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Issue 931 - 6 January 2021 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,000
Busy workload for Whitianga-based
rescue helicopter
By Stephan Bosman
Soon after a helicopter of the Auckland
Rescue Helicopter Trust (ARHT) arrived at
Crosby Field, the rescue helicopter base in
Whitianga, for a five-week period on Monday
last week, the crew were tasked on their first
mission. That was followed by seven more
missions before “Auld Lang Syne” could be
heard across the Coromandel Peninsula as
people welcomed in the New Year.
“The workload of the rescue helicopter
that’s at the moment based in Whitianga is
evidence that we need a rescue helicopter
operating from the Peninsula over long
weekends and the busy holiday periods,” says
Merv George, chairman of the Coromandel
Rescue Helicopter Trust (the owner of
Crosby Field).
“Traffic around the Coromandel bordered
on chaotic over the New Year’s period. Some
of the patients the helicopter attended to in the
few days before New Year, including motor
vehicle accident victims at Kennedy Bay
and Wharekaho, were seriously injured. If it
wasn’t for the helicopter, it may have taken a
long time for them to get to a hospital.”
Craig Gibbons, CEO of Northern Rescue
Helicopters Limited (a joint venture between
the ARHT and the Northland Emergency
Services Trust) says he is pleased that
they are able to roster three helicopters,
two in Auckland and one in Whitianga,
on during the current summer holiday season.
“It’s something we haven’t delivered in the
past,” he says. “While the people on the
Coromandel are supported by helicopter
aeromedical services from Ardmore,
Tauranga and the Waikato, the availability The first Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust crew based in Whitianga for the summer holidays inside the Crosby Field hangar on Wednesday last week.
of a dedicated helicopter on the Coromandel From the left - Ati Wynyard (crewman), Mike McAulay (paramedic), Josh Sanders (paramedic) and Paul Robinson (pilot).
provides two clear benefits.
“The first is additional capacity. With a injured people in the region receive medical shifts required to provide an extra helicopter superb facility and to have the enthusiastic
massive increase in the Coromandel summer critical care quickly.” to cover the Peninsula during this hectic time support of the local community.
population, our Whitianga-based helicopter According to James Tayler, ARHT deputy of year. “Happy New Year from all the guys and
is smoothing our workload during New flight operations manager and pilot, the ARHT “Although a helicopter is only planned to be girls of the ARHT.”
Zealand’s busiest period for helicopter crews have been looking forward to being based in Whitianga during what’s anticipated The Informer will be publishing in every issue
aeromedical services each year. based back at Crosby Field. “Our first crew to be the period of highest demand, it will this month a summary of missions flown
“The second benefit is speed of response. have received the normal warm welcome give us a chance to assess the level of work by the ARHT on the Coromandel during the
The close location, coupled with the form the Coromandel community,” he says. to assist with planning into the future. We’re previous week, including missions flown by
additional capacity, is already seeing ill and “Our crews were all happy to work the extra fortunate and grateful that Crosby Field is a the rescue helicopter based in Whitianga.
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Taking a home-away-from-home
to a new level
By Jack Biddle
Ewen Satherley has a real passion for rather deck folding down snugly against the side. term project and this one certainly just kept longer than a large caravan, but at 4m it’s
large trucks while his wife, Julz, has for the A friend of Ewen’s who owns an engineering getting bigger and better,” he said. “I replaced a lot taller, so we needed to be mindful of
last 16 years loved spending the Christmas business in Taupo, carried out a lot of the all the tyres, fixed some cab details and broken overhead obstacles,” Ewen said.
holidays parked up in the family tent at the structural work, including making the frame fiberglass on the bonnet, fitted new injectors The total length gets stretched a little when
Hahei Holiday Resort. the container sits on and ensuring everything in the engine and replaced the mud guards Ewen hooks up his trailer complete with a
One would have to say on the surface, tents met the required certification standards. among other things. It’s still registered as a beautifully restored 1971 XY Ford Falcon
and trucks don’t seem to be the perfect match, All up the project took Ewen a couple of truck and because the container is designed on board. “Obviously the truck can’t be used
but it seems Ewen is never short of a good years to complete. for easy removal, it can and has been used for for ducking up the road to do some shopping
idea and Julz wasn’t overly surprised when he Ewen said the truck wasn’t roadworthy other tasks also.” or other errands, so bringing along the
came up with a plan to ditch the tent and go when he purchased it around eight years As heading to Hahei these holidays was Falcon seemed to fit the occasion perfectly,”
camping in the truck instead. His masterplan, ago, but it wasn’t in bad shape overall either. their maiden voyage, Ewen and Julz spoke he said. “It was originally my father’s and like
which he freely admits was conceived over “It had been left parked up on a farm and to management at the Hahei Holiday Resort the truck had sat idle for some time before I
a few beers with mates, was to build what neglected for some time, but coming from a prior to their arrival to make sure there purchased it. With help from my twin sons,
was basically a tiny house based around a family that has a long history in the trucking were no issues with access and there was an the car was completely rebuilt and repowered,
shipping container and placing it on the back game, I saw the potential and I love a long- appropriate site available. “It’s actually no so it’s very much part of the family and one of
of his much loved and recently restored 1994 a couple of other performance cars we own.”
