The matron who kept life interesting - The Mercury Bay Informer
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80
Issue 842 - 24 April 2019 Phone 07 866 2090 (07) 867 15
Telephone the Coromandel
Circulation 7,200
pport
Proud to su Helicopter Trust
Rescue
The matron who kept
life interesting
By Suzanne Hansen
Matron Mary Hollins (right) and nurse Truus Van Hoppe feeding lambs at the Mercury Bay Hospital, where Mary worked from 1956 - 1973.
Photo courtesy of the Mercury Bay Museum.
Miss Mary Hollins, or Matron Hollins, gifted to all of the babies born at the hospital Matron Hollins to disappear and over two mother’s circumstances were so dire that
was a local legend at the Mercury Bay each year during the holiday season. weeks I might get to see Margot three times.” Mary kept the baby at the hospital and looked
Hospital. She worked and lived there from Long-time Whitianga local, Walter Russell, Mary had little of a social life outside of after the baby for at least six months, until the
1956 until 1973. The hospital, as well as the says that all three of his kids were born the hospital, besides participating in the odd family were able to cope. The help was often
mums and the babies she helped bring into under Mary’s “guidance” at the hospital. Country Women’s Institute event. In fact, reciprocated for the much-loved matron,
the world there, were her life. She delivered countless babies, as the doctor according to Josie Robson who worked at the with people going out of their way to look
Mary worked all hours tending the sick was only summoned if he was really needed. hospital for three decades, Mary worked such after her in return.
and the newly arrived on a 24 hour per day Often the doctor would ring to ask, “Do you long hours that she often fell asleep in her Mary was very kind to mothers and
schedule, often sitting up all night to feed need me or don’t you?” chair when she attended a social event. their babies and of course to all her
the babies so their tired mums could get “In those days, when babies were born, Josie says that Mary knew when a new patients at the hospital, but she was much
some rest. She even collected presents and the mothers were in the hospital for two weeks baby’s family was in need or impoverished, less tolerant of bureaucracy. The book,
kept them under her bed. These, along with at a time,” says Walter. “Each time my wife, often going way beyond the call of duty to “Ducks, Dipsomaniacs and Diseases,” about
a Christmas cake and a personal card were Margot, gave birth, I was told at the door by help. She talks of a time when one new the history of the Mercury Bay Hospital,
(Continued on page 3)
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Junior rock ‘n’ rollers did well at A very successful egg hunt
national championships
Easter weekend saw five children from Mercury Bay compete at the 2019 Junior Rock ‘n’ Roll The Whitianga Sea Scouts’ annual Easter Egg Hunt was held at the Whitianga Bike Park on
National Championships in Invercargill. Four of the children competed on the dance floor and Easter Sunday (21 April). The hunt is always a major fundraiser for the Scouts.
in the large Easter Sunday Best-Dressed competitions, while one entered the Easter Sunday
Female Best Dressed competition only. This year’s hunt was a huge success. The sun was shining as hundreds of children
and parents enjoyed a morning of Easter activities, including sack races and egg and
Brynn Ramage and Isabelle Thurgood danced in the Novice Section and although they didn’t spoon races.
place, they came away with Best Dressed Couple in this section.
When it was time for the much anticipated egg hunt, the children were sorted into four
Leo Ramage and Charlotte Thurgood danced in the Under 10 Section and placed third. different age groups (Under 4, five to seven-year-olds, eight to 10-year-olds and 11 and
They also won the Best Dressed Couple in this section. older) and took to finding the more than 1,700 eggs that were hidden in four different areas
Isabelle and Sophie Thurgood reached the semi-final of the Easter Sunday Female Best Dressed of the bike park with unparalleled enthusiasm.
competition, while Charlotte achieved a third place. No mean feat with nearly 30 five to 12-year- “A huge thank you to the Bike Park for the use of their venue and our sponsors -
old girls competing. In the Easter Sunday Male Best-Dressed competition, Brynn reached the The Warehouse, Countdown, and Bayleys Real Estate,” says Mike Brown, chairman of the
final and Leo placed third. A great effort against 21 boys aged five to 17 years old. Whitianga Sea Scouts. “Thank you also to The Informer for promoting the hunt and all of
Pictured are the young competitors during the championships. From the left - the wonderful Scout families and egg hunters who came along.”
Charlotte Thurgood, Leo Ramage, Isabelle Thurgood, Brynn Ramage and Sophie Thurgood.
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of Wednesday 24 April to Wednesday 1 May - This week we are treated to a rare “occultation” of Saturn by the Moon. This is when
the Moon, in its constant orbit around the Earth, comes between us and Saturn just after midnight on Friday 26 April.
