Sport Waikato award for Mercury Bay Athletics Club - The ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,000
Sport Waikato award for Mercury
Bay Athletics Club
By Stephan Bosman
In December last year, Alana Baker (president) and
Emily O’Donnell (vice-president) of the Mercury
Bay Athletics Club were informed that the club was
nominated for two Sport Waikato Awards for 2020 -
the Sport and Active Recreation Partnership Award
and the Community Connection Award. On Thursday
last week, it was announced at an online ceremony
that the club has won the Sport and Active Recreation
Partnership Award for the way they engaged Thames-
Coromandel District Council and the community in
helping them to relocate from Lyon Park in central
Whitianga to the Mercury Bay Multisport Park in
Moewai Park.
The club was established in the second half of
2019 with a junior section only and the relocation
became necessary as the facilities at Lyon Park
were soon outgrown. With enormous community
support garnered by Alana and Emily, new facilities
- including a long jump pit and throwing circles for
discus and shot put - were developed and a section for
older children and teenagers were added.
The club started operating from the Mercury Bay
Multisport Park in the last school term of last year.
“What an amazing journey for Alana and Emily to
bring together the right people along with community
support to make the relocation of the Mercury Bay
Athletics Club happen,” says Matthew Cooper, CEO
of Sport Waikato. “A club doing things differently,
geared towards the participant and their outstanding
membership numbers prove they have got a good thing
going through hard work and building relationships.
We’re very proud of them.”
Alana says it’s hard to believe the Mercury Bay
Athletics Club wasn’t in existence two years ago.
“We’re so proud of our athletes and the athletics
community that is building in Mercury Bay,” she says.
“This has not been achieved alone and we wouldn’t
be here without the support of our community, Sport
Waikato, Athletics New Zealand and Waikato Bay of
Plenty Athletics.”
Emily agrees. “We couldn’t believe we were finalists
of two Sport Waikato awards, let alone the winner of
one of the awards,” she says. “It is so humbling and
amazing to have the endorsement of peers for the way
we are approaching athletics as a sport. We’re not very Emily O’Donnell (on the left) and Alana Baker of the Mercury Bay Athletics Club with Matthew Cooper, CEO of Sport Waikato,
traditional in our approach, but it’s a team effort all and the club’s finalist certificates for two Sport Waikato awards for 2020 as well as the trophy they received as winners of the
the way.” Sport and Active Recreation Partnership Award.
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Jay Finlay - celebrating her 100th
birthday with three cakes
One of Whitianga Continuing Care’s newest residents, Jay Finlay,
born on 31 January 1921, celebrated her 100th birthday on Sunday
last week. She was presented with three cakes to mark the major
milestone in her life.
Jay’s first job was as a sales assistant in the ladies sportswear
section of Lewis’s department store in Leicester, United Kingdom.
Not long after the start of World War II, she volunteered to join the
Women’s Royal Air Force and in 1941 was posted to the accounts
department at Hednesford. Later, she was posted to the Operations
Room for Bomber Command at Waddington, where she met and
eventually married Douglas Finlay in 1944.
After the war, Jay and Douglas returned to Douglas’s hometown
of Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne where Jay ran the office for
their painting and decorating company. They employed up to 40
painters at any one time.
Their son, Richard, an only child, was born in 1951 and grew up
in the family home in Gosforth until 1976 when he also joined the
Royal Air Force. Richard and his wife immigrated to New Zealand
with their children in 1991 and Jay and Douglas joined them in
1992, becoming New Zealand citizens in 1995. They all lived in
in Whitby just outside of Wellington.
Douglas passed away in 2014. Jay continued to live in Whitby,
but decided to move to Whitianga a short while ago as Richard
will be retiring to the town in the next few months. “My mother
and I were fortunate to find a place for her at Continuing Care
where she is settling in,” says Richard.
In addition to Richard, Jay’s grandson, Alastair Finlay, and two
great-grandsons, Jacob and Zachary Finlay, celebrated her birthday
with her on Sunday. “It was a great surprise to see everybody,”
says Jay. “To be honest, it feels no different to be 100. I feel the
exact same as I have for the past five years. I have told Richard,
though, that if any old boyfriends turn up, he must show them the
door. I have better things to do than talking to them.”
Richard has been a holiday home portfolio manager for the
New Zealand Public Service Association for the past 14 years.
His job took him all across New Zealand, including Whitianga.
“I’m looking forward to spending my retirement years in Jay Finlay, one of Whitianga Continuing Care’s newest residents, was presented with
Whitianga,” he says. “It’s a wonderful town.” three cakes on her 100th birthday last Sunday.
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of Wednesday, 3 February to Wednesday, 10 February - Mars remains an unmistakable sight low in the northern sky all evening until about
midnight. It is still distinctly reddish and is going to be busy as it will get a visitor from the United Arab Emirates, their first mission to another planet,
this week and two from other countries next week. Jupiter and Saturn reappear in the mornings, but will be very low in the eastern pre-dawn sky
along with Venus much lower down, but much brighter. It might be possible to spot some of the Alpha Centaurid meteors this month as they can
often be seen over several nights centered around 8 February when looking towards the south. The International Space Station (ISS) will also be
visible some mornings. Friday, 5 February - Bright Venus, fainter Saturn and much lower Jupiter lie very near the horizon in the eastern pre-dawn sky. Astronomy Tours and B&B
Saturday, 6 February - Saturn and bright Venus make a lovely sight close together, but extremely low in the east just before sunrise. Brighter Jupiter
is much further down. Monday, 8 February - A low ISS pass this morning from 6:11am in the SW. Wednesday, 10 February - The UAE’s orbiter Phone (07) 866 5343
arrives at Mars today. A bright ISS pass in the morning from 6:12am in the SW moving just below the Southern Cross. www.stargazersbb.com
Tides data sponsored by
Whitianga and Hot Water Beach tides
nzwindows.co.nz
4 Dakota Drive
Whitianga
Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Tel 07 869 5990
Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021
Close on 50 quilts on display
at “airing day”
Close on 50 quilts made by members of the Mercury Bay Quilters were on display at the
Whitianga Art, Craft & Farmers Market on Saturday last week. “Every Saturday of Anniversary
Weekend we have an ‘airing day,’” says Margaret Henry, president of the group. “It’s really just
an opportunity to give our quilts some air and show them to the public.”