Kenworth T650, a former logging truck. Asked what the fuel consumption was for
“Julz has an open mind and has always the Kenworth fully loaded, Ewen said it was
been very accommodating to some of the more about smiles per miles rather than litres
projects I have come up with over the years,” per mile while the views when travelling were
Ewen said. “We both share a passion for amazing. “The engine is not working that
camping, so it wasn’t all that hard to get hard to be honest, so the fuel consumption
her over the line on this idea, to be honest. is actually not as bad as some might think,”
It was made a lot easier when I told her that he said.
her espresso coffee machine would be part of The reaction from fellow campers has been
the fittings along with a wine rack, full queen all very positive and the truck has drawn loads
bed, kitchen cabinets, induction cook top, of comments. “This year was very much a
fridge/freezer, aircon and a deck to enjoy a trial for us, but overall things are working out
refreshing drink and nibbles with friends in pretty much as we planned and we’re keen
the evenings.” to plan some future weekend trips away with
Because of its box-like shape, a modified friends who own caravans,” Ewen said.
container was seen as the best option for the It hasn’t been a total change for some of the
living quarters and Ewen was able to do the family this summer, however. The sleeping
conversion from home in Kinloch. arrangements are such that the tent is still
The container is fully lined with high used to accommodate the 19-year-old twins.
density polystyrene and ply, has double- While enjoying a few cold ones on the
glazed opening windows and when in transit, deck this summer with friends, it’s worth
the deck folds up via a winch to form the one Ewen and Julz Satherley’s “former logging truck camping container” and speculating what Ewen’s next big project
side of the container with the roof over the restored 1971 XY Ford Falcon at the Hahei Holiday Resort last week. will be.
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of Wednesday, 6 January to Wednesday, 13 January - There will be no International Space Station passes this week, but lots of other smaller
satellites to see in the early evening. They are generally only visible for about two to three hours after sunset or before sunrise as they have no lights of
their own and only reflect sunlight enabling us to see them. Late in the evening, the Earth’s shadow moves around to cover the whole sky so they are
invisible except for those few in very high orbits. Satellites generally appear just like faint moving stars but if you see one that is regularly becoming
brighter and dimmer as it passes overhead, it is likely to be a piece of “space junk.” These are usually rocket boosters or tumbling satellites that give
off flashes of light from their reflective surfaces as they rotate. We have now lost Jupiter and Saturn for a few months, but reddish Mars is still high Astronomy Tours and B&B
overhead in the early evening. Brilliant Venus remains a lovely sight in the eastern predawn sky. Sunday, 10 January - A crescent Moon lies just to
Phone (07) 866 5343
the left of the red giant star Antares in the dawn sky. Monday, 11 January - The Moon now sits halfway between reddish Antares and brilliant Venus
at dawn. Tuesday, 12 January - Brilliant Venus lies right next to a very thin crecent Moon at dawn. www.stargazersbb.com
Tides data sponsored by
Whitianga and Hot Water Beach tides
nzwindows.co.nz
4 Dakota Drive
Whitianga
Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Tel 07 869 5990
Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021
Whitianga Art Group Summer
Exhibition formally opened
A great turnout of people attended the formal opening of the Whitianga Art Group’s Summer Exhibition
2021 last Sunday evening at the Whitianga Art Centre and Gallery in School Road.
The exhibition is featuring all new works from many of the group’s more than 40 members.
Before introducing Leanne Adams, this year’s guest artist, Art Group president, Jenny Cotterell spoke
about 2020 being a year like no other. “Despite the COVID-19 lockdown and the other restrictions
that followed, our members remained committed to creating beautiful paintings and drawings,”
she said. “Many of them turned part of their homes into studios. This year is a fresh start. We look
forward to more workshops and other activities, and of course more painting days together.”
When it was her turn to say a few words, Leanne said she is honoured to be this year’s guest artist.
She also spoke of her journey as an artist, from Rotorua to Australia and now Whitianga. “It doesn’t
matter what it is you love to do, cars at the Whiti Beach Meet car show earlier today or the beautiful
artworks against the walls here, if you’re passionate about something you can make it happen,”
she said.
Referring to three sweet pea paintings she contributed to the exhibition, Leanne said sweet peas
signal to her the power of new beginnings. She then invited all those present to raise their glasses
and toast everyone who is creative and everyone who isn’t. “To a great year of new beginnings for
all of us,” she said.
The exhibition is running until Monday, 1 February and is open every day from 10:00am to 4:00pm.
Entry is free. All the artworks on display are for sale.
Pictured are Leanne (left) and Jenny at Leanne’s sweet pea paintings on Sunday.
Issue 931
699 - 627January
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
The Informer Year in Review
We all know what the defining story of 2020 was. But while COVID-19 certainly dominated our lives
and subsequently the headlines, there were plenty of other tales to be told. The Informer Year in
Review looks back on some of the highlights of the unforgettable year that was.
The Informer of 8 January normal consumption.
Volunteers from the local community in and
The Informer of 18 March
around Matarangi have been credited for helping
“Constrained resources” is the reason for at times
save the lives of seven pilot whales, including
lengthy delays in responding to emergencies on
a calf, that stranded on the beach last weekend. the Coromandel Peninsula. St John Territory
A total of 11 animals were discovered early on Manager for East Coromandel, Rosanne
Saturday morning at the Matarangi Spit adjacent Shaw, also highlighted the increasing volume
to The Dunes Golf Course. It is believed a calf of calls local crews are having to respond to,
may have beached first, causing the family pod particularly in the past 12 months, but said no
to follow. further ambulances could be staffed as funding
The Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust/ was not available. Roseanne was responding
Informer/More FM petition to reinstate a rescue to queries about the level of cover available on
helicopter based in Whitianga over the busy the Peninsula after one recent incident saw a
summer season and peak holiday periods is Whitianga man, who believed he was having a
off to a flying start. Accurate figures aren’t yet heart attack, wait 90 minutes for help to arrive.
available, but anecdotal evidence suggests more
than 8,000 signatures have been collected since The Informer of 25 March
Promises that it was coming did little to insulate Whitianga resident, Maureen Miller, sacrificed her 2020 New Year’s Day to collect
the launch of the petition on Tuesday last week rescue helicopter petition signatures on the Whitianga Ferry.
