Star-studded line-up of chefs at this year's Scallop Festival - The Mercury Bay Informer
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Issue 830 - 30 January 2019 Phone 07 866 2090 (07) 867 15
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Star-studded line-up of chefs at
this year’s Scallop Festival
By Meg Tatton-Brown
The celebrity chefs who will appear on the live cooking stage at this year’s Whitianga Scallop Festival. From the left - sisters Karena and Kasey Bird,
Ray McVinnie, Gareth Stewart and Aaron Gascoigne.
Five well-known celebrity chefs are set to local dishes and delicacies. crowned as the winners. from Aaron’s appearance at the festival in
show the crowds what they’ve got at this Drawing from their overseas experience, Executive chef Gareth Stewart is a 2017. Festivalgoers will get the chance to
year’s Whitianga Scallop Festival on Saturday the sisters released a second cookbook, culinary legend, leading the charge of witness Gareth the culinary genius in action,
21 September. “Hungry,” in 2016, where they experimented the Nourish Group (the owner of several as Aaron joins him as as an “apprentice” on
Sisters Karena and Kasey Bird, with new flavours and techniques. well-known restaurants in Auckland, the stage.
Ray McVinnie, and Gareth Stewart and Aaron Ray McVinnie is a world-renowned culinary Wellington and Queenstown - including Despite Crumblegate, Aaron and Josh made
Gascoigne will all put their talents on display master. He has been a food writer and advisor Euro, The Culpeper, Shed 5 and Soul). it to the semi-finals of MKR 2014, finishing
as they whip up some delicious creations on at Cuisine magazine, a judge on MasterChef He appears regularly at the annual Taste third overall.
the live cooking stage. New Zealand and a food columnist for the of Auckland festival and was a judge on “The Corporate Dads” now own a catering
The sister duo, the winners of MasterChef Sunday Star Times and Sunday magazine, My Kitchen Rules New Zealand in 2014 company by the name of Two Fat Cats
New Zealand 2014, appeared at the Scallop and has worked with Bite magazine. and 2015. and also conduct product launches and
Festival in 2015. Also in 2015, they released He has won numerous awards, cooked as a Aaron Gascoigne entered MKR New demonstrations, and other public speaking
their first cookbook, “For the Love of…,” professional chef in some of Auckland’s best Zealand in 2014 with friend Josh King engagements.
which was included in the New Zealand restaurants and published several cookbooks. under the team name “The Corporate Dads.” The Whitianga Scallop Festival took a
Bestseller’s list and was the winner of the Best Ray has travelled extensively in Asia and In one of the episodes they received the gap year last year. This year will feature,
TV Cookbook of the Year at the Gourmand Europe, researching food and working as lowest dessert score from the judges for their in addition to the star-studded line-up
World Cookbook Awards in May 2016. a chef. He is also a former lecturer at the “Nannas Pear Crumble,” a moment Aaron of chefs, a new festival village layout,
Karena and Kasey have since starred in Auckland University of Technology and is refers to as “Crumblegate.” top-class live entertainment and a wide
their own TV series, “Karena and Kasey’s an experienced food stylist and consultant. Gareth and Aaron have since become variety of delectable dishes. To register for
Kitchen Diplomacy,” where they toured He was part of the MasterChef judging good friends and are excited to be involved early bird ticket access, visit the Scallop
countries all around the world, learning about panel in 2014 when Karena and Kasey were in this year’s Scallop Festival, following on Festival website at www.scallopfestival.nz.
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Whitianga Summer Concert a brilliant day
By Suzanne Hansen
I never thought I would rejoice seeing the sky for some Zen interaction in the mosh pit, jam session with Mark and James performing his songwriting started when he was an angst-
turning grey in Whitianga, but it looked like intoning on how men should act as peaceful quite a lot of covers of other artists, ridden teenager and how music had led him
it might cloud up for last Sunday’s Whitianga warriors. Some concertgoers next to us raved which was surprising but entertaining none through all of the difficult times in his life.
Summer Concert and we were looking about her peaceful vibe and depth of voice. the less. The band covered many of Supertramp’s
forward to some much welcome relief from She was very enjoyable. When the last headliner, Roger Hodgson classics across a great performance and
the summer heat. Alas it was not to be and Mark Seymour from Hunters and Collectors from Supertramp, came on stage with his very midway through we were all treated to a very
the sun beat down on the jubilant crowd for opened with an acoustic version of “We Shall professional band, the audience burst into a romantic and successful on-stage marriage
pretty much the entire concert. Never Meet Again,” which was a beautiful massive singalong and we moved into the proposal of long-term partners, Matt and
Tony Childs didn’t let that deter her as she song. He continued on with more acoustic mosh pit. The sound in front was deafening Amy. We were all glad that she said yes!
breezed onto the stage and opened with her songs, which were lovely but less known, with the audience assisting the band in all Roger’s last song was “It’s Raining Again.”
chilled, “Where’s the Ocean?” Her radiance at least by us. James Reyne from Australian their Supertramp favourites. Amazingly, when his band opened the song it
seemed to blow away any cloud cover there Crawl then took to the stage for a few solo Roger’s band was fantastic, even though actually started to sprinkle.
may have been and she lived up to her numbers before he was joined by Mark for there were only three of them. The saxophone The day was a brilliant one. My husband
promise of lovely relaxing music. She made a some more acoustics. My favourite Aussie player was particularly good. Just before and I have attended all of the Whitianga
good opening headliner for the concert. Crawl song, “Reckless,” started to liven up Roger took the keyboard and knocked out Summer Concerts over the years and we look
Toni even hopped down into the audience the audience and the stage became a bit of a “Crime of the Century,” he talked about how forward to next year being another stellar one.