The quilts attracted a lot of attention on Saturday, with Margaret and other members of the
group fielding many questions about membership and the group’s weekly activities. “We have
around 25 members at the moment,” says Margaret. “Our youngest member is only 14 years
old and our oldest member is 90. All of us love needlework and quilting. We meet four times a
month and make quilts for the neonatal unit at Auckland Hospital and the children admitted to
Starship Hospital. We’re always on the lookout for new members.”
Pictured are four of the group members in front of some of the quilts that were on display on
Saturday. From the left - Leona Bonkobich, Margaret Henry, Jan Skipper and Isabel Lloyd.
Issue 935
699 - 227February
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
Harold - “you are a star”
A contribution by a group of Whitianga residents congratulating their friend, fellow Whitianga resident, Harold Abrahamson, with the Thames-Coromandel District Council Community Service
Award he received in December 2020.
From South Africa and sugar cane, Now Harold had many brushes with the law, With his charming smile, Harold just turned We could listen for hours, he tells them
To cow dung in New Zealand and the Especially with speeding tickets which and walked away, so well.
farming game. became quite a bore. No doubt to face the law yet another day. With his fleet of machinery, he has led a busy
Harold, a tall agile fitness freak, And once at a road block with a man in blue, life,
Found squash and tennis an easy feat. No licence did he have, so home he flew. Rubbing shoulders with a Knight of the He has left his mark, sometimes with strife.
However, socialising would often take place, At home all excited with licence in hand, Realm,
Congratulations Harold on being awarded a
Leaving his wife to herd the cows up the Returned to the officer only to receive a With Frank Renouf’s Rolls Royce to drive
Community Service Award for the excellent
race. reprimand. around town. work you have achieved. Well done and
He enjoyed the New Zealand way of life, “Your seat belt sir, you are not buckled up,” Many stories we have heard Harold tell, well-deserved.
Especially with Tertia, his darling wife.
Together they toiled breaking in the cows,
And slashing tea-tree until all hours.
He loved his cows, but sheep farming was not
Harold’s forte,
Especially when the Simpson Dog Trials
were trialling one day.
Some sheep going this way and others that,
Some rushing past him and to the swollen
river flat.
Civil works to buildings and storage sheds
galore,
His town clock standing proud for all to
adore.
But alas the clock began losing time,
So a one-legged horologist was called into
line,
But no thanks to him, because he couldn’t
climb.
So another horologist appeared on the scene,
This time with results after an oil and a clean.
Now the clock is fine and keeping good time,
Much to the Whiti folks’ delight who had
caused quite a stir, Well-known Whitianga resident, Harold Abrahamson (in the centre), receiving a Thames-Coromandel District Council Community Service
Often reminding Harold to arrange a repair. Award from Mercury Bay Ward councillors, Tony Fox (on the left) and Murray McLean in December last year.
Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021
Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
A day of outstanding Kiwi music at the Whitianga Summer Concert Thousands of people enjoyed a day of outstanding Kiwi music from Hello Sailor, Stellar*, the Jordan forced the change to an all-Kiwi line-up. Not that it worried the crowd. Everyone loved hearing all Luck Band, Dragon and Gin Wigmore at the Whitianga Summer Concert last Sunday. The concert was the Kiwi anthems they know so well. And the fact that we, in New Zealand, can enjoy freedoms not held at the Whitianga Waterways Arena. available to the rest of the world at the moment made the day even more special. The concert, part of Greenstone Entertainment’s three-stop Summer Concert Tour, was initially going We’ll let the photos tell the story. to feature several Australian bands, but the constantly changing COVID-19 situation in Australia Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021
Whitianga Summer Concert Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Beautiful art created during
District Libraries’ summer
holiday programme
The Thames-Coromandel District Libraries’ summer holiday programme, “Crafts from Around
the World” drew to a close on Thursday last week. The programme was offered every Tuesday
and Thursday between 12 and 28 January at the libraries in Thames, Tairua and Whitianga.
From Aboriginal dot art to mask making and mosaics, the children who participated in
the programme had a lot of fun. “A steady group of children made some beautiful art,”
says Christine Towgood of the Mercury Bay Library in Whitianga.
Pictured in the top photo is Ruby Olsen with the sea horse she made during the mosaics session
at the Mercury Bay Library on Tuesday last week. In the middle photo is Talia Carse with the
dolphin she made and in the bottom photo is Dominic McKenzie with his dolphin.
Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021
Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
10 Artists exhibition celebrates the environment
and raises funds for Kuaotunu Bird Rescue
By Anusha Bhana
A prolific group of local artists joined forces pen and ink drawings, this year also exhibited
over Auckland Anniversary Weekend to stage large canvases primed with spray paint to
the third annual 10 Artists exhibition at the create a nightscape overlaid with silhouetted
Kuaotunu Hall. landscapes of Māori pa sites.
The 10 Artists - Chris Charteris, Claire Exhibition organiser, Ian Preece, was
Elliot, Peter Matai Johnston, Phillip Fickling, ecstatic with how everything came together.
