Tourists saved in dramatic community rescue - The Mercury Bay Informer
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Issue 899 - 27 May 2020 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,000
Tourists saved in dramatic
community rescue
By Gillian O’Neill
A group of brave Mercury Bay locals have been
credited with saving the lives of two tourists
who got into difficulty when swimming in
extremely challenging conditions at Hot Water
Beach last Friday morning.
One of the men was around 200m from shore
and struggling in a large rip when the alarm
was raised at around 10:45am. His friend was
about 100m out and also attempting to battle
the current, while two other members of their
group watched helpless from the beach.
A team of local surfers led by Cooks
Beach electrician, Paul “Arnie” Cunningham,
began the dramatic rescue which eventually
involved over a dozen people from the
community.
“Someone came running up our driveway
and said there were two men in trouble,”
said Simon Buchanan, the owner of Moko
Artspace, which is directly opposite the beach.
“I rang 111. Then Arnie came driving in and he
had a surfboard. So I said Arnie you’d better
get your wetsuit on.”
As Simon and Arnie headed for the beach,
they were met by two more local surfers who
also grabbed their boards and began heading
out towards the struggling swimmers.
“Arnie managed to get to the first guy and
eventually managed to bring him in on his
surfboard,” said Simon, who monitored the
situation from the water’s edge. Mercury Bay locals helping to get a tourist who nearly drowned on Friday last week onto the beach at Hot Water Beach.
Other members of the public, including But then he just appeared after walking back the locals who were in the area at the time, asking the names and information of the people
some of the Hot Water Beach lifeguards who up the beach, it was a relief. Simon believes there would have been a in the water, it was all taking far too long.
had arrived at the scene, helped to get the “Arnie was absolutely exhausted by the time tragedy. “We don’t have lifeguards on the In the end I hung up and called my son who is
victim over the rocks and onto the beach where he got the first man in, too much longer and beach at this time of year,” he said. “If it hadn’t a member of the Hahei Volunteer Fire Brigade
he was attended to by a crew from St John he could have been in trouble himself, it was been for those surfers, at least one of the men and he organised the ambulance from there.
Mercury Bay South, including station manager, pretty incredible. I don’t know what those men would have drowned. They were so lucky “When you are talking about a possible
Penne Clayton. “The man had taken on a huge were thinking, it was a huge swell, probably someone was able to get to them in time.” drowning, we are dealing in minutes,
amount of water, another minute longer and he the biggest we’ve seen in recent weeks.” Simon said his experience phoning 111 every second counts, the response has to be
would probably have drowned,” Simon said. Simon said the incident, like many at the last Friday is giving him cause to think the much quicker.”
The man was airlifted to hospital by famous tourist spot, was likely due to visitors emergency system was not set up to deal The Hot Water Beach Lifeguard Service said
helicopter. His friend was carried ashore by the not being familiar with New Zealand’s surf with potential drownings. “I know they a tragedy had been prevented and thanked the
current further down the beach. “The man had conditions. “The men were in big trouble, have a process and they want to get as much members of the public and the various local
disappeared,” Simon said. “One of the guys they just didn’t realise how dangerous it could information as they can, but it’s just too slow,” emergency services - including fire, police
was out there looking for him and couldn’t see be,” he said. he said. “The girl I was talking to didn’t know and ambulance, and their own team of six
him, he had been carried quite a way down. Had it not been for the quick reaction of where Hot Water Beach was, then she was lifeguards - who all helped out.
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Community collaboration behind
Kuaotunu mural
Members of the Kuaotunu community,
in collaboration with Coromandel artist
Rebekah Pearson, have transformed the
Blackjack Reserve public toilet block from
bland to beautiful with a specially designed
mural reflecting the area’s stunning surrounds.
Thames-Coromandel District Council
refurbished the toilet block earlier this year,
installing two new outdoor showers. “Council
willingly agreed that the local community
could adorn the main wall with a mural that
reflected the spirit of our area,” said Kuaotunu
Residents and Ratepayers Association chair,
Brent Page.
“Rebekah was the easy choice to bring
this project to life and, after absorbing the
many ideas that came forward, began work.
Reflecting our pristine beach, surf, dark
skies and flora and fauna, the image clearly
demonstrates why locals are so passionate
about keeping Kuaotunu, Kuaotunu.”
The work was fully funded by the association.
Based in Tuateawa, north of Kennedy Bay,
Rebekah works mainly in paint and ceramics,
and has earned a reputation for her eye-
catching colourful murals which can be easily
spotted across the top half of the Coromandel.
Artist, Rebekah Pearson (on the right), with some of the Kuaotunu locals who provided creative input into the mural at the Blackjack Reserve
Rebekah said being able to brainstorm with
public toilet block. From the left - Alastair Brickell, Marguerite Muellers and Roimata Taimana.