Wednesday 24 April - This is the night to prepare for tomorrow’s occultation of Saturn. The Moon sits halfway below bright Jupiter and
above the much fainter and slightly yellowish Saturn in the late evening sky. Thursday 25 April - Late in the evening, Saturn and the Moon
will rise in the east with the Moon now just above Saturn. As the evening progresses, the Moon will move closer and closer to Saturn and
with binoculars in hand, the occultation will be seen starting at 33 minutes past midnight. Friday 26 April - At just 33 minutes past midnight, Astronomy Tours and B&B
tiny Saturn disappears behind the bright side of the Moon. It will then reappear from about the middle of the dark side of the Moon at 1:42am. Phone (07) 866 5343
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Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019
Matron Mary Hollins
(Continued from page 1)
mentions a time when Mary felt that the reputedly very large sheep, all over town in
hospital needed fly screens. When the Thames the back of her truck, sometimes accompanied
Hospital Board (THB) did not deliver with by the hospital cat.
the urgency required, Mary gathered a pile of Josie Robson also tells a story about when
dead flies into a chocolate box and mailed it they were looking after a very ill patient
to the THB. The screens arrived soon after. who was feverish, so they opened the door
Mary was an animal lover and looked of his room which joined onto the paddock.
after orphaned lambs, goats, cats and more. The patient woke out of his fever totally
She kept them at the hospital and would startled as he was looking right into the face
bring new lambs inside from time to time of a large sheep.
when they needed warming. There is the odd Apparently, Mary was not a very good
story of her delivering newborn lambs in the driver. Josie says that everybody got out of
delivery suite. the way when Mary was behind the wheel.
Although her sheep were great for keeping Lola McClung talks of a time when Mary
the grass short, Mary needed to make sure they drove her yellow mini-van over the Tapu-
were out of sight when the hospital was up Coroglen Road to Auckland, which one did
for a THB inspection. Luckily the inspectors in those days. Mary arrived in Auckland,
always visited the Coromandel Hospital first got out of the mini-van, put her hand up on
and the staff there would ring and give Mary the roof and pulled off her handbag which
a “heads up” when the inspector was on the had been on the top of the car the whole time.
way, so she had time to hide the sheep. Josie thinks it was likely so full of heavy junk
Brenda Duncan, who knew Mary from that it was anchored on.
the early 1970s, talks of a time when Lola remembers Mary as having a keen
one of Mary’s sheep named George sense of humour, even though she was
was in the garden of the doctor’s house. crippled with arthritis. She recounts a time
Mid-conversation, Mary suddenly called out when Mary, who also did the cleaning at the
“George!” The sheep’s head popped up out hospital, got a hankie stuck in the vacuum,
of the garden. He knew he was in trouble. causing a great deal of hilarity for the patients
He walked back up the long driveway with and staff.
his head hung low. She chastised him with Later in her nursing tenure, Mary’s arthritis
her gentle English lilt and he listened intently. caused her a lot of pain, but she pressed on with
Walter Russell tells of a time when Mary her job, starting her car with wooden clothes
had a little Ford 10. She was always struggling pegs and managing machinery around the
trying to get her sheep into the back seat of hospital premises with creative ad hoc tools
the car, so she brought it into Walter’s dad’s used to compensate for her gnarled hands.
workshop and asked for help. They cut the She kept on delivering babies in spite of her
car in half to make it into a truck and then debilitating pain, to some consternation of the
added wooden stock panels on the side and delivering mothers.
gave it a paint job, writing on it, “Hollins Mary retired in 1973. She went on to live
Heavy Haulage.” When Mary came in to pick a long life of 90 years, eventually dying of
it up, she started to cry. She had her own little the effects of an earlier car crash in 1990.
stock truck! She was an amazing force in the Mercury Bay
Mary would carry around Larry, another community and certainly kept life interesting.
702 - 24
Issue 842 17April
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
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Issue 842 17April
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Day camp one of the best yet According to camp director Tina Bartlett, the 19th Mercury Bay Day Camp, which was held Over the three days of Day Camp, the children could choose from more than 20 activities to outside Cooks Beach from Tuesday to Thursday last week, was one of the best yet. participate in. Among the activities were old favourites like archery, camp fire cooking, a flying “It was such a good camp,” says Tina. “We had more than 320 children attending and fox, hut building, kayaking and a mud slide. Circus arts and raft building were two popular new they all embraced the whole camp. It was clear for all to see that they had a brilliant time. activities this year. “Our teen leaders are such an important part of Day Camp and they were exceptional this year. As has been the case the past few years, two of the teen leaders received a $1,000 scholarship Nothing was too much effort for them. Whenever we asked them to do something, they were each to be used towards the development of their leadership skills. This year’s winners were onto it. Natalija Beck and Dominic Stowers. “And then there were our adult leaders and helpers. Many of them have taken time off work “Next year will be the 20th Mercury Bay Day Camp,” says Tina. “The planning has already to help out this year. It was heart-warming to see how keen they were to share their skills and started and we hope it will be as good as, if not better than, this year’s camp.” experience with the children. Pictured in the photo on the left is Day Camp attendee, Anna McLuckie, going down the flying “I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who helped or supported us this year. fox. In the photo on the right are a few children and teen leaders after they conquered the Without community support, we would never be able to put the camp on.” mud slide. Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019
Board Talk
By the Mercury Bay Area School Board of Trustees
It is fair to say that Term 1 of 2019 has been mindful that any changes to eating habits
challenging for our students and community, should be gradual with everyone on board,
mainly because of the events in Christchurch. rather than suddenly banning whole food
The response has been significant and I think groups without explanation or discussion.
enduring, as we all pull together to remind Just a reminder that we will be calling
ourselves that we are one and through linking for nominations in early May for Mercury
together we can create a kinder and more Bay Area School Board of Trustee elections
tolerant society. to fill parent representative positions.