Lutz Gaebler, Lucy Kuchlein, Lizzy Leckie, “During the year everyone is working on
Ian Preece, Roimata Taimana and Colin their own projects, but sharing our creations
Verner - are a creative collective of visual as a group, it has become something we look
artists all living and working in the Mercury forward to,” he says. “And if you attend the
Bay North area. exhibition regularly every year, you’ll start to
The opening of the exhibition on Friday last pick up on the artists’ style progressions and
week was well attended by locals and visitors, see them experimenting with new mediums.
with a warm and enthusiastic atmosphere in “We’re all good friends and support each
the Kuaotunu Hall as attendees perused the other’s art practices. It’s an amazingly creative
artworks, chatted to the artists and mixed and group of people and for me personally,
mingled. a really inspiring collective to be a part of.”
A moving pōwhiri was given by This year’s exhibition included a
conceptual artist, Peter Matai Johnston, philanthropic aspect. At last year’s 10
midway through the opening, acknowledging Artists exhibition, a portable gallery entitled
the whenua (land) and its ancestors. “Waka Huia/Treasure Box” was on display,
Each artist’s offerings were unique and containing a miniature original work by each
captivating with a wide range of mediums of the 10 Artists. Each of the works was for
on display, including painting, sculpture, sale this year, with the full proceeds of each
mixed media, drawing, clothing, raranga item going directly to the Kuaotunu Bird
(weaving), wood carving, paper engineering Rescue Trust.
and photography. Kuaotunu Bird Rescue was established
Although there was no official theme Five of the 10 Artists enjoying the opening of their 2021 exhibition on Friday last week. From in 2005 and is a voluntary organisation that
for the exhibition, the overall vibe could left to right - Roimata Taimana, Ian Preece, Lizzy Leckie, Chris Charteris and Phillip Fickling. rehabilitates injured and orphaned birds.
be described as a homage to the natural a guest artist, displaying his wood and stone driftwood, a massive 2.2m across, entitled “Annemieke Kregting who runs the trust,
environment. There were plenty of blues, architectural sculptures. “Across the Flood,” as well as the bones of does such amazing work looking after our
greens, earthy tones, organic forms, flora and Photographer, Ian Preece’s series of shells a stranded Sperm whale’s tail collected from birdlife and we couldn’t think of a better
fauna, seascapes, nightscapes and landscapes, and flowers were captured in stunning detail. the beach in Kuaotunu in 1971. recipient to donate the funds to,” says Ian.
a clear indication of Kuaotunu’s beautiful Each photograph was the result of hundreds Weaver, Lizzy Leckie’s handspun merino “It definitely fits with our 10 Artists ethos of
surroundings being a source of inspiration for of images taken with a macro lens and layered wool hangings were dyed in natural dyes being connected to our environment, culture
the artists. upon each other. derived from lichen, gorse, fig and tanekaha, and community.”
Local architect and builder turned artist, Sculptor and carver, Chris Charteris, a first for her. Stay connected with the 10 Artists by
Dave Bryant, joined the line-up this year as exhibited a large assemblage of Kuaotunu Roimata Taimana who produces intricate following them on Facebook.
The Mercury Bay Informer is published weekly on Tuesday afternoons and is distributed
throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. What’s that Number?
Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are Emergency (Ambulance, Fire, Police) 24 hours ....................................................111
entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when
accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address.
Police (Whitianga) .......................................................................................866 4000
Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. Police (Tairua) .............................................................................................864 8888
Statement of scientific fact needs to be accompanied by evidence of the fact. Police (Coromandel Town) ..........................................................................866 1190
Published by Mercury Bay Media Limited Fight crime anonymously - Call Crime Stoppers ....... .........................0800 555 111
Editors - Stephan Bosman and Gillian O’Neill Dog and Noise Control ............................................. ..................................868 0200
Contributors - Meghan Hawkes, Jack Biddle, Anusha Bhana and Suzanne Hansen Civil Defence ..............................................................................................868 0200
Advertiser Management - Petra Bosman and Alex Kennedy Mercury Bay Medical Centre (Whitianga) ......................... ..........................866 5911
Administration - Diane Lodge Medical Centre (Tairua) ................................................................................864 8737
Need to talk? Call/text anytime for support from a trained counsellor .............1737
Office 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Mail PO Box 426, Whitianga 3542
Telephone (07) 866 2090, Fax (07) 866 2092 Harbourmaster (Whitianga) ..................................................................027 476 2651
Editorial email info@theinformer.co.nz, Advertising email sales@theinformer.co.nz Coastguard Radio Operators .....................................................................866 2883
ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online), © 2021 Mercury Bay Media Limited
Whitianga Social Services .................. ........................................................866 4476
Whitianga Locksmith Services ............................................................027 446 6921
The Mercury Bay Informer is subject to the principles of the New Zealand
Media Council. Please contact us first if you have concerns about any
of the editorial content published in The Informer. If we were unable to
address your concerns to your satisfaction, you can file a complaint with
ONLINE POLL FOR FEBRUARY 2021
the New Zealand Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or Do you have any concerns about
www.presscouncil.org.nz.
See page 2 for what’s happening Like us on Facebook.
taking a COVID-19 vaccine?
in the night sky, and the Whitianga and Follow us on Twitter.
Hot Water Beach tides. Check us out on Instagram. Have your say at www.theinformer.co.nz.
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11
Tips for Business Owners
By Christine Petrie
You might enjoy this thought from Brazilian a short-term absence payment of $350
footballer, Kaká, “Motivation comes from for workers who need to stay home while
the outside, whereas inspiration comes from awaiting a COVID-19 test result. The wage
within. Inspiration is connected to goals, subsidy scheme will be restarted should there
purposes and values.” be an escalation to Alert Level 3 or 4.
As we start another year alongside Other support around the timing of tax
COVID-19, investing in what inspires us may payments and research and development
strengthen our resilience and wellbeing. remains. Applications to the small business
Many businesses have been “hanging in cash flow scheme for businesses with 50 or
there” hoping for a good summer, vaccines fewer full-time employees, has been extended
and the borders to open. With vaccines until 31 December 2023. Businesses must
and unrestricted travel still some time off, confirm certain levels of revenue decline and
businesses must make decisions based on commit to repayment timeframes.
realistic profit and cashflow forecasts. Free courses found on “digitalboost.co.nz”
The government has announced a business
will help businesses looking for efficiencies
support package that will be operational late
through digital tools.
