Mercury Bay Challenges for the America's Cup! - The Seagull
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Mercury Bay
Challenges
for the
America’s Cup!
The Seagull
March 2021 - number 8 - Out the first Monday of every month
editorial
H ello everyone and welcome to our March 2021 Issue!
Can you believe that it is officially the first month of Autumn?
design and advertising
The Seagull magazine apreciates the support of all
How did Summer fly past so quickly? it’sadvertisers.
Don’t despair, there’s still loads to look forward to and we’re still
If you would like to advertise with us please have your
counting our blessings that we live in this amazing location.
artwork or ad through to us by the Split It “Equally”
The Mercury Bay Art Escape spans two weekends every March International Women’s Day is March 8th. Exactly one
and provides visitors and locals alike the opportunity to explore 10th of the month. year on from the start of a pandemic in New Zealand but human lives aren’t economic transactions.
the wider Mercury Bay and the artists who reside here. Grab a that screwed working women. The data from August Some people argue we should stop talking about
guidebook and take your time to explor galleries and workshops us a call or send us an email. last year still makes me scrunch my eyes up searching gender discrimination in the workforce because by
in our towns and villages and even up our back roads. Email theseagull@xtra.co.nz or for loopholes to make it anything but true. 11,000 now we have all learnt that it’s “bad” to discriminate
Grab a cuppa or a meal at one of the fabulous eateries that will phone 027 383 5124 people lost jobs after the first lock down last year. so it will slowly work itself out. How will it slowly
punctuate your journey. Check out our spread in this issue. 10,000 were women. work itself out if the current system is continually
We can’t wait for the America’s Cup Finals between Luna Rossa Here are some more straight facts: there is a 9.5% benefiting the advantaged and continually screwing the
Prada Pirelli and Emirates Team New Zealand. If you’ve been gender pay gap in New Zealand; female dominated disadvantaged? We will simply see the same pattern
around a while, like I have, you’ll remember when Mercury Bay sectors are under-valued and under-paid; women as the last few decades: an increasing inequality
challenged for the Cup! Yes, we did, how Digital Artwork
undertake a disproportionate amount of unpaid gap, because those that the system is working for
audacious! All digital greyscale and color art should be at 300 dpi.
work. Yet modern feminism looks like splitting bills, hold the power and aren’t incentivised enough for
Ron Morgan has recounted the story for us and the lovely The following digital file types are accepted:
independence, paying our own way, and acting more radical change to truely make a difference for the
Diana Morcom has found us some fabulous photos from Toby’s Acceptable file formats: All Adobe Products – Acrobat (PDF
like men. It begs the question if in a world that still disadvantaged. Much of mainstream white feminism
archives, thank you so much Diana. files with fonts embedded), InDesign (INDD or IDML files with
spins at women’s expense and men’s benefit, are is still rooted in patriarchy and protecting men. Who
There is no ‘Hometown Hero’ this month, but we offer you the accompanying links and fonts included), Illustrator (EPS or AI files),
aspects of modern feminism further disadvantaging really benefits by splitting meals? Who benefits from
opportunity to BE one! Local man David Johnston is fighting the Photoshop (JPG, PNG, TIFF, PSD). women? having an independent partner that can provide for
battle of his life against a Acting more like a man gets you further because herself AND still organise the home? Who benefits from
cancer which is only treatable with a non-funded drug. David Not accepted formats: Freehand, Corel Draw, Paint, systematically, there is something wrong with being women unable to take promotions due to motherhood?
and his young family would appreciate any support you, our Quark myself in this world. Take it further than an economic So as International Woman’s Day approaches next
wonderful community and local businesses, can offer. Follow the view of women’s time and holistically calculate the week and you roll your eyes midway through your
link in the story written by David’s long-time friends Tony and Vector artwork should be saved in an .EPS format with fonts and impact of the male gaze, everyday sexism, workplace predictably busy everyday routine at yet another
Kelly Austin. Arohanui David. images embedded, or all images and fonts must be supplied. harassment, and the fact NZ police get called out every “symbolic" day, know I feel guilty for writing all of this
The sea is still warm, we’re still only Covid Level 1 or 2 (at the All screen and printer fonts must be provided. 4 minutes to domestic violence, and you might even and insisting I split the bill on my last date. Logic that
time of print), we’re winning at T20 cricket (which makes me We will substitute with similar fonts if originals are not submitted. laugh at “splitting the bill”. Some gender disparities goes against social norms is hard to act on alone under
very happy) and we have much to be grateful for. Text can be converted to outlines, but if proofing errors are in the New Zealand workforce can be explained by the weight of socially engrained feelings of guilt and
Many thanks to all of you who take time to read The Seagull, to discovered, new art may need to be submitted. sociodemographic and economic factors, however half insecurity.