Kuaotunu community members was key to
the success of the design which came together frying myself was a bit of a challenge, but I Kuaotunu community for all the coffees delayed as a result of coronavirus restrictions.
during a week-long period of discussion. thoroughly enjoyed chatting with locals and and ice-creams I was bought, it was an “The Coromandel 200 team would like to
“We nutted out what everyone wanted to tourists and the feedback about the mural absolute pleasure.” keep the design under wraps to maintain the
celebrate as important aspects of the area was wonderful. Rebekah was also commissioned to create element of surprise, so I can’t give away too
- the beach and bush, local birds such as the “Kuaotunu is so special and I’d like to a special piece of art to mark Coromandel much at this time,” Rebekah said. “But I can
dotterel, ruru (morepork) and the Coromandel send out a special thank you to Alistair 200 - Coromandel Town’s commemoration of say that I designed the piece to interact with
kiwi, and the night sky sanctuary,” she said. Brickell for his help with my constellations, the arrival of HMS Coromandel 200 years ago. its surroundings, that it draws on historical
“The mural itself took a week to paint, it was Roimata Taimana for his beautiful surf board The unveiling of the piece will now happen elements and will incorporate local raw and
in January so trying to strike a balance between design, Brent Page and Lise Hermansen for in September after the programme of events, recycled materials including kauri, ceramic,
making the most of the sunny weather and not being generally wonderful and the extended which centres on the Illume Festival, was steel and glass.”
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of Wednesday, 27 May to Wednesday, 3 June - Many people will have noticed Venus getting steadily lower in the dusk sky for the past few
weeks and it will move in front of the Sun on Thursday, 4 June, so will be invisible until later in the month when it reappears in the dawn as the “morning
star.” However, faint Mercury now takes over from Venus at dusk, appearing low in the NW early in June. Bright Jupiter and Saturn make a lovely duo
rising in the very late eastern evening sky to be followed after midnight by reddish Mars. Thursday, 28 May - Both faint Mercury and bright Venus below
it are still visible very low in the NW sky at dusk. The International Space Station will make a very low pass in the south starting at 5:57am as it pops
out of the earth’s shadow just near the Southern Cross. Friday, 29 May - The crescent Moon will be a lovely sight in a small telescope or binoculars as
it gradually rises higher from night to night in the early evening sky. Saturday, 30 May -The crescent Moon will be looking beautiful tonight to be joined Astronomy Tours and B&B
by bright Jupiter and fainter Saturn late in the evening. Sunday, 31 May - a lovely Moon overhead will precede bright Jupiter and fainter Saturn rising Phone (07) 866 5343
almost together later in the east. Wednesday, 3 June - Faint Mercury is just about at its highest in the sky tonight and can be spotted just at dusk in the
NW near where Venus was all last month. www.stargazersbb.com
Whitianga and Hot Water Beach tides Tides data sponsored by
nzwindows.co.nz
4 Dakota Drive
Whitianga
Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Tel 07 869 5990
Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020
Third “Support Local/
Buy Local” winner drawn
Congratulations to Mercury Bay resident, Andrew Selby, the third winner in The Informer’s
“Support Local/Buy Local” campaign. Andrew’s entry was drawn on Friday last week by Stuart
Brown (pictured), the owner of Whitianga’s Longshore Marine.
During the campaign, which will continue until the end of September, we’re giving away $100
every week (to spend with an Informer advertiser) to someone who supported a local Mercury
Bay business.
Andrew’s winning purchase was made at Fagan’s Furniture, Beds & Homewares in Whitianga.
Some local businesses are contributing additional prizes to the campaign. Andrew has also
won a $50 Longshore Marine voucher.
In early October, all entries received during the 22 weeks of the campaign will go into a second
draw, where the winner will win $1,000 to spend with one or more of our advertisers.
To enter is easy. Simply email us proof - in the form of invoices or receipts - of your local
purchases, or drop your invoices or receipts into the blue bin on the front porch of our office in
Whitianga or in the many “Support Local/Buy Local” counter boxes around Mercury Bay.
Please write you name and phone number on all your entries.
The philosophy behind the campaign is simple - the more you buy local, the better chance you
have of winning.
Local businesses need our support more than ever. Always remember, “You’ll find love in all the
local places.”
699 - 27 May
Issue 899 July 2016
2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
“After Lockdown” Exhibition
at Hot Waves Café
Like many events across the Coromandel Peninsula, this year’s Mercury Bay Art Escape Showcase
Exhibition at Hot Waves Café in Hot Water Beach was cut short by the Covid-19 lockdown. “Despite the
lockdown, the exhibition was one of our most successful and we had a great response from the public in
the short time it was open,” says Mercury Art Escape chair, Ian Preece.
“To celebrate our return to relative normality as we start to emerge from lockdown, the Mercury Bay Art
Escape is very happy to announce that our ‘After Lockdown’ Exhibition has opened at Hot Waves Café on
Saturday last week. We are featuring exciting new works from our artist members who have all been busy
creating over the last few weeks.
“Its great to see Hot Waves Café open again and we would like to thank Mary Channings, the owner,
for her continued support of the Art Escape. The exhibition is well worth a visit.”
This year’s winner of this years Peoples Choice Award at the Showcase Exhibition, as chosen by members
of the public, was Tairua artist, Michael Harrison. “Michael received a lot of positive feedback on his
dynamic style and vibrant use of colour at the Art Escape Open Studios that was held during the first two
weekends of March,” says Ian.
Pictured is Mary Channings at Michael Harrison’s People’s Choice Award artwork.
Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020
A closet cartoonist’s take on the Covid-19 restrictions Whitianga local, Peter Grant’s joy on Thursday last week when the pubs and bars opened after having been closed for eight weeks. Issue 899 - 27 May 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Steady start as businesses welcome
back customers
By Gillian O’Neill
Two weeks into the Covid-19 Alert Level problems with people congregating outside,” as they enter. do which has made it pretty easy for us.”