Thumbs February/early March once legislation has
passed. This includes a resurgence support
We at Shifting Focus wish you all the best
during these challenging times.
payment after seven days at Alert Level 2 or
Up above if a business has a 30 percent decline
in revenue. It is comprised of $1,500 per
Information included in this column is of
a general nature and is not a substitute
To the Thames- business plus $400 per full time employee
(FTE) up to 50 FTEs. There will also be
for tailored legal, accounting and other
professional advice.
Coromandel
District
Council wharf wardens
for doing an outstanding Christine Petrie, the author
of this column, is the owner
job at the Whitianga of Shifting Focus Business
Consulting. She can be
Wharf over the summer contacted on telephone
(021) 775 571 or email
holiday period. christine@shiftingfocus.co.nz.
Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021Local divers invited to join archaeological survey of HMS Buffalo Local dive enthusiasts are being offered an aims to survey and accurately map the exciting opportunity to play a part in recording exposed hull structure of the Buffalo on the the history of one of Mercury Bay’s most seafloor and to update existing archaeological renowned shipwrecks, HMS Buffalo. site records to be used for future management Lying beneath the surface just 50m off and public interpretation. Whitianga’s Buffalo Beach, experts believe The site will be recorded using both manual the vessel’s full story has yet to be told. and modern digital recording techniques The HMS Buffalo Re-examination Project to ensure detailed site observations and will complete a detailed survey to provide an measurements are combined to produce accurate interpretation of the wreck site and a scaled site plan and a 3D digital model. its current underwater environment while at Samples of exposed hull materials will the same time increase awareness of maritime be examined for new information on the archaeology both locally and nationally through vessel’s construction. The results are expected engagement with the Mercury Bay Museum, to be available in time for New Zealand schools, and local and national agencies. Archaeology Week which begins on 24 April. “We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers Public information sessions will be held who have existing diving experience and would in Whitianga to share the findings with the like to learn new underwater archaeology local community. skills,” says maritime archaeologist, Kurt The project is being funded by the Bennet, who’s leading the project with fellow Australasian Institute for Maritime archaeologist, Matt Gainsford and Mercury Archaeology as well as local sponsors, Bay Museum manager, Rebecca Cox. “No prior The grounding of HMS Buffalo as depicted in the Mercury Bay Museum. The Informer, DiveZone Whitianga, Coghill archaeology experience is necessary. However, Café, the Glass Bottom Boat and Whitianga existing skill sets in underwater photography, memorial on Buffalo Beach Road while the The Buffalo (ex Hindostan) was built in Ferry, with others being encouraged to get on underwater survey methods and underwater study is underway for people to come and India in 1813. Soon after its completion, board if they can. detailed drawing will be highly welcome. ask questions. the Royal British Navy purchased the “This fieldwork is just the first stage,” “This project is designed to engage with the The volunteer fieldwork exercise is Hindostan renaming it HMS Buffalo and says Rebecca. “We still have a bit to raise to diving community to create a fun and exciting scheduled for 26 to 28 February. The repurposed it several times as a transport, ensure the project is fully completed, so we’d fieldwork exercise to showcase a significant afternoon of 26 February will involve training timber carrier, quarantine storeship and an love to hear from anyone who would like to piece of New Zealand’s maritime heritage.” and a welcome barbecue with divers getting in immigrant ship travelling between England, offer support.” Prior to the two-day fieldwork study, the water in teams of two over the following Australia, Canada and New Zealand. In 1840, The team can be contacted at students from local schools will be invited two days. Lunch and snacks will be provided the Buffalo was caught in a storm and became hmsbuffaloproject@gmail.com. Divers to attend information sessions to learn more on both 27 and 28 February. Participants will a complete loss. The shipwreck is a protected wishing to express an interest in about the history of HMS Buffalo and what need to supply their own scuba equipment and archaeological site under the Heritage New participating can register at https://forms. the project will involve. An information must have appropriate certification. Tanks and Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014. gle/EwaVsbDhjanagNrR9. The closing date tent will also be set up at the HMS Buffalo air refills are supplied. The underwater component of the project is 9 February. Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13
Peninsula Past - 1886 Every now and again, Informer contributor, most central and suitable. The building was Meghan Hawkes, reads through the completed, but then urgent instructions were newspapers that circulated in Mercury Bay received from the Minister of Public Works and on the Coromandel Peninsula in earlier to take down the building and remove it to years. Here are several interesting snippets of an allotment in front of the police constable’s history she uncovered from 1886. house. This was a considerable distance south A local butcher and a buxom damsel caught and to which - except at low water - there the eye of the anonymous correspondent was no access except by private road, which for the “Whiti Wit” column in the Observer the owner could open and close any time he newspaper. They were “having a quiet chose. A meeting was held at the Whitianga tete-a-tete in front of the shop.” Others Hotel and a decision made that the present were also caught on the local gossip radar. site of the new post office building was most “How fascinating the widow looked in the central and convenient for the general public scarlet jersey at the Upper House dance and its removal would be a waste of public last week. Who were the young couple that money, as the building would be seriously were fondly embracing each other at the injured, in addition to the cost of removal. children’s picnic? What took the four girls A very successful gold find was made in from Whitianga to the Mill the other night? the country lying at the back of Whangamata. Take care they don’t put the lights out next The prospecting party had taken ample tents time you go.” and provisions and set up camp. Three men A destructive early morning fire at Mercury went out prospecting and two stayed behind Bay burned the house of Patrick Hoey to the in charge of the tent. The prospecting party ground. From the time of discovering the did not return for two nights as they had got blaze, he barely had time to get his children thoroughly bushed and didn’t know their way and some of their clothes out of the building. out. On the third day, they miraculously found He attempted to go back in and rescue his themselves within sight of the Waihi Hotel, watch, but it was too late. Mrs Hoey’s sewing a most gratifying vision as their thoughts had machine was also destroyed with nearly all often turned to the three bottles of whisky left their furniture. back at the camp. The men said they did not For a long time, the people of Mercury Bay enjoy the rain much nor the abundant supply had been agitating for a Post and Telegraph of mosquitoes. office and eventually the government sent On Saturday last, the ranges at Mercury down an official to report. After careful Bay were covered with snow, a thing which investigation, he selected a site as being the has not been seen for many years. A glimpse of Mercury Bay (Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections AWNS-19060830-2-3). Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021