(by the time it was submitted to Parliament the shock as news broke on Monday afternoon
later in the year, the petition had over 43,000 this week that the entire country was going into
where the public demanded plans to lift rates can once again gather together. Thunder
lockdown for a four-week period in a bid to stop
signatures).
the spread of COVID-19. Schools, restaurants,
by an average of 9.98 per cent be scrapped. passed away peacefully at his home in Coghill
The Informer of 12 February bars, libraries and all non-essential services are
Council is aiming to raise an additional $7.1m Street on Sunday, 5 April and was laid to rest
More than 150 people attended a public meeting now closed with New Zealand on Wednesday
through increased rates, fees and charges in the in the Ferry Landing Cemetery. COVID-19
in the Whitianga Town Hall last Sunday 2020/2021 financial year, $4.3 more than was restrictions dictated that just two mourners and
moving to Alert Level 4 - the highest level
afternoon to discuss the current total watering estimated two years ago in its Long Term Plan staff from Twentymans Funeral Directors could
available to the government. Businesses that
ban in Whitianga. In addition to Allan Tiplady, 2018 - 2028. The clear view of the room was that be present.
have spent the last couple of weeks battling
Thames-Coromandel District Council’s Area council needed to go back to the drawing board,
on in the face of increasingly challenging The Informer of 29 April
Manager North, and Bruce Hinson, TCDC’s with some arguing that rates should be frozen in
restrictions must now close their doors. The ANZAC Day on Saturday last week was
Operations Group Manager, the meeting the wake of the coronavirus crisis which is set
health and welfare of the community remains different this year, but the COVID-19 lockdown
was attended by TCDC councillor, Tony to cripple many local businesses, with closures
the number one priority as new procedures are didn’t deter many Whitianga residents to
Fox, and several Mercury Bay Community
and job losses looking increasingly likely.
introduced at GP clinics and medical centres on decorate their mailboxes with poppies and to
Board members. Mr Tiplady pointed out the Coromandel in response to the pandemic. The Informer of 15 April “stand at down” in their driveways at 6:00am.
that Whitianga’s storage capacity of treated “Live within your means” was the instruction Relatives and friends are vowing to give Members of the Whitianga Volunteer Fire
water is just more than one day’s peak period to Thames-Coromandel District Council at an Whitianga icon, Dennis “Thunder” Dunn, Brigade, dressed in their formal uniforms, were
consumption and about four days’ worth of Annual Plan consultation meeting in Whitianga the send-off he deserves when the community among those who paid their respects,
(Continued on page 7)
Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021
Issue 931 - 6 January 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
The Small-time Investor
By Whitianga resident, Max Ross
New Year’s update
Last year, on 21 July, the first Small Time In October, I only purchased Tesla shares.
Investor article was published in The Informer I invested a total of four times in the company
- the start of a year-long series on investing and gave a different reason each time.
in shares. This has been my best investment and thankfully
In the first article the investing app Sharesies also my largest. It has gone up 51.3 percent or
was discussed and you, the readers, were invited USD135.74.
to invest along with me as much or as little In November, I focused on dividend-producing
as you could afford. I am investing NZD100 shares within New Zealand. I bought Infratil,
a week. Kathmandu, Spark and a Dividend ETF. Infratil
My first and fifth investments were in Fisher is up 31.6 percent, being worth NZD31.30
and Paykel Healthcare. I’ve lost NZD9.95 or more than when I invested. Kathmandu is up
negative 4.7 percent with this investment. 10.5 percent, being worth NZD10.46 more than
In August, I invested into Mainfreight, when I invested. Spark is up 3.7 percent, being
Smartpay and Pushpay. I would expect worth NZD3.68 more than when I invested.
the first shares bought to have the biggest The Smartshares Dividend ETF is up 8.9
returns as I’ve had them for the longest time. percent, being worth NZD8.80 more than when
More recent purchases have not had the same I invested.
time to increase in value. Mainfreight I bought In December, I invested into large American
twice, providing a healthy return of NZD77.29 or technology companies - Nvidia, Amazon,
38.9 percent. Smartpay has gone up 6.6 percent Microsoft, and Netflix. Nvidia is down 2
with a return of NZD6.88. Pushpay has gone percent, being worth USD1.39 less than when I
down NZD10.28, a negative 10.3 percent return, invested. Amazon is up 4.3 percent, being worth
my second worst investment. USD3.03 more than when I invested. Microsoft
In September, I invested into EBOS, Plexure, is up 3.8 percent, being worth USD2.64 more
Vital Healthcare and Apple. EBOS has provided than when I invested. Netflix is down 1.1
a positive return of NZD28.89 or 29.3 percent. percent, being worth USD0.74 less than when
Plexure has been my worst investment. I invested.
Currently I have lost NZD16.62 or negative I believe winners keep on winning,
16.6 percent. Their share price was up for a so this week I am purchasing NZD100 of my
while, but plummeted in November and has best performing share, which is Tesla.
not recovered since. Vital Healthcare Property After 23 weeks of investing, I am up
Trust has returned 9.6 percent or NZD9.47, 12.7 percent with my investments being worth
including dividends. NZD321 more than the money I have put in.
Apple was my first US investment. I invested Hopefully these returns will continue into 2021,
in them twice, the first time at the end of but nothing is guaranteed.
September and again last week. A return of 13.4 Please be careful with your money and only
percent or USD18.36 was achieved. invest what you can afford to lose.
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021
The Informer Year in Review
(Continued from page 4)
Census 2018 data recently released by Statistics cottages in utter ruin. The waterlines on the
New Zealand shows the Whitianga and walls inside show the flood reached a height of
Wharekaho/Simpsons Beach population grew 1.75m - four centimetres above the head of an
by 1,086 from 4,407 permanent residents in average person.
