"Our backyard" is open - The Mercury Bay Informer
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Issue 917 - 29 September 2020 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,000
“Our backyard” is open
By Stephan Bosman
The Mercury Bay Museum formally opened
their new “In Our Backyard” exhibition on
Thursday evening last week. The opening
was attended by supporters of the museum
and many of those who were involved in
putting the exhibition together.
The exhibition was established in the two
rooms that previously housed the museum’s
natural history display. The first room pays
homage to the marine life, beaches, rocky
shores and wetlands of Mercury Bay, while
the second room focuses on life in the bush.
Many taxidermy fish and bird species, and
skeletons of reptiles and other animals can be
found across both rooms, with the museum’s
taxidermy moa retaining pride of place in
the second room. The sounds of nature -
including birds chirping away - compliment
the visual layout of the exhibition.
A highlight in the second room is a
microscope displaying enlarged specimens
of seashells, beach sand, moa egg shell
remnants, fossilised leaves and kiwi feathers
on a big screen.
The Department of Conservation partnered
with the museum in the development of the
exhibition, providing funding as well as
valuable input in the information on display.
“We’ve been talking for some time
about redoing our natural history display,”
says Rebecca Cox, Mercury Bay Museum
manager. “The display looked old and tired,
and the information it contained needed a
significant upgrade. We were right in the
middle of planning the new exhibition when
the COVID-19 Alert Level 4 restrictions
hit. Coming out of lockdown, we tossed
and turned about whether it was the right
Mercury Bay Museum manager, Rebecca Cox, and Nick Kelly, manager of the Department of Conservation’s office in Whitianga,
time to continue with the new exhibition,
during the opening of the museum’s new “In our Backyard” exhibition on Thursday evening last week.
but realising the Mercury Bay area needed
a good, comprehensive educational resource Wharekaho and Waikato Regional Council stunning photographs. bound to learn things about our backyard
on local wildlife - one that also celebrates provided us with funding for the microscope “The exhibition was designed in such a they’ve never known.”
the less-talked about animals in our area, in the second room. way that it can easily be updated, should it Over the school holidays, entrance to
like the Archey’s and Hochstetter’s frogs - “The exhibition turned out to be a become necessary. I’m especially excited the museum will be $5 for everyone over
we decided to go for it. real community effort. The builder and about the microscope. It was something 14 years of age. Entrance for Under 14s
“From there, things just really just kept tradespeople we used are all local, we we really needed. It provides an interactive remain free.
on falling in place. DOC was keen to come used a local graphic designer, professional element that elevates the exhibition to the Other notable exhibitions in the museum
on board, we were successful in obtaining a photographer and signwriter, and Mercury next level. include one dedicated to the explorer James
Trust Waikato grant, we received a donation Bay Area School students built a kiwi “I hope many Mercury Bay residents will Cook’s 12 days in Mercury Bay in 1769 and
from Margaret Simpson’s motor camp at burrow and also provided us with some come to check out the exhibition. They’re one on HMS Buffalo.
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Student pays tribute to her real-life hero
When recently tasked with writing about her hero, Te Rerenga School student, Maddie Corles, in an anticlockwise direction around the we had lots of fun. Then we started to talk on
didn’t need to look very far. Her family experienced a dramatic and sudden change to their lives Coromandel Peninsula through the other the phone and he was interested in the same
after her dad, Andy, suffered a life-changing injury in a car accident six years ago. Thanks to towns and back to the town where it started. things as me. He came to stay and took me
Te Rerenga School for allowing us to republish Maddie’s story (which was originally published As a part of my dad’s fundraising for the surfing and swimming, and ended up coming
in the school newsletter). Auckland Rescue Helicopter, Seven Sharp to stay often. That’s how we have become
Do you have a hero? What makes a hero? care unit in Middlemore Hospital and then did a TV segment on the race build-up a few friends. Now he loves it when he hears how
There are many types of heroes such as the two and a half months in the Otara Spinal years ago. Chris came to talk to my dad and great I’m doing at school and also how great
ones in comic books, myths and movies, Unit. After my dad left the spinal unit as a we chatted as well. He felt like my dad was my dad is doing. He also took me to my
but the type of hero I am talking about are tetraplegic and came home, his focus became a hero, just like I felt he was a hero for me. swimathon at the Coromandel Swimming
the everyday ones. Like if someone stands riding his handcycle in the K2, to raise funds Then he came to the race. He waited with Club and took part. He swam 50 laps!
up for someone when they are being bullied. for the Rescue Helicopter. me at the finish line for my dad to cross. Chris Deacon is important to me because
Heroes are role models and they are people The K2 is a cycle race that starts It was so cool. he saved my dad’s life. He has become a
that we look up too. They all have unique every year in either Tairua, Whitianga, Later on, we were invited to a Rescue good friend of my family and I am grateful
and special qualities that make one another Coromandel Town or Thames and travels Helicopter reunion. I hung out with Chris and for him. That is why he is my hero.
different from each other.
I met a hero on Tuesday, 1 July 2014 at
5:00pm. My dad was on his way to pick me
up from my friend’s house in Coromandel
Town. He went around a corner and hit a
pothole of water and lost control of the car.
The ambulance took him to the Coromandel
Town airfield where they met the rescue
helicopter. On board the helicopter was
paramedic, Chris Deacon.