Issue 935
699 - 227February
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15WRC targets abandoned pet turtles in Cooks Beach ponds Turtles residing in ponds at Cooks Beach will soon have their own basking platform designed to trap them. Waikato Regional Council is asking visitors and residents to please stay clear of the floating trap which is made from downpipes around a basket and which will be installed after Waitangi Day. “It’s not rubbish,” says biosecurity officer Andrew McConnell. “We’re asking people not to go near the trap, the more undisturbed it is, the more likely we’ll catch turtles. The turtles need to become accustomed to it.” WRC has had reports from locals for a number of years about red-eared slider turtles basking on pontoons in the ponds. Mr McConnell says red-eared sliders are among the top 100 worst invasive species in the world. “Like a lot of pests, they are highly adaptable and can tolerate [an aquatic environment with a wide variety of conditions]. As omnivores they can impact a wide variety of aquatic plants, insects, eels and small fish species. Essentially, they’re another competitor in an already stressed environment.” Pet turtles were allowed for sale in New Zealand because it was thought the climate was too cold for their eggs to successfully incubate and hatch. However, turtle eggs and hatchlings have been sighted at Cook’s Beach. “Pet sales of red eared sliders took off a number of years ago when they featured in a Spark ad,” says Mr McConnell. “But a cute baby turtle can grow up to the size of a dinner plate, requires great effort to look after in a tank and can live 20 to 30 years. “As a result, their cuteness and easy-care factor ends pretty quickly. When people don’t want them anymore and they don’t know what to do with them, they let them go into the wild, which is actually illegal. Places where you see or have heard red eared sliders reside tend to be attractive dumping spots, hence the growing problem at Cooks Beach.” The floating platform has ramps so the turtles can get up on it. Catching a turtle will then depend on which way it slides back into the water. Concerned residents will be helping WRC to check the trap on a regularly basis. “With a little luck and the help of locals, we should be able to catch these turtles and nip the problem in the bud,” says Mr McConnell. “I have been in touch with turtle rescues in New Zealand and they are willing to take and rehome any turtles caught.” WRC asks people to please report any other red eared slider turtle sightings to Andrew McConnell on phone 0800 800 401. A small red-eared slider turtle. Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021
Issue 935
699 - 227February
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17Catherine’s Column
By Catherine Delahunty - Coromandel Peninsula resident and former Green Party MP
Goodbye to the best and welcome new life
I was imagining a different January, lying in continues. He was praised and admired for the her tenacious commitment to the protection She also challenged us to recognise our Te
the sun feeling relaxed and eating homegrown care of his adult children with severe health of the whenua and of Tikapa Moana Tiriti o Waitangi obligations and to respect
tomatoes in the salad. I have had some of issues. Cliff gave his children more than (the Hauraki Gulf). the essential life force of gold as part of the
that, but also some intense and unexpected care, he gave them adventures and memories Betty was one of those fierce, smart and earth not to be dragged up to sit in banks and
moments, in other words, life going on. and he modelled solidarity. We sang that at uncompromising advocates who saw the as jewellery.
Despite our projections and fantasies, really the funeral. crumbling of the ecological systems as a Betty was one of the most powerful mentors
we have so little power over life and less On 9 January, Hauraki lost another direct result of human greed and the economic I have ever had and I struggle with her loss
over death. inspirational leader, kuia Betty Williams of system dedicated to its continuance. even though she was 87 years old. She really
Before Christmas last year, a friend and Ngāti Pukenga/Ngāti Maru from Manaia. She supported our work in Coromandel cannot be replaced, although I know her
fellow campaigner from Ruamahanga We had been friends for almost 40 years Watchdog of Hauraki because she believed in kaupapa will live on through her descendants.
Bay died and we were thrown into all the and I will never forget her teachings and taking radical action for the long term good. I drive now past the urupa at Manaia and I
memories of his struggles as a family carer call out my thanks to her. She taught all
who dedicated his life to caring for his who would listen to her that important
adult children. whakatauki, “Whatungarongaro te tangata,
Cliff Robinson was a remarkable man
toitu te whenua” - people perish but the land
who knew he would not live forever and
remains. I accept that truth, but I wish that she
who prepared his family well for his loss,
was still here in person, upholding the values
but they will always miss him. Cliff was a
she taught us. Rest in peace.
fighter for family carers and I was the only MP
This month has also seen the birth of a
willing to champion that cause in Parliament.
He was one of a number of people who took new baby in our wider family and visits from
on the Ministry of Health in endless court our family members with children under
battles which the families won, but with no four years old. What a joy and hopeful lift
subsequent justice. they bring.
Eventually the National government of the Each small person seems so unique and so
time wrote a dirty law under urgency which present in the world. To watch young children
would pay the carers less than the minimum is to be reminded to live now, not with regrets
wage for fewer hours than they needed to but with curiosity and openness. They deserve
work and took away their rights to return to all we can give - as we honour both the lives
court. It was a shameful day in Parliament finished and the lives just starting. Both ends
when human rights were trampled into the of the arc have powerful reminders for us.
dirt. Some human rights have been restored To have space to reflect at all is a lucky thing
by the present government, but still the Catherine Delahunty is a Coromandel Peninsula resident and a former Green Party list MP. in the current global crises, I know we are
struggle that Cliff upheld to his final breath She contributes a monthly column to The Informer. lucky to be right here, right now.
Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021Issue 935
699 - 227February
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021
Issue 935
699 - 227February
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21What’s On In the next few weeks
Regular Activities - please contact the organisers of each group/activity to determine if meetings/gatherings phone Shelley on 866 0236 for more information.
have recommenced after the summer holidays Mercury Bay Creative Fibre
Op-Shops Meet the first and third Wednesday of every month from 10:00am - 2:00pm. in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street,
Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street Whitianga. Phone Wendy Russell on 866 3225 for more information.
(west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm. Whitianga Art Group
The Church Op-Shop - At St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Meet every Thursday and Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm at 23 School Road, Whitianga. Visitors are invited to join us for
Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm. a day of painting. Start-up materials supplied. Phone Jenny on (027) 210 0160 for more information.
St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday Cooks Beach Garden Circle
10:00am - 2:00pm. Meet the last Thursday of every month from 11:15am - 2:30pm. New members welcome. Phone Leila on 866 3264 or
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open seven days a week from Anne on 866 0268 for more information.
10:00am - 3:00pm. Mercury Bay Quilters
Justice of the Peace Meet the first and third Mondays, and second and fourth Saturdays of every month from 10:00am - 4:00pm at Whitianga
Available every Monday (except public holidays) from 10:00am - 12:00 noon at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. Social Services, Cook Drive. Members range in age from 14 to in their 90s. New members welcome to join and share their
Bookings not necessary. Phone 866 4476 for more information. quilting knowledge, and help make charity quilts for the neonatal unit at Auckland Hospital and the children admitted to
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club Starship Hospital. Phone Margaret on (07) 866 0411 for more information and the days the group meets.
Meets Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street from 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie Exercises for the Elderly and Those with Arthritis
etc. Afternoon tea, 55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. Every Tuesday from 10:00am - 11:00am at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Albert Street, Whitianga. $2 entry.
Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Phone Viv on (028) 403 6741 for more information.
Meet the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Mercury Bay Community Choir
Phone Joan on 866 3801 or (027) 275 1372 for more information. This “all-comers” choir rehearses every Monday from 6:00pm - 8:00pm in the Mercury Bay Area school Music Room.
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated New rehearsals start on 8 February. New singers always welcome. Phone (22) 643 7462 for more information.
Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their Alcoholics Anonymous
computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6:30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone
(027) 486 0150 for more information or to join. 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.
Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga
Whitianga Tramping Group
Meet every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in Room 10 at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive , Whitianga.
Meets every second Sunday at 8:30am. Phone Wally on (021) 907 782 or Lesley on (021) 157 9979 for more information.
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. AA Driver Licensing
Serenity Al-Anon Group The second Friday of every month at St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga.
Meet every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by someone Mercury Bay Table Tennis
else’s drinking. Meets every Tuesday from 9:30am - 11:30am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Phone Anne on
Dog Walking Group 869 5162 for more information.
Meet every Thursday at 2:00pm at Lovers Rock, Robinson Road, Whitianga. An opportunity to socialise your dog. Mercury Bay Badminton
Phone Jenny on (021) 186 5797 for more information. Meets every Wednesday from 9:30am - 11:00am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome.
Whitianga Playcentre Phone (07) 866 5476 for more information.
Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon and every Friday from 12:00 noon - 2:45pm at 1D White Street, Mercury Bay Pickleball Club
Whitianga. For children 0 - 6 years, free entry. Visitors welcome. Meets Every Tuesday from 4:00pm - 6:00pm and every Sunday from 3:00pm - 5:00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School
Matarangi Craft Group gym, South Highway, Whitianga, $5 per session. Paddles and balls supplied. Tuition available.
Meet fortnightly at the Matarangi Fire Station. Phone Lesley on 866 0788 for more information. Mercury Bay Tennis Club
Cooks Beachcare Group Club night every Thursday at 6:30pm at Lyon Park, Albert Street, Whitianga.
Make new friends, learn about conservation and make a difference. We meet Thursdays for hands-on weeding and Tour de Friends Biking
planting, 9:00am - 11:00am. Register on our website, www.cooksbeachcare.org.nz or phone Adele on (021) 201 6625. A 23km ride social ride around the flat areas of Whitianga. Meets every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 9:00am
Scrapbags Quilting Group opposite Taylor’s Mistake, Whitianga. Followed by coffee. Phone Lance Cook on (021) 048 8475 or John Gregory on
Meet every Wednesday from 9:00am - 3:00pm at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Albert Street, Whitianga. All welcome. (027) 278 0002 for more information.
Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021What’s On In the next few weeks
Mercury Bay Community Swimming Pool (Located at the Mercury Bay Area School grounds)
Opening Hours - Summer School Holidays
From 10:00am - 5:00pm Monday to Saturday (weather permitting).
From 1:00pm - 5:00pm every Sunday (weather permitting).
From 6:00am - 8:00am for early morning lane swimming every Monday, Wednesday and Friday
(weather permitting).
Opening Hours - First School Term
From 10:00am - 5:00pm every Saturday (weather permitting).
From 1:00pm - 5:00pm every Sunday (weather permitting).
From 6:00am - 8:00am for early morning lane swimming every Monday, Wednesday and Friday
(weather permitting).
Entry $4 adults, $3 senior citizens/students/children, $2 pre-schoolers. Concession cards available.
Coromandel Art Group Annual Exhibition
Until Sunday, 14 February at Hauraki House Gallery, Kapanga Road, Coromandel Town. Open from
10:00am - 4:00pm every day. Free entry.