2 restrictions, many local businesses are Al says. “By the next day, the advice was we With people now well-familiar with social Al says the government’s wage subsidy had
eyeing up Queen’s Birthday weekend as an didn’t need a register if people could observe distancing, customers are observing the rules allowed him to retain all his staff throughout
opportunity to boost cashflow after what most a 2m distance, so that’s how we have been without any interventions. “The team are the lockdown and he felt optimistic about
have described as a steady start to the new operating since and it is working well.” watching and making sure that there is always the weeks and months ahead. “We are being
normal for staff and customers. As with many outlets, plastic screens have plenty of room in the store for customers cautious, we don’t know yet how much
A meal out, haircuts and plants have all been been installed at tills to protect staff and hand at all times, but people are really used to it Covid-19 will have changed what people
high on the wish list for shoppers readjusting sanitiser is provided at the door for customers now,” Al says. “They already know what to want to purchase, so we are watching very
to in-store shopping again after close to two
months of limited online offerings.
After an initial rush at Whitianga
Hammer Hardware on day one of Level 2,
owner/operator, Al Farman, says trade is
at near normal levels for the time of year
with their garden centre proving especially
popular and grass seed one of the biggest
selling products. “A lot of our bach owners
have come down after several weeks to check
their homes and I guess some of the lawns are
looking bit patchy,” he says.
Sales of plants are also strong and garden
centre manager, Mark Bergin, says he is
continually having to replace stock to keep
up with demand. “I think there is definitely
a feel good factor about getting in the garden
at the moment,” he says. “People are loving
it and it’s great seeing all our customers
coming back.”
The days prior to reopening were quite
stressful, however, as guidelines were
changing and difficult to clarify. “We were Mark Bergin, garden centre manager at Whitianga Stilo Hair & Co’s Pep Baggaley reunited with a
initially told that we had to have a sign-in Hammer Hardware says sales of plants are booming as more people very happy client, Vivienne Stevens of Blue Marlin Apartments
register at the door, which of course caused look to spend time in their gardens. in Whitianga, after lockdown.
3
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020
Steady start for local businesses carefully over these first few weeks to see hair during lockdown. “There were a couple what new trends may emerge so that we of wobbly fringes and the like, but overall are stocking the right products,” he says. no major disasters,” Mary says. “In fact, “But I think domestic tourism will come back, because they have maybe grown out a style particularly, with our holiday homeowners or colour, people have been asking to try new who will possibly visit even more often, things which has been quite fun for us. It has so we are feeling reasonably positive.” allowed us to get creative, which is what we Getting back to work has also come with love to do.” both relief and challenges for the team Along with retail, the hospitality sector has at Whitianga’s Stilo Hair & Co, which also been getting back to business. Restaurants is operating seven days a week to meet and cafes opened their doors on 14 April customer demand. with pubs following a week later. Owner “We can only have four of us here at a time, of The House of Chang Thai in Whitianga, normally we would have eight, so we are Max Murray, describes re-opening weekend well below normal capacity, but we are doing as steady. “We were pretty happy,” he says. our best to get through everyone as quickly “We are in that quiet time of year, but bookings as we can,” says owner, Mary Ray. “Once it were reasonably good all considered.” was announced we could re-open, we had 500 Patrons were familiar with the rules and inquiries, so we are having to ask people to be happy to comply. “We are a reasonably patient and bear with us.” large restaurant, so we could ensure people The layout of the salon has had to be adjusted were spaced apart quite easily,” Max says. to meet social distancing requirements and, “Everyone supplied their names and contact while masks are not compulsory, Mary says details as is required and there were no issues. the salon has ordered a small stock and staff Everyone was respectful and had a nice time.” were offering to wear them, particularly Max was optimistic that the push to if they were aware that a client could be encourage domestic tourism would bring more vulnerable. more people to Whitianga. “Losing Easter Mary says the mood among customers was and ANZAC Weekends, that was a big hit as good. “They are just so grateful and relieved it’s almost that last opportunity to really make that we are back,” she says. money before we go into winter,” he says. And while there were a few questionable “So, if we can see more visitors and more of DIY attempts to deal with, for the most part our holiday homeowners spending weekends clients didn’t cause too much damage to their here, that will definitely help.” Issue 899 - 27 May 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Indiana native captivated by Coromandel’s
creative scene
By Suzanne Hansen
Listening to a recent Creative Mercury Columbus Ohio. Ted was a research scientist
Bay “Bubble Bites” episode, I enjoyed and Betty a sculptor, artist and curator.
Gerald (Jerry) Thoma’s guitar performance A friendship instantly formed and Jerry and
and couldn’t help to recognise his lilting Meg were persuaded into buying the house.
midwestern US accent. Since then, they have returned to Hahei every
Being a bit of a transported ex-Midwesterner year and have developed a large circle of
myself, I set out to meet Jerry and find out friends and interests in Mercury Bay.
how he and his wife, Meg Auth, came to be They were due to return to the US earlier
resident in the community of Hahei, which is this month, but Covid-19 has extended
a long way away from their home in South their stay.