What is a paramedic? Paramedics are
people who respond to 111 calls that help
sick or injured people because they are
trained medical experts. They work indoors
and outdoors and in all types of weather.
They work in helicopters and in ambulances.
Paramedics are important to us as they help
save lives.
To become a paramedic, you need to have
trained as an ambulance officer and then
further training is required to advance your
skills in medical intervention.
Who is Chris Deacon? Chris Deacon is
a kind, caring and helpful person. He has
worked on the Auckland Rescue Helicopter
since 1997. He worked as a St John
ambulance officer before moving to work on
board the helicopter.
My dad spent 30 days in the intensive Photo left - Maddie Corles with her dad, Andy, on his handcycle. Photo right - Auckland Rescue Helicopter paramedic, Chris Deacon.
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of Wednesday, 30 September to Wednesday, 7 October - This is the best week to see both Mars and Mercury, with Mars being brighter this
week than it will be until 2035 and even brighter than giant Jupiter for a while. Mercury will be at its furthest from the Sun, very low in the western twilight
sky and quite easy to spot as the brightest thing in that part of the sky. However, you will still have only about an hour after sunset to catch a glimpse
before it sets as it is never far away from the Sun. It will get fainter and noticeably lower each morning as it moves closer to the Sun each day. Not to
be outdone, bright Jupiter and slightly fainter Saturn are high overhead in the early evenings while very bright Venus graces our northeastern dawn
skies. Venus is extremely close to Regulus, the brightest star in the constellation of Leo, and this is a good chance to observe how Venus moves from
day to day in its orbit around the Sun. Thursday, 1 October - Mercury will be at its best tonight and the next, very low in the west just after sunset. Astronomy Tours and B&B
Friday, 2 October - Full moon tonight, lying just above Mars. Mercury is visible just after sunset very low in the west, but still the brightest object in that Phone (07) 866 5343
part of the sky. Saturday, 3 October - The Moon has now moved to lie just below reddish Mars in the evening. Sunday, 4 October - The Moon now lies
further below Mars and slightly to the right of it. www.stargazersbb.com
Whitianga and Hot Water Beach tides Tides data sponsored by
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 917 - 29 September 2020
Bounty of the Sea excitement
not dampened by rain
Last Sunday’s rain didn’t dampen the excitement of the people who enjoyed the Mercury Bay
Club’s annual Bounty of the Sea Festival.
“If it didn’t rain, a few more people probably would have turned up, but overall we’re very
happy,” says Peter Berry, club president.
Among the food on offer were whitebait fritters, creamed and sweet chilli mussels,
scallop mornay, seafood chowder, beef and fish tacos, and shrimp kebabs. A variety of raffles
were also up for grabs and live music was provided by well-known Whitianga performers,
Vegas Brown and Doc Jeffries.
“The weather unfortunately forced us to move the live music inside from our garden bar,
but everyone still had a good time,” says Peter.
The festival’s entry proceeds will be donated to the Whitianga Coastguard. “The coastguard is
an important part of the emergency services in Mercury Bay and we’re proud to be supporting
them in this way,” says Peter.
Pictured is Peter (on the right) with Linda Fraser (Mercury Bay Club Vice-President) and Trevor
Fraser (Mercury Bay RSA President) on Sunday.
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Drive-in movie night a successful “innovative and sustainable business activity” By Daniel Cunningham, a Year 13 student at Mercury Bay Area School On Saturday evening last week, a Year 13 Business Studies group at Mercury Bay Area School hosted a drive-in movie night featuring the film, “Pirates of the Caribbean.” The event was organised for an NCEA internal assessment which was to “carry out an innovative and sustainable business activity.” With more than 100 tickets sold and the weather playing ball, the event, which was held on the old netball courts between the MBAS gym and technology block, was a great success. The group began considering ideas for the assessment with the main objective of having a project that was community-based. A drive- in movie was the preferred option, after the group explored how community members could still have a positive level of social engagement despite any COVID-19 restrictions that may be in place. The group then submitted their idea to the MBAS Board of Trustees, who were happy for Three members of the group of Mercury Bay Area School Year 13 Business Studies students who hosted a successful drive-in movie night the event to go ahead. on Saturday last week. From the left - Raven Turner, Bianca Harsant-Sowter and Daniel Cunningham (who wrote this article). Once the event was approved by the Board the organiser of large local events, including the movie screen, with gym mats placed in the the way, but their resilience, tenacity and of Trustees, planning started in all seriousness. Whitianga Half Marathon and the Whitianga middle for maximum seating. Vehicles were preparation shone through. We all learned a A survey was sent out via Gmail to all the Scallop Festival - provided a truck on which the directed to park so that everyone could have a huge amount and I’m very proud to be their MBAS Year 13 students with a selection of movie could be displayed. good view of the screen. teacher.” movies that were appropriate to be screened. Trialing the equipment, the students were On the night, MBAS food and nutrition The group hopes that the event will encourage The majority of votes that came back were in satisfied that they would be able to offer the teacher teacher, Joanna Mannington and a all future MBAS Business Studies students favour of Pirates of the Caribbean. community a quality experience. handful of hospitality students sold popcorn, to realise that nothing stands in the way of To display the film, the students reached The group advertised the event by putting cookies, coke floats and other drinks. developing achievable business ideas. To that out to locals via social media. Steve Rush, up posters around Whitianga and asking “After months of planning, a small group extent, all the money raised from the drive-in a Whitianga resident, supplied them with a Coromandel’s More FM and The Informer to of Year 13 superstars ran a hugely successful movie night was donated back to MBAS to be projector, speakers and the other electronic promote the event also. outdoor movie night,” Says Mark Irwin, MBAS used by Business Studies classes to investigate equipment that were required for a successful Setting up for the movie, the students business studies teacher. and successfully run their own innovative and evening. For the screen, Nick Reader - arranged hay bales and couches around the “They encountered many hurdles along sustainable business activities. Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 917 - 29 September 2020
Tips for Business Owners
By Christine Petrie
The return to less restrictive trading conditions preparing for an increase in trade over
was a welcome move. With most businesses summer. Talk to your suppliers about smaller
dependent to some extent on the Auckland order quantities, manage customers’ payment
market either directly or indirectly, it is terms, and, if necessary, extend credit
hoped that the second Auckland lockdown facilities through the small business cashflow
will not have a long-term adverse impact on scheme and/or your bank.