Recently the Board of Trustees has been The election date is on 7 June and for anyone
discussing healthy eating choices within interested in joining the board, there is an
our school, the options for food and drink information evening to be held at 3:30pm
in our tuckshop and the impact that sugary on Tuesday 30 April in the Activities Room
foods and drink in particular can have on at Whenuakite School. Anna Gallion from
our youth. This is a longer term discussion the School Trustees Association will be the
that we are keen to involve our students in. guest speaker. If you or anyone you know is
The objective is to develop a policy that interested in becoming a Trustee, please put
would provide healthy, tasty eating options your name forward, being a part of the board
with “treats” to be had on a less regular basis. is a highly rewarding role.
There is also the opportunity to develop I wish everyone a safe and relaxing break
further learning programmes involving over the holidays.
students providing healthy lunchtime options Philip Morcom
(such as soup and garlic bread). We are Chairman MBAS Board of Trustees
Issue 842
702 - 24
17April
August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Letters to the Editor
See lower down this page for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
Dear Editor - Bill Topp and the omission of this roundabout at $102,000! Dear Editor - The Local Government Leaders’ obligations or unreasonable commitments.
Mercury Bay from New Zealand history The fact that larger vehicles will be Climate Change Declaration The only reason not to sign it would be
I refer to two topics raised in The Informer allowed to over-run the roundabout begs the I would like to send a big ups to the 200 or if you did not believe in anthropogenic
of 17 April. question as to why it’s going to cost so much? so Mercury Bay Area School students who climate change.
The first is the interesting article on the The amount of material required is minimal signed the petition presented to Thames- I would normally agree that “actions
Mercury Bay Museum by Suzanne Hansen. and the time, machinery and labour I suspect Coromandel District Council mayor, speak louder than words.” Actions are
I would like to remind people that Bill Topp will be less than a week. Sandra Goudie, and her fellow councillors what is ultimately important and Thames-
averaged three hours nine minutes travelling It seems that when contractors quote on on Tuesday 2 April, calling for our council to Coromandel District Council is to be
from Coromandel to Whitianga, hence the work for local councils, they simply bump sign the Local Government Leaders’ Climate congratulated on the wide range of actions
name “309 Road.” Not 309 bends, as some the price up assuming deep pockets/budgets. Change Declaration. that they have already taken to address
would suggest. It begs the question whether due diligence Too bad Mrs Goudie and five out of eight climate change.
The second is Dorothy Preece’s letter about has been done in obtaining a number of Councillors, including Mercury Bay’s Murray However, in politics it is often said
Tuia - Encounters 250. It is strange how solutions and quotes. McLean and Tony Fox, didn’t hear their that perception is reality. Not signing the
Mercury Bay has been omitted from New Milan Lukic concerns. Our elected representatives are declaration generates the perception that
Zealand history. A year or two ago I visited Whitianga very out of step with the urgency of the need TCDC intends to do nothing - even when
a wonderful display at the Kaitaia Museum, to get to zero carbon as quickly as possible. much is being done. It generates the perception
Editor’s Note - We have referred Mr Lukic’s
covering Kupe’s travels around New Zealand. In 2014, the film “Do the Maths” was across the country that the Coromandel
letter to Thames-Coromandel District
Whitianga was not mentioned. How can screened in Whitianga, which urged carbon Peninsula does not care about environmental
Council for comment. We will publish their
this be? in the atmosphere to be kept below 350 parts issues, when defending and improving our
reply as soon as it comes to hand.
Rae Katene per million to avert a two degrees global environment is strongly believed in and acted
Whitianga Dear Editor - Congratulations to TCDC mayor, temperature rise. on locally.
Sandra Goudie I was shocked when I saw the number 410 We need inspirational and aspirational
Dear Editor - The cost of the new roundabout A huge congratulations to Thames- leadership. Telling students to put in a written
formed by MBAS students on the school field
at the corner of Albert Street and Campbell Coromandel District Council mayor, Sandra submission is a timid bureaucrat’s response,
a month ago (see The Informer of 20 March).
Street in Whitianga Goudie and five other TCDC councillors for one completely at odds with the leadership
In just five short years carbon dioxide is now
In some of Thames-Coromandel District not signing the Local Government Leaders’ that we want. Those students should have
410 parts per million. What will it be if we
Council’s recent correspondence to ratepayers Climate Change Declaration, a document that been praised for their courage and initiative
don’t put the brakes on our population and
and residents, they discuss, among other is not specific and may be causing rates rises and they should have been invited to address
lifestyle in another five years?
things, the great upgrades being done to the for no good reason. Also for not being sucked a council meeting.
