Civil Defence Controller seeks restricted access to Coromandel - The Mercury Bay Informer
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Issue 892 - 7 April 2020 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 6,200
Civil Defence Controller seeks
restricted access to Coromandel
By Gillian O’Neill
Roadblocks could be in place at entry points as part of the Thames-Valley Emergency
to the Coromandel this week as our local Response Area team, which is run jointly
Civil Defence Controller moves to prevent by Thames-Coromandel, Hauraki and
unlawful travel to the Peninsula during the Matamata-Piako District Councils. These
Covid-19 lockdown. include around 10 working at the Emergency
Speaking to The Informer last Sunday, Operations Centre in Thames, between eight
Garry Towler said he was compiling evidence and 10 distributing food and another 10
to present to the National Response Centre in working remotely. The team has the ability to
Wellington on Monday as part of a formal call on further staff if required.
request for State Highways 25 and 25A to Mr Towler said his and his team’s primary
be managed. This would likely see access focus are on people welfare and ensuring
onto the Coromandel restricted to emergency residents across the three districts were able
vehicles and essential workers. to self-isolate safely in their homes for the
Mr Towler said this was only way to duration of the lockdown. Over the course
curb what he described as selfish and of last week, demand for help doubled every
gormless people flouting the rules in order day with a minimum of 100 food parcels
to travel to holiday homes on the Peninsula. being distributed daily. “Each pack contains
“What exactly such access restrictions will food and essentials to sustain the recipient
look like and the extent of it, I’m not sure, household for four days,” Mr Towler said.
those decisions will be made by others, “Initially we were helping mostly our
but I will be making it clear that that is what beneficiaries and those on very limited
we require,” he said. incomes. That trend has changed and we are
Thames-Coromandel District Council now hearing from more wage earners as well
has been inundated with complaints about as small business owners who are running out
non-residents arriving at baches, frequently of whatever income they had, so the situation
under the cover of darkness. Even a public is escalating.”
appeal from Mayor Sandra Goudie appears Going forward, Mr Towler said he was
to be falling on deaf ears. “The message is concerned about the level of tension that
clear - stay home and save lives,” she the reckless behaviour of some was causing
cautioned. “Home is not your second holiday Civil Defence Controller, Garry Towler. within communities and even between
home, it’s your permanent place of residence. away from helping the most vulnerable. just decided to come and have a holiday on neighbours. “This bad feeling won’t just go
The capacity of our medical and other “I have a team here who are working hard the Peninsula. away quickly,” he said. “And I understand it,
essential services is not the same as the larger on getting food and water out to assist the “You look at our small communities like Hot people are afraid, most are doing everything
centres. If we get a cluster of sick people needy,” Mr Towler said. “Then instead of Water Beach where they have been doing a they can to stop this thing spreading and others
outside of our usual permanent population, focusing on that, I have to put together what great job, sticking to the rules and looking are just being selfish and irresponsible.”
our medical facilities will struggle.” is basically a firefighting team to deal with after one another. Then suddenly all these Acknowledging that denying people
Despite the warnings, communities this issue of people who are not obeying the people arrive in the middle of the lockdown, access to the Coromandel Peninsula was a
including Cooks Beach and Matarangi have rules and staying at home. breaking the local community’s isolation serious move, Mr Towler said the scale of the
continued to report large numbers of non- “Every day I have a flood of emails from and wandering around the shop so others no problem left him with little option. “If you are
residents arriving throughout the course of Coromandel residents who have woken up longer feel it is safe to go in there. It’s been asking for the Police or the Defence Force to
last week. As well as potentially transferring and suddenly people have moved in next door. pretty widespread from Pauanui right up to come in to man our roads, you need to be able
the Covid-19 virus from one region to These are people who have everything they the north of the Mercury Bay area, it’s just to make a very good case for that to happen,
another, those breaking the lockdown bans are need at their homes in Hamilton or Auckland, ridiculous.” but I believe we have the evidence to prove
diverting essential and emergency workers or wherever they are from, and they have Around 30 people are currently working that it is necessary,” he said.
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Principal says wellbeing is the most important
thing for families in lockdown
Focusing on relationships is the best thing out what’s causing it. “There has been a lot
parents can do for their children during this of change in a short space of time,” he says.
period of lockdown, according to Whenuakite “Kids are missing their friends and their normal
School principal, Eamonn Kelly. routine. While I certainly don’t suggest letting
The father of two is juggling work and them get away with bad behaviour, remaining
family time with the help of wife, Veronica, calm and trying to figure out what’s going on
and is adamant that minimising stress is the first with them will probably resolve it better than
priority as we adjust to our new normal. an argument.”
“For us that meant having a timetable so we Whenuakite school’s online learning
all know what is happening throughout the day,” programme will be rolled out from the start
Eamonn says. “That means we get up and have of the new school term, but Eamonn says its
breakfast together. Then the kids can have some purpose is to help and not add extra stress.
device time for around an hour so Veronica and “I would say to parents if they can’t get their
I can get ourselves sorted.” kids to do their schoolwork, that’s OK,” he says.
The Kellys have been making the most of “If it is causing arguments in your house, then
their extra time together with games and shared it’s not worth it. If you can, find other ways for
projects around the house which nine-year- them to do a bit of reading and writing that will
old Charlie and seven-year-old Sophie can get help, like keeping a diary for example.
involved in. “As teachers it’s our job to educate children
“We have quite a big shed, but it wasn’t and we will certainly try to continue doing that
that well organised to fit everything in,” says as best we can, but wellbeing is by far the most
Eamonn. “So Charlie and I decided to try and important thing for our kids and their families
come up with a way to sort out the clutter. right now.”