consumer spending. Be alert for opportunities. Throughout
While challenging, it would be unrealistic history, organisations have grown in difficult
to expect that the uncertainty organisations times. Read analyses from economists and
have operated under recently will dissipate professional advisors. Talk to customers,
anytime soon. Treasury is forecasting that the suppliers and community group leaders.
New Zealand borders will remain closed until Think about sectors of the community
2022 and while politicians of all convictions you do not currently trade with. Consider
are signalling the importance of opening the
solving problems you are passionate about.
borders quickly provided it is safe, business
Think about how people will buy in the
plans should build in scenarios for limited,
future. As expert business advisors, we
if any, international tourism.
Campaigning politicians are announcing can help you evaluate and implement your
grand policies with eye-watering numbers. ideas - give us a call.
While some might give hope, organisations Information included in this column is of
must play the cards that are in their hands. a general nature and is not a substitute
This includes closely monitoring their ability for tailored legal, accounting and other
to pay their suppliers while optimistically professional advice.
Christine Petrie, the author
of this column, is the owner
of Shifting Focus Business
Consulting. She can be
contacted on telephone
(021) 775 571 or email
christine@shiftingfocus.co.nz.
Issue 917 - 29 September 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
New patron for Mercury Bay
The Small-time Investor
By Whitianga resident, Max Ross Art Escape
Tesla
Now that we can invest in American shares He is an engineer first and a businessperson
through Sharesies, I can invest into one second. I feel this makes him really well
of my favourite companies. I am a huge suited to running a car company.
Tesla bull. His physics background and the way he
In the markets, someone who believes looks at problems has helped Tesla get to
prices will go up is called a bull and someone where it is today. He has a geek’s relentless
who believes they will fall is called a bear. drive for efficiency and this is evident in the
When you read about markets, people will way the company works.
say things like “the bears are in control Tesla’s mission statement is to accelerate
today,” meaning prices are falling. the world’s transition to sustainable energy.
At the time of writing, the bears are in I believe that Tesla has made an important
control and my investments are down $21.37 change in this space already and I am very
or -2.06 percent. keen to continue to support that mission
Tesla’s share price swings hugely each day. statement with my money.
In the past month, the price has gone up to The risk with such a well-known and vibrant
USD498, dropped back to USD330 and is at person in charge is that he can often say some
the time of writing in the mid four-hundreds. controversial things and this can impact the
It is my belief that despite the large swings share price. If he had a health crisis or left the
in price, the long-term outlook for Tesla is company, the shares would also fall.
very good. I believe Elon will continue to do great
I am going to purchase NZD100 of Tesla things at Tesla and so I bought 0.148 shares
stock each week for the next four weeks at a price of USD452 per share. The Mercury Bay Art Escape is delighted to announce that renowned Samoan artist, Fatu Feu'u
and give a different reason each week why I Please remember, I am not an expert. (pictured), has agreed to become joint patron of the Art Escape alongside Michael Smither.
think Tesla is going to be a long-term winner I get things wrong. My goal with this column Fatu grew up in the village of Putasi in Western Samoa, emigrating to New Zealand in 1966.
for me. is to show how easy it is to invest small He has been exhibiting since the 1980s, and is recognised nationally and internationally for his
Tesla has a dynamic person in charge sums of money into the stock market and to work. He is acknowledged as both a leader and mentor within the Pacific arts movement and
of the company, Elon Musk. While I find explain some of my thinking around these the wider Polynesian community. He was appointed an Honorary Officer of New Zealand Order
some of his views controversial and very investments. of Merit in the 2001 New Year’s Honours List.
different from mine, I believe he is very My thoughts are based on very little “Attendees at the Mercury Bay Art Escape Showcase Exhibitions in 2019 and 2020 will remember
good at running companies. As well as Tesla, evidence. I am buying $100 of shares each Fatu’s great support and donations to the Art Escape’s fundraising efforts,” says Ian Preece,
he runs Space X, The Boring Company and week and keeping you informed of how that Mercury Bay Art Escape chair. “His speech in 2019, when he talked about his art and his work
Neuralink, a private company working on a works out for me. The value might go up in mentoring younger members of the community, was particularly moving. We are delighted
brain computer interface. and it might go down. Be careful and make that he has decided to take on a more formal role. It is a significant event for the Mercury Bay
Elon is changing the world and reshaping your own careful decisions with your money. Art Escape as we are privileged to have the joint patronage of two of New Zealand’s preeminent
the future in lots of very exciting ways. Currently I am losing money! figures in the arts world.”