2013 to 5,493 in 2018. That is an increase of The police have confirmed that gang rivalry
just under 25 per cent. was behind a series of violent incidents in
Whitianga late last week, including the assault
The Informer of 13 May of two police officers. Three people were due
Whitianga Social Services has launched a new to be charged in the Hamilton District Court on
community initiative to help older people stay Monday this week in relation to the attack on the
socially connected while keeping themselves police, with two members of the public credited
safe as the Coromandel and New Zealand for preventing further injury to the officers.
continues the fight against COVID-19.
The Mercury Bay Pen Pal Club will pair up The Informer of 7 July
seniors who would like to receive mail with The revival of the Coromandel’s kiwi
volunteers in the community who are willing to population has received a significant boost
put pen to paper to revive the dying art of letter with the discovery of a new population of the
writing. While particularly aimed at seniors, bird in a previously uninhabited area of bush.
the Pen Pal Club will be open to anyone who is Conservation groups working along the east
Well-known Wharekaho resident and rangatira of Ngāti Hei, Joe Davis, has been made a coast of the Peninsula are celebrating the major
housebound or feeling isolated.
Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in June 2020. success, after identifying at least two breeding
The Informer of 20 May Joe received the award for his services to Māori and conservation. pairs in an area of scenic reserve at Rings
The Coromandel has been named New Beach between Matarangi and Kuaotunu.
10:45am. His friend was about 100m out and on Waikato Regional Council’s Coromandel
Zealand’s most popular road trip, as Kiwis turn also attempting to battle the current, while two Catchment Committee. He is trustee of the Representatives from Project Kiwi and the
their minds towards travelling again under the other members of their group watched helpless Mercury 250th Anniversary Trust and was Rings Beach Wetland Group spent several
COVID-19 Alert Level 2 restrictions. Breath- from the beach. A team of local surfers began responsible for organising last year’s Tuia 250 consecutive nights in the reserve last month
taking scenery, stunning beaches and historic the dramatic rescue which eventually involved pōwhiri at Wharekaho. conducting audio monitoring for kiwi calls.
towns - along with easy access from multiple over a dozen people from the community.
North Island main centres - have put the The Informer of 10 June The Informer of 21 July
Peninsula in the number one spot on a list of the The Informer of 3 June A Coroglen family is coming to terms with Assurances have been given that the process of
country’s top 10 drives. Well-known Wharekaho resident and rangatira a terrifying ordeal that saw floodwaters establishing a new transfer station in Whitianga
of Ngāti Hei, Joe Davis, has been made completely destroy two holiday cottages on will be progressed without further delay after
The Informer of 27 May a Member of the New Zealand Order of their rural property, forcing the evacuation members of the Mercury Bay Community
A group of brave Mercury Bay locals have been Merit in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. of eight tourists, including three children. Board expressed frustration at the length of
credited with saving the lives of two tourists Joe received the award for his services to Māori The devastating event occurred on the Saturday time the project is taking. Thames-Coromandel
who got into difficulty when swimming in and conservation. Joe represents Ngāti Hei on of Queen’s Birthday Weekend when, within the District Council’s Operations Group Manager,
extremely challenging conditions at Hot Water the Hauraki Māori Trust Board and is a treaty space of just 15 minutes, a tsunami of water Bruce Hinson, confirmed that $200,000 of
Beach last Friday morning. One of the men was negotiator for Ngāti Hei and Ngāpuhi. He’s a from the nearby Kapowai River surged through funding is in place to complete investigations
around 200m from shore and struggling in a member of the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine their lifestyle property, Dragonfly Farm, and detailed design during the current financial
large rip when the alarm was raised at around Reserve Committee and served for three terms smashing glass and furniture and leaving the year, with construction to be carried out in
(Continued on page 10)
Issue 931 - 6 January 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Ants in your pants? Stoat in
your boat?
A contribution by the Department of Conservation
The Department of Conservation is urging right on the beach and birds such as kaka have
boaties to check their gear and vessels before begun to nest much closer to the ground since
they set sail to enjoy the beautiful water of the the pest eradication.
northern Coromandel’s offshore islands. Visitors must also ensure they do not
Whitianga-based DOC ranger, Marie bring other unwanted animals or plants to
Everth, says protecting the offshore islands the offshore islands. Rats, mice and stoats or
from invasive animals and plants is a key unwanted insects like Argentine ants pose an
focus in their conservation efforts across the enormous threat and can destroy the recovering
Coromandel. “If you have a boat and love to ecosystems of the islands.
explore the waters around the Coromandel, A mouse can fit through a hole the size of
then you play a vital role in protecting our a pencil and a rat through the size of a 10-
islands,” she says. cent coin. Once in the water, a rat can swim
Islands are important conservation tools, up to 1.5km and a stoat can swim up to 3km.
providing refuge for many animal species So, it’s important to check your boat and gear
that may have otherwise become extinct. thoroughly when heading out this summer
New Zealand’s offshore islands comprise only around the Coromandel.
1.2 percent of the country’s land area, however Landing on the other Mercury Islands
they help to protect 56 percent of our threatened is prohibited.
birds and 36 percent of our threatened reptiles. Treat every island as if it is pest-free and
“On the Coromandel, we are fortunate our before you use your boat, give it a good
amazing offshore islands are home to a range clean and check for any unwanted animals.
of endangered taonga species,” says Marie. Load your boat during daylight when pests are
“Many of these islands are classified as pest- less active. Zip up your bags tightly to avoid
free, allowing species and habitats to recover.” pests crawling in them and remove any seeds
Ahuahu (Great Mercury Island) is a perfect or dirt from your clothing and shoes.
example. The island was made mammalian “We encourage you to get out there this
pest-free in 2014 and over the past six years summer,” says Marie. “Your actions have a
has seen a significant recovery in bird and great impact in helping us to protect these
reptile species. Northern New Zealand dotterel amazing islands allowing them to thrive.
numbers have increased and pāteke (brown teal Our community are the frontline of defence in
duck) populations have grown exponentially protecting our islands, so by doing your part
since the pest eradication. Kaka have more and encouraging others, you are making a great
than doubled in numbers. The screeching of difference.
kaka from the pohutukawa trees is the first If you see any unusual behaviour this
noise you will hear when visiting the island. summer around our offshore islands or see a
A recent survey has also shown a promising pest on, or near an island, please phone the
recovery in seabird populations on Ahuahu. DOC conservation emergency hotline, 0800
The public can land on the Great Mercury DOC HOT (0800 362 468).