First, we had to devise a plan, so we decided As a principal, Eamonn says the past two
to build some shelves. After a little bit of weeks had been surreal as Whenuakite School
instruction and a demonstration, Charlie was went from essentially business as usual to Nine-year-old Charlie Kelly teamed up with dad, Eamonn,
able to do a lot of construction himself, which closing its doors in a matter of days. “Whether principal of Whenuakite School, to create new shelves in their shed, one of the
was great.” we agreed or not, the Ministry of Education was projects the family has so far undertaken while in lockdown.
Connect Four, baking and exercise are assuring us that schools were safe to remain could prepared and ready to go. There was also Although teachers are officially on holiday,
other ways the family has been engaging with open,” he says. “Behind the scenes we were great support among the other schools within our Eamonn says he knew many of them were still
each other. starting to get things in place in anticipation Community of Learning, sharing information working to ensure the learning they offered their
While Whenuakite school was supporting of having to move online, but when that and even drafts of letters so we could have all students at the start of new term would be of a
families through the lockdown period, Eamonn announcement came on the Monday, we were our communication ready to go out to parents. high quality. “It won’t be perfect, nothing ever
says every family’s dynamic was different and still maybe a week away from where we wanted “As a principal, you are conscious that while is, but I am very happy with what we have put
people needed to do what was right for them. to be. this is important work, you also need to be in place and I will be encouraging our parents to
When dealing with bad behaviour at home, “Our team worked late on the Monday and mindful of the welfare of your staff, all of whom keep talking to us so we can help wherever we
Eamonn says it is a good idea to try and work all-day Tuesday to get as much material as they have their own families too.” can,” he says.
What’s happening in the night sky?
Week of Wednesday, 8 April to Wednesday, 15 April - There could be some good views of the new Starlink satellites this week in the early evenings. Night sky information
These generally start in the NW or SW with the individual satellites still quite close together. However, they may start to move apart in the next few weeks. provided and sponsored by
Jupiter, Saturn and Mars make a lovely trio high overhead early in the morning or very late evening sky. With Mars being much closer to us than the
other two, it appears to move more rapidly in the sky than the others. This can be easily seen this week as there is a noticeable change in the spacing
between the planets from night to night. Wednesday, 8 April - A full Moon tonight… see if you can spot the rabbit in the Moon with its floppy ears at
about the 10 o’clock position. Thursday, 9 April - The International Space Station (ISS) makes an early morning pass starting in the south at 5:32am.
Saturday, 11 April - A reasonably bright ISS makes a pass this morning, starting just below the Southern Cross at 5:34am. Mars, Jupiter and Saturn
are evenly spaced in the very late evening or early morning sky. Sunday, 12 April - A really early ISS pass this morning in the south, starting at 4:49am.
Monday, 13 April - Some of the Starlink satellites may put on a good show tonight show from 6:45pm in the NNW. Tuesday, 14 April - Bright Jupiter Astronomy Tours and B&B
sits below the Moon early in the morning, just above Saturn with Mars further below. There could be a nice train of Starlink satellites this evening starting Phone (07) 866 5343
at 7:22pm in the NW. Wednesday, 15 April - The Moon sits directly above Jupiter in the dawn sky with Saturn and Mars below. Mars has moved more
quickly in its orbit than the others and the spacing between these three is no longer even. www.stargazersbb.com
Whitianga and Hot Water Beach tides
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Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 892 - 7 April 2020
More than $240,000 spent on council
investigation into Smart Environmental
By Stephan Bosman
In September last year, we reported extensively reply to us as fully as possible. We thank them Waste Collection Legal Expenses and Legal, disposal operators on the Coromandel were
on the solid-waste disposal contract between for that. Audit and Risk Legal Expenses budgets. paying, and whether Smart transported their
Thames-Coromandel District Council and What we have learned is that TCDC PriceWaterHouseCoopers focused in the commercial waste to the landfill at Tirohia at
Smart Environmental. Our report covered a indeed undertook an investigation into investigation on whether Smart, according to the expense of the ratepayers of the Peninsula.
lot of ground, including allegations of Smart their contract with Smart. The investigation TCDC, “…had acted in a manner deliberately The findings of the investigation have already
enjoying a competitive advantage from TCDC was conducted by chartered accountants, contrary to [their] contract with council,” been reported to the OAG and forms, according
with regard to the collection and disposal PriceWaterHouseCoopers, consultants, and Morrison Low reviewed the payments made to TCDC, “…the basis of ongoing commercial
of commercial waste (household waste in Morrison Low, and a private investigator. by Smart for the disposal of their commercial negotiations between council and Smart.”
wheelie bins, waste generated by businesses Council unilaterally decided to carry out waste at TCDC-owned refuse transfer stations. On the specific question of whether TCDC
and skip bin waste) and a comment from the the investigation and not because of a The private investigator collected information was aware of incidences where Smart mixed
Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) that glass recycling in with kerbside rubbish
the relationship between TCDC and Smart collection (the collection of blue bags),
warranted further investigation (but that it council replied, “This issue forms part of the
was the OAG’s understanding that TCDC had commercial negotiations ongoing between
“some work in progress” in that regard). Smart and council.”