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July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
What the candidates say
In order to help voters on the Coromandel Peninsula decide which candidate to vote for in the government funding of $761m for the community to pay.
general election on 17 October, we asked the Coromandel Electorate candidates to provide us with “Three Waters Reform” programme provides 7. Advance NZ understands the Peninsula
their answers to a number of questions. Six of the candidates responded to us. Below are our questions opportunities for Thames-Coromandel District relies heavily on tourism, which has been
and the answers we received. The candidates’ answers are listed alphabetically, according to Council to work with central government to hit hard by closed boarders and lockdowns.
their surnames. upgrade Whitianga’s water supply without We need to protect our most vulnerable without
The Coromandel Electorate is also contested by Rob Hunter of The Opportunities Party, David Olsen having to stretch ratepayers further. Similar shutting down society. Advance NZ would help
of ACT New Zealand and Bob Wessex of NAP (“Not a Party”). infrastructure upgrades have been part-funded the Coromandel recover economically from
by central government recently in Omokoroa, in COVID-19 by ending lockdowns and ending
The Māori Electorate of Hauraki-Waikato is contested by Richard Hill of New Conservative, the southern part of the Coromandel Electorate. border restrictions on asymptomatic visitors
Phillip Stephen Lambert of Advance NZ, Nanaia Mahuta (incumbent) of the Labour Party and Donna It shows this government’s and Labour’s once our new mitigation and support strategies
Pokere-Phillips of the Māori Party. ongoing willingness to support fast expanding are implemented. These can be viewed on our
Advance voting opens on Saturday, 3 October. In Mercury Bay and surrounding areas, advance votes populations throughout our electorate. website, advancenz.org.nz.
can be cast at Crossroads Church (Whitianga), the Mercury Bay Community Boardroom (Thames- 8. The lack of long-term rental housing is an issue
Coromandel District Council Offices, Whitianga), the Coromandel Citizens Hall (Coromandel Town) Answers received from Tony Brljevich of on the Peninsula. This is preventing investment
and the Tairua Community Hall. Advance NZ as companies cannot find accommodation
Questions for their workers. Advance NZ will develop
1. Which town/city/rural area do you call home? innovative housing systems that will deliver
2. Do you support the End of Life Choice Act 2019 coming into force? high-quality housing at affordable prices.
3. Do you support the proposed Cannabis Legislation and Control Bill? We will also look at creative ways whereby
4. Is the Coromandel Peninsula roading and transport network adequate? If not what upgrades/ people can “earn” their way into homeownership.
improvements/solutions to the existing network do you and your party propose?
Answers received from Michael Egleton of
5. Do the people of the Coromandel Peninsula enjoy adequate public healthcare (including
New Conservative
emergency care)? If not what upgrades/improvements/solutions to the existing level of care do
you and your party propose?
6. How do you and your party propose coastal erosion on the Coromandel Peninsula should be
addressed? Who should pay for your proposals, the taxpayers of New Zealand or the ratepayers
of the Coromandel?
7. What do you and your party propose central government should do to help the people of the 1. Whangapoua
2. No.
Coromandel recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic?
3. No.
8. According to you and your party, are there any other issues facing the Coromandel Peninsula
4. I believe the Coromandel Peninsula’s roading
specifically? What are they and how should they be addressed? network is inadequate as it is often impassable
Answers received from Nathaniel Blomfield of mitigation plans, we are just putting a band during extreme weather events. During the
the Labour Party. aid on a shark bite. As part of the country’s peak visitor periods, the one-lane bridges create
COVID-19 recovery plan, millions have been significant congestion. I would work to address
invested in green jobs throughout the country. these two issues along with seeking a reduction 1. Katikati.
This programme gives us an opportunity for to roughness of the road surface. 2. No.
central government to work with regional and 5. I am amazed at the sacrifice our incredible 3. No.
local councils to capitalise on this investment, volunteer St John ambulance staff make for 4. Roading is a significant issue for the entire
including re-establishing natural barriers our communities and we are blessed with the Coromandel electorate. One-lane bridges
to coastal erosion like our sand dunes and quality health care practitioners we have on the and roads frequently blocked by slips are
coastal vegetation. Peninsula. Thames Hospital is also a great asset. not acceptable. These present economic
7. Labour and I believe the best economic However, due to the remoteness of our impediments to the region and can restrict
response is a strong health response. Protecting district, we require a rescue helicopter based on emergency services from providing lifesaving
people’s health and wellbeing, and stamping the Peninsula. This would be a priority for me. services. If elected I would seek to remedy
out the coronavirus, means our economy gets Advance NZ believes that prevention, through this situation.