Mark Seymour on stage at last Sunday’s The crowd enjoying Roger Hodgson’s performance at last
Whitianga Summer Concert. Sunday’s Whitianga Summer Concert.
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Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019
A baaaa-eautiful art
exhibition in Kuaotunu
A short review of last weekend’s 10 Artists exhibition in the Kuaotunu Hall by Phillip Fickling,
“paper engineer,” art critic and member of the 10 Artists Collective
Roimata Taimana, one of the artists participating in the 10 Artists exhibition, easily chats with visitors in
the Kuaotunu Hall wearing a T shirt with “WOOOOOW” emblazoned across the front. Take out a few “Os”
and you get WOW, which sums up this year’s diverse exhibition.
I hid behind an installation of woven panels by weaver Lizzy Leckie to catch a few of the comments
by visitors, which ranged from, “I didn’t realise there were so many talented people in Kuaotunu!” to
“Mum! Can I have one of those funny sheep?”
Work on view includes Lutz Gaebler’s collages. Their deceptively simple shapes invite closer inspection
into other worlds. Lucy Kuchlein’s floral paintings are all about soft colour, texture and composition.
Claire Elliot’s dramatic seascapes shimmer with light and energy. Colin Verner’s beautifully crafted
wood sculptures seem to radiate electric force. The intricate drawings of WOOOOOW man, Taimana,
are alive with spiritual energy and Whenua Wairua. Felicity Witters’s photographic prints and latest book
showcases our diverse local community. Lovingly crafted jewellery in silver and gold with gemstones
rounded out this year’s exhibition.
By the end of the exhibition, more than 1,000 visitors passed through the Kuaotunu Hall, very encouraging.
A final word - baaaa-eautiful.
Pictured are some of the members of the 10 Artists Collective. From the left - Claire Elliot, Roimata
Taimana, Lutz Gaebler, Colin Verner, Jenny Fickling, Chris Charteris, Felicity Witters (in front of Chris),
Phillip Fickling, Lucy Kuchlein, Hannah Clayton and Lizzy Leckie.
702 - 30
Issue 830 17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
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Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019
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Issue 830 17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019
Cooks Beach local to participate in
replica HM Bark Endeavour voyage
By Stephan Bosman
Well-known Cooks Beach local, Miriam started her sailing career while a
Miriam Dawson, has been selected to sail student at Whenuakite School. She was initially
as part of the crew aboard the replica of HM coached by Roger Harwood and later on by
Bark Endeavour from Sydney to Auckland Russell Chaney when she sailed at the Mercury
in September this year. Bay Boating Club. Both Roger and Russell are
The Endeavour was the ship on which the still involved in youth sailing in Mercury Bay.
explorer James Cook first arrived in New It was also at Whenuakite School where
Zealand in 1769. The replica Endeavour Miriam’s fascination with the history of Cooks
will play a significant role in the Tuia 250 Beach started to develop. “Once a year we all
commemorations that will be held around would dress up in theme and former Whenuakite
New Zealand to mark the 250th anniversary of School principal, Jamie Marsden, would take all
Cook’s first visit to the country. It’s expected of us around the Cooks Beach area, including
that the replica Endeavour will visit Mercury Shakespeare Cliff and the Purangi Reserve,
Bay in October this year. and tell us all these amazing stories of Captain
“I’ll be part of a ‘trainee crew’ of 15,” Cook’s visit to Mercury Bay,” says Miriam.
says Miriam. “The replica Endeavour will also Miriam’s partner, Fletcher Handscomb,
have 27 professional sailors on board and 10 is fully supportive of Miriam’s voyage on
people who can be classed as ‘passengers.’ the replica Endeavour. “There’s a significant
It obviously costs less to participate in the amount of time and money involved, so we’ve
voyage as a crew member than as a passenger had a lot of discussions,” says Miriam. “It’s a
and a keen sense of adventure is required. once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and we both feel
“Make no mistake, I’ll be expected to work that it’s pretty special that someone from Cooks
on board the ship, including climbing up a 43m Beach gets to be part of the experience. I also
mast. I have to make sure I keep my fitness have a lot of support from the local community
levels up in the lead-up to the voyage.” and look forward to share the experience with
Miriam, who held a national sailing title all of them on my return,”
while in high school, had to undergo a stringent The replica Endeavour is permanently based
selection process before she was chosen for the at the Australian National Maritime Museum in
voyage. “The fact that I have sailing experience Sydney. The voyage Miriam will participate in
and a genuine interest in the history of the will depart Sydney on Thursday 12 September
Cooks Beach area certainly counted in my and will arrive in Auckland on Tuesday Cooks Beach local, Miriam Dawson, will participate in the voyage of the replica
favour,” says Miriam. 1 October. HM Bark Endeavour from Sydney to Auckland in September this year.