At the time our report was published, The relationship between TCDC and Smart
TCDC was still “negotiating” their contract with featured prominently at a consultation meeting
Smart, approximately six months after we have on council’s draft Annual Plan 2020/2021 that
approached TCDC for the first time to respond was held in Whitianga on 18 March (reported on
to some questions about the contract. At that in The Informer of 25 March). At the meeting,
time already, TCDC could not meaningfully Bruce Hinson, TCDC’s Operations Group
reply to us as negotiations on the contract have Manager, indicated negotiations regarding the
already commenced. TCDC solid waste disposal contract with Smart
In February this year, we requested TCDC were expected to be completed within a month.
under the Local Government Official Information Obviously the Covid-19 lockdown will push
The entrance to the Whitianga Refuse Transfer Station last Sunday afternoon.
and Meetings Act (LGOIMA) to provide us with that timeframe out, but hopefully the ratepayers
an update on the contract negotiations and any recommendation by the OAG. early on in the investigation, which information of the Coromandel Peninsula will not have to
investigation they may have undertaken into The investigation has been completed at a was handed to PriceWaterHouseCoopers. wait too long once life returns to some form of
their relationship with Smart. Our request was total cost to the ratepayers of the Coromandel Specific issues considered in the investigation “new normal.”
made up of 27 questions. TCDC responded to us Peninsula of $242,389 plus GST - $109,873 included whether Smart declared the disposal of The ratepayers deserve to know that their
not long before commencement of the Covid-19 plus GST to the private investigator, $78,795 all of their commercial waste at TCDC-owned $242,389 plus GST was money well spent, that all
lockdown. Although some of the information plus GST to Morrison Low and $53,721 plus refuse transfer stations, whether Smart disposed the issues that need to be made public have been
we sought was withheld under the provisions GST to PriceWaterHouseCoopers. of their commercial waste outside the normal made public and that going forward, after more
of the LGOIMA, it is clear that TCDC’s legal The investigation was funded from council’s operating hours of the transfer stations and at a than a year of “negotiating” an existing contract,
and communications departments attempted to Corporate Services Legal Expenses, Solid rate cheaper than what other commercial waste there is nothing further to be concerned about.
Issue 892 - 7 April 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
In excess of 200 Covid-19 tests already carried out on the Coromandel The Waikato District Health Board will not It remains unclear how an overall figure for cases and a St Patrick’s Day event at a pub CBTC was due to open in Whangamata on release the number of confirmed Covid-19 the Coromandel would identify individuals or in Matamata which has resulted in 56 people Monday this week. cases on the Coromandel Peninsula, siting breach privacy. being infected. According to the Waikato DHB, privacy as the reason. The reporting policy only broadens in the No firm number could be provided for the the Thames-Coromandel District was in a However, a DHB spokesperson told The event a cluster - which is defined as 10 or total number of Covid-19 tests completed good position to meet current and future Informer last Sunday that a low number of more linked cases - being identified. “If there across the Thames-Coromandel District, with demand for medical care. “The population of cases have been confirmed in the Thames- is a cluster of confirmed cases, this will be the Health Board only saying it was in excess the Coromandel tends to grow significantly at Coromandel District, all of which were listed on the Ministry of Health website,” of 200. The vast majority of those were certain times of the year and this is something linked to overseas travel. we were told. “The Waikato DHB also carried out at the CBTC in Thames where, as the local medical facilities are experienced The Ministry of Health releases the number provides statements on any local clusters and of Saturday last week, a total of 202 tests had in working with, although we acknowledge of confirmed and probable cases across the the actions taken in response.” been done. A designated testing site has been this is clearly not a typical time to see such country on a daily basis, but only by District Examples of clusters include a wedding in operation at Mercury Bay Medical Centre an increase,” the Health Board spokesperson Health Board area. For large regions like the in Bluff that as of last Sunday had 58 linked in Whitianga since 1 April, while another said. “We have not seen an increased demand Waikato, it means residents have no specific on our hospital services. Thames Hospital is information for their particular area. With the receiving around half the usual number of absence of official information, speculation is presentations to its Emergency Department rife on social media. due to the Covid-19 lockdown. The hospital The DHB said it was aware that some is well prepared to safely accommodate announcements had been made locally, Covid-19 patients if required, as are all the including a doctor at the Community Based Waikato DHB’s rural hospitals. Testing Centre (CBTC) at Te Korowai “If there is a need for critical care or patient in Thames who late last week said 10 numbers grow beyond local capacity, they people tested at the facility had returned would be transferred to Waikato Hospital.” positive results. On Sunday last week, New Zealand had a We had asked the spokesperson if the total of 1,039 confirmed and probable cases Health Board can release more specific of the virus. By DHB, Waikato had the second figures in order to ensure accurate and highest number with 146. complete information was being given to Covid-19 testing is now available to anyone Coromandel residents. “The Waikato DHB experiencing acute respiratory symptoms does not currently provide a breakdown associated with the virus. However, you for the location of individual cases or by must call ahead to confirm your eligibility. local area,” the spokesperson responded. Phone Mercury Bay Medical Centre “This is because we have a duty to uphold on (07) 866 5911. For further advice, patient privacy, which includes reporting on A designated Covid-19 testing site has been in operation at call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 or visit suspected and confirmed Covid-19 cases.” Mercury Bay Medical Centre in Whitianga since 1 April. www.covid19.govt.nz. Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 892 - 7 April 2020
Issue 892 - 7 April 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Delicious vegetable Online physiotherapy
curry recipe
For those missing their Indian takeaway fix during lockdown, That Curry Place in Whitianga
was happy to share with us this delicious vegetable curry recipe which has been modified to
only include ingredients that are available at the supermarkets in Whitianga.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons oil
1 small to medium onion finely chopped
4 cloves garlic crushed
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/4 teaspoon chili powder or more to taste
3/4 teaspoon salt or more to taste
1 medium tomato chopped
2 small carrots chopped into 0.5cm pieces (around 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup frozen peas
The Covid-19 lockdown created an opportunity for physiotherapists, Joel van Doorn and Terri
1 medium to large potato cubed into 2.5cm pieces Evanson (pictured) of PhysioFirst in Whitianga, to communicate differently with their patients.