1. Tairua. going again faster. Our five-point rebuild plan is building strong immune systems, is better than 5. New Conservative policy is to provide
2. I’m leaning to a yes vote. already in motion, investing in people with jobs cure and is opposed to mandatory vaccinations. affordable and accessible healthcare. This is
3. Yes. protecting our waterways and forests, building 6. As Advance NZ is a very new party/people particularly important for a region like ours
4. The Coromandel has a lot of older, narrow, infrastructure, providing free training for those movement, we have not yet developed a policy which has many rural and isolated communities.
winding country roads. I would like to see more who want it and income support for those who on coastal erosion and how that should be Our policy is to provide additional health
safety initiatives like the SH2 upgrades between need it. funded. The Peninsula’s varied coastline means support for rural communities by increasing
Waihi and Katikati - putting the emphasis on We are supporting small businesses and there are many different scenarios of coastal doctor training and incentivising medical staff
saving lives rather than commute times. industries towards a sustainable economy, erosion. Therefore, a solution for one erosion to work in rural areas, as well as increasing
5. Having grown up with my whole family positioning New Zealand globally as a trading problem may not be a solution for other areas. funding to Plunket to serve rural communities.
working in Thames Hospital and working my nation with high value sustainably produced Various communities have differing preferences New Conservative intends to investigate new
first job there as an orderly, rural health services products. The Coromandel is in a great position on how they would like their coastline managed. ways to deliver efficient and practical aged care.
are important to me. I would love to see the to capitalise on this. I believe strongly in “local solutions to local 6. Coastal change in the Coromandel region is
decentralisation of some services away from 8. One growing concern, especially on the problems” and the main improvement I believe not a simple issue. There are both man-made
Waikato Hospital and back to Thames. eastern seaboard, is that essential infrastructure we can make is to identify potential erosion and natural forces at play. New Conservative
6. First, we need to consider that sea level is not keeping up with the demands of growing areas, have a plan ready and act quickly if it is is committed to preserving and enhancing
rise due to climate change is going to town populations. For example, Whitianga’s needed. The government could set up a fund to our natural environment, and encouraging all
have an ongoing effect on coastal erosion. town water supply is insufficient for a assist communities where the cost of addressing New Zealanders to be good stewards of our
Without addressing this, along with erosion growing population. The recently announced coastal erosion is beyond the ability of the natural resources.
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 917 - 29 September 2020What the candidates say
I would be dishonest to the electorate if I were 6. Coastal erosion is a huge challenge for of boulevard trees to increase the landscape Coromandel Peninsula.
to claim to currently have a viable solution, coastal communities like ours. The Green Party aesthetics. Pullover bays and rest areas add to 5. We live in a geographically challenging
but should I be elected I would seek funding to believes adaptation to our changing climate the value likewise. and isolated area. We have the largest number
find such a solution. will be essential for the wellbeing and survival 5. Healthcare is adequate, the service is not, of plus 65-year-old voters of any electorate in
7. New Conservative policy of COVID-19 of vulnerable communities, ecosystems and nor the options available. We rely on big pharma New Zealand.
recovery includes reducing income tax, species. While central government action is to sell us drugs instead of searching out all best Sadly, health and emergency service
particularly for families, reducing “red tape” vital for overall policy development, we are practice in all other streams of medicine. provisions have declined markedly during
for businesses and imposing a minimum wage all in this together and iwi, local government, 6. This is obviously a taxpayer issue. Learn the last three years. Our emergency rescue
freeze to enable small and medium business to communities, civil society and business will be from well-established international examples. helicopter was taken away by Jacinda Ardern’s
continue to operate. key partners in co-creating and implementing The Dutch, Italians Norwegians, Swedes government. They made a policy decision to
New Conservative also plans to support adaptation strategies. and Danes have a long, rich history of very prioritise Auckland ahead of the Coromandel.
the farming community through repealing 7. The Green Party is calling for an economic successful engineering, inexpensive and National will bring the rescue helicopter back
the Emissions Trading Scheme, that drains stimulus package fit for the 21st century offering long-term resilience. to Whitianga over the summer peak and at long
billions of dollars from our economy for no that puts people, climate and nature first, 7. Small business is the keystone and backbone weekends. St John have made management
environmental gain, instead funding local with significant investment in nature-based of New Zealand. We need to support and develop decisions that have reduced access to ambulance
research to find viable, environmentally jobs. We cannot only restore and look after this as much as possible. As a critical element in services around the Peninsula. These need to
responsible practices and which develop our natural landscapes, native bush, birds, this, we must recognise the value in developing be reversed too. Again these have been policy,
primary sector industries. waterways and coast, but we can also retrain our neighbourhood enterprise. The Coromandel not funding, decisions.
New Conservative believes that the people and rebuild our business communities. is ideally placed for this with 20 plus small 6. Issues relating to coastal erosion fall within
government has a fiduciary responsibility to its There are many opportunities for opening up towns. Localism is one of the Outdoors Party’s the responsibility of the Waikato Regional
citizens and seeks to establish citizens-initiated low-impact tourism. key policies.
binding referenda. Council. Our electorate has one of the longest
8. We must stop mining on conservation land. 8. The key factor is realising New Zealand is a coastlines of any in New Zealand and the
8. No answer supplied. There are already enough previously-mined series of villages. We must build our community eastern seaboard is and always has been at
Answers received from Pamela Grealey of the precious metals in landfills that could be through neighbourhoods and localism. Small risk from heavy weather events. Ultimately,
Green Party extracted. Aotearoa is the only OECD country events can start immediately. Farmers markets we all pay one way or another, either as
without any national regulation of e-waste is one example. We must also increase our ratepayers, taxpayers or individuals. There are
and we have no official recycling or recovery exclusive economic zone to 500 miles offshore only ever three options for addressing coastal
schemes. I’m a passionate exponent of waste and protect it. Horticulture and agriculture from erosion - (1) defend, (2) adapt, (3) retreat.
minimisation and the circular economy, an ethical and principled basis in ecological Sometimes a combination of all three are viable,
and I believe we can create a local industry agriculture will see the Coromandel boom. but no matter which or all of the options are
around this. This must be supported by education. adopted, they are all expensive.