Issue 830
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17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Hospitality businesses the big winners
over summer holiday season
By Stephan Bosman
Whitianga businesses in the hospitality
industry were the big winners over the recent
Christmas/New Year’s summer holiday season,
while the turnover of retail business was in
general similar to or slightly ahead of last year.
Business owners are in agreement that the run of
good weather played a major role in the trading
conditions they’ve experienced.
Many business owners also agree that
Whitianga has changed over the past few years,
becoming more of a family holiday destination.
Hamish Magee, the owner of Whitianga
Hardware, says summer “was good as usual.”
“We were open seven days a week - only
closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day -
during the peak period, which was a very good
decision,” he says. “Our building has had a
facelift, which has made it more appealing for
customers to come in and have a look around.”
Eden Clinic owner, Libby George, says they
noticed that people are living healthier lives
and, as a result, their holiday period clients were
“more organised.” “Our clients knew what they
wanted, they were less frantic and demanding,”
she says. “In essence we could work less without
noticing a drop in turnover.”
For Hamish and Sharon Magee, the owners of Whitianga Hardware, the recent Christmas/New Year’s summer holiday season “was good as
Su Marceau, the owner of Mainly Casual and
usual.” They’ve not long ago started to stock a premium BBQ brand, which they hope will boost their sales during the slower winter period.
The Style Makers in Albert Street, says both
her shops were very busy. “The good weather around and we’ve done well, very similar to last to shy away from “relaxing retail therapy.” Whitianga owner, have had a good holiday
caused people to feel better and stay longer,” year,” she says. “The Whitianga town centre “The weather has been fantastic for the beach, season. “Summer trade was strong,” says Mark.
she says. upgrade is working well, there certainly was water sports and fishing, rather than shopping,” “The major part of our lift in turnover occurred
Su’s sentiments are echoed by Shirley less congestion on the sidewalks.” she says. between Christmas and New Year, especially
Wilson, the owner of Fagan’s Furniture Beds Tango’s Shoes owner, Melanie Dowling, Both Mark Milmine, the owner of 100% Boxing Day, which was absolutely manic.”
& Homewares. “There were a lot of people says the good weather caused some visitors Appliances and Ian Hogg, the Bedpost Ian says they’ve had a busy end to 2018,
Squids Seafood
Restaurant
The place for the freshest fish and seafood
from around the region as well as an
awesome selection of local wine and beer.
Open every day for lunch 11:30am - 2pm
and dinner from 5:30pm
www.squids.co.nz Fb Squids Seafood Restaurant
Blacksmith Lane 07 8671710
Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019
Big holiday season
winners
after a very flat winter. “It was great seeing all working really well and we’ve had good staff
the families in town this year, filling the beaches assisting us. In general, we’re very happy.”
and enjoying the great weather we’ve been Emmanuel says they’ve done significantly better
having,” he says. “This is what Whitianga is to than last year. “There were a lot of families in
me. Sun, surf, families and happy times.” Whitianga and a lot of overseas visitors too,”
The owner of Unichem Stephensons he says. “People have also been happy to spend
Pharmacy, John Stephenson, says it was a good more than in previous years.”
peak holiday season. “Our figures are slightly The owner of Cathedral Cove Scenic
ahead of last year,” he says. “The weather was Cruises, Ken Hindmarsh, says they, as well as
an absolute bonus and I think the town centre all the other scenic boat tour operators, were
upgrade is a real positive.” flat-out. “There were lots of people around,
The owner of Pacific Coast Marine & Diesel, the weather was perfect and the conditions were
Chrissie Reilly, says the recreational boating beautiful,” he says. “For us, everything was
industry has also benefitted from the good absolutely ideal.”
peak holiday period weather. “Everyone Glen Parker, the owner of Mercury Twin
wanted to go fishing,” she says. “We were Cinemas, is very happy with their trading over
exceptionally busy.” the busy summer holiday period. “Every day
Kelvin Jones, the owner of Espy Café on The was busy and some days it was very busy,”
Esplanade, says they were significantly busier he says. “We’ve recently upgraded the seats in
than last year. “There were lots of families our cinemas and that attracted a lot of positive
around, and we’ve seen a major increase in our comments from our customers.”
sale of ice creams and milkshakes,” he says. Local transport operators have also
“It started getting really busy before Christmas. experienced a vey good summer holiday
I’ve spoken to a lot of our customers and they all period. Gary Fitzsimons, the owner of Go Kiwi
thought the new Whitianga town centre upgrade Shuttles, says for them the peak holiday period
came out very well, but they didn’t like the new was “a perfect storm, without a storm.”
road layout at the Campbell Street/Albert Street Phil Butler, the owner of Whiti City Cabs,
intersection.” says the high number of families spending time
Bex Driscoll, the owner of Stoked Restaurant, in Whitianga was noticeable. “Overall there
and Emmanuel Koutris, the owner of Enigma were a lot of people around,” he says. “It was
Restaurant, agree with Kelvin. “We were a lot a very good summer holiday season. I really
busier than last year,” says Bex. “The weather think consideration should be given to market
made people feel better. We’ve seen a lot of Whitianga along the lines of, ‘Come to Whiti,
families around. Our systems have also been the perfect place for a family holiday.’”
