautiful native kauri of Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese concept celebrating
developed a close relationship with nature. including ink and print, as well as integrating New Zealand. Not only are they a significant impermanence. Left to the elements,
This passion, along with a strong interest in images, words and screen prints onto paper element of our landscape, but they also play abandoned vehicles are no longer maintained
a part in the culture and early history of New and begin to deteriorate.
Zealand. Maori see the kauri tree as the king Daniel called his third body of work at
of the forest, a taonga (treasure) that creates Bread & Butter “Helen Monroe Marilyn
a connection between man and the spiritual Clark.” The artworks are inspired by Andy
world. In early Maori culture, kauri was used Warhol’s quirky and colourful exploration of
in mythology, art, rituals and war. Some of different concepts. They challenge the often
the larger trees were even named and classed damaging media-driven idea of beauty and
the chiefs of the forest.
youthfulness.
A range of screen prints depicts the trees
A doctored image from the 2008 Labour
from different angles. Kauri timber from old
Party election campaign portrayed an
buildings in the Coromandel was collected
and recycled, with most works printed unrealistically young Prime Minister Helen
onto these. Recycled pine was also used, Clark, emphasizing society’s belief that we
sometimes with nails poking out, to symbolise must be polished to perfection if we are to
the damage done to the environment through be successful.
human interference, and how native bush is Drawing from this, Daniel created a playful
often destroyed and swapped for commercial yet deeply meaningful take on this topic.
pine forestry. He exaggerated Helen Clark’s youthful look
The second body of work at Bread & by adding the “Marilyn Monroe-Warhol-
Butter, “Wabi-Sabi of the Sleeping Beauties,” makeover” over the top of it. These large,
offer a unique way of looking at abandoned 720mm x 720mm prints on paper consist of
automobiles on the Coromandel. Daniel various colourful limited editions. All were
screen-printed photographic images of manually screen-printed by Daniel, with each
individual wrecks, along with accompanying print numbered and signed.
Coromandel artist Daniel Kirsch with one of his artworks that’s at moment words, straight onto the rusted body parts If you have time to spare, a visit to Bread &
being exhibited at Bread & Butter Gallery in Whitianga. of the same car. He aims to emphasize the Butter is a must-do this summer.
Issue 826
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August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15International professionals part of team at Eden Clinic Ruben Arriola arrived in Whitianga in Ruben working with me would lighten my September last year to study English for four workload, especially over the busy summer weeks at Coromandel Outdoor Language season. For the past 23 years I’ve always been Centre (COLC). He hails from Eibar, a city in open between Christmas and New Year and I the Basque Country of Spain, where he grew knew things can get frantic during that time.” up and worked for two years as a traditional After having travelled through New Chinese medicine practitioner, specialising Zealand in an old self-contained van he in tuina (a Chinese medical massage) purchased, Ruben formally joined the and acupuncture. Eden Clinic team three weeks ago. “I was Ruben became interested in traditional glad to come back to Whitianga,” he says. Chinese medicine through the work of his “The Coromandel is undoubtedly one of the father, who’s both a medical doctor and most beautiful part of New Zealand.” traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. Ruben isn’t the only member of the Eden Ruben studied traditional Chinese medicine Clinic team who came from overseas. “Simon in Madrid for six years. He returned to Eibar Hopfengartner trained as a naturopath and after the completion of his studies. The two osteopath in Germany and works with us years Ruben worked in Eibar was taxing and as an alignment practitioner,” says Libby. he decided the middle of this year that an OE “He specialises in pregnant women and would be a good escape. newborn babies.” Ruben’s four weeks at COLC was the first Simon qualified in 2010 and worked in four weeks of his OE. It didn’t take him long Nuremberg in Germany before he relocated to realise that he really liked Whitianga and to New Zealand and started to work with the people of the town and he approached Libby in 2016. Libby George, the owner of Eden Clinic in In addition to Libby, Ruben and Simon, Albert Street, to see if she would allow him the Eden team consist of three naturopaths - to work with her for six months after he Anne Kerr-Bell, Abigail Smith and Kirsten has seen more of New Zealand. “I certainly Donovan. “Anne and Abigail are providing wanted my OE to be an amazing experience, relaxing and therapeutic massages as well, Libby George, the owner of Eden Clinic in Whitianga, but I also wanted it to be an opportunity to while Kirsten is responsible for the wellness with Simon Hopfengartner (on the left) and Ruben Arriola. get some international work experience and, reviews of our clients and recommending Wherever I end up, one thing is certain, my medicine at the New Zealand School of if possible, improve my professional skills,” where appropriate the practitioner products time in Whitianga will always be a part of the Traditional Chinese Medicine. Today I have says Ruben. we stock,” says Libby. amazing experience I wanted my OE to be.” an integrative approach to natural medicine, “I heard Ruben out when he came to see Once his six months contract with Eden Libby started to work as a massage therapist incorporating traditional Chinese medicine me,” says Libby. “My immediate reaction Clinic has come to an end, Ruben hopes to in Whitianga 23 years ago, when she put out with massage and cutting-edge science. was to say ‘no,’ but after 10 seconds I spend some time in China. “There’s more an advertising sign in Monk Street. “Within “I’m proud of the way Eden Clinic has changed my answer to ‘yes.’ I’m the only about tuina and acupuncture I need to learn,” 20 minutes I had four bookings,” she says. grown over the years and having international traditional Chinese medicine practitioner he says. “After that, who knows, going “In 2000, when I was in my 40s, I went back professionals like Simon and Ruben as part of and acupuncturist at Eden Clinic and having back to Eibar is probably what will happen. to school and studied traditional Chinese our team is really special.” Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019
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2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19Several local Tuia 250 events confirmed
The kaupapa/purpose of Tuia - 250 Encounters Reserve during the evening.