Buffalo Beach Carnival
Friday, 5 February - Monday, 8 February at Buffalo Beach Reserve, Buffalo Beach Road, Whitianga. Opening
hours - 5 February 6:00pm - 9:30pm, 6 February 11:00am - 4:00pm and 6:00pm - 9:30pm, 7 February
11:00am - 4:00pm and 6:00pm - 9:30pm, 8 February 11:00am - 4:00pm. Rides line-up (subject to
change) - Pirate Ship, Rockin’ Tug, Haunted Ship, Sizzler, Ocean Park Bouncy Castle, Tea Cups and Top Gear.
Free entry, only pay for your rides.
Whitianga Art, Craft & Farmer’s Market
Saturday, 6 February from 8:30am - 1:00pm at Soldiers Memorial Park, Albert Street, Whitianga.
Coroglen Farmers Market
Sunday, 7 February from 9:30am to 1:00pm at the Coroglen Hall, State Highway 25.
Whiti Fest Summer Busking Festival
Sunday, 7 February from 10:30am - 3:30pm at five locations around the Whitianga CBD (Whakau Reserve/
Taylor’s Mistake, Mercury Bay Museum, Northern Reclamation, corner of Hannan Road and Albert Street and
Soldier’s Memorial Park). A Creative Mercury Bay initiative. See creativemercurybay.co.nz and the Creative
Mercury Bay Facebook page for the programme.
Grey Power Mercury Bay Coffee/Tea Morning
Thursday, 11 February at 10:30am in the Supper Room of the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome.
Phone Merle on (07) 867 1737 for more information.
Whitianga Marathon
Saturday, 22 May. Four course options - 42.2km, 21.1km, 10km and 5km. Entries now open. See
whitiangamarathon.co.nz for more information.
Thumbs
Up
To the Good
Samaritan
who saved
the picnic tables at the
Robinson Road boat
ramp in Whitianga
when they caught fire a
few weeks ago.
Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23Shoreline Management Plans Open Days
to let people know “things are happening”
By Stephan Bosman
Last week saw several Shoreline Management a balanced representation of the various
Plans Open Days being held around the Mercury viewpoints on the local coastal environment.
Bay area. The Whangapoua - Mercury Bay panel is
In 2018, Thames-Coromandel District made up of Mercury Bay residents and property
Council committed to the preparation owners Carrie Parker, Chris Devenoges, Dave
of Shoreline Management Plans for the Lamason, Graeme Osborne, Howard Saunders,
Coromandel Peninsula. The purpose of the Jill Pierce, Kim Lawry, Jamie Hutt and Jamie
plans is to provide a sustainable framework Ryan, as well as Mercury Bay Community
for coastal hazard risk management, including Board members Bill Mclean and Jeremy Lomas.
the addressing of more immediate issues and Stage one of the development of the Shoreline
considering how the Peninsula may have to Management Plans has been completed and
adapt in the longer term. the purpose of the Open Days was to provide
Dutch company, Royal HaskoningDHV, feedback on the progress to date and to engage
was appointed to develop the plans. the public by finding out “what matters most” to
According to TCDC, the plans are being them. “We would like people to know that things
developed in five stages. First there needs are happening,” Bill McLean told The Informer
to be an assessment of “what is happening.”
at the Open Day in Whitianga on Tuesday
That includes hazard and sea level rise
last week.
assessments. Then “what matters most”
Part of the Open Days was a display of
needs to be determined, including areas of
vulnerability and risk. That will be followed large maps prepared by Royal HaskoningDHV
by asking, “What can we do about it?” Options indicating how various sea level rise scenarios
and pathways will be developed in this stage would impact the Coromandel coastline,
and the options evaluated. The fourth stage including the seaside towns and villages of the
is implementation of the strategy and the last Peninsula. Those attending the Open Days were
stage is monitoring, reviewing and if necessary, given Post-It notes to write comments on and
adjusting the strategy. invited to place their comments at areas on the
At the centre of the development of the maps of concern to them.
Shoreline Management Plans is community It’s TCDC’s intention that each Shoreline
engagement. This is partially given effect to Management Plan will be specific to each
through the establishment of four coastal panels stretch of coastline, identify what’s at
covering the entire coastline of the Coromandel stake, work through viable solutions and
Peninsula. The panels are advisory boards set out a course towards implementation of
made up of Community Board members, local the solutions. Mercury Bay Community Board member, Bill McLean,
residents (including business and property The plans are intended to be completed during and Royal HaskoningDHV project manager, Sian John, at the Shoreline Management
owners) and iwi, and their purpose is to provide the course of next year. Plans Open Day in Whitianga on Tuesday last week.
Page 24 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 25
Car Talk By Jack Biddle
A question for Jack? Just email us or drop us a note.
New vehicle registrations down, but most order books are full
Confirmed 2020 figures from the Motor down 23 percent, the result is better than we
Industry Association (MIA) reveal a drop of anticipated back in April,” he says.
23 percent (35,081) in new passenger vehicle Toyota New Zealand was hit the hardest
registrations in comparison to 2019. The total in terms of the lucrative rental market
number of vehicles sold were 119,398. drying up due to the COVID-19 lockdown,
These numbers are actually better than but recovered exceptionally well, making
predicted earlier in the year when the country some big inroads into the pure retail sector.
was in the depths of the COVID-19 lockdown And by introducing a number of hybrid
period. The prediction then was the market models to their range, they were undoubtedly
could be headed for a downward slide of up the biggest contributor to the 2,789 spike in
to 35 percent by year’s end. hybrid registrations in comparison to 2019.