Issue 830
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17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
The hands-on activities of the
Thames-Coromandel District Libraries
By Meg Tatton-Brown
The Thames-Coromandel District Libraries, creations. Using measuring cups and spoons
including the Mercury Bay Library in was a new experience for many, as well as
Whitianga, run throughout the year a fantastic learning to combine wet and dry ingredients
range of fun, hands-on activities for children. to reach a desired consistency.
Shori Allan, the Thames children’s librarian, A big thank you from the library to all the
is in charge of coming up with activity ideas, mums and grandmas who stayed to assist the
with Christine Towgood of the Mercury Bay children and a special thanks to those who
Library and Jennifer Hutchinson of the Tairua helped to clean up after the session.
Library often contributing suggestions. Some of the other activities held over
This summer, a list was put together of ideas the last month include shell art creations,
that were simple and enjoyable and would kite making, the building of natural wind
suit the age differences of the children who chimes, giant bubble making and the
attended the activities. construction of origami flying discs.
Each library developed the ideas
Parents are welcome to join in the library
further and put their own spin on it. Some
activities with their children if they are
activities took only 20 minutes to complete,
under five years of age, otherwise children
so extra activities were planned to keep the
are encouraged to complete the activities
children occupied.
A lot of preparation goes into making as independently as possible, in order to
sure there are always enough resources gain newfound skills and a sense of self-
available to enable each child to successfully achievement.
enjoy and complete the various activities. It is always a bonus if there is a grandad
This usually means collecting a range of on hand who can grab a drill or hammer to
different supplies, such as leaves, shells, help out.
felt markers and craft materials. To find out about upcoming activities,
On Thursday last week, the Mercury you can check out the Thames-Coromandel
Bay Library held a “Make Your Own Bath District Libraries Facebook page or the
Bomb” session. The activity was a huge hit. Thames-Coromandel District Council
Twenty children and 13 adults enjoyed a very website (search for “Libraries” under
messy morning, measuring and preparing “Our Services”) or enquire in person at any Cale Field enjoyed getting his hands dirty during the “Make Your Own Bath Bomb”
ingredients for their very own colourful of the libraries. session at the Mercury Bay Library on Thursday last week.
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Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019“Amazing atmosphere” WHITIANGA PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC
at reggae festival Robert Lindsay Dip Phty(Otago) ADP(OMT), Dip.MT.
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Physiotherapists with the qualifications to provide
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Dr Adam’s and Hemmes’s Surgery - Ph (07) 868 9579
Arron Bartrum, operations manager of The Whitianga Hotel, says they’re very happy with the
reggae festival they hosted in the hotel’s garden bar on Saturday last week.
The doors opened at 11:00am and the bands - Ruff Copy, Tribal Connexionz and Herbs -
entertained the crowd until 6:00pm.
“The festival was well attended, there was an amazing atmosphere and the music was great,”
says Arron. “There’s just something about reggae music and the good vibe it puts people in.
The performance by Herbs was long-anticipated and they delivered as always with one great
song after another.
“The bands were all impressed with the venue and how the festival was run. We’re already
talking about another festival.”
Pictured is Arron (second from the left) with the members of Herbs.
Issue 830
702 - 30
17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11Sandra Goudie on freedom
camping
By Stephan Bosman
A discussion led by Thames-Coromandel District Council mayor, Sandra Goudie, about freedom camping on
the Coromandel was high on the agenda of the Mercury Bay South Residents and Ratepayers Association
(MBSRRA) AGM that was held at the Cooks Beach Hall on Saturday last week.
Mrs Goudie made it clear from the outset that she’s not happy with how the existing TCDC Freedom Camping
Bylaw is working. She said that prime Coromandel seaside locations are set aside for freedom campers
and that those locations are wholly inadequate for the number of freedom campers visiting the Peninsula.
“You give an inch and the freedom campers take a mile,” she said.
Mrs Goudie indicated that the current freedom camping locations will be reassessed and that consultation
with the public about alternative locations should start later this year. She’s in favour of remote “freedom
camping parks,” with basic facilities and where freedom campers will have to pay to overnight. “I’m not
in favour of ratepayers picking up the tab for freedom campers using our infrastructure free-of-charge,”
she said. She would like to see such remote parks being developed on suitable private and council-
owned land.
“The problem is that no one really knew what to expect when New Zealand started to make provision for
freedom campers and the entire country got overrun,” Mrs Goudie said. “Now that we all have a better idea
of what’s happening, we have to go back to the drawing board and come up with a solution that works
for everyone.”
It was suggested from the floor that enforcement of the TCDC Freedom Camping Bylaw was problematic.
Mrs Goudie responded that the availability of sufficient resources was an issue, but took on board that a
solution may be the appointment of temporary or honorary freedom camping wardens.
The issue of self-containment of motorhomes was also raised from the floor. It was said that the blue
“self-contained” sticker that most motorhomes are sporting these days isn’t worth the paper it was
printed on, but that the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA) is now issuing a “Certificate
of Self-Containment” with an expiry date. It was suggested that motorhomes with this certificate should
receive more favourable treatment than other motorhomes in the future. Mrs Goudie indicated that TCDC
will talk to the NZMCA with regard to any future amendments to the existing TCDC Freedom Camping
Bylaw or a new bylaw.