The Hauraki Gulf, which includes the Eliminating GST and a tax break of zero tax 7. National has a proven record of economic
waters around the Coromandel Peninsula, is in for all salaries under $50,000 will see many management and disaster recovery leadership.
desperate need of protection and restoration. households benefit considerably. Free health We’ll ensure that local people and businesses are
The Green Party has the most detailed ocean and education is a must. supported in a way that encourages economic
plan announced by any party. It includes a ban growth. We can’t just borrow our way out of
on bottom trawling in the Hauraki Gulf and a Answers received from Scott Simpson
(incumbent) of the National Party COVID-19. Hundreds of billions of dollars
1. Kapanga/Coromandel Town. dramatic increase in the amount of protected
have been borrowed against our children’s
2. Yes. marine areas around Aotearoa.
and grandchildren’s future over the last few
3. Yes. Answers received from Steve Hart of the NZ months. Effectively the current government
4. In the Greens we think everyone should be able Outdoors Party has mortgaged tomorrow for today and while
to get around affordably, safely and efficiently, some borrowing was necessary, people are now
with minimal impact on the environment. rightly questioning how that money is being
Due to our geography, our roads are often spent and how and who is going to have to pay
narrow and winding, with the possibility of it back?
slips and flooding. We can’t change the geology, Only a National-led government has the
so we need to look at alternative solutions. experience and team to provide a coordinated,
Get the mussel trucks off the road by better use financially sound and medically robust plan for
of water transport and reduce the number of cars a post COVID-19 recovery.
by encouraging more cycleways and developing 1. Thames 8. We still have work to do to extend access to
public transport. 2. Yes. fast, reliable internet services. Great progress
The Greens will continue to ensure funding 3. No. has been made, but there are still too many
for safety improvements. 4. No. National has recommitted to projects parts of the Peninsula where connectivity is
5. This depends on where you live. In many rural 1. Puriri. cancelled by Jacinda Ardern’s government, not up to standard. I will continue to fight for
areas, it is often difficult to access secondary 2. Yes. including three new two-lane bridges at Tairua, improvements.
services. The Green Party believes that quality, 3. Yes. a new highway on SH2 from the bottom of The Department of Conservation estate makes
free healthcare provided by a publicly funded 4. The network is adequate, but the infrastructure the Bombay Hills at Pokeno through to the up a huge portion of the Peninsula. National
health system is the basis of a good life. and maintenance is not. All the one-lane bridges Mangatarata turn off and a new SH2 highway wants to give that beautiful natural bush area
This means that there should be no financial need to be rebuilt to two-lane, as does SH2 from from Waihi to Tauranga, including a bypass a higher level of recognition and protection
barriers to anyone accessing the healthcare the Bombays to Kopu into four lanes. SH25A, for Katikati. with National Park status. The area north of
services they need and that the health system Kopu to Hikuai, needs far more passing lanes. National has also committed to a dedicated the Kopu-Hikuai Road strikes me as the logical
should be organised around what’s best Waihi to Tauranga needs a total rebuild with road sealing fund, which means support for boundary and would become the only National
for people. four lanes. All roads need extensive planting upgrades of unsealed council roads on the Park north of Tongariro.
Issue 917 - 29 September 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 917 - 29 September 2020
A negative OCR - alternatives Judy Bailey fronts Cooks Beach
to “money in the bank” Hall renovation campaign
By Miles Flower of Mercury Bay Financial Services Mother of the nation, Judy Bailey, has thrown her support behind a new campaign to fund an
extensive renovation of the Cooks Beach Community Hall.
With a negative official cash rate expected in for periods of two to five years and often require
the next few months or so, it’s prudent to look a minimum investment of $5,000 or often more. The iconic broadcaster has fronted a promotional video describing her family’s long association
at what investment options are out there other If you hold the investment for its full term, with Cooks Beach, and the important and ever-expanding role of the hall as a meeting place and
than “money in the bank.” When investing you will receive your initial investment back social venue for local residents and visitors alike.
their money, investors have the choice to invest plus the interest that is normally paid quarterly or Describing Cooks Beach as a “jewel in the Peninsula’s crown and a magnet for people from all
in a range of assets. These asset classes are six-monthly. If you want to withdraw before the over the world,” Judy encourages viewers of the video to support the Cooks Beach Community
commonly described as domestic fixed interest maturity date, you have to sell your investment Centre Committee’s Go Fund Me campaign, which aims to raise $100,000 for the expansion of
(“money in the bank” - cash investments and on the secondary market. If interest rates have the hall to better accommodate larger events such as weddings and conferences. Currently the
term deposits with banks operating in New gone up in the meantime, you may find you will venue can host 100 people seated or 120 buffet style.