While a 23 percent drop is still significant, The year finished with the Ford Ranger
the industry overall is in far better shape than topping the sales charts once again with
the figures may suggest. History now tells 7,975 registrations, followed by the Toyota
Hilux (5,796) and the Toyota RAV4 (5,341).
us that while the enforced lockdown put the
No doubt Toyota New Zealand will be pinning
handbrake on overseas travel, Kiwis decided
their hopes on the recently released all-new
to spend up large on big ticket items which
Hilux giving the Ford Ranger a closer run for
included a vehicle upgrade. The list is pretty
its money during 2021, especially once stock
much endless on what the dollars were spent,
levels return to some normality.
but the new car industry certainly received a For the 2020 year, the top three marques
fair share of the money cake once consumers were Toyota with 17 percent market share
decided to open their wallets during the (20,762 units), followed by Ford with 10
second half of 2020. percent (12,334 units) and Mitsubishi with
The end result was orders for new passenger nine percent share (10,306 units).
vehicles outstripping supply in many cases, Once commercial vehicles are removed,
with many deliveries pushed over into 2021. however, the picture changes somewhat, with
So yes, the numbers are down, but if confirmed Kia replacing Ford in the top three passenger
orders instead of actual registrations were and SUV marques for 2020. Toyota still
included in the figures, then one would have holds onto top spot with 16 percent market
to say the new passenger vehicle industry is share (12,777 units), followed by Kia with
hardly in desperation mode. There are reports 10 percent (7,971 units) and Mitsubishi with A Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, one of many hybrids manufactured by Toyota.
of the leading new vehicle distributors having eight percent market share (6,457 units). Mazda CX-5 2,567 Toyota Hilux 5,796
several thousand customers waiting delivery The Holden Colorado gave General Toyota Corolla 2,567 Mitsubishi Triton 3,687
of their new vehicles in the coming months. Motors something to celebrate as the Holden Suzuki Swift 2,562 Holden Colorado 2,487
It seems now the new challenge is not finding brand signed off from the new vehicle sales Mitsubishi ASX 2,477 Nissan Navara 2,362
customers, it’s landing new stock into the charts permanently, managing to nail a solid Mitsubishi Outlander 2,424 Toyota Hiace 1,868
country as quickly as possible. fourth place for the year in the commercial Nissan Qashqai 1,742 Mazda BT-50 1,812
Motor Industry Association of New market segment. Hyundai Tucson 1,659 Isuzu D-Max 1,166
Zealand chief executive, David Crawford, The top 12 new car and SUV models Nissan X-Trial 1,546 Ford Transit 1,137
says the market is still being affected by for 2020 Hyundai Kona 1,429 Fiat Ducato 773
stock constraints for high volume models, Toyota RAV4 5,341 The Top 10 commercial models In addition, for the 2020 year there were
but they are expected to ease as the 2021 year Kia Sportage 2,907 for 2020 1,519 pure electric vehicles, 756 PHEVs and
progresses. “Although the 2020 market was Kia Seltos 2,611 Ford Ranger 7,975 8,664 Hybrids registered.
Page 26 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 27
The Small-time Investor
By Whitianga resident, Max Ross
Zoom
The share markets have done well the last managed to scale its technology during the
week. Historically, different months have pandemic. Its user base grew massively and
different patterns. January tends to do quite the technical infrastructure and code base
well, but February is often a poor performing managed to keep up with demand. Technically
month. It will be interesting to see what it’s easy to build software that a few thousand
happens this year. people can use, however, scaling that up to
My investments are currently up 19.6 millions of people is challenging and the team
percent which is NZD555.71. Five of my picks at Zoom managed the demand without any
are down and 15 are up. My best performer is outages or issues.
Tesla, up 79 percent, and my worst performer The next opportunity for the company is
is Pushpay, down 20.6 percent. to make video conferencing work better with
Six of my picks are up more than 15 percent some people together in a room for a meeting
and two are down almost 20 percent. and some remote. With many people returning
This week I am going to invest my NZD100 to work and some of the workforce choosing to
or USD72 into Zoom. work from home, getting these two groups of
Zoom is a company that has benefited really people to be able to seamlessly communicate
well from the lifestyle changes forced upon us will allow for a corporate pricing option and
by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its share price perhaps even a move into new hardware.
has zoomed to new heights in 2020. It has Zoom has fallen from its great run during
become a household word and has even been a the pandemic. I believe that the company can
part of naming a new generation. Zoomers are continue to profit from the changes happening
people born between 1995 and 2015. to work and society. It’s not just a pandemic
During the later part of 2020, the company’s company, it will remain relevant and grow
share price has pulled back significantly on into the future. That’s why I’m buying into the
vaccine news. The share price peaked at close company this week.
to USD570 in October. Currently it’s trading Please remember that what I write in this
at USD383. column is all my personal opinion. Some of my
While the pandemic obviously means Zoom investments will lose money. I am sharing my
has more customers, I believe that some thoughts and strategies so you can learn from
things will have permanently changed. I don’t my mistakes. Be careful with your money!
think people will travel for work as much in If you wish to join in and buy shares
the future and many people will choose to through online platform, Sharesies, you can
continue to work from home long after the use this link, https://sharesies.nz/r/KHQQWP,
pandemic is old news. and you and I will each get $5 into our
I was really impressed with the way Zoom Sharesies accounts.
Page 28 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 935 - 2 February 2021Have a look at the rescue helicopter missions flown in 2020 The Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust (ARHT) released a map (pictured on the right) last week indicating that they flew 217 missions on the Coromandel Peninsula and Hauraki Plains last year. At 54, Whitianga accounted for a quarter of all the missions. An additional 27 missions were flown in Mercury Bay. An ARHT helicopter was based in Whitianga last month and flew in excess of 25 missions. A petition to have a rescue helicopter based in Whitianga during all holiday periods and long weekends is currently in front of the Health Select Committee of Parliament. ARHT staff and volunteers were at the Whitianga Summer Concert last Sunday where they sold merchandise and shook buckets for donations from the crowd. Event manager, Katie Tomlinson, said the ARHT is hoping for a bigger presence on the Coromandel this year and people should look out for the events they plan to host. In the photo are Kyle Rymer and Simi Khiani, two of the ARHT volunteers at the Summer Concert on Sunday. Issue 935 - 2 February 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 29
You can also read