Island beaches. However, please leave dogs on Visit doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/
the boat or at home. Native birds nesting on the know-before-you-go/visiting-pest-free-
ground are vulnerable to dogs. Dotterels nest islands/ for more information.
Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021
Issue 931 - 6 January 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
The Informer Year in Review
(Continued from page 7)
council’s 2021/2022 financial year. At a meeting solution being put forward to urgently offset Church in Whitianga on Monday last week to Councillor Denis Tegg, the Thames-
of the Community Board earlier this month, coastal erosion threating the survival of reach the many family, friends and colleagues Coromandel representative on Waikato
Councillor Murray McClean said he also wanted the Mercury Bay Boating Club clubhouse. unable to attend due to the COVID-19 Level 2 Regional Council, has been canvassing interest
to ensure that all options were being looked at Representatives of the club attended last week’s restrictions. from communities around the Coromandel
so the new facility would be offering as many meeting of the Mercury Bay Community Board in relation to connector shuttles similar to the
different collection streams as possible. to plead for immediate assistance amid fears The Informer of 22 September one that already operates in Thames. Mr Tegg
their clubhouse, located on the Buffalo Beach Despite the fact that the Mercury Bay Under outlined a proposal to members of the Mercury
The Informer of 11 August beachfront, is on the brink of falling into the sea. 15 rugby team drew their Thames Valley final, Bay Community Board which estimates the
Renowned Otama artist, Michael Smither, The Community Board members were asked to 26 all, against Waihi College on Saturday last cost to Thames-Coromandel District Council
and his partner, G’ian McGregor, have been intervene without delay to find a solution. week, they are competition champions, both would be approximately $44,000 a year, around
welcomed as the new patrons of the He Mana on paper and in the hearts and minds of their $5 per ratepayer in the Mercury Bay ward.
Toi Moehau Trust/Creative Coromandel. The Informer of 1 September supporters. The game was played as part of the
Jan Wright, chair of the He Mana Toi Moehau A living tribute in the form of an orchard garden The Informer of 13 October
Thames Valley Rugby Union secondary school
will be how the Te Rerenga school community One of the jewels in the Coromandel’s tourism
Trust, says the organisation is thrilled to have finals day in Waihi.
them on board. “Not only is Michael one of the will remember and commemorate their beloved crown, famous Hot Water Beach, has made it
most accomplished artists in Aotearoa, but he former principal, Anna Yates, whose two-and- The Informer of 6 October into Lonely Planet’s new “Ultimate Travel List”
and G’ian live and breathe the arts,” she says. a-half-year fight against cancer came to an end Support appears to be growing for a - a collection of the world’s most unmissable
on 19 August. The 43-year-old wife, mother, government-subsidised public bus service destinations. Hot Water Beach is one of 13 New
“They have always been and continue to be
daughter, sister and friend, renowned for her for Whitianga that would improve access to Zealand locations to feature in the 500 strong
staunch advocates of the arts, and their positive
beaming smile, was farewelled at a Celebration line-up, coming in at the 261st spot, behind
influence on emerging and established artists is services and reduce isolation in particular for
astounding. We are absolutely honoured to have of Life service streamed live from Crossroads older residents and people with disabilities. Lake Wanaka at 209 and the Waitomo Caves at
them as our patrons.”
207, but ahead of Great Barrier Island, ranked
“Fly high Bayden, travel well.” It was the 355, and Queenstown, which scraped in at 496.
final message from a spirited Tairua community Whitianga must bid farewell to the kauri tree
for the ultimate nice guy who touched more that has graced the outside of the Mercury Bay
hearts than he ever knew by simply being, Library at Soldiers Memorial Park for the past
in his dad’s words, a friend to everyone he 25 years. The tree was originally planted at the
met. Last Thursday, 13 August, under sunny Mercury Bay Bowling Club in 1945 and then
blue skies, Bayden Joseph Glen Williams, son, relocated to its current site in 1996. However,
brother, father, nephew and mate took one last Thames-Coromandel District Council says it
ride around the neighbourhood he loved. For has suffered extensive crown dieback and is
the seven days since their eldest boy had passed showing very little recovery. The tree will be
away, allegedly murdered on the Kōpū-Hikuai removed before the summer holiday period.
Road, the Williams family had been shrouded A decade of severe austerity has been
in an outpouring of love and support that they signalled by Thames-Coromandel District
describe as both overwhelming and humbling. Council as it anticipates a difficult post-COVID
recovery period will compound an already
The Informer of 25 August challenging financial outlook. Council has
Strategically positioned groynes that would Hot Water Beach was included in Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List published adopted a “stalled rebuild scenario” in terms
promote the build-up of sand along a vulnerable in 2020 - a collection of the world’s most unmissable destinations. of its forecasting for the upcoming 2021 - 2031
section of Whitianga beachfront is one potential Photo by The Coromandel/www.thecoromandel.com. Long Term Plan. “What this means is that any
Thumbs
Up
To the
Whitianga
residents who sacrifice
much of their own
time to keep some of
the roundabouts in the
town neat and tidy.