Bend Indiana, a thriving metropolis with a Talking about the coronavirus, Jerry
population of 300,000 and home of Notre says he is very impressed with the way that
Dame University. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her team
No stranger to the creative community is leading New Zealand through the crisis.
of Mercury Bay, Jerry and Meg have been By the same token, he is dismayed with how
spending up to six months a year (their the US is handling it, putting him at odds with
winters) in Hahei for the past 17 years. some of his own family members. While he
Jerry is a retired laboratory scientist with a thinks America had the same opportunity for
postgraduate degree in organic chemistry. lockdown, he says the US federal government
A casual singer and guitar player, he is also did not take enough responsibility and
a facilitator and philanthropist of The Music leadership has been poor.
Village, a not-for-profit musical arts centre Asked what he loves about New Zealand,
in South Bend. He is an active participant in Jerry is pretty forthright. He loves the
and advisor for The Music Village Jammers, A screenshot of Hahei/South Bend Indiana artist, Jerry Thoma’s guitar performance geography, landscapes and vistas. He says
a multifaceted menagerie of instrumentalists that formed part of a recent Creative Mercury Bay “Bubble Bites” episode. Kiwis are genuinely friendly. He highlights
and singers. This group has become quitedinner and a wine. Their new New Zealand both islands for two months, playing their the Coromandel’s rich population of artists
popular in their local area, playing at moreacquaintances left them with a beautiful table itinerary by ear and relying on word of mouth and creative talent, and expands on a
than 60 locations and special occasions inbook about scenic Aotearoa and insisted suggestions from those they met. community full of educated people, who are
2019, including farmers markets and agedJerry and Meg promise to come for a visit. It was this word of mouth that landed also incredibly grounded.
care homes. With a new business and not much money at them in Hahei. Soon after they arrived, Specifically, Jerry points to the music
Jerry met Meg at Notre Dame and theythe time, it would be a few years before they they came across a For Sale sign at a house scene on the Coromandel and in wider
got married in 1988. Meg is a renownedcould make good on that promise. which happened to belong to renowned artist, New Zealand, noting the large number of
metal smith and art jeweller with studios in Eventually in December 2004, Jerry Dorothy Waters. A sharp lady in her late 80s, homegrown, talented musicians. He also
Hahei and Indiana. While volunteering forand Meg took off to make their first visit once Dorothy found out that Jerry and Meg loves the international flavour that New
the International Special Olympics in Indianato Australia and New Zealand. Starting in were from Indiana, she insisted that they Zealand provides because he is constantly
about two decades ago, they met two KiwiBrisbane they continued around Tasmania meet her neighbours, Ted and Betty Collings, crossing paths with people from all cultures
team chaperons and invited them home forand finally New Zealand, where they toured who divided their time between Hahei and when he and Meg are in the country.
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in the night sky and the Whitianga and
Hot Water Beach tides.
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Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020
Issue 899
699 - 27 May
July 2016
2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
Tips for Business Owners
By Christine Petrie
It is great that most businesses can now time limits on your offers, assess the margin
trade, albeit in a very uncertain environment. per customer that these sales generate and
While some are experiencing strong demand, adjust quickly to improve returns.
for others business remains “patchy.” Businesses with customer databases may
This may continue for some time as we adjust benefit from making personal contact with
to the upheaval Covid-19 has brought. “regulars” they have not seen post lockdown.
There are some great deals out there to While some folk are happily out and about,
encourage people to come out of hibernation others, especially those who have been
and spend money. While discounting has labelled “vulnerable,” may remain fearful.
its place, even in difficult times, businesses There could be opportunities to reassure
must ensure that they are still covering their these customers by, for example, offering
costs, which includes a reasonable return for a different delivery method or providing
the owners. detailed information about your strengthened
If you are discounting to quit slow and health and safety practices.
obsolete stock, use this opportunity to
It is more important than ever to understand
persuade customers to buy higher margin
your business risks and keep a close watch on
products as well. Pricing strategies that use
“loss leaders” to grow sales require a good both market trends and your cash flow.
understanding of what is important for your Information included in this column is of
target customers and what factors that are a general nature and is not a substitute
critical for profitability. for tailored legal, accounting and other
Test the market to see what works, but put professional advice.
Christine Petrie, the author
of this column, is the owner
of Shifting Focus Business
Consulting. She can be
contacted on telephone
(021) 775 571 or email
christine@shiftingfocus.co.nz.