1 medium red capsicum chopped into 2.5cm pieces
1 medium green capsicum chopped into 2.5cm pieces “We have systems in place to treat our patients remotely, all they need is an internet connection,
and a smartphone or computer with a camera,” says Joel. “Basically, we interact with the patient
Garnish online, reviewing exercises, checking movement patterns and diagnosing and modifying accordingly.
1 tablespoon coriander leaves chopped Pretty much the same as what we would have done under normal circumstances, except this is done
Instructions from the comfort of our patients’ own homes.”
Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. PhysioFirst’s new online service is available to both ACC and private patients. “We have many
Add the onion and sauté until golden brown, about 4 - 5 minutes. patients in the middle of their rehabilitation programmes and they simply can’t afford to stop
Add the garlic and sauté for 15 seconds, and then add dry spices, sauté for another 15 seconds. now,” says Joel. “We can also take on new ACC cases as well new private patients. We’ll do all the
Add the rest of the ingredients and sauté for 3 - 5 minutes. necessary paperwork to lodge ACC claims.
Lower the heat to just above the lowest setting and cover the pan with a lid. “The time many people are spending at home at the moment may well be a good opportunity to sort
Let the vegetables cook for about 15 minutes or until they are done to your choice of softness. out little niggles they have or injuries they pick up doing all the DIY, and repairs and maintenance
Check in-between and stir to ensure even cooking. Taste and add salt, if needed. they’ve always planned to do, but never had time for.
If you are afraid the vegetables will stick to the bottom of the pan, add a splash of water. “To book an appointment with us is easy, just visit our website, tairuawhitiphysio.co.nz, email us at
But the goal is to let the vegetables steam in their own juices. tairuawhitiphysio@gmail.com or phone us on (021) 587 262. We’re happy to talk everyone through
Garnish with chopped coriander. any issues they may have to connect with us online.”
Serve with any type of bread or rice. The PhysioFirst online service is also available to patients of Synergy Physio, Joel’s practice
Four small servings. in Tairua.
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 892 - 7 April 2020
The St John Siren
Sponsored by Mercury Bay Pharmacy - Tel 866 4532
And the summer keeps on keeping on. in other words, passing the virus on between along Buffalo Beach and a whole heap of other The last of our new recruits have been accepted.
Absolutely fabulous weather. the population. stuff going on. I don’t know about you guys, Our staffing level stands at four full-time paid
The problem is that the weather is so inviting Every time we touch something, be it but I would rather this isolation be over in four paramedics, one relief full-time paramedic and
that the beaches and water look fantastic. a railing, park bench, etc, we’re opening weeks than have it extended for another four 22 volunteer ambulance officers. A big shout
We are looking at them longingly imagining ourselves to exposure. Every time we forget weeks, or see the restrictions getting tougher. out to all our volunteers and our full-time staff
that we’re out there surfing, boating, the 2m rule or we meet up with friends, Limit your trips to the supermarket, remember who are also volunteering. They are making
swimming, fishing, etc. we are opening ourselves up to the risk of the social distancing rule and listen to the a huge difference in keeping fully crewed
What can I say, we need to resist the exposure. I’ve seen a group swimming off the advice to STAY HOME! ambulances available in Whitianga.
temptation. The whole idea of this lockdown boat ramp at Robinson Road in Whitianga, March was a quieter month than normal Just prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, St John
is to stop the transmission of Covid-19 - a group of young people merrily walking for the ambulance service in Whitianga. Whitianga worked with Thames-Coromandel
We responded to a total of 80 call-outs.
District Council to install five community
This was made up of 52 medical calls and 28
automated external defibrillators (AEDs)
trauma-related calls. Our year-to-date total
stands at 340, which is 45 less than at same time around Whitianga. These AEDs are now up
last year. March is usually one of our busier and running and are located at the Mercury Bay
months, but we have noticed a significant drop Library in Victoria Street facing Blacksmith
off in call-outs since the start of the Covid-19 Lane, on the wall of the toilet block at the boat
pandemic. I’m anticipating that this will only ramp on The Esplanade, on the wall of the toilet
be the lull before the storm. We utilised an air block at Buffalo Beach opposite Whitianga
ambulance on six occasions during the month. Continuing Care, at Moewai Park and at the
St John is going to great lengths to protect our front entrance of Mercury Bay Medical Centre
staff with the provision of personal protective (the “White House”).
equipment (PPE). Please do not be alarmed These AEDS are listed on www.aedlocations.
when we arrive at call-outs with masks and co.nz and are registered with St John. To access
gloves on. We have protocols in place whereby them you will need to dial 111 for the code to
we will wear additional PPE as the situation unlock the box that they are securely being
dictates. Be assured that we have sufficient held in. We will be expanding the number of
PPE on hand and we have stringent cleaning these AEDs over the coming year.
regimes in place. Please stay safe out there, STAY HOME,
We’ve taken steps to improve on the limit your travels to local only and only when
availability of our second responding absolutely necessary, limit your number of
ambulance stationed in Whitianga. We can trips to the supermarket and stay in your
now call out off duty staff, paid or volunteer, bubble. Best wishes to you all and thank you
if required. I’m anticipating that this will for your continued support.
reduce the wait for an ambulance when our Mike Burrows.
first responding ambulance is already engaged Station Manager
The AED located at the boat ramp on The Esplanade in Whitianga. on a call. St John Whitianga
Issue 892 - 7 April 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Kids, have some
colouring fun...
Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 892 - 7 April 2020
Issue 892
699 - 727April
July2020
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
Lockdown through the eyes
of a “closet cartoonist”
Whitianga local, Peter Grant’s take on the start of the Covid-19 lockdown and how it’s going so
far for him and his wife. We look forward to more lockdown cartoons from Peter.
This coming weekend
is Easter
Tena Koutou, So, I’m not looking to die, but death holds
This coming weekend is Easter and it will no fear for me. Because fear is the one
be quite different from any Easter we have thing that really robs us of life, we can be so
experienced before. Like every church afraid of things that we are unable to really
community around the country, we are live. Easter reminds us that death doesn’t
unable to gather together to celebrate the have the last word.
essence of Easter for us as followers of I support the current lockdown guidelines,
Jesus… his death and resurrection. not because I’m afraid of what it means for
But this is a great time to remember that me, but because I care what happens to
story. The world is gripped in the tyranny others. I don’t want to see anyone get sick
of Covid-19 and many countries, including and die. Jesus felt the same and that’s why
ours, are practising social distancing and he came to earth.
living in our bubble. Which is ironic when Among the many promises Jesus gave,
you think about it, because this disease has one of the best I’ve found, especially at
popped the bubble we were in! times like this, is the promise of peace.
We have tried to minimise suffering and This peace is the best remedy for worry and
hardship from our way of life, but it always anxiety I’ve ever come across. It doesn’t
finds a way to be there. Cancer, divorce, eliminate the issues, but helps me get a
addictions, loss of job security, financial better perspective, because I know that I
hardship, bullying and other aspects are all can trust Jesus to get us through. It doesn’t
too real for too many people. eliminate the suffering, but helps me to
Now, we all share in the challenge of this embrace it and learn from it, and become a
lockdown and wonder what life will be like better person, the person I am meant to be.
at the other end? I don’t know what Easter means for each
That’s a mystery, we don’t know and I, of you and I invite you to attend a local
for one, am OK with that (mostly) because church online and discover what it means
I know who does. When Jesus surrendered for them.
to his death on a cross, he never said A common phrase spoken at this time is,
he’d take away suffering, but that he’d “He is risen, he is risen indeed.”
help us through it. Many don’t believe or I trust that this week allows you time and
understand that. I get it, we Jesus people space to consider the message of Easter and
believe in some strange things. But the the opportunity to ask questions.
beauty of Easter is that we believe that the Ma te atua e manaaki,
power of death has no hold on us, because Mike Walker
the second part, the real celebration, is his Pastor of the
resurrection. Whitianga Baptist Church
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 892 - 7 April 2020Local Flavour
By Joanna Mannington - Food and nutrition teacher at Mercury Bay Area School
Meal kits and marlin
February is always a busy month in our The meals are easy. My eight-year-old daughter house lined with the paper bags. The plastic dense and smoky. It works well with dairy and
household with the start-up of school, swimming has been excited to open the boxes and organise and transportation impacts are comparable to potatoes to make a delicious gratin or another
training, catering jobs and fishing. our menu for the week. She has been inspired supermarket services and I have been able to reuse staple in our household, smoked fish pate.
So, when a colleague asked during the month to cook the recipes herself and taste more the chiller bags to give away the marlin that my This pate is good on toast for breakfast,
if I might be interested in a discounted meal kit, challenging ingredients - like vegetables. partner, Joe, caught late February. makes a beautiful sandwich with salad
I thought it might be time to add something else We have had some lovely mother/daughter Concerned about the sustainability of the big fish vegetables and is popular on crackers as a snack
to the mix. moments together, with the additional bonus fisheries, as a family we have been winding down or appetiser with an icy cold beverage. It keeps
As a cook and caterer, I have resisted paying that she is reading voluntarily to execute the game fishing activities. Joe’s boat, Leilani, stopped well in the fridge.
someone else for organising our household recipes and has started her own cookbook. chartering several years ago and the focus has been Meal kits like HelloFresh, Bargain Box and
food. I should be able to do it better and There is lots of food in the packages. on tag-and-release fishing. This year will be one of My Food Bag are allowed to be delivered to
cheaper myself. The environmental impacts of The recipes are vegetable heavy and often we Joe’s last years of competitive fishing. households during the Covid-19 lockdown.
all that plastic and transportation have been a have enough food for a visiting guest or a couple However, Joe did catch a 210kg blue marlin Please check with each brand directly if delivery
deterrent too. of leftover lunches. From the perspective of a on 12 February that was processed beautifully in Mecury Bay is possible while the lockdown
However, I was too busy to think much about nutrition educator, it is encouraging that meal kit by Bruce at Blinks Smoke House. The flesh is is in place.
any of that and received my first meal kit about users get a good model about portion sizes and
eight weeks ago. vegetable serves.