Keep up the pressure, young people!
play area and waterfront on The Esplanade in by the rhetoric put about by lawyer Denis I believe that everyone standing for
I for one am proud of you and fully endorse
in Whitianga and it’s great to see this work Tegg, etc (see The Informer of 17 April). office at the next local body elections
your concerns.
taking shape. I’m all for the facelift we’re Mr Tegg still cannot show me where the should state clearly whether or not they
Anna Horne
seeing around town. seas have risen on a calm normal day at high believe in anthropogenic climate change.
Whitianga
However, what also caught my eye was tide, only when there is a storm coupled by a People who state their views clearly and
the mention of the new roundabout to go in king tide and please do not show me pictures Dear Editor - The right decision? No! honestly are people who we might have
at the corner of Albert Street and Campbell of seas washing over the road during Cyclone I am writing to address the question in The faith in - regardless of the views they hold.
Street. Most would agree that the current Bola in 1988. Informer’s headline of 17th April. Those who timidly obfuscate or remain silent
implemented layout was, and is, a colossal Well done Sandra, I’m sure you will have a I have read the Local Government Leaders’ will be the people that we should not trust and
blunder. lot of support. Climate Change Declaration. It reads to me should not vote for.
Well, more to the point, what specifically Gloria Humphries like many fluffy aspirational documents David Haynes
caught my eye is the estimated cost to build Coroglen and, so far as I can see, contains no scary Hahei
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Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019
The thyroid - understanding
your shield within
A contribution by Libby George, a Whitianga-based natural health practitioner
Your master gland at the front of your neck is your thyroid - a shield-shaped gland that secretes two
hormones, T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). These hormones influence the metabolic processes
throughout your entire body - instructing your heart to beat, your lungs to breathe, your digestion to
absorb food and your cells to convert that food into energy.
However, due to numerous factors, your thyroid can easily be thrown out of balance. There are several
different conditions that can arise when the thyroid becomes dysfunctional -
• Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid condition and refers to an underactive or sluggish
thyroid. As this slows down your metabolism, hypothyroidism results in symptoms such as fatigue,
hair loss, weight gain, depression, intolerance to the cold, dry skin and constipation.
• Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid becomes overactive, speeding up your metabolism.
This displays symptoms like a rapid heart rate, excessive sweating, weight loss, fatigue and agitation.
• Autoimmune Thyroid Disease refers to the body’s immune system attacking itself. In the thyroid,
this manifests as either Hashimoto’s disease (creating an underactive thyroid) or Graves’ disease
(creating an overactive thyroid).
• Goitre is the enlargement or swelling of the thyroid gland. It can occur with both an underactive and
overactive thyroid, as well as an iodine deficiency.
There are many factors that contribute to an unbalanced thyroid gland, however two of the biggest drivers
are stress and an iodine deficiency. Physical or emotional stress can reduce the level of hormones your
thyroid makes and can also flare an existing autoimmune thyroid condition. Iodine is a component of
the thyroid hormones, making it vital for healthy thyroid function. Unfortunately, the average diet in New
Zealand is extremely low in iodine-rich foods, which can lead to an underactive thyroid or goitre formation.
There are key nutrients and herbs that can address the drivers of thyroid issues, helping your thyroid to
function optimally.
• Iodine - If you are deficient, supplementation of this mineral will help to support the production of
thyroid hormones and reduce your risk of hypothyroidism and goitre growth.
• Magnesium - This mineral helps to reduce the activation of the stress system, saving the thyroid
from strain.
• Withania - When the thyroid is underactive, this herb can work to boost the synthesis of thyroid
hormones, while also helping the body to cope when stressed.
Here are three potent things you can do to support the optimal function of your thyroid gland.
• Iodine consumption - iodine rich foods include oysters, fish, seaweed, dairy and beans. If not currently
consuming these foods regularly, make a plan to increase your iodine intake.
• Sleep hygiene - quality sleep is essential for good thyroid function. You need to get seven to nine
hours of sleep per night.
• Stress management - take some time out each day to reduce your stress levels by doing something
relaxing.
If you are experiencing any symptoms that can be associated with thyroid issues, speak to your natural
health practitioner. They will be able to provide you with guidance.
Issue 842
702 - 24
17April
August2019
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
“The Toscars” a night of
glitz and glamour
A night of glitz, glamour and hilarious entertainment awaits with the Tairua Troubadours’ latest production,
“The Toscars.”
The show will be held at the Tairua Community Hall, starting on Friday 21 June and will run like an
Academy Award’s Night, with nominations and scenes from the previous eight Troubadours productions.
There will be eight performances, with evening shows on Friday 21 June and Saturday 22 June, and from
Wednesday 26 June to Saturday 29 June. There will be two matinee performances on Saturday 22 June
and Sunday 23 June. Seating will be tables of eight.
Writer and director, Jennie Turner, encourages the audience to dress up and add to the atmosphere of this
red carpet event. “Dig deep and bust out the bling,” she says.
In keeping with the theme, Jennie has organised a professional photographer for the stars,
catching everyone’s arrival during the evening performances. These photographs will be available through
the Tairua Troubadours Facebook page.
Jennie points out that there are groups of loyal supporters who book ahead year after year - even bus
loads. So, if you want to brighten up winter with a good night of entertainment, do not delay your booking.