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020Councils battle to drive down rates hikes Waikato Regional Council has become the help the region recover.” Both Mr Rimmington and WRC chief next week for the first round of formal latest local authority to strike a zero rates The spreading of proposed flood executive, Vaughan Payne, have also deliberations on the TCDC draft Annual Plan rise in the wake of the economic impact of protection rates increases over a further six taken a 20 per cent pay cut for six months, 2020/2021 and the originally signalled rates Covid-19. years, instead of three was one significant with the resulting $33,000 in funds redirected increase of 10 per cent. The council has found savings through factor in achieving the zero rates rise. to the Waikato Community Funders Group, While the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union staff pay freezes and efficiencies, and has “We’ve used a surplus of $789,000 set aside a collection of the region’s philanthropic has been running a petition calling for zero also agreed to a small increase in borrowing. from the last financial year to offset the general trusts and funders who are working to make rates rises across the country, not all councils The net 0.1 per cent rates reduction means rates revenue requirement for 2020/21, sure financial support gets to where it is are equal in terms of their financial health only a small number of ratepayers will receive but immediate savings are also being passed needed most during the Covid-19 pandemic. and consequently the options available to a marginal increase with the vast majority - on to ratepayers through a rigorous budget Ratepayers’ attention now turns to the them when it comes to sparing ratepayers including those in the Thames-Coromandel review and some additional medium-term elected members of Thames-Coromandel while continuing to deliver services and District - seeing rates stay the same as borrowing,” Mr Rimmington said. District Council who will meet on Tuesday infrastructure. According to a database the current financial year. The district’s compiled by the union, some councils have representative on WRC, Councillor Denis already agreed or committed to freezing rates. Tegg, also welcomed the $400,000 which These include Christchurch City Council and has been earmarked for hardship rates relief. Dunedin City Council, as well as Manawatu, “I encourage anyone struggling to pay their South Waikato, Taupo, Tasman and Waitaki rates to contact WRC and seek assistance,” District Councils. he said. A few others have already passed a WRC chair, Russ Rimmington, said the significantly reduced rates rise than had council had to act decisively to protect been proposed, including Whangarei District Waikato residents as they deal with the Council who accepted a hike of 2.2 per cent impacts of Covid-19. “Our budget [for rather than the planned 5.2 per cent and WRC’s next financial year] is anything but Waimate District Council who came down business as usual,” he said. “Residents across from 7.7 per cent to 3.7 per cent. Others who our region may be facing long lists of money have signalled a rethink include Westland worries in these tough times, but we were District Council (8.5 per cent to 1.67 per adamant rates rises from the regional council cent), Wellington City Council (9.2 per cent wouldn’t be among them. to 5.1 per cent) and South Wairarapa District “That’s why we’ve taken unprecedented Council (13.75 per cent to 2.54 per cent). steps to tighten our belts this year. We’ve run TCDC chief executive, Rob Williams, the ruler over each budget line to make sure confirmed that elected members will be every dollar is working for residents. We’ve presented with a number of options next week. made these savings principally through Whitianga from the air last week. Several councillors, including Mercury Bay’s efficiencies in planned spending, rather Mercury Bay property owners, like all property owners on the Coromandel Peninsula, Murray McLean and Coromandel-Colville’s than cuts to levels of service, to ensure we are facing a possible 10 per cent rates increase. John Morrissey, have already indicated they continue to support the jobs we’ll need to Waikato Regional Council rates, however, will not be increasing. are opposed to a 10 per cent hike. Issue 899 - 27 May 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11
Coromandel Lifestyle Centre to open on 8 June The owners of 100% Whitianga and Thames, Mark and Cara Milmine, have confirmed that their newest business venture, the Coromandel Lifestyle Centre, will open on Monday, 8 June. The centre is located in the latest stage of the Kupe’s Crossing development on Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga (next door to the new Evolution Fitness gym). “We would have loved to be open for Queen’s Birthday Weekend, but delays with supplies after the Covid-19 lockdown made that impossible,” says Mark. The centre will host the 100% Whitianga appliances business and also feature beds under the Beds R Us brand, homeware and gifts (trading as Joie de Vivre) and a range of indoor and outdoor furniture. Central to the appliances offering is an immersive built-in kitchen experience highlighting the range of products available. “The centre has polished concrete floors and a luxury feel throughout,” says Mark. “Our aim is to present shoppers with an experience Whitianga has never seen before.” The decision to relocate to the Kupe’s Crossing development was based on the limited space available at the current 100% Whitianga store in Albert Street. “We simply had no room to grow, which made it impossible to expand into other product categories,” says Mark. “In deciding which brands and products to bring into the Coromandel Lifestyle Centre, we tried hard not to encroach on existing retailers in the Mercury Bay area. For example, the furniture we will be stocking, will embody a ‘coastal vibe’ and will be pitched at a mid-range price point. Also, through Beds R Us, we’ll be able to bring New Zealand’s most popular bed, Sleepyhead, to the local market.” Mark was able to retain all the 100% Whitianga staff during the Covid-19 lockdown. They have been joined by four new employees for a total staff compliment of nine. “The sense of pride among our employees is quite astonishing,” says Mark. “They are working incredibly hard to get everything ready for our opening. It’s a pity that we won’t be ready to trade any earlier, but we have little doubt that the wait will be worth it. Once the doors are open, shoppers will not only be able to experience what we believe is something quite special, but also take advantage of some great deals across the centre. We can’t wait to welcome everyone on 8 June.” Part of the built-in immersive kitchen experience in the new Coromandel Lifestyle Centre in Whitianga. Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020
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Letters to the Editor
See page 8 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
Dear Editor - Plastic recycling Great walking tracks Cycling experiences
A big thumbs up to Thames-Coromandel District Council for standing up and dealing with Outstanding accommodation Excellent retail shops, cafés and restaurants
our waste problem. And thank you to The Informer for keeping us updated of developments. I could go on, but we have high class travel operators available who have the ability to put
TCDC has given us all a strong platform to work from to educate all businesses who packages together to make Mercury Bay one of the best tourist destinations in New Zealand.
continue to overload us with unwanted plastics. Let’s back our council 100 per cent on this and They also deserve our support in their endeavours.
request repackaging of any items presented in plastic not identified as type 1 or 2. Not just our Noel Hewlett
supermarkets, but every retailer we support. They will then have a strong case to present to Whitianga
their wholesalers to change to environmentally acceptable packaging. Dear Editor - Lockdown lunacy
It worked in the UK and, together, we can make it work here as well.