I have to report that the meals are delicious. The meal preparation doesn’t require much Whitianga Smoked Fish Pate
After cooking all week with students at school more than a knife and board, pot/pan or baking 1 tub of cream cheese
and often catering during the weekends, tray, which makes dish duty painless too. Same amount of smoked fish or mussels
my appetite gets jaded. These meals made me The kits are value for money at between $6 to A good couple of squeezes of Mayonnaise
feel like someone else was cooking for me or $8 per person per meal. There is no wastage and 1 - 2 tablespoons horseradish sauce or wasabi
at least doing the thinking, planning, shopping even the packaging is minimal. A pinch of chilli flakes and a squeeze of lemon juice
and measuring. The cardboard box makes a great guinea pig Blend the cream cheese with enough mayo to make a soft paste. Stir in the horseradish,
followed by the smoked fish. If it is too thick, loosen with more mayo. Taste and season with
chilli, lemon and more horseradish or wasabi.
Smoked Fish Gratin
Smoked fish
Potatoes
Cream
Horseradish
Salt and cracked black pepper
Cheddar cheese
Panko crumbs
Parsley
Layer unpeeled, sliced potatoes with crumbled smoked fish in a greased oven-proof dish.
Heat up enough cream to come up to halfway over the potatoes and fish in the dish. Season it
with salt and pepper and horseradish and pour it over the potatoes/fish in the dish. Sprinkle the
top of the dish with a mixture of cheese, chopped parsley and bread crumbs. Bake in an oven
preheated to 180°C. When the potatoes are tender and the top golden, serve. Good by itself or
with fresh salad greens.
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the New Zealand Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or Should Thames-Coromandel District Council take the Covid-19
www.presscouncil.org.nz. lockdown into account when making a decision on a
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Issue 892
699 - 727April
July2020
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11Mega Crossword
© Lovatts Puzzles
Crossword Puzzle 892
Just for fun - See next week’s Informer for the solution
See page 16 for last week’s crossword solution
Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 892 - 7 April 2020Issue 892
699 - 727April
July2020
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13Sudoku Letters to the Editor
See page 11 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
Dear Editor - Aid to Māori in these all our journeys here on earth.
unusual times This enormous event has relieved the
Sudoku Puzzle 892 Some real thought-provoking stuff from Ian atmosphere, forests, oceans and the few
Stewart in his Letter to the Editor in The remaining animals from human reach.
Informer of 25 March. If we can all stage guerrilla warfare on this
It seems that irrespective of the ethnic or savage killer virus, we are about to enter a
national background of all New Zealanders brand-new age of loving and protecting our
Sudoku Puzzle Instructions - be it European, Asian, Pacific Islands or magical Earth. In my view, a miracle like this
Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of nine boxes whatever - it is OK for everyone to be told, event will most likely never occur again for
inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once. “If you or your business affairs are going to mankind to embrace, especially in an instant.
suffer from the effects of Covid-19, join that As humans, our consumption and vulgar
queue over there for monetary help. Except of greed are feathers in the wind to say the
Just for fun - See next week’s Informer for the solution course, if you are Māori, join this other queue least. All that counts is what we are leaving
for another large pot of gold which is just behind, our footprints and consequences,
for you!” which we as individuals are all responsible
If that is not the epitome of racism, what is for. We are spirits in a material world and
it? Or maybe it is just the Labour government need to begin living as such, instead of being
fronting up with a down-payment for the a pack of reckless, greedy animals. Incredibly
much-needed Maori vote later this year in the humbling to say the least.
general election. This is a golden opportunity for all of us
Bernard J Bowen to live the dream we have always dreamed
Thames about. For most of us it means love,
Dear Editor - A new way of life a roof over our heads, to be fed and warm,
A brand-new dawn has risen, with exciting and existing in the natural, simple world of
times for mankind. Earth, our home.
Mother Earth is finally getting a breather We have been gifted an opportunity to take
from human carnage, greed and abuse and care of our magical sanctuary and should not
as we, as humans, were not going to make lose sight of the essence and perspective of
enough change soon enough, the “Boss” did what we are.
it for us. This isn’t about religion, this is about Rather than generate fear, get excited and
the real deal. harness this miracle that is occurring before
The coronavirus is a is freak creation our eyes. Stay fastened to our incredible
of change that is offering a cleansing and prime minister, Jacinda Ardern’s advice and
pathway for our youngsters and mokopuna guidance. She is a miracle herself and is
and generations to follow, and for the rest of guiding us through this carnage and change
Thumbs
Last week’s solution
Up
To all the
commercial
property
landlords in Whitianga
and the wider Mercury
Bay area who have offered
rent relief to their tenants
during the Covid-19
lockdown period.
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 892 - 7 April 2020Letters to the Editor
See page 11 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
with composure, grace and calm. She is the Museum of Transport and Technology tactics in this war. When faced with invaders they are still not completely closed,
our own Mother Earth (much like our own in Auckland. as we are, the tried and proven defensive and letting them invade the country. Once the
Catherine Delahunty and Jeanette Fitzsimons, This came about through the interest of tactic is to preserve what is good and valuable invader is happily bedded in, our tactic seems
and many more young and older people on Auckland mayor, Phil Goff, who already behind fortifications and wage the battle in a to be to wage guerrilla warfare. I think this
the same page, whom need to be heard and knew about the aircraft and Ivan’s abilities, limited field. In historical times, this involved will be a long lockdown.
understood). when I approached him for help. the use of stone fortifications, for Māori a pa, Unfortunately we cannot do much about
Living in a purer world, let us grab this Auckland is where Ivan wanted the aircraft while the battle took place in a field where this now, but history will record that this
opportunity with love, belief, patience and to stay. This is where he built it and the city the defender would be looking to hold the odd government was responsible for the
timing, and let us keep an eye and ear out for has a large population who will eventually higher ground. destruction or severe maiming of the fossil
each other and path a new way. be able to see it. It will be displayed in How does this relate to Covid-19? fuel, mining, tourism, hospitality, retail,
Less is more and for most of us, the things remembrance of two extraordinary New Quite simple really. At the first sign that commercial property, residential rental,
we love are free in the natural world. In many Zealanders. The Pearse family and my family we had a real war, the “clean” areas such horticulture and agriculture industries among
ways, this virus will prepare us for similar are very happy with this outcome. as the Coromandel Peninsula should have others, while at the same time redirecting
future events. I know this good news is only a small been put behind fortifications and defended. incomes to the non-productive sectors.