those who take the time to give us feedback and encouragement to two-thirds is simply considered good old On International Women’s Day know that women can’t
and to our wonderful Images from the web are not suitable for discrimination. do it alone.
advertisers supporting local stories…we couldn’t do it without The Government’s economic solution to COVID-19
you. printing.
was to pour billions into the construction sector, a
Stay safe and keep scanning those Covid QR codes! sector dominated by men. I love hearing the many
A big thank you to David Bayer who stories of women smashing it in the trades as they
has been our fabulous designer for our have increasingly been doing, but this isn’t a universal
first 8 issues and brought The Seagull solution for the 10,000 woman who lost their jobs after
vision to life through its trials and the first lockdown. It’s simply an economic solution,
tribulations! It hasn’t been easy but
I know our readers have absolutely
loved his work.
David is moving on to concentrate
on his fabulous artwork and design
Editor business
Deli Connell
theseagull@xtra.co.nz
Reader’s contributions of letters and articles are welcome. Publication of these is at the discretion of the
editorial team and may be edited. Contributions will only be considered for publication with the author’s
full name, residential address and contact number. Opinions expressed in The Seagull are not necessarily
those of the publishers.
The Seagull is published by Oystercatcher Enterprises Ltd.
Disclaimer: No responsibility is accepted for loss or damage suffered by anyone relying on the information within. No endorsement of any service or product
advertised or featured is implied or assumed.
1
The Seagull
Mercury Bay Challenges involvement of notable politicians and celebrities.
Toby expressed his dissatisfaction, in his speech, of the intention of
the racing in their city.
Ex-pat kiwis quickly joined together to provide a support group
for the America’s Cup!
San Diego to sail a multi-hull boat and asked that the traditions of to cheer on our team and some entrepreneurial folk sold
the America’s Cup remain. New Zealand products. One such product was bottled water
Many of the international visitors and journalists were later invited with snow-capped mountains and a pristine river on the label
to Mercury Bay and were hosted at Toby and Diana’s farm for a which was selling well. Upon quizzing the salesperson as to the
By long-time local and boating man Ron ‘Zap’ Morgan. special barbeque together with local club members.
Following this successful function the visitors continued to be
origins of the water there was a ‘cone of silence’’… no reply
forthcoming!
When the bombshell announcement was made that the when asked about the difficulty of keeping such a plan secret, impressed with Sir Michael transporting the media representatives An appeal to the race outcome was lodged in November 1988
Mercury Bay Boating Club was to mount a challenge for the commented “The timing was close to the deed of challenge to Mercury Island in four helicopters. with the New York Supreme Court regarding the catamaran
America’s Cup, if there had been such a term at the time, one being lodged so a few days was no real problem.” The San Diego club evidently initially ignored the challenge but controversy had contravened the Deed of Gift.
would have initially labeled it “fake news.” Others may have The challenge was made to the San Diego Yacht Club in July of a court ruling from the New York Supreme Court indicated the After a delay until March 1989 a decision was made informing
expressed doubt and expressed phrases such as the modern- 1987. This news brought world media attention for both the challenge was valid. So, in December of 1987 the San Diego Club the club of the favourable result. It was major news as this was
day advertisement (by a certain brewery) as… “Yeah Right”, town and club. informed Mercury Bay of their acceptance but the following the first disqualification ever!.
and “Impossible,“ Can’t happen!” Of special interest for many journalists were the club’s month announced they would definitely defend the challenge in a This was obviously the cause of great celebrations and local club
“Someone is handling the truth carelessly”. modest possessions especially the mobile ‘clubrooms’ –a multihull yacht. members and the community rejoiced. As expected, there was
Winding the clock back and looking at the challenge many are Mark II Zephyr belonging to Carol Moyes. Further legal battles continued with a decision made that the massive national and international news coverage all bringing
still in awe at such a monumental challenge coming from our The club had to do due diligence on legal requirements races should be sailed and after the contest any protests could be attention to the local area again.
small town. and copyright and seek a suitable logo to maximize the lodged. A big increase in MB Boating Club associate membership was
It is my understanding that Sir Michael