Zealand), international fixed interest, domestic have to sell at a discount as the current bonds
property, international property, domestic or and debentures will be paying a higher rate. The committee’s vision is of a community hall that will continue to be a place of fun and coming
Australasian shares, and international shares. Conversely, if interest rates drop you may make together for future generations as it has been for so many families since it was first established
The potential return you can receive in a profit on the sale of your investment. in 1984.
investing in these assets is referred to as risk for Domestic mortgage trusts offer another The video featuring Judy will be the core tool in an extensive, nationwide campaign encouraging
reward. Risk is the volatility in return you may interest-bearing investment option. Funds are as many people as possible to support the fundraising effort and at the same time showcasing
experience over time, not actually losing your only invested in registered first mortgages the Coromandel with some stunning footage of Cooks Beach.
money because of poor investment decisions. with normally no more exposure than 66 Committee member, Liz DeVere, said the team was excited and grateful to have the support of
Less risky assets will give you a consistent, percent of the mortgaged property’s registered such a well-known and loved Cooks Beach’s property owner in Judy Bailey who was genuinely
but modest, return. The riskier the asset, more valuation. These investments are open ended passionate about the community and the project.
volatile but higher the return. Historical evidence with the average investor leaving their funds
shows this does play out in the real world with invested for three years. You can withdraw at To check out the video and make a donation visit www.cooksbeachcommunitycentre.com/
domestic fixed interest investments achieving any time with approval of the fund managers, go-fund-me.
a two to three percent return, and international who often have the right to hold withdrawals Pictured is Judy as she appears in the video.
shares nine to 11 percent over time. for up to 90 days to manage cashflow. These
The important thing to consider is your are effectively collectively owned mortgages.
personal attitude to risk and how risky or The return you get is the average mortgage rate
volatile your investment can be “before you paid by borrowers less an administration fee.
cannot sleep at night.” This can be determined In the current environment, you would expect a
by completing a risk questionnaire, which asks return of around five percent.
a series of questions about your attitude to risk Other forms of domestic fixed interest
and which results in a score that would indicate investment options are peer to peer lending
what mix of assets would be appropriate for you schemes and finance company debentures,
to invest in. which should only be entered into by
Let’s explore the fixed interest products experienced investors.
available to investors other than “money in Investors in international bonds and
the bank.” debentures normally access the international
Domestic bonds bought via a sharebroker fixed interest market via a managed fund that
or directly with the organisation concerned. specialises in this class of investment. That will
These are investments with the likes of local allow you to also access a diversified investment
councils or energy companies. Investors lend plus expertise in managing the currency risk
money to an organisation, which provides them when placing funds outside of New Zealand.
with a fixed return which is normally higher In the next few articles, we will look at the
than a typical bank deposit. They are normally other asset classes.
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Issue 917
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27 September
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13Do you like “bug hunting?”
How about in the river?
A contribution by the Friends of Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve Trust
Students at Coroglen and Puriri Schools have riparian vegetation, which has many positives
just completed “The Whitebait Connection,” for water health.
a learning programme about freshwater They caught a swimming mayfly which are
conservation and catchment restoration. extremely sensitive to pollution and indicates
The programme was founded in 2002 under the that the water is healthy. At the Coroglen Bridge
umbrella of the Northland-based Mountains to they caught whitebait, or inanga, which are
Sea Conservation Trust. currently migrating from the ocean upstream
The programme takes a biological and to grow into adults in the higher reaches of
ecological approach, looking at all the life the river.
forms and their relationships in and around Currently Amber is talking to WRC and
rivers and streams. Living things like types of Thames-Coromandel District Council to help
water bugs, species of freshwater fish and the the school with some planting, which will
abundance of plants in a particular catchment mean they can help the river that gives them so
are being investigated. much joy.
This is the second year The Whitebait Every Friday, the entire Puriri School heads
Connection has been offered by the Friends of up the road to the Puriri River for “river class.”
Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve Trust. Amber was lucky enough to be able to tag along
Mercury Bay resident, Amber Boyd, delivers with the school and test the water with them.
the programme to schools in the Coromandel Again, they found that the water is reasonably
Peninsula/Hauraki Plains area. healthy, but riparian vegetation is lacking.
The trust would like to thank Waikato Downstream below a river crossing, they caught
Regional Council’s Environmental Initiatives inanga.
Fund for their three-year funding of the Although, the upper testing spot was not a
programme. With this funding, the programme long way up the river, the students didn’t catch
can be offered at no cost to schools. any inanga up there. This is something the
The programme consists of a PowerPoint school wants to investigate. The school is also
presentation which teaches about freshwater looking at purchasing nets and making testing of
systems, how to monitor freshwater, what rivers the water a regular part of the students’ learning.
require to be “healthy” and all about whitebait. Over the past two years, 260 students have
The best part of the programme is getting the participated in The Whitebait Connection in the
children out to local rivers to test the water Coromandel Peninsula/Hauraki Plains area and
health, with “bug hunting” being the favourite 109 adults have been engaged, a direct reach of
part for many children. 369 people.
Both Coroglen School and Puriri School are Other outcomes of the programme include
lucky enough to have access to rivers close the planting of 4,000 native seedlings along
by, which are frequently used by the students waterways, and the removal of 2.5m³ of pest
outside of school hours. plants from sites where the planting took place
Coroglen School tested two parts of the and 3m³ of rubbish from riparian areas. No less
Waiwawa River. First, by the Coroglen Bridge than 371 volunteer hours were contributed.
and then upstream at the Riverglen Campground. If you would like to register your school’s
They found that both spots were reasonably interest in the programme, please email Amber
healthy, with the Riverglen spot having more at amber@whitebaitconnection.co.nz.
Coroglen School students testing the health of the water in the Waiwawa River
as part of “The Whitebait Connection” learning programme.