As well as being a major theatrical event in Tairua, the Troubadours’ performances raise thousands of
dollars to benefit the community each year. Funds from last year’s show, “The Family Tree,” raised $20,000.
The other shows featuring in The Toscars are “Shake Rattle and Roll,” “The Last Resort,” “An Amazing
Race,” “The Committee,” “Murder on the Dance Floor,” “Clash of the Clans” and “End of the World.”
Pictured are some of The Tairua Troubadours in Murder on the Dance Floor.” From left to right -
Rowena Brown, Sue Porter, Carol Harker and Lisa Radford.
Mobility equipment available for locals and visitors.
Walking frames, crutches, walking sticks and wheelchairs.
Phone Roger on 07 867 1986 for more information
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019Endeavour dinner to be part of
Tuia commemorations
Food, nutrition and hospitality teacher at Mercury Bay Area School, Joanna Mannington,
is organising a themed dinner at the conference room of the Flaxmill Bay Campground
during September this year. The dinner is to form part of the Tuia - Encounters 250
commemorations in Mercury Bay.
Children’s author, Gavin Bishop (pictured), who has recently written and illustrated the
picture book “Captain Cook’s Cook,” will be in attendance. The book follows the 1768
journey of the explorer James Cook’s ship, HM Bark Endeavour, with the ship’s cook,
the one-handed John Thompson, as storyteller. It even includes recipes that were used
on the ship.
Joanna worked as the cook on board the replica Endeavour (based at the Australian
National Maritime Museum in Sydney) for several years, during which time she
circumnavigated the world twice, and is keen to share her experiences as part of the
Tuia commemorations. Gavin’s book is also tying in well with the Tuia themes of a
shared heritage and future, navigation and exploration.
The dinner will furthermore give the MBAS hospitality students an opportunity to
experience event management.
Only 96 tickets will be on sale as there were 96 people on board the Endeavour
during the 1768 journey, with three different price levels to choose from. You can opt
to sit at the gentleman’s table, the officers table or the able-bodied seaman tables,
which replicate the hierarchy of the British Navy.
Guests will be given a name of one of the passengers/crew on board the Endeavour
during the 1768 journey and are welcome to dress to the theme if they wish.
The menu will consist of three courses, presenting a contemporary interpretation
of indigenous and introduced foods, and will be served on the flatware of the time.
Beer, rum, punch and canapes will also be on offer.
The dinner will feature talks by the MBAS hospitality students about the menu choices,
local Captain Cook Society members and Gavin Bishop. Signed, limited copies of
Captain Cook’s Cook will be auctioned off during the dinner.
Tickets can be purchased from the MBAS hospitality students during School
Term 2. All the proceeds of the dinner will go to the MBAS food, nutrition and
hospitality department.
Copies of Captain Cook’s Cook are available at www.geckopress.com.
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2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11Unique opportunity for
young photographers
Creative Coromandel is the Coromandel Peninsula’s advocacy organisation for the creative
arts. The organisation’s job is to promote, celebrate and champion all the creative people,
places, groups, events and opportunities around the Peninsula.
Creative Coromandel is now offering a unique opportunity for young photographers living on
the Coromandel to capture the extensive creative activity happening all over the Peninsula,
with a particular focus on youth arts. Young photographers (aged 14 to 24) are invited by the
organisation to meet and photograph local artists and their work, and to take photos of local
arts events, all while developing a portfolio and growing their profile as a photographer.
The photographs will be used on the Creative Coromandel website and as part of the
organisation’s social media and marketing platforms. Though not a paid opportunity,
all photographs published will be credited with the photographer’s name and links to their
online profile. This is an exciting opportunity for all talented young photographers to further
develop their skills, knowledge and experience, while contributing a dynamic youth perspective
to Creative Coromandel.
Young photographers who would like to make use of this opportunity are asked to email their
expression of interest to Jude at info.creativecoromandel@gmail.com by 30 June this year.
All applications will be considered and selected based on suitability.
Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019An exciting find
By Meg Tatton-Brown
A 3m long plank of wood believed to have come from the wreck of HMS Buffalo was found
on the beach opposite the Buffalo monument in Whitianga early last week.
Hamilton grandfather, Barrie Todd, and his two young grandsons, Damon Birkett and Jaxon
Gainford, were enjoying a family holiday in Whitianga when they noticed copper sticking out
of the sand while walking along Buffalo Beach. They unearthed the plank and took it to the
Mercury Bay Museum.
Museum manager, Rebecca Cox, was particularly interested as the copper work and nails
correspond with a similar piece of wood from HMS Buffalo which is currently on display in
the museum.
In the next few weeks, Kurt Bennett, an archaeologist from Flinders University in Australia
and Brigid Gallagher, a heritage conservation specialist from Waihi, will visit the museum to
assess the wood and provide advice on the best way to preserve it. They will confirm whether
it can be displayed. Funding will be requested from Te Papa museum in Wellington to obtain
Brigid’s services.
“Kurt has been to our museum before and has recorded and taken samples of other timber
and copper in our possession,” says Rebecca.