Some of those who attended the AGM couldn’t resist the opportunity to raise the issue of rubbish collection
with Mrs Goudie. It was clear that there was great unhappiness about the refusal by Smart Environmental
(the TCDC contractor responsible for rubbish and recycling collection on the Coromandel) to collect blue
rubbish bags in cages and hanging on poles.
Mrs Goudie said that TCDC is locked into their contract with Smart Environmental for the next two years,
but that all the problems with the current contract will be carefully considered when the tender for a new
contract is issued. That was followed by Graeme Lomas, chairman of the MBSRRA, requesting Mrs Goudie
to ensure that the residents of the Coromandel have a say in the appointment of a rubbish and recycling
collection contractor once the existing Smart Environmental contract has come to an end.
Mobility equipment available for locals and visitors.
Walking frames, crutches, walking sticks and wheelchairs.
Phone Roger on 07 867 1986 for more information
Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019Peninsula Past - 1892
Every now and again Informer contributor, Meghan Hawkes, reads through some of the
newspapers that circulated in Mercury Bay and on the Coromandel Peninsula in earlier
years. More often than not she comes across genuinely interesting pieces of history.
Here are a few examples from 1892.
Whangamata was a place unknown to the The block was divided into sections varying
outer world, except as a gum field, and a in size from 120 to 350 acres. Tall fern was
drearier place one could scarcely imagine. regarded as an indication of good land and
It was composed of two extremes - low, almost Mr Hovell came across some that was very
barren, sandy flats and high, thickly wooded tall, measuring 18 and 20 feet. There was an
hills, and had been dubbed “one of the back abundance of timber for building and fencing
bones of creation.” Landing some cargo - kauri logs lying in most of the little creeks.
from a steamer, the whistle was sounded to Peanut dealers in Mercury Bay were
alert the inhabitants of the steamer’s arrival. accused of overpricing and running a “jewel
A sad little shanty, masquerading as a packet,” all while thousands of logs in the
store, was the only sign of human habitation booms up the river rotted and were worm
for miles around. A plank was placed over eaten, a mill with thousands of pounds worth
the steamer’s side and the various articles of machinery lay idle and cottages of the old
of cargo slid down it onto the dry sand. Mercury Bay Timber Company had broken
In response to the steam whistle, a Maori windows and open doors - all of it giving
woman, who was acting as letter carrier, the idea of an Irish village after eviction.
riding a horse with a piece of flax for a bridle, When the government issued a proclamation
started off from the settlement at the head of the prohibiting the export of all oysters, the oyster
bay and by taking all kinds of shortcuts across gatherers of Mercury Bay obliviously sent
the interminable mud flats and swimming 42 bags for shipment to Sydney, not having
the channels, arrived to collect the mail. heard of the proclamation. They telegraphed
Mr HK Hovell was engaged in surveying to Wellington explaining the circumstances,
the Kaimaramara Block near Mercury Bay but the Commissioner of Customs stood firm.
into sections of various sizes, prior to the land One went to the Collector of Customs to
being thrown open for selection. This block ask if he could ship and was told decidedly
of land was formerly leased by the Kauri “no.” He was spoken to as if he was a
Timber Company and most of the kauri had criminal instead of an honest man trying
been cleared off it. The block was only six or to earn a living for himself and his family.
eight miles from the Mercury Bay Harbour The outraged oyster gathers called it the Waiting for the opening of the oyster season.
with which it was connected by a fair road. greatest piece of tyranny ever placed on them. Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries, AWNS-19000803-6-9.
Issue 830
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17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13Poker run money handed
to St John
The Peninsula Riderz Whitianga raised $1,200 for the St John Ambulance Station in Whitianga
during their Peninsula Poker Run which took place on Saturday 19 January.
More than 75 motorcycle and classis classic cars participated in the run which started and
finished in Whitianga and had poker hand stops around the Coromandel.
The money was handed to St John Whitianga on Thursday last week.
The annual Peninsula Riderz Poker Run raises funds for St John Whitianga one year and the
Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade the next year.
“We’re thankful for the donation from the Peninsula Riderz Whitianga,” says Roger Booth,
a St John Whitianga paramedic. “Their generosity is very much appreciated.”
Pictured are those who were present when the money was handed over to St John Whitianga on
Thursday. From left to right - Shane Butler of the Peninsula Riderz Whitianga, Roger Booth and
Sandra Holliday of St John Whitianga and Victor McLean, Zee Zee (John) Wootton, Steve Rush
and Carolyn Butler of the Peninsula Riderz Whitianga.
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019Issue 830
702 - 30
17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019
Issue 830
702 - 30
17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17Tairua’s rich history highlighted at
heritage day fete
Tairua’s rich history was highlighted at the Tairua Heritage Day Fete held last Saturday at the everyone with her performance.
town’s Cory Wright Domain. Other competitions included photography and art. Devonshire cream teas were popular and an
Gleaming classic cars, old-fashioned games and some heritage attire added to the happy impressive team of locals baked fresh hot scones to satisfy the hungry.
holiday atmosphere of the day, which raised funds for a heritage centre in Tairua.