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021Year in Review
new services over the next 10 years will need that the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula has
to be adjusted downwards, or rates income to offer can rest easier knowing the Auckland
upwards, in order to meet a balanced budget,” Rescue Helicopter Trust will have a Westpac
it said in a statement. “It also means we will Rescue Helicopter and crew based at the hangar
be heavily restrained in every aspect of our in Whitianga during the upcoming summer
operations in where money is spent.” holidays. Last summer, a helicopter and crew
were noticeably absent from the purpose-built
The Informer of 20 October Whitianga facilities, for the first time in 10
The Coromandel’s newly re-elected MP has years. Northern Rescue Helicopter Limited
credited his work over the past nine years and CEO, Craig Gibbons, says. “We are delighted
his strong relationships with constituents for to have worked through some logistical issues
saving his job in the face of the “red tide” that that will see the team back in Whitianga.
swept across New Zealand in last weekend’s At present, we are only able to have
general election. For the first time since 2002, crew members rostered on in Whitianga
the Labour Party topped the party vote in the during daytime hours throughout the month
Coromandel electorate, attracting 43 per cent of January.”
of votes, a massive jump from the 28 percent
received three years ago. National took 34 The Informer of 24 November
percent, a seismic drop from its 51 percent It was an emotional moment when the fourth
share in 2017. Van’s RV12 aeroplane built by a group of
Community volunteers have been praised community mentors and senior Mercury Bay
for their mammoth effort in saving the lives Area School students took to the skies for
of more than 20 pilot whales who were the first time at the Whitianga Airfield on
successfully re-floated after becoming stranded Saturday last week. A large crowd witnessed
at Colville Bay last weekend. Locals were first the aeroplane’s maiden flight, which included
on the scene early on Saturday morning where two low passes along the length of the airfield’s
around 25 whales had beached, with up to 15 main runway.
more stranded in shallow waters. An estimated News that BNZ is to close its Coromandel
200 people were involved in the physically Town branch leaving the community without
and emotionally draining task of tending to any bank has been described as “devastating”
the whales, keeping them cool and wet for by Councillor John Morrissey. The community’s
more than 12 hours until high tide at 9:00pm. elected representative on Thames-Coromandel
After successfully ushering the group back to District Council said it was very disappointing
sea, sadly overnight 19 of them split from the whenever a small rural town lost services. While
pod again and stranded on a nearby headland accepting that the number of people using the
branch had declined, he said it was still very
where they died. They were blessed by local
important for some sectors of the community.
iwi before burial.
“For businesses and in particular the elderly
The Informer of 17 November it will be a devastating loss,” he said. BNZ
Residents and holidaymakers enjoying all Coromandel Town will close sometime between
(Continued on page 14)
Issue 931 - 6 January 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021
Issue 931
699 - 627January
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13Year in Review New Whitianga Summer
(Continued from page 11)
April and July 2021, forcing residents to travel
to either Whitianga or Thames to carry out
of scallop numbers on the eastern side of
the Peninsula.
Concert line-up announced
Greenstone Entertainment - promoters of the Whitianga Summer Concert on Sunday, 31 January -
banking tasks that cannot be done online. It was a dream come true for Gary Hinds,
have announced on Tuesday this week that the Jordan Luck Band (pictured), Stellar* and Hello Sailor
chairman of the Trust Waikato Hot Water Beach
The Informer of 15 December will join Gin Wigmore and Dragon as part of the concert line-up.
Lifeguard Service, and his fellow committee
Campervans will be banned from the Buffalo Due to the changing COVID-10 situation in Australia, The Angels, Pseudo Echo and Mi-Sex are no
members when the ribbon of the club’s new
Beach waterfront in Whitianga under proposed longer able to travel to New Zealand.
clubhouse was cut last Sunday. The 220m²
changes to the Thames-Coromandel District’s
building was funded through contributions “We send our best wishes to all The Angels, Pseudo Echo and Mi-Sex members, along with their
freedom camping rules. The revised Freedom
Camping Bylaw has just been released for from the government’s “shovel ready projects” families, at this difficult time and completely understand that their health, safety and wellbeing must
fund and Trust Waikato, as well as a generous take priority in these unprecedented times,” says Greenstone Entertainment CEO, Amanda Calvert.
public consultation, however any amendments
donation from Hot Water Beach’s Judge Family. “Last year has been a very challenging year for all of us and to some extent it has been a ‘wait and
will not come into effect until March next year.
The decision to make Buffalo Beach Road a “We’ve also received amazing support from see’ approach. We are delighted to confirm that the ‘show must go on.’”
prohibited area was prompted by what Thames- local suppliers, including main builder, Laurie The Jordan Luck Band are made up of a wish list of players handpicked by legend, Jordan Luck,
Coromandel District Council describes as McMurtrie,” says Amy Hodge, club treasurer. to bring concertgoers his iconic songs from The Exponents era, including New Zealand Top 40 hits
“significant access and health and safety issues.” “Wherever someone could give us a discount “Victoria,” “Why does Love do this to Me,” “Who Loves Who the Most” and “I’ll Say Goodbye.”
Witnesses to the large bush fire at Pumpkin or supply something free of charge, they did so Stellar*, with their unique kiwi blend of rock and electronica, have cranked up 20 years of timeless
Hill north of Tairua say the blaze was within without us even having to ask.” classics with hits like “Violent,” “Part of Me,” “Every Girl” and “All it Takes.” They have enjoyed no
just a few metres of several properties and have The Informer of 30 December less than 64 weeks in the New Zealand Top 40 singles charts across the late 1990s and early 2000s.
praised the actions of firefighters for saving Christmas Eve was the end of an era for Gordon Hello Sailor are a true Kiwi favourite, having built a huge following around the New Zealand pub and
people’s homes. Fourteen crews from across Barnaby. After 23 years of delighting children of club circuit in the late 1970s and beyond with classics such as “Gutter Black,” “Blue Lady” and “Billy
the Coromandel and beyond attended the fire all ages, the lights of the “Whitianga Christmas Bold.” Many of their hits have featured in the New Zealand Top 40 singles charts.