is woven throughout the extensive programme “The Tuia Stage,” an outdoor performance
of activities that will be taking place in Te space located at Taylor’s Mistake in
Whanganui o Hei/Mercury Bay from March Whitianga for the purpose of Tuia 250
2019. Tuia - 250 Encounters is all about commemoration activities, will take place
telling the stories, histories and voyaging on Sunday 20 October 2019. Events on
traditions of the Māori communities who had The Tuia Stage have been fully funded by
been established in Aotearoa/New Zealand the Lotteries Tuia Programme and will be
for hundreds of years, as well as marking the free to the public. The Tuia Stage is a 12-
first onshore encounters between Māori and hour event featuring local artists, including
Europeans during the first voyage of James poets, storytellers, musicians, dancers and
Cook and HM Bark Endeavour in 1769. kapa haka groups. The central performance
Stories will be expressed and shared via will be a special composition by Charles
commemoration activities, including arts, Royal, performed by James Webster
music, storytelling, kapa haka, cultural and friends, incorporating taonga pūoro,
commemoration and celebration. A series traditional Maori instruments. The 30-minute
of locally significant historic stories has composition, sung largely in English with
also been written and can be found on the Maori passages, will be accompanied by 20
Mercury 250 Anniversary Trust’s website, woodwind and string musicians from the
www.mercury250.org. The purpose of these Waikato’s Orchestra Central, alongside the
stories is to provide further opportunity to Mercury Bay Community Choir, who will be
learn, develop and deepen an understanding working on the composition from June 2019.
of Te Whanganui o Hei/Mercury Bay’s The composition was specifically
dual heritage. commissioned for The Tuia Stage.
“The rich Ngāti Hei content of the stories, Te Whanganui o Hei/Mercury Bay basking in the sunshine on Friday last week.
The Raranga Tent situated next to The Tuia
much of which are being printed for the first country will promote the exceptional skill, 2019. Mercury Bay Area School students will Stage will exhibit creations from Coromandel
time, are founded on traditional oral accounts innovation and courage of our Pacific and attend a matinee and the play will be open weavers, who will also be demonstrating the
passed down through generations of Ngāti European ancestors, the integrity and values to the public in the evening. The solo show, art of weaving. Members of the public will be
Hei by kau te korero, ‘historical accounts of Aotearoa/New Zealand today as well as the written by Apirana Taylor, is a captivating welcome to observe and to try.
told around the fireplace,’” says Richard natural beauty of our seas and whenua (land). and informative performance. During the Saturday of Labour Weekend
Gates, historian and trustee of the Mercury Confirmed activities on the local calendar A Ngati Hei cultural outreach programme (Saturday 26 October 2019), a sand art
250 Anniversary Trust. “The Mercury 250 include the Mercury Bay Art Escape Trust’s to Te Whanganui o Hei kura (schools) will competition sponsored and organised by The
Anniversary Trust acknowledges Ngāti community street art festival, taking place commence in March, preparing students Informer and Richardsons Real Estate Cooks
Hei and, in particular, Joe Davis for the in Whitianga from 4 March to 8 March and teachers with pōwhiri, choreography Beach will take place. The event will be open
tremendously generous manner in which 2019. The project will feature a series of and weaving wānanga for their involvement to a variety of age groups, with prizes for
these stories have been shared with us.” 12 murals reflecting the themes of “First in Te Pōwhiri, the major commemoration all categories, including major cash prizes.