Many businesses were named and shamed in the national media (including Fair Go) before,
but there are some out there who have continued with their environmentally unacceptable
packaging. Late last year, GlaxoSmithKline were named and shamed for their excessive plastic
packaging for a tiny container of Flexonase. On prescription it comes in a perfectly adequate
and acceptable cardboard box, but is three-times that size on the shelf at your pharmacy,
all packaged in plastic. I asked, as many others do, to have the item removed from all the plastic,
at the place of purchase, and left with just the product. Pharmacies’ requests for repackaging
have been ignored. I now use another product.
TCDC is to be congratulated for setting a standard and moving forward so positively.
United we can make a difference, so let’s do it - for us and most of all, our country.
AN Cole-Ewen
Wharekaho
Dear Editor - We don’t know how lucky we are
Mercury Bay is a great place to live, but are we a forgotten destination for tourism? During the
many weeks of the Covid-19 lockdown and watching a lot of television, it seems that tourism
has been one industry that has been hit the hardest. While it is very sad that so many people
have lost their employment in the tourist sector, together with related businesses, we must fight
back in our community to support this industry.
I have been disappointed that in all the rhetoric in the media on tourism, they have
concentrated on traditional destinations like Queenstown and Rotorua, but not even mentioned
the Coromandel Peninsula. Mercury Bay offers such great tourist experiences. Here are 12 that
immediately come to mind -
Many beautiful beaches Cathedral Cove/Hahei
Hot Water Beach The Lost Spring
Boating excursions Fishing trips Richard Reed
An iconic ferry ride Major festivals Whitianga
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Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020Charting the road ahead - what’s next for tourism? A contribution by Destination Coromandel As we confront further economic challenges and ongoing uncertainty, the recovery for the tourism industry and wider economy begins. Destination Coromandel, charged with promoting the Thames-Coromandel and Hauraki Districts as a visitor destination, believes the Covid-19 environment has exposed realities that help provide a path forward amidst the rubble. That path begins during a traditionally quiet five-month long off-season, extended beyond six months courtesy of a lockdown period that brought zero cashflow. While some businesses are adept at dealing with a quiet off-season, others have opted out of survival mode, closing indefinitely, unable to hold out for the summer lifeline. Destination Coromandel is kicking off a winter campaign in an effort to stimulate travel as we work towards a summer “Where Kiwis Holiday” campaign. The winter promotion will target people in our drive market, keen to enjoy “The Coromandel good for your soul” culture. Homegrown food, local arts and shopping will provide retail therapy while the wide-open spaces on our beaches, and walking and bike tracks will give a much-needed dose of wellness. Our marketing manager, Megan Nunn, believes this will appeal to what many have missed during lockdown. “Two things have become very apparent in the last month,” she says. “Travel is important for our health and wellbeing, as is the value of community and connections. Our winter campaign is the perfect antidote for what we’ve missed, those good for your soul moments.” While strongly supporting the need to act responsibly during the lockdown, behind the scenes Destination Coromandel believes it has revealed a contradiction in terms - travel is anything but non-essential. “For those of us who live on The Coromandel, our amazing backyard is a great place to stay local,” says Megan. “We are so fortunate. Even still, the ability to get out, discover, explore and connect is so rewarding - this is what our region can offer to visitors keen to recharge.” The importance of community and the impact they can have on the tourism sector will become even more relevant going forward. “Obviously, we need locals to support tourism and hospitality businesses right now,” says Megan. “Further into the future, communities that work well together will be key in building a more resilient tourism ecosystem - where nature, locals and visitors thrive.” Tourism New Zealand is leading a project to re-imagine the tourism industry. Immediate activity is driven by economic terms, starting with a campaign to encourage domestic travel. In parallel, longer term goals see an industry that is well-equipped, resilient and committed to ensuring tourism in New Zealand benefits our people, our communities and our natural environment. That’s essential for our wellbeing. Issue 899 - 27 May 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15
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2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21Kids, have some
colouring fun...
“Kīwaha o te wiki” (saying of the week)
“Me he tē” - Like a boss
Saying of the week supplied by Te Puna Reo ō Whitianga - a playgroup with a focus on Māori tikanga and te reo Māori.
Please join the “Puna Reo ō Whitianga” Facebook page for exciting virtual sessions while the group does not meet physically because of Covid-19 restrictions.
Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020Students praised for their resilience as schools reopen As thousands of enthusiastic students returned to the classrooms across the Coromandel last week, teachers and principals have been praising the young people for their resilience and positive attitude. Like everyone else, students have had to adapt quickly to new ways of working - all against the backdrop of uncertainty and at times fear over the potential impacts of a global pandemic. “We have been able to welcome all of our young people back and it is fantastic to see their smiles, hear their laughter, and engage in their rahui/lockdown stories,” said Mercury Bay Area School principal, John Wright. “Our young people are remarkable. We have all had the same experiences of lockdown - being away from our friends and loved ones - and our young people have come back incredibly positive, engaged with our expectations and working positively with everyone, with tolerance, with patience and with kindness. “It is really special to be part of our kura, the culture that permeates everywhere is remarkable. Thank you all as parents, caregivers, friends and families for doing what you have done to keep our young people buoyant and uplifted in this time.” At Te Rerenga School, acting principal Mary Kedzlie described the excitement as children returned to school after two months of online learning at home. “The happy laughter and smiles on faces were a delight,” she said. “Classes have settled back into routine quickly and are getting on with their learning. The teachers have been most impressed by all of the fantastic learning that took place at home over lockdown.” While schools were proactive in sending out letters to parents and caregivers about what the return to school would look like, kids for the most part just got on with the job, observing hygiene rules while joyfully celebrating reunions with friends. For teachers there was a strong focus on fun and re-establishing connections in a similar approach to the first week of the new school year. “Our priority is to transition our children and staff back to school life,” said Whenuakite School principal, Eamonn Kelly. “This will be challenging for everyone. We will be spending a lot of time looking at our K.I.T.E values - kind, innovative, trustworthy, enthusiastic - with the children.” School guidelines require that social distancing is observed where possible, but there is no specific distance that needs to be observed. There remains a strong emphasis on hand washing and students must remain home if they are sick. Pictured are students in Class M8 at Mercury Bay Area School taking advantage of the good weather to get busy in the garden during their first week back at school after lockdown. Issue 899 - 27 May 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23
New text alert service for Jobless numbers double in the
Coromandel Town wake of Covid-19
Evidence is emerging that the economic 1.2 per cent in the March 2020 year, following
impacts of Covid-19 may be starting to bite for an already softer December 2019 result,”
Coromandel households, with unemployment TCDC said in a statement. “That compares to
numbers almost doubling during March a 2.7 per cent growth rate three months earlier
and April. and is lower than the rate for the Waikato
Figures from the Ministry of Social Region (2.3 per cent) and New Zealand
Development show that the number of people (1.7 per cent).”
on the Peninsula receiving a job seeker benefit Infometrics says Ministry of Business,
rose from 342 to 677 - a 98 per cent spike over Innovation and Employment data showed
the two-month period. This makes the Thames- tourism spending on the Coromandel remained
Coromandel District one of the hardest hit areas above $400 million in the year ending March
of New Zealand. 2020, up 5.1 per cent on the previous 12 months.
The number of people in receipt of an “However, with the collapse in international
accommodation supplement also jumped tourism spending since late March, the tourism
significantly since February, rising by 10 per sector faces tough times and will need to
cent to a yearly high of 2,269. The numbers compete for a limited pool of domestic tourism
may in some part have been impacted by spending,” warns economist, Brad Olsen.
The Coromandel Town Information Centre (pictured) is going the extra mile to connect with the additional people remaining in the district due “Local construction activity is also set to soften,
community and ensure no-one misses out on important information. to lockdown. with a lower profile of building expected over
The centre is setting up a text messaging service which will allow any member of the public Across New Zealand, employment rose by the next year, reinforced by annual residential
to receive a weekly text in relation to what’s happening and how to get in touch with services 26 per cent over the same period, with almost consent growth of just one per cent.”
they may find helpful. 40,000 more people out of work. Getting people to spend may also prove
The Coromandel’s jobless figures have challenging. “We expect a more cautious
Information centre manager, Sandra Wilson, says frequently people who come into the centre already been trending upwards over the profile to emerge as the labour market
say they missed out on something because they hadn’t heard about it. While the centre has an past year. When compared to a year ago, deteriorates, with job losses, lower hours and
active Facebook page, not everyone in the community engages with online communication. the number of people unemployed is up by possible pay cuts limiting household budgets,”
Examples of notifications could include power cuts, roading issues/closures, events, plays, 157 per cent. However, population growth has Mr Olsen says.
festivals and art exhibitions. been a significant factor. In fact, Infometrics, Interestingly, as we entered the Covid-19
Groups and organisations around Coromandel Town are being asked to inform their members who provides economic data and analysis Alert Level 2 restrictions, food, beverage
about the new text service in order to reach as many people as possible. “If they are interested, to Thames-Coromandel District Council, and pharmacy spending in the Thames-
they can contact us directly via email, phone or text. The service is free and available to all says the district in 2019 still sat on an average Coromandel District was still running 25 per
those with cell phones. We would only need their name and cell phone number, which will only unemployment rate of just 2.5 per cent, a 10- cent higher than at the same time last year,
be shared with the provider setting up the system and the team at the Info Centre so we can year low. according to Waikato economic development
manage the messaging portal,” Sandra says. In its latest report to council, Infometrics agency, Te Waka.
revealed how tourism spending managed to Te Waka, in co-operation with TCDC,
While the service is ultimately aimed at those residing in Coromandel Town, anyone who is hold up on the Peninsula for most of the first can provide a range of support to local
interesting in hearing about what’s going on in the town is welcome to sign up. quarter of 2020, while growth in other sectors businesses who may be facing difficulties
To sign up, please contact the Information Centre at coroinfo@xtra.co.nz, (07) 866 8598 or was almost at standstill. “Infometrics estimates as a result of Covid-19. More information is
(027) 521 5560. economic growth in our district softened to available at www.tewaka.nz.