Thank you to The Informer for always light shone at a very dark time, but as you For our region, that would mean four manned That’s a busy three years.
offering and sharing love, comfort and hope yourself wrote to me, “Even in this crisis, roadblocks with only supplies being let in. Trevor Ammundsen
with all of us, especially in these tough times. it will remind people that eventually life has By preserving such areas, and there were Whitianga
And to all the people of the Coromandel, to go on.” many some weeks ago, the battle would Dear Editor - Reintroduce “single use”
we are an amazing people who love and care To everyone in Whitianga and the Mercury have been fought in small defined areas, plastic bags
for the land, and always group together in a Bay area, please stay safe and stay home. Auckland and Wellington mainly, and the It is time to immediately reintroduce “single
wonderful way through tough times. Janet Mudrovcich rest of us could have gotten on with a far use” plastic bags in supermarkets.
I also would like to congratulate Joe Davis, Auckland lessened level of disruption and economic Currently everyone is bringing in their
kaumatua of Ngāti Hei, for the way he is destruction. For Whitianga, that would have
Dear Editor - These unusual times own “reusable” cloth or plastic carry bag that
guiding his iwi, and indeed his fellow Kiwis, meant difficult times for accommodation
In these unusual and trying times, many people they may have just sneezed or coughed on.
during these times. providers and tourism operators, but the retail
are lavish in their praise of our government They place it in their trolley, then again on the
For all of us, take care, keep well and never and hospitality establishments would still be
and their management of the Covid-19 crisis. checkout bench or conveyor. I follow them
give up. trading and we could all be out fishing.
For many, expressing a different opinion is with my bag and put it in the same place,
Pete Mullins For the wider regional economies, it would
almost considered to be anti-social behaviour. thus collecting their virus and totally popping
Whangapoua mean our wine and horticulture crops could
As we have a few weeks of lockdown left my bubble.
Dear Editor - The replica Richard however, I thought I should express my view be processed, they could still be drilling for These plastic bags have been shown to
Pearce aircraft and give incentive to many to respond. oil in Taranaki and we could be proceeding at be sterile and I understand they are being
The future of the replica Richard Pearse While Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has full pace with motorway extensions and other reintroduced urgently in several sensible
aircraft which was built by my late husband, handled the PR role well, the government infrastructure work. Instead of picking this overseas countries.
Ivan, and which visited Whitianga in 2016, does not deserve praise for being slow to model of limiting damage, the government Alastair Brickell
is now in good hands with professionals at react to the crisis and employing incorrect chose to open the borders to the invader, Kuaotunu
Issue 892 - 7 April 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15Brain Teaser - Hexoku
Budget revamp underway
© Lovatts Puzzles ahead of Annual Plan vote
Thames-Coromandel District Council is searching for ways to slash the 9.98 per cent increase
they planned on seeking from ratepayers this July.
Brain Teaser Puzzles 892 Members of the public have just days left to tell council what they think of measures in the draft
TCDC Annual Plan 2020/21 which, in addition to the proposed rates hike, include significant
increases across a range of fees, including rubbish disposal.
Just for fun - See next week’s Informer for the solution Council is currently working out how the impacts and costs to date of Covid-19 have affected
current spending, which is likely to flow through to next year’s budget. While money will be
Hexoku - Instructions saved due to the inability to complete capital projects as planned, there is uncertainly around
Fit the numbers 1 to 6 into each hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the how operational costs will be impacted.
same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.
“We are currently reforecasting budgets so we have an accurate picture of where we are,”
said TCDC mayor, Sandra Goudie. “We expect an under-delivery of capital expenditure as we
had been on-track to achieve perhaps 90 per cent of our capital programme, but it may now be
more like 60 per cent.”
Council says expected operational costs could reduce slightly, but this may be offset with cost
increases due to working with central government to transition people into other forms of work.
As TCDC crunches their numbers, Finance Minister, Grant Robertson, has made it clear that local
councils should be doing everything in their power to avoid further burdens on homeowners and
businesses who are already under severe pressure. At a meeting of the cross-party committee
overseeing the work of the government while Parliament is not sitting, Mr Robinson said he
would encourage every council to think very carefully about whether it’s the right time put
up rates.
While TCDC has not given any commitment to reducing the 9.98 per cent rise, they are clearly
asking the public to identify what cuts they would be willing to accept in order to make savings.
“We really need to know about what projects and services people think could be postponed,
altered or maybe even cut in order to provide savings going forward,” they say. “We know it’s
difficult for people to focus on this right now, but this affects what council does moving forward
and the level of service we provide.
“It’s really important that people look at the Annual Plan consultation material on our website
at www.tcdc.govt.nz/annualplan2020 and send us a submission. All the submissions will be
considered… and factored into the decision-making on the Annual Plan.”