Thames-Coromandel District Council mayor, Sandra Goudie, opened the event.
The town’s original Scruffs Dog Show returned for the event, with 15 dogs of all shapes
and sizes taking part and all going home with a prize. This entertaining competition was One of the organisers of the fete, Auriol Farquhar, said she was very happy with the day and
sponsored by CoroVets. wished to acknowledge the huge support received from sponsors and about 60 volunteers.
The heat may have accounted for the low number of entries in the heritage fancy dress “The average age of those helping was over 70, so they were heritage,” she joked. “We have
competition, which resulted in the two judges, who were in heritage dress, taking home also had amazing support from sponsors and all this added to the success of the day.”
chocolate treats that were part of the prizes! The Tairua Heritage Society was formed to support projects promoting Tairua’s history and to
Stalls selling a variety of goods lined the field. create opportunities for people, including school students, to learn about and understand the
A crowd watched the Tairua Volunteer Fire Brigade using jaws-of-life equipment and were also area’s past.
entertained by Middle Eastern dance performers. Pictured in the photo on the left is Auriol Farquhar during the heritage day fete. The photo on
People enjoyed local singers Glenda Aitkenhead and John Fox, accompanied by guitarist the right captured the moment Albie Marr (right) dropped a sausage while smiling for the photo.
John Hert. Singer Esther Colman, a Mercury Bay Area School student, has also delighted With him is his brother, Ron Marr.
Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019New trust to develop
global leaders
Well-known Whitianga local, Paul Blackman, and Whenuakite School parent, Alex Samson, are in the
process of creating an inspiring charitable trust they plan to call “Nurturing Young Minds.” They met on
Thursday last week with several prominent Mercury Bay residents who may be interested in embarking
on the journey with them. H O U S E WA S H I N G
The aim of the trust will be to provide children with the tools and opportunities to discover and develop
their true passions, in the hope that they will become global leaders who will make a positive difference Call Drew for a free quote
in the world.
The Expert with the time tested and guaranteed method of removing mould,
From 4 to 16 August this year, eight New Zealand students - four selected from schools nationwide and lichen, moss and stains. In fact any exterior surface that needs a clean, Drew can
four from Whenuakite School - will attend a summer programme at the Ad Astra school, located at the
SpaceX headquarters in California. SpaceX was founded by prominent entrepreneur, Elon Musk. deal to with a harmless but totally effective wash. And remember a pre-paint wash
The trust’s first order of business will be to provide support to the students who will be selected to travel
will extend the life of your paint job and make painting easier.
to California.
Buildings. Boats. Fences. Wood. Concrete. Metal.
The trust will also look into the possibility to host an event similar to the World Scholar Athlete Games that
were held in Rhode Island in 2006. Several students from Mercury Bay Area School attended the games. Call Drew Edwards - The Chemwash Man
The event may be hosted in Mercury Bay as early as September 2020.
The event will aim to attract students from around New Zealand and further afield. Students will be able to
Mobile: 0274 375 578 a/h 07 867 8493
interact with a variety of inspirational speakers and will have the opportunity to pursue their passions in
a range of art, sporting and other outdoor opportunities unique to the Mercury Bay area.
Pictured are Paul and Alex on Thursday last week.
Issue 830
702 - 30
17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19What’s On The next few weeks
REGULAR EVENTS
Op-Shops
Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street
(west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm.
The Church Op-Shop - at St Andrews by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to
Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pm.
St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday
10:00am - 2:00pm.
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop
Albert Street, Whitianga. Open every Monday - Saturday from 10:00am - 2:00pm.
Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss (the old WW)
Meet every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. A support group
for women striving to be the “best versions of themselves” they can be. “Weighing in” at meetings is optional, but all
are motivated towards being more active and encourage each other to eat well. Phone 869 5648 for more information.
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated
Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their
computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on
866 4215 for more information or to join.
Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club)
Meet the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga.
Phone 866 5027 for more information.
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club
Meets Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie etc. Afternoon tea,
55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information.
Matarangi Craft Group
Meet the second and fourth Tuesday of every month from 7:00pm - 9:00pm at the Matarangi Fire Station. Phone Lesley
on 866 0788 for more information.
Whenuakite Area Playgroup
Every Wednesday 9:30am - 12:30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Ages birth - six years. Visitors welcome. Tea and
coffee are provided.
Social Road Cycling
A 20km ride. Meets every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 9:00am opposite Taylor’s Mistake, Whitianga. Followed by
coffee. Phone Tony on (021) 023 38323 for more information.
Mountain Biking
Meets every Sunday at 8:00am at the Fire Station intersection, Whitianga. Phone Paul on 021 605 230 if you are
interested in riding.
Whitianga Playcentre
Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon at 1D White Street, Witianga. For children 0 - 6 years,
free entry. Visitors welcome.
Mercury Bay Quilters
Meet the first and third Monday and the second and fourth Saturday of the month from 10:00am - 4:00pm at Whitianga
Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. New members welcome. Phone Delys on (07) 866 0265 for more information.
Mercury Bay Community Choir
Meet every Monday from 6:00pm - 8:00pm in the Mercury Bay Area School music room, 20 South Highway, Whitianga.