By presenting meaningful commemoration Encounters” and “Navigation.” The murals ceremony on Saturday 19 October 2019. The judges will be announced in the first
activities in Te Whanganui o Hei/Mercury Bay will be painted by Mercury Bay Art Escape A national flotilla of waka, ships and half of 2019. The competition will be held
along with the three other sites in Aotearoa artists and well-known street artists from possibly the replica of HM Bark Endeavour at Cooks Beach in the vicinity of the Banks
New Zealand where Māori and Europeans around the Coromandel Peninsula, Auckland based at the Australian National Maritime Street Reserve. A carnival will take place
first met during Cook’s 1769 voyage, Tuia and Hamilton. Museum in Sydney is expected to arrive in at the reserve during the competition, with
250 will enhance the reputation of Aotearoa/ Creative Mercury Bay have confirmed Tola Te Whanganui o Hei/Mercury Bay on Friday stalls, food and live entertainment. A shuttle
New Zealand around the world. Tuia 250 Newberry will perform “Ka Tito Au, Kupe’s 18th October 2019, with a karanga delivered service between Ferry Landing and Cooks
commemoration programmes across the Heroic Journey” on two occasions on 5 April by Ngati Hei representatives at the Purangi Beach will be available on the day.
Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019Issue 826
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2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019
Issue 826
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August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23Protecting Coromandel kauri -
it’s up to you!
A contribution by the Kauri 2000 Trust
The simple steps you take to clean your gear and exiting forests - scrub, check you’ve commitment from you but will make a big popular spot over summer, but there is kauri
will help protect our kauri forests and could removed all soil, or at least as much as difference to our kauri. You can check for dieback in this area, so it’s important not to take
mean the difference between the ultimate possible, then spray with disinfectant. Department of Conservation track closures short cuts or trespass through private property.
survival and extinction of this iconic species. • Stay on tracks at all times and off kauri before you set out at www.doc.govt.nz. Stick to the public track, and stay on the beach,
That’s a message the Kauri 2000 Trust hopes roots. Walking on and disturbing soil Efforts to protect Coromandel kauri are please don’t go exploring or camp up behind
everyone visiting forests on the Coromandel around the roots can spread the disease and ramping up this summer. DOC has been the beach.
Peninsula will take personally and by observing also damages fine feeder roots. progressively upgrading tracks and installing If you want to look at kauri, go to places
simple hygiene precautions, do their bit to • Keep dogs on a leash as they can spread new hygiene stations, and track ambassadors where there are boardwalks so you can get
prevent kauri dieback disease spreading among soil too. When you are hunting or moving will be stationed at several key tracks this up close without standing on the tree roots.
Coromandel Peninsula kauri. between forests, clean your dog’s paws as summer to explain how you can help to protect Great places to see mature kauri are the 309
Kauri 2000 chairperson Alison Henry says well as your own gear. our kauri forests. Kauri Grove and the Long Bay Kauri Walk.
with thousands of holidaymakers and tourists • Obey all track closures - it’s a small New Chums Beach/Wainuiototo is a very To learn more visit www.kauridieback.co.nz.
hitting the Peninsula over the next few weeks,
it’s particularly important that visitors from
Auckland, Northland and Great Barrier Island
“come clean to the Coromandel” and that locals
also play their part in protecting our kauri.
“Kauri dieback disease kills kauri of all ages
and sizes by destroying their feeding roots,”
says Alison. “There’s no cure. The disease has
spread rapidly through our kauri forests because
people have transported infected dirt from one
area to another and it’s highly likely that’s how
kauri dieback came to the Coromandel.
“The only practical way to save our kauri
forests now is to stop the spread of the disease
into healthy areas and to keep it contained
within known infected locations. Fortunately,
even with the recent discovery of a new site
near Tairua, there are still only a limited number
of infected sites on the Peninsula. If we all apply
simple hygiene procedures every time we go
into the bush, we should be able to slow down
the spread of this disease.”
These are the simple hygiene procedures you
need to follow every time you go into the bush -
• Clean all dirt off your footwear, tyres and A team from the Department of Conservation and two community volunteers installing a new hygiene station at an entrance to the Matarangi
equipment before you leave home and Bluff Track (between Matarangi and Rings Beach) the week before last. From left to right - Ryan Berney (DOC summer ranger), Ian McDonald
again after every visit to a kauri forest. (member of the Rings Beach Wetland Reserve Group), Ian Booth (DOC recreation ranger) Chris Twemlow (DOC kauri protection ranger),
• Always use hygiene stations entering Cheyenne Walmsley (DOC kauri protection ranger) and Ian Patrick (member of the Rings Beach Wetland Reserve Group).
Page 24 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 826 - 2 January 2019You can also read