“There are a few other timber pieces that he is not aware of, so we will be able to do a full
analysis on all of these artefacts,”
Kurt will also be completing a site map of the Buffalo wreck on a dive when he is
in Whitianga.
The wreck is located in the water just off Buffalo Beach, approximately 200m east of
Whitianga Continuing Care. A small yellow buoy marks the location of the wreck.
“Until the experts come, we have to keep the plank we received last week wet, which we are
doing with sea-water soaked towels at present, but unfortunately in just the short while that the
plank has been with us the copper is starting to oxidise,” says Rebecca.
“We now have GPS co-ordinates of where the plank was found, which will help to update
the archaeological site information held with Heritage New Zealand.
“Through this process, we have learned a lot about what to do if you find a piece from
a shipwreck or any other artefact - take photos of it in its current position, record the GPS
location and notify Heritage New Zealand or the nearest museum of the find.
“This last part is really important, especially regarding shipwrecks prior to 1900 as the
artefacts are automatically protected under heritage laws, making it illegal to remove them.
Removing them from the beach and holding them at a private property is considered scavenging Hamilton grandfather, Barrie Todd, with his two grandsons, Damon Birkett and
and anyone caught doing so can face a large fine. Jaxon Gainford, and the plank of wood they found on Buffalo Beach early last week.
“So, it is best to contact the closest museum or Heritage New Zealand straight away.” The wood is believed to have come from the wreck of HMS Buffalo.
Issue 842
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2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13Makers 1 exhibition
well attended
The Makers 1 exhibition that was held in the Kuaotunu Hall on Easter Friday, Saturday and
Sunday was well attended, with many of the visitors commenting on the quality of the artworks
that were available for purchase.
The exhibition was formally opened on Thursday evening last week.
Makers 1 primarily featured decorative arts, including paintings, brooches made from discarded
beach debris, porcelain vases, jewellery, interactive art pieces (allowing you to listen to you
favourite playlist), dolls and woodwork. The exhibition was the brainchild of well-known
Kuaotunu resident, Isabel Gilbert Palmer.
Most of the exhibiting artists were from the northern Mercury Bay area, with some travelling
from further afield.
Hands Mades, a group of Kuaotunu residents who regularly get together to be creative had
several items on display. The Kuaotunu Rudolf Steiner Kindergarten teachers also participated
in the exhibition.
The exhibition contributed to Kuaotunu’s growing reputation as a foremost arts destination on
the Coromandel Peninsula.
Pictured are Isabel Gilbert Palmer (in the centre) and northern Mercury Bay artists Dave Bryant
and Pippa Le Lievre on Thursday evening.
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019Issue 842
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2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15APRIL 2019 UPDATE
Moving into autumn, the temperature is starting to drop away. Still, what a
summer we have had. It is great to see the continued levels of activity in all
the sectors in town.
Jennian Homes Mother’s Day Fun Run
The Jennian Homes Mother’s Day Fun Run and Walk will take
place at Leeward Drive in Whitianga on Sunday 12 May 2019.
Heart disease is the single biggest killer of Kiwi women, claiming the lives of
over 3,000 women each year. Jennian Homes have partnered up with the
Heart Foundation to support their Heart Foundation for Women campaign,
which aims to help stop our women dying prematurely of heart disease.
The campaign asks women to band together and love their hearts. Everyone
is welcome to come and join in! Go to www.jennianmothersday.com/get-
your-tickets-now to register.
Marlin Waters
The next group of homes are nearing completion. With many sold, we look
forward to the next group of residents moving in. We still have some two and
three bedroom units available. Health and Safety
Bridge Just a reminder that project areas are out of bounds to the public. For your
Work on the new bridge has been frenetic and progress is obvious. safety please do not venture into them. This is absolutely crucial as the
The structure is 98 per cent complete and the road is getting prepped for landscape and works area are continually changing and heavy machinery
sealing. Work beneath the bridge is also busy, getting the canal ready is moving through the project at all times. Do not enter, you will be asked
for flooding. The rock walls in the area are complete thanks to Auckland to leave.
Stonemasons. Until next time, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to call in.
Our sales office in Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga is open 7 days,
Weekdays 9:00am - 4:00pm and Saturdays and Sundays 10:00am - 2:00pm.
For further information please do not hesitate to contact our sales office on (07) 866 0164.
Email - whitiangawaterways@xtra.co.nz Website - www.whitiangawaterways.co.nz
Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019Issue 842
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2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17The biggest Buffalo fan
Bobby Deese (pictured) from Buffalo, New York, enjoyed a fantastic holiday in Whitianga
recently.
He is also a huge Buffalo Bills (NFL) football fan.
The highlight of his visit? A walk on Buffalo Beach, of course!
Timber & Cork Floor
Installation
Polyurethane
coating & colouring
Call
chris mcKibbin
M: 021 046 7169
www.mercurybayfloorsanders.co.nz
Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019Issue 842
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2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19Win a year-long Mercury
Bay Golf Club membership
We have a year-long membership of the Mercury Bay Golf and Country Club to give away.
The prize is valued at $780.
To enter is easy. Simply let us know in writing (via mail, email, a Facebook private message
or a hand-delivered entry to our office) where the Mercury Bay Golf Course is situated
(the street/road name will be sufficient). Please make sure your name, phone number and
town/city of residence accompany your entry.