To find out more, phone Kate on (027) 270 9058.
Whiti Gospel Choir
Perform at 10:00m on the first Sunday of every month at Crossroads Church, Whitianga.
Whitianga Tramping Group
Meet every second Sunday at 8:30am. Phone Wally on (021) 907 782 or Lesley on (021) 157 9979 for more information.
Mercury Bay Woolcraft Group
Meets every first and third Wednesday of the month in the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk Street, from 10:00am - 2:00pm.
Phone Wendy Russell on (07) 866 3225 or Michelle McLuckie on (021) 104 1205 for more information.
Serenity Al-Anon Group
Meets every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone (07) 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by
someone else’s drinking.
SPECIFIC EVENTS
Coromandel Art Group Annual Exhibition
Until Thursday 7 February at Hauraki House, Kapanga Road, Coromandel Town. Open daily from 10:00am - 4:00pm.
Free entry. Everyone welcome.
Whitianga Art, Craft and Farmers Market
Saturday 2 February from 8:30am - 1:00pm at Soldiers Memorial Park, Albert Street, Whitianga.
Leadfoot Festival
Saturday 2 February and Sunday 3 February at Leadfoot Ranch outside Hahei. For more information visit
www.leadfootfestival.com.
Celebrate World Wetlands Day with DOC and the Rings Beach Wetland Project
Saturday 2 February from 10:00am - 12:00 noon. Meet at 191 Bluff Road, Rings Beach for a guided tour around the
scenic Rings Beach Wetland restoration site.
Coroglen Farmer’s Market
Sunday 3 February from 9:00am - 1:00pm at the Coroglen Hall, State Highway 25, Coroglen.
St Andrews by the Sea Community Church Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication
Sunday 3 February at 9:30am. To refresh and to re-energise. Service to be led by Rev Jan Fogg.
Mercury Rockers Beginners Class
Tuesday 5 February at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Registration from 6:45pm. Cost $25
per person for five nights, payable in cash on the first night. No experience needed. Phone Chris on (021) 504 246
for more information.
Regular Church Services
St Andrews by the Sea Community Church
Albert Street, Whitianga. Worship service and kids-friendly Bible session at 9:30am every Sunday.
St Peter the Fisherman Anglican Church
Dundas Street, Whitianga. Service at 9:30am every Sunday.
Crossroads Whitianga
No more Corner of Joan Gaskell Drive and Cook Drive, Whitianga. Service at 10:00am every Sunday.
St Patrick’s Catholic Church
Plastic bags Campbell Street, Whitianga. Weekend Mass every Saturday at 5:30pm and every Sunday 8:30am.
No more Seagulls Whitianga Baptist Church
112 Cook Drive, Whitianga, tel 393 0000. Service and children’s programme at 10:00am every Sunday.
No more Hassles C3 Whitianga
23 Coghill Street, Whitianga, email info@c3whitianga.org.nz. Service and children’s programme at 10:00am
every Sunday.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS Church or Mormons)
Meet at the Whitianga Social Services building, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga at 10:00am every Sunday. All welcome.
Phone (021) 277 2126 for more information.
Seventh Day Adventists
Home study group. Phone Laurie/Lois on 866 2808 for more information.
Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019Local bach owner’s fourth book
a visual masterpiece
By Meg Tatton-Brown
Talented photographer, Jane Dove Juneau, varying terrain for Nature of New Zealand. design of Nature of New Zealand. The book Jane hopes that Nature of New Zealand will
has recently published her fourth book, Initially, she was just going to feature coastal was published by South Pacific Light Press, inspire people to reconnect with nature and
a visual masterpiece titled “Nature of New areas, but decided the variety was limited, her own publishing brand. encourage more thought towards preserving
Zealand.” The book contains a large collection so chose to expand her focus to also include Among Jane’s other books is a book of the natural state of our environment. She says
of images of the raw and untouched New wildlife and inland areas. poetry and photographs that she published that we need to be mindful of future coastal
Zealand landscape. As well as capturing the images, in conjunction with Taranaki poet, development, emphasising that there are
A passion for photography and nature at Jane has also worked on the layout and Elizabeth Smither. only a few beaches left in the world that are
an early age led to Jane, who owns a bach at completely unspoiled.
Wharekaho/Simpsons Beach that has been in Nature of New Zealand contains 27 photos
her family for more than 50 years, pursuing a of the Coromandel Peninsula, most of them
career in photojournalism in the mid-1970s. of spectacular scenery in the Mercury Bay
After visiting a range of countries, she settled area. The book is without a doubt a collector’s
in the Sierra Nevada mountains in California piece that tourists and Kiwis alike should
where she worked as a photographer for a treasure for their coffee tables. Jane has
mountain resort newspaper, photographing worked hard to capture beautiful and hidden
anything from wildlife to floods and fires. areas of New Zealand that are “off the beaten
She has also been involved in magazine path,” rather than the well-known tourist
work and was a freelance photographer for landmarks we tend to see in mainstream New
the Los Angeles Times. Back down under, Zealand photography.