TCDC is also urging anyone who thinks they’ll have trouble meeting their rates payments to
get in touch and have offered to waive penalties for late payment for those who enter into an
arrangement to pay. Notices for the latest rates instalment are about to be issued with payment
due by 15 May.
Last week’s Brain Teaser solutions -
Chain Letters
13-Letter Word - Miscellaneous
Wheel Words
9-Letter Word - Sacrifice
Last week’s crossword solution
Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 892 - 7 April 2020Those who need support urged to reach out By Gillian O’Neill Elderly people living alone are the largest you in touch with if that is what is needed.” group being assisted by Whitianga Social Sheryll emphasised that their counselling Services since the Covid-19 lockdown began services were free and open to anyone who on 26 March. needed assistance. “There may of course The organisation’s grocery bank is still also be those who are not able to attend their up and running with parcels being delivered regular support groups or services at this time, to those who are unable to get out to the and I would urge them to make contact with supermarket for the supplies they need. us if they need to talk to someone,” she said. “The vast majority of the calls we have Emphasising the wide range of people received have been from older people or that Whitianga Social Services works with, others in the community concerned about Sheryll said it was very important that people an older person who is living alone,” said weren’t worried about calling, even if they Social Services manager, Sheryll FitzPatrick. had not engaged with the organisation before. “However, we fully expect that more families “The lockdown is an enormous thing that we will be needing assistance in the coming are dealing with and I fully expect that many weeks as the financial implications of the of us are going to need help in some way in lockdown start to be felt. We have good stocks order to get through it,” she said. at the moment and we will have the resources Sheryll is happy to be contacted directly to look after those who need support.” on telephone (027) 303 5303. Those calling While the Whitianga Social Services the Social Services office landline during the offices on Cook Drive are closed, Sheryll lockdown period are also being redirected to said several staff members were working to her number. make up parcels for collection and delivering Sheryll FitzPatrick, the manager of Whitianga Social Services. A Waikato Civil Defence Emergency to those who have no transport. “It is groceries, please give us a call and we can get money worries. “The first thing is, if you are Management Group helpline has also been important for people to be aware we are not a parcel to you. Our staff have all been police in danger or fearing for your safety, dial 111 established for people struggling to get food, able to provide a shopping service,” she said. vetted as have the additional volunteers we immediately,” she said. “If you are having groceries, medication or other household “I would also advise people to be very careful can call on if the need arises.” difficulty coping, whether for a specific goods and services during the lockdown about who they give their Eftpos card and Aside from the issue of accessing essential reason or just generally struggling to know period. The freephone service is available pin number to. This really is not a good idea, supplies, Sheryll said there were multiple what to do, please give us a call. We have a by calling 0800 800 405 between 7:00am unless it is a person you already have a close factors contributing to increased anxiety and councillor and a social worker available who and 7:00pm daily. Details will be taken and relationship with. stress in the community, including isolation, will chat to you in confidence over the phone. then referred on to the most appropriate local “If you are having difficulty getting your inability to access normal services and We also have various agencies we can put support agency. Issue 892 - 7 April 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17
An unforgettable bicycle journey for
Whitianga local
By Jack Biddle
Around midday on 22 February, Graham that unlucky fellow who got knocked off their
Eccles, along with his cousin, Kerry Martin bike by a car towing a trailer last year on
from Matamata, stood astride his bicycle Buffalo Beach Road. Well that was Graham,
on Ninety Mile Beach looking south and out training for the TA at the time.
no doubt feeling a little nervous wondering So, what made him take on such a huge
what lay ahead. It was the point of no return. challenge? Well, it’s a story best told from the
What sounded like a good idea two years man himself.
earlier had suddenly become a reality. “Up until my late 20s, I played cricket at
Their end goal was Bluff, some 3,000km various levels mixed with rugby, including
away, a destination they had given themselves several very enjoyable seasons with the
less than 30 days to reach. Mercury Bay Rugby Club,” says Graham.
They - along with around 1,000 other “I have always used cycling as a fitness base
cyclists, sent off in waves of 100 - were part for other sports, even managing to complete
of the biannual 2020 Tour Aotearoa (TA), three marathons many years ago. After rugby,
an event which has become one of the cycling sort of became a natural progression,
great bike-packing adventures in the world. it was easier on the body and great for health
Officially it’s called a brevet, which means and fitness. I began participating in local
riders are unsupported. They carry all their cycling events with the Colville Connection
required gear with them, including tents and and the K2 in its first year, followed by
sleeping bags. There are no prizes on offer several K1s.
and no fanfare waiting at the end, it’s all “I decided to enter the 2020 TA two years
about personal achievement. ago while following the progress of my mate,
Graham, a Whitianga resident since 1984, Grimmy Martin, in the 2018 event. I asked
flies under the radar a little when it comes to my cousin to join me. He entered first, so I
the local cycling community, tending to do his was committed from that point on. I fitted my
own thing and riding as time allows. He and training in around the B&B, mostly early in
wife, Dianne, are former long-time owners the morning and mainly solo as that worked
of the Paper Plus shop in town and now best for our household.
operate a B&B from their home on Buffalo “Training involved plenty of long distances
Beach Road. and hill work, including riding the Man of
Many will also remember hearing about Steel course three times. But there were also Graham Eccles after arriving in Bluff, having cycled the length of New Zealand in 27 days.
Whitianga
07 866 0070
• Spouting
• Roofing
• Water treatments systems
• Septic tanks
• Hot Water cylinders
• New Housing
• Alterations
• General Maintenance
• Solar water heating
• All LPG gas installation
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