which broke out just after 2:00pm with two House” were switched off and the doors closed Local tickets for the concert cost $115 each and are available from the Whitianga i-SITE, Pauanui
helicopters also called in to assist from the air. for the last time. Every year those who enjoyed Info Centre and the Whangamata Information Centre. General tickets are available online at
It has prompted pleas to the public to be extra in the lights, Christmas trees and toys in the two greenstoneentertainment.co.nz and cost $125 plus booking fees.
vigilant during what are already extremely hot weeks leading up to Christmas, were given the
and dry conditions. opportunity to make a donation into a “wishing
The Informer of 22 December well.” Over the years the Christmas House
The owners of Mercury Bay Medical Centre was in existence, Gordon and his late wife,
met with Leigh Hopper, the Whitianga Diana, collected more than $35,000 for the
Waterways developer, and his team, to discuss Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Mercury
the preliminary design of the first stage of the Bay Day Camp.
planned new Mercury Bay medical facility. After four years of campaigning, fundraising,
The facility will be developed at the northern planning and construction, the new Whitianga
side of Joan Gaskell Drive opposite the skatepark opened with a sausage sizzle and live
Whitianga Fire Station. Construction on stage music on Tuesday last week. The skatepark
one is scheduled to start early next year. is located at Taylor’s Mistake. Excluding the
Many Opito Bay residents gathered on half basketball court immediately adjacent to
Thursday morning last week in support of the park, it covers an area of approximately
Joe Davis, rangatira of Ngāti Hei, placing a 720m². Landscaping around the skatepark still
“voluntary” rāhui on the gathering of scallops has to be completed and the Skatepark Trust
in the Opito Bay area. The rāhui is the direct are continuing to raise funds for lights to be
result of a large group of Coromandel residents installed at the park. The skatepark will formally
being concerned about the noticeable decline be opened on Saturday, 9 January 2021.
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 (Tairua) .............................................................................................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
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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
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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 published in The Informer. If we were unable to
address your concerns to your satisfaction, you can file a complaint with
ONLINE POLL FOR JANUARY 2020
the New Zealand Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or Should there a total ban on backyard
www.presscouncil.org.nz.
See page 2 for what’s happening Like us on Facebook.
fireworks on the Coromandel?
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 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021Issue 931
699 - 627January
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15Catherine’s Column
By Catherine Delahunty - Coromandel Peninsula resident and former Green Party MP
Summer of light and discontentment
Friday last week was the last day of the year We really cannot blame the weather for famine,
according to the Gregorian Calendar, only one just our inability to share.
way of measuring time. We can look at this Not everyone is mean-spirited. Just before
measure called “a year” and count the last one Christmas I was up in a heritage plum tree
as uniquely challenging and worthy of a less and then in a mandarin orchard in my valley
than fond farewell. But life cannot be corralled collecting fresh fruit given by local growers
into such artificial frameworks and everything to share with families who have no gardens,
that happened in 2020 will continue to be orchards or money. There is great generosity
happening in 2021. among the food growers, but we need more
There is no point in pretending that the than generosity to create justice-based food
four horsemen of the apocalypse are out to systems. This is something to work on in
pasture. The four horsemen in this century have 2021, moving beyond charity to justice.
traditional names - conquest, pestilence, war Food is a human right, not a parcel doled out to
and famine - but also more specific names - the deserving poor. The best way to feed people
climate change, COVID-19, extreme and racist is to lift benefits and wages while teaching
inequality, and the violence of the patriarchy. ourselves the art of gardening.
They have been galloping around for quite As for pestilence, we can only be thankful
some time, but they really sped up in 2020. to be in Aotearoa in the summer light, not in
Their hooves have trampled over health and the desperate struggles against COVID-19
wellbeing across the world for centuries, but in other parts of the world. A small island,
two of the horses appear quite young - climate a small population and a sane model of crisis
change and COVID-19. However, they are leadership, let us thank the lucky stars. Let us
not yearlings, they ride a storm that has been wash our hands and use the COVID app.
building for some time, caused by the profligate The climate change essential safety measures
way our so-called civilisation has dealt with the are much harder than a tap and an app.
bounty of the earth. The other two older horses This country is failing even the weak obligations
play their part in assisting with the success of the Paris Agreement and the politicians need
of their kin to both create and ride a storm. to feel the hot breath of the horseman, not the
So these four will continue to gallop into this cool mantras of the toothless Zero Carbon
year. But despite the storm and the chaos, Bill. They will need to hear from us in 2021,
they also offer the strangely powerful experience loud and unsatisfied by the lack of progress.
of urgency and humility, and the reminder that For some of us, this year will be all about the
nothing is under control. So we can only do the horsemen and the donkeys running with the
best we can, to build communities capable of herd, mining the heart out of our ranges instead
behaving better. of mining e-waste, the lack of proper jobs for
I am looking out into the golden light of the women, especially Pasifika and tangata whenua,
Hauraki summer, accompanied by the calls of the hideous racism lurking in our communities
tui. I can hear the river sliding over the very and more. But I have to also say today that
minor rapids down below the house. I have a taking time to love the light, the garden and the
view of the garden abundant with tomatoes, great people who inspire me in our community
corn, beans and far too many courgettes. feels as powerful and amazing as the sound of
There will be potatoes and kumara in a while. horses’ hooves and donkeys’ breath. Let’s try
This weird weather has kept the garden to keep our balance and remember how much
green in between burning sunlight and stronger we are if we face up to the realities.
thunderstorms with hail. This is how summer Birds still sing as if they mean it and the light is
will be, unexpected but always an opportunity still so beautiful.
for gardeners to roll with the season and Seasons greetings, dear readers, and thanks
remain flexible. for listening.
Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021Issue 931
699 - 627January
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021
Issue 931
699 - 627January
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19What’s On In the next week
Whitianga Art Group Summer Exhibition
Until Monday, 1 February at the Art Centre and Gallery, Whitianga. Open every day from 10:00am -
4:00pm. Free entry.
Christmas Art Exhibition
Until Friday, 15 January at Hauraki House Gallery, Kapanga Road, Coromandel Town from 10:00am -
4:00pm every day. More than 40 artists exhibiting. Several of the artists have donated an artwork to be
sold via Trade Me (search for “Coromandel Christmas Exhibition 2020/2021”) as a fundraiser for the
Colville Project’s Wellbeing and Education Centre.
Mercury Bay Seaside Carnival
Thursday, 7 January from 9:00am - 3:00pm at Buffalo Beach Reserve, Buffalo Beach, Whitianga. Stalls,
food, games and live entertainment. Gold coin donation entry. A fundraiser for Mercury Bay Area School.
Sounds of Summer Concerts at The Coroglen Tavern
Thursday, 7 January - P Money, Home Brew, Wax Mustang, and Vayne & Teto.
See www.coroglentavern for more information.
Peak to Peak Endurance Race
Saturday, 9 January. Run up Mount Paku and Mount Pauanui, swim to Pauanui Wharf and run along
Pauanui Beach. A shorter course also available. Open to all ages. For more information and to enter,
see peaktopeakenduro.co.nz. Online entries only. Athlete registration on the day from 6:45am,
race starts at 8:00am.
Whitianga Art, Craft & Farmer’s Market
Saturday, 9 January from 8:30am - 1:00pm at Soldiers Memorial Park, Albert Street, Whitianga.
Matarangi Tennis Tournament
Saturday, 9 January at the Sands Crescent courts, Matarangi. Men’s doubles and mixed doubles.
Players’ briefing at 9:00am. To enter, phone (027) 271 9376 or email cjrpalmer@hotmail.com.
Coro Scooter Jam
Saturday, 9 January from 10:00am at the Whitianga skatepark, Taylor’s Mistake. Scooter riders of all
ages welcome. Register via snowandstreet.co.nz/events or on the day from 9:00am. Formal opening
of the skatepark at 9:30am.
Coroglen Farmer’s Market
Sunday, 10 January from 9:30am to 1:00pm at the Coroglen Hall.
Paddle and Picnic
Whitianga Waterways, Saturday 9 January
(at the Waterways beach on Reweti Drive, opposite the Mobil service station)
Let’s face it, we can only eat so much Christmas cake and after indulging over New Year’s,
it might be time for some action. If you’re looking for a fun afternoon out on Saturday, 9 January,
then check out one of the main events of the Whitianga Summer Festival - the Paddle and Picnic.
Running from 3:00pm to 6:30pm, the event offers a smorgasbord of fun activity for the
family, including -
• More FM Mini Olympics.
• Stand-up paddle board or kayak fun race (2km or 4km).
• Free hamburgers, picnic in the park and live music.
There will be great spot prizes on offer, including the ultimate family picnic hamper.
This event is brought to you by the Mercury Bay Community Events Support Trust.
Everyone is welcome to enjoy all or part of the afternoon’s activities. Bring a picnic blanket,
deck chairs, some food and drink (no alcohol please).
For full details see whitianga.co.nz/event/paddleandpicnic or facebook.com/whitiangalifestyle.
Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021Issue 931 - 6 January 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21
Letters to the Editor
See page 8 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
Dear Editor - Water meters in Whitianga right of comment - could one of those items be
Your issue of 23 December 2020 refers to the the installation of parking meters in Whitianga?
roll-out of water meters for Whitianga (and Peter Mackenzie
Whangamata) from March 2021 - only three Whitianga
months away. Dear Editor - Thank you to Stephan
I know that the residents and ratepayers I have and Petra Bosman
spoken to are up in arms about the installation I totally endorse Gordon Barnaby’s comments
of water meters for their homes. However, and sentiments he made regarding Stephan and
to my knowledge there has been no public Petra Bosman, owners of The Informer, in your
consultation by Thames-Coromandel District issue of 30 December 2020.
Council with ratepayers over the introduction of Yes, we are extremely grateful and lucky to
these meters. have such a dedicated and caring couple living
As mentioned in your article, council had to in our community, who are so willing to give
hold a mandatory public consultation process up their family time to publish an amazing
regarding capital projects over $1million. And Informer every week and the support they give
council could well have anticipated antagonism to everyone. Thank you.
from us locals during this consultation process. They not only do this, but with COVID-19 last
So to get around this requirement and avoid year, they organised a plan to help all the local
public consultation, TCDC changed the rules businesses survive. I’m sure our community
so that public consultation is no longer required was extremely thankful for that. Thank you
when the capital project in question is under $5 They gave up their time and organised Nigel
million (not $1 million, but $5 million). Latta to talk at a community dinner they hosted
And guess what? The water meter project and where thousands of dollars were raised for
comes in at $4.8 million, ie just under the new the Mercury Bay Skatepark Trust. I know this
$5 million threshold. So now council does not was gratefully received. Thank you.
have to follow the public consultation process. They have also contributed hugely to getting
With this change of rules by council, our rescue helicopter back into Whitianga for
us ordinary ratepaying members of the January and for that, I know our community is
Whitianga public are denied the opportunity eternally grateful. Thank you.
of telling TCDC what we think of their water I also want to thank Stephan and Petra for all
meter project. the help they gave me last year. For that I am
Is this really democracy where by forever grateful and I cannot thank them enough
manipulation of the rules, TCDC removes our for the kindness they have shown me.
right of comment to suit their own agenda? I would like to wish them both, and The
And this starts me thinking how many other Informer team, a very happy New Year.
projects does council have on their list that they Pauline Brown
are going to implement without giving us the Whitianga
Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 931 - 6 January 2021You can also read