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 917 - 29 September 2020Issue 917
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July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 917 - 29 September 2020
Issue 917
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27 September
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17Board Talk
By the Mercury Bay Area School Board of Trustees
I would like to start by expressing my sincere There has been so much to celebrate this term -
appreciation to all our whānau and our the charity concert and kapa haka performances
community for “hanging in there” when it last week for instance, and the extraordinary
seemed that things were, indeed, going to be sporting activities that has continued under
continually changing and shifting all around us. Alert Level 2 and the outcomes of our young
You will know just how well your children people engaging in their code of interest, with a
coped with all that was going on - we know we fair amount of “silverware” to show for it too.
have some young people who find all that is All this requires dedicated kaiako, teachers,
happening around them to be really challenging coaches, managers and parental support to
and we recognise this with compassion and allow our “kaakano” to germinate, sprout,
understanding. It is the support from parents/ blossom and fruit.
caregivers/whānau who help them, and us all, But it is the learning and teaching that must
get through. take centre stage. This has continued on,
And then it is our crew on site here too - which of course is our big job, but to have
our teaching and support staff - who day in continued in this space in these tricky times
and day out have come to school clear on what talks volumes to me about our students,
their and each of our roles are during these our staff, our leadership team and our parents/
challenging times - and that is that from the caregivers/community.
foundation of quality relationships between our I wish to acknowledge the retirement of Ian
students and staff, our students and students, Nicolson, counsellor at our school for 18 years.
and staff and staff, we aim to create the safest Ian has been superb and we know deeply that he
space possible for everyone so that their learning has made a huge difference to so many people’s
can be their very best. lives over this time. We wish him all the best
I want to acknowledge all of our staff this We are also farewelling Jillian Robertson
term in the job they have done, along with and Eric Pampalone and thank them for
parents/caregivers and our tamariki/rangatahi. their contribution. Congratulations to two of our
To you all, a fantastic job and now we are up for primary teachers, Rebecca Church and Miriam
a nice break, a time to relax, rest and recuperate. Mikkelsen, on attaining their full registration
None of us know what is around the corner, as a teacher/kaiako in our kura - we are really
but what I know is that we have the systems in proud of them.
place to take us safely forward, no matter what John Wright
situation may come to us because of COVID-19. Principal Mercury Bay Area School
School holidays
colouring fun
Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 917 - 29 September 2020Issue 917
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27 September
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19What’s On The next few weeks
Op-Shops
Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street Scrapbags Quilting Group
Meets every Wednesday from 9:00am - 3:00pm at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Albert Street, Whitianga. All welcome.
(west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm.
phone Shelley on 866 0236 for more information.
The Church Op-Shop - At St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Whitianga Art Group
Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm. Meets every Thursday and Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm at 23 School Road, Whitianga. Visitors are invited to join us for
St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday a day of painting. Start-up materials supplied. Phone Jenny on (027) 210 0160 for more information.
10:00am - 2:00pm. AA Driver Licensing
Justice of the Peace The second Friday of every month at St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga.
Available every Monday (except public holidays) from 10:00am - 12:00 noon at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. Whitianga Tramping Group
Bookings not necessary. Phone 866 4476 for more information. Meets every second Sunday at 8:30am. Phone Wally on (021) 907 782 or Lesley on (021) 157 9979 for more information.
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open every Monday - Saturday from
10:00am - 2:00pm.
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club Kiwi Fun Run - Saturday, 3 October
Meets Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street from 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie Just a few days to go until the run/walk/scramble up to the iconic Kiwi symbol on the hillside above Wharekaho.
etc. Afternoon tea, 55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. “While the journey up to the kiwi is the main event, there is also a lot more going on,” says Nick Reader, organiser
Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) of the event. “Wharekaho has a stunning beach and a great place for a quick dip in the ocean if you are brave
Meets the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. enough… Come on we are well into spring! Plus we will have great tunes playing, a complimentary sausage sizzle
Phone Joan on 866 3801 or (027) 275 1372 for more information. and the girls from the ‘97’ food caravan will have great coffee, cold drinks and smoothies available to purchase.
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated All are welcome, even those who don’t want to run or walk the hill, but just want to hang out.” Entry is $10 on the
Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their day with full information at www.whitianga.co.nz/event/kiwifunrun.
computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on
866 4215 for more information or to join.
Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga
Meets every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in Room 10 at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga.
Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals and eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely.
Check out our Facebook page or phone 869 5648 for more information.
Serenity Al-Anon Group
Meets every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by
someone else’s drinking.
Dog Walking Group
Meets every Thursday at 2:00pm at Lovers Rock, Robinson Road, Whitianga. An opportunity to socialise your dog.
Phone Jenny on (021) 186 5797 for more information.
ICONZ for Girls
Every Tuesday from 4:00pm - 5:30pm at “The Dwelling,”Coghill Street, Whitianga. For girls 8 - 13 years old. Phone Robyn on
(020) 409 39674 for more information.
Whitianga Playcentre
Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon and every Friday from 12:00 noon - 2:45pm at 1D White Street,
Whitianga. For children 0 - 6 years, free entry. Visitors welcome.
Matarangi Craft Group
Meets fortnightly at the Matarangi Fire Station. Phone Lesley on 866 0788 for more information.
Cooks Beachcare Group
Make new friends, learn about conservation and make a difference. We meet Thursdays for hands-on weeding and
planting, 9:00am - 11:00am. Register on our website, www.cooksbeachcare.org.nz or phone Adele on (021) 201 6625.
Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 917 - 29 September 2020You can also read