she worked briefly for the Sydney Morning “After returning from overseas, I felt a
Herald, as well as the Taranaki Daily News newfound appreciation for New Zealand
and the Taranaki Herald in New Zealand. and the country’s stunningly unique nature,”
Currently residing in Oakura, Taranaki, says Jane. “New Zealand is amazing in that
Jane spends a month each year at Wharekaho/ you don’t have too far to travel between
Simpson’s Beach. A huge lover of the great forest, beach or mountain, unlike in
outdoors, she is constantly exploring new other countries.”
places and enjoys hiking, fishing, surfing and Nature of New Zealand is available for
skiing - activities which all lead to fantastic purchase from Bread & Butter Gallery in
photographic opportunities. Whitianga as well as Paper Plus and all
Over the last 10 years, Jane has visited other good book stores around New Zealand.
different areas of New Zealand with the aim Wharekaho/Simpsons Beach bach owner, Jane Dove Juneau, You can also check out Jane’s website,
of collecting photographs of the country’s with a copy of her fourth book, “Nature of New Zealand.” www.janedovejuneau.com.
Issue 830
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17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21Crossword
© Lovatts Puzzles
Crossword Puzzle 830
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Tel no: ________________________________________________________________
Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver or mail or scan and email your entry to
The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk St, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or
info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 6:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim
their prize from the New World check out manager directly before the Wednesday of the week
following the issue in which they were announced the winner.
ACROSS DOWN
1. Snagged (hosiery) 1. Light-ray tools
2. Sums owing
5. Fragrant flower 3. Smells strongly
7. Pierce with knife 4. Imaginary reptile
5. Library user
8. Comes forth 6. Make certain
Timber & Cork Floor
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11. Ticking explosive, ... bomb Polyurethane
12. Encroach 12. Climbing vine coating & colouring
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14. Atop Call
19. Delicate chris mcKibbin
15. American wild cat
21. Illegal 16. Beat soundly M: 021 046 7169
22. New Zealand bird 17. Hat-weaving leaves
18. Tinting www.mercurybayfloorsanders.co.nz
23. Affl uent 19. 4th Greek letter
24. Giving (prize) 20. Annoyed
Last week’s solution
Last week’s winner - Pat Hopley
Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 830 - 30 January 2019World Wetlands Day to be celebrated on
Saturday 2 February
A contribution by the Department of Conservation
Wetlands are hugely important ecosystems establishment of the Ramsar Convention on
and essential for improving water quality. Wetlands, an international environmental
In the past, they were often seen as boggy agreement recognising the importance
bits of land that could be put to better use. of wetlands.
Nowadays, we recognise the importance The convention was set up in 1971 and
of our wetlands, but unfortunately 90 includes 169 countries, with more than 2,000
per cent of New Zealand’s wetlands have recognised sites. New Zealand is home
been destroyed. to six of these significant wetland areas.
We’re actually pretty lucky in the Thames- In addition to the Firth of Thames and
Coromandel District, with multiple wetland Kopuatai, the areas are the Whangamarino
areas contributing to our biodiversity. Wetland, the Manawatu Estuary, Farewell
The Firth of Thames and Kopuatai are two Spit and Awarua-Waituna.
internationally recognised wetlands and We must protect our wetlands to ensure that
we have many smaller local wetland areas, our native species survive and our fresh water
including at Rings Beach, Otama, Kuaotunu systems are healthy. Wetlands, waterways
and Waikawau. and streams need to be fenced to ensure stock
Wetlands act like giant filters. As water cannot pollute them or erode precious soil.
funnels down from the higher areas, it picks The planting of appropriate species around
up sediment, debris and even excessive wetlands will help to stabilise soil and prevent
nutrients. The wetlands themselves are nutrient run off.
capable of holding massive amounts of water The Coromandel has multiple community
and releasing it slowly to prevent flooding. groups working on wetland conservation.
A small wetland area at Otama. Photo by Chris Twemlow. Please email the Department of Conservation
The water that is released from the wetlands
is “cleaned” through a vast network of soil on the wet environments to survive. pateke, fernbird, marsh crake and at community.coromandel@doc.govt.nz for
and vegetation. Without wetlands they would likely die out. white heron. Native fish need wetlands, more information or if you would like to
Wetlands were an important source of The Corybas carsei (swamp helmet orchid) with species such as inanga (whitebait), become involved.
food for early Māori, as well as providing is now only found within the Whangamarino short-finned eels and kōkopu living within Come and celebrate World Wetlands Day with
flax for weaving, clothing, mats and kete. Wetland near Te Kauwhata. Wetland plants wetland systems or using wetlands as areas the Department of Conservation and the Rings
Mosses gathered from wetlands were used also provide shade for streams and waterways, to spawn. The decline in native fresh water Beach Wetland Project, a local community
for bedding and Māori would also have used slow the flow of water and supply food and fish species is directly linked to a reduction in group, in a guided tour around the scenic
wetlands and waterways for access by waka. shelter for other species. natural healthy wetlands. Rings Beach Wetland restoration site on
Important native species live in wetlands. Many bird species inhabit wetlands, World Wetlands Day on Saturday Saturday 2 February from 10:00am to 12:00
Many plants found in wetlands rely totally including the rare Australasian bittern, 2 February celebrates the anniversary of the noon. Meet at 191 Bluff Road, Rings Beach.
Issue 830
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17January
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23You can also read