All correct entries received before 5:00pm on Friday 3 May will go into the draw to win.
The winner will be notified by phone and their name will be published in The Informer of
Wednesday 8 May. We will not engage in any correspondence about the competition once the
name of the winner has been published. Good luck!
Pictured are the two members of the Mercury Bay Golf & Country Club who have scored holes
in one on the Mercury Bay Golf Course so far this year. Gordon Davidson (left) scored a hole in
one on 23 March on hole #4. Kerry Allan (right) scored a hole in one on 13 April, also on hole #4.
“Kīwaha o te wiki” (saying of the week)
“Ka wani kē koe” - You’re awesome alright.
Saying of the week supplied by Te Puna Reo o Whitianga - a playgroup with a focus on Māori tikanga and te reo Māori.
The group members meet every Monday at 9:30am at the Mercury Bay Area School Activities Room. All those with pēpi or young tamariki are welcome to join.
Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019What’s On The next few weeks
REGULAR MEETINGS AND EVENTS Mercury Bay Contract Bridge Club
Op-Shops Meet every Wednesday at 1:00pm at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Visitors and new members
Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street welcome. Phone Mary on (07) 866 4841 for more information.
(west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm. Whitianga Tramping Group
The Church Op-Shop - at St Andrews by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Meet every second Sunday at 8:30am. Phone Wally on (021) 907 782 or Lesley on (021) 157 9979 for more information.
Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pm. Mercury Bay Community Choir
St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday Meet Mondays at 6:00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School music room, 20 South Highway, Whitianga. All welcome. To find
10:00am - 2:00pm. out more, phone Kate on (027) 270 9058 or Edie on (027) 272 5733.
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop Cancer Society Whitianga Coffee Group (In Partnership with the Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust)
Albert Street, Whitianga. Open every Monday - Saturday from 10:00am - 2:00pm. Meet the first Friday of every month from 10:00am - 11:30am at St Andrew’s Community Church, Albert Street, Whitianga.
Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga Contact Penny on phone (027) 684 0004 or at email pennyparsons@cancersociety.org.nz for more information.
Meet every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in Room 10 at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Cooks Beach Garden Circle
Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals and eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely. Meet the last Thursday of every month from 11:15am - 2:30pm. New members welcome. Phone Leila on (07) 866 3264
Check out our Facebook page or phone (07) 869 5648 for more information. or Anne on (07) 67 1618 for more information.
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club Mercury Bay Woolcraft Group
Meet Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie etc. Afternoon tea, Meet every first and third Wednesday of the month in the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk Street, from 10:00am - 2:00pm.
55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. Phone Wendy Russell on (07) 866 3225 or Michelle McLuckie on (021) 104 1205 for more information.
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated Dog Walking Group
Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their Meet every Thursday at 2:00pm at Lovers Rock, Robinson Road, Whitianga. An opportunity to socialise your dog.
computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on Meets every Sunday at 8:00am at the Fire Station intersection, Whitianga. Phone Paul on 021 605 230 if you are
866 4215 for more information or to join. interested in riding.
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. SPECIAL EVENTS
Matarangi Craft Group ANZAC Day Parades and Services - Thursday 25 April
Meet the second and fourth Tuesday of every month from 7:00pm - 9:00pm at the Matarangi Fire Station. Phone Lesley Whitianga - Dawn Parade at 5:45am at the Mercury Bay Club, Cook Drive. March to Soldiers Memorial Park,
on 866 0788 for more information. Albert Street for Dawn Service at 6:00am. Breakfast at the Mercury Bay Club afterwards.
Scrapbags Quilting Group Tairua - Dawn Service at 6:00am at the Tairua Ex-Servicemen’s Cemetery, Main Road. Civic Parade assembles
Meet every Wednesday from 9:00am - 3:00pm at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Albert Street, Whitianga. All welcome. at 10:30am outside the Tairua Fire Station, Main Road. March to the Tairua Community Hall, Main Road for Civic
phone Shelley on (07) 866 0236 for more information. Service at 11:00am.
Whenuakite Area Playgroup Coromandel Town - Civic Service at 10:00am at the Memorial Reserve, Kapanga Road. Morning tea at The Club,
Every Wednesday 9:30am - 12:30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Ages birth - six years. Visitors welcome. Tea and Woollams Avenue afterwards.
coffee are provided. Matarangi - Civic Parade assembles at the the corner of Cordyline Crescent and Ake Ake Avenue at 10:30am.
Whitianga Playcentre March to the Matarangi Fire Station, matrangi Drive for Civic Service at 11:00am.
Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon at 1D White Street, Witianga. For children 0 - 6 years, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Junior Tournament
free entry. Visitors welcome. Saturday 27 April and Sunday 28 April - All anglers to be Under 17. A variety of species in play (including all species
Serenity Al-Anon Group of billfish and all species of tuna). See www.mbgfc.co.nz for more information.
Meet every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone (07) 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by Mercury Bay Senior Rugby
someone else’s drinking. Saturday 27 April - Senior A v Waihou in Te Aroha. Kick-off at 2:00pm.
Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club Saturday 27 April - Senior B v Waihou in Te Aroha. Kick-off at 12:25pm.
Meet every Thursday at 6:45pm in the Whitianga Town Hall. All levels of bowlers welcome, including beginners. Mercury Bay Rockers Five Weeks Beginners’ Rock ‘n’ Roll Lessons
Phone Doreen on (07) 866 5237 or Alan on (07) 866 4024 for more information or just come along. Start Monday 29 April from 7:00pm - 8:00pm at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Chris
Mercury Bay Badminton Club on (021) 504 246 for more information.
Meet every Wednesday from 9:30am - 11:00am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street, Whitianga. All welcome.
Whitianga
07 866 0070
• Spouting
• Roofing
• Water treatments systems
• Septic tanks
• Hot Water cylinders
• New Housing
• Alterations
• General Maintenance
• Solar water heating
• All LPG gas installation
Issue 842
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2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21Crossword
© Lovatts Puzzles
Crossword Puzzle 842
Name: ________________________________________________________________
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. Soldier’s sack
5. Line with flagstones 1. Touching lips
7. Gallantly 2. Valiant
8. Epic tale 3. Chews
9. Arduous walk
10. Measure heaviness of 4. Compelled
11. Coves 5. Constricting serpents
13. Leave out 6. Swerving
14. Vehicle depot
18. Prescribed amount 12. Price label
21. Grows old 15. Distress
22. Scorched 16. Gum infection
24. Mania
25. Drainage tube 17. Extends
26. Pottery oven 19. Raw metal
27. Move sideways 20. Conclusions
28. ... & that
29. Underground waste 22. Genders
channels 23. Awry
Last week’s solution
Last week’s winner - Frances Merz
Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 842 - 24 April 2019John North on his 15 years of community
service in Hahei
By Stephan Bosman and Meg Tatton-Brown
Well-known Hahei local, John North, stepped venture, operating from a carpark owned support. They advocated for a moratorium through the Tourism Infrastructure Fund,
down from the Hahei Residents and Ratepayers by TCDC. on all development activities until such time including development of all-weather walkways
Association (HRRA) after the association’s John also set out to work on the treatment of as Hahei’s infrastructure concerns have been to encourage visitors to walk through the village.
AGM on Saturday last week. wastewater in Hahei. He worked with TCDC to properly addressed. “It’s pleasing to see that everybody now
John joined the HRRA 15 years ago, install a trial filtration plant, convincing them to “Good progress has certainly been made seems to accept that you can’t have the benefits
when he and his wife, Tina, retired to Hahei in keep the plant operating until a better solution recently,” says John. “In addition to the of tourism without adequate infrastructure.
2004. They have owned property in the village could be put in place. construction of the council-owned carpark at “The next big issue facing Hahei is the
since 1978. Another major project John was involved the Hahei Village entrance, the Cathedral Cove supply of water and the treatment of waste
John used to be involved in the dairy and in was TCDCs new District Plan. John, along carpark at the top of Grange Road has become water. Current residents and ratepayers owe
packaging industries during his working life. with a group of other Hahei residents and a drop-off zone only during peak times of the it to future generations to implement sensible
He decided to become a part of the HRRA so he ratepayers, were concerned about future year, with a pay and display system operating changes now.”
could give back to the local community. development in and around the village the rest of the time. John also says the Department of
John was seconded to facilitate the Hahei without sufficient infrastructure to provide “Further improvements will be funded Conservation will at some point have to address
Community Plan in 2004, where he recognized the number of visitors to Cathedral Cove,
two major issues that needed to be addressed. as the number cannot increase unchecked.
One was the impact tourism was having on “Once a niche destination, Cathedral Cove
parking in Hahei and the other was the water is now a commodity destination and is at the
quality of Wigmore Stream. “The problems with moment not providing the experience to tourists
Wigmore Stream were a symptom of the far that New Zealanders would like them to have,”
larger issue that is the treatment of wastewater he says.
in the village,” says John. John never shied away from leading by
In 2006, John was elected as the chairman example and for 10 years volunteered at the
of the HRRA. He immediately started work on park and ride. His final day was last Saturday,
a trial park and ride system for Hahei Village. after the HRRA AGM.
“There was limited support from Thames- In addition to his involvement in the HRRA,
Coromandel District Council at the time, John and Tina were involved with the Hahei
but I was fortunate to secure some funding from library since their permanent arrival in Hahei.
Waikato Regional Council and a paddock at They’ve also assisted for many years with the
the village entrance where people could park,” annual Hahei Market Day fundraiser for the
says John. library and several other local causes.
With homemade signs directing visitors “New Zealand is very dependent on
where to park, the trial ran from 2008 to 2009 volunteers and I want to encourage everyone to
and was an overwhelming success. After the volunteer in their local communities,” says John.
trial period, the park and ride continued and “It’s very rewarding to know your contribution
now, 10 years later, it’s a successful commercial John North volunteered on Saturday last week for the final time at the park and ride in Hahei. can make a difference.”
Issue 842
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2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23You can also read