Page 24 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020Issue 899
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2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 25Forests help achieve carbon neutral status
for Thames-Coromandel District
Getting around the Coromandel Peninsula is to 2018/19. The purpose of the inventory
the biggest source of carbon pollution in the is to provide WRC and the local councils
Thames-Coromandel District, with the distance within its territory an understanding of their
between our urban centres, limited public emissions generation.
transport and a high volume of tourists all Specifically, the purpose of the report is to
contributing factors. identify where the Waikato’s emissions are
However, overall the district is reducing the coming from and calculate the changes in
Waikato Region’s carbon emissions - one of emissions compared to 2015/16. Knowing
only two districts to do so - contributing minus the sources of emissions will help with the
117,864 tonnes to the overall total in 2018/19. development of a climate action plan or setting
In the world of carbon, negative numbers reduction targets.
are winning numbers, although Councillor Before the impact of forestry is taken
Denis Tegg, the Thames-Coromandel District’s into account, the Coromandel generated an
representative on Waikato Regional Council, estimated 494,140 metric tonnes of carbon
described the district’s success as an “accident dioxide, 378.07 tonnes per $1 million of GDP.
of nature.” “Thames-Coromandel is fortunate When measured against productivity,
in having a significant part of its land area the Peninsula is second only to Hamilton
covered in native forest in the Department of in terms of carbon efficiency, even before
Conservation estate and exotic forest,” he said. the offsetting impact of our forests is taken
“These forests sequester carbon, which means into account.
that Thames-Coromandel along with Taupo Mr Tegg says there is still plenty of
District are carbon neutral, whereas districts opportunity for the Coromandel to make
with high agricultural activities have the highest further gains. “Thames-Coromandel District’s
carbon footprint. greatest opportunity to reduce emissions is
Councillor Denis Tegg, the Thames-Coromandel District’s representative
“On the other hand, Thames-Coromandel has by encouraging a quick transition to electric
on Waikato Regional Council.
the third highest level of transport emissions in vehicles,” he said.
the Waikato. This is likely due to peak holiday Behind transportation, agriculture was the cent from 2015/16 due to an overall smaller per cent of total transportation emissions during
periods when thousands of visitors arrive by second biggest contributor to the Coromandel’s herd size, making it the only sector with an the reporting period.
vehicle. Thames-Coromandel’s transport carbon emissions at 183,042 tonnes, followed improving number. Forestry is a significant sink for the Waikato,
emissions are about 40 per cent of those in by stationery energy (which includes electricity From a regional perspective, the transport removing about 44 per cent of total gross
Hamilton City.” production) at 53,937 tonnes, waste at 12,247 sector saw the largest increase in emissions emissions, more than double the national
The figures are contained in Waikato Regional tonnes and industrial activity at 9,428 tonnes. from the 2015/16 inventory at over 30 percent. average. However, it is hoped new policies
Council’s recently released Greenhouse Gas Unsurprisingly, agriculture at 69 per cent The study attributes this to an increasing around carbon neutrality goals will reverse a
Emissions Inventory, an estimate of gases remained the largest contributor to total gross population. The largest increase was for jet trend that has seen this positive impact from
emitted to or removed from the atmosphere emissions for the Waikato Region, reflecting kerosene (214 per cent), followed by road forestry reduced in the region due to more
over a given period. A baseline inventory was the dairy-dominated economic landscape, transport, specifically diesel (43 per cent). trees being harvested than replanted and/or
compiled in 2015/16 and the latest data relates although there was a small reduction of 4.2 per On-road transport contributed to a massive 96 newly planted.
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Page 26 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 899 - 27 May 2020Second Bellyful Whitianga cookathon Bellyful Whitianga’s second cookathon, sponsored by the Lioness Club of Mercury Bay, was held at Mercury Bay Area School on Saturday last week. A group of seven volunteers prepped, cooked and packed 98 meals in three hours. These meals are now stored in freezers in Whitianga and Cooks Beach, ready to be delivered to families with newborn babies and families with young children who are struggling with illness. Under the Covid-19 Alert Level 2 restrictions, the cookathon took place with social distancing and extra health and safety precautions. Bellyful is a volunteer-led organisation providing cooked meals for families in need of support. Each of the 24 Bellyful branches across New Zealand makes the same key meals using the same recipes - beef lasagne, beef bolognese sauce, macaroni cheese, and tomato and red lentil soup. “The Bellyful food is designed for families that often include pre-school food critics, so it’s simple but nutritious and tasty,” says Emily Pavey, Bellyful Whitianga branch coordinator. Families are referred to Bellyful by health professionals, family and friends. Families can also refer themselves. “It was brilliant to be back in the kitchen and filling our freezers” says Emily. “We’re expecting to receive an increase in requests for support following the Covid-19 lockdown. We know more people than ever will be facing difficult times and we’re ready to help where we can.” If you'd like to volunteer with Bellyful or would like to refer a family (including your own family) for support, please visit www.bellyful.org.nz or message Bellyful Whitianga on Facebook. Pictured are volunteers Hendry Tainsh and Kate Lewis during Saturday’s cookathon. Sport Results THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB Twos - CJ Palmer, Nearest the Pin - David Gaskell. Men’s Golf 4BBB - Wednesday 20 May Mercury Bay Club Snooker Results - 1 Muzza James and Tony De Coek 43, 2 Jim Saturday 23 May Dale and Pete Murphy 43, 3 Tim Bartlett and Al Sims Best of three frames (Purangi) 42. Six players today. With two straight wins after the first Twos - Jim Dale and Dennis Ford, Nearest the Pin - two rounds, Forrest Littlejohn automatically won the Tony De Coek. tournament. Forrest has also achieved the highest Men’s Golf Stabeleford - Saturday 23 May break with 22. Results - 1 Keith Roberts 37, 2 Tony De Coek 35, Those with two wins were Barry Roach and Warren 3 Rhys Mathias 34. Bellingham. Issue 899 - 27 May 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 27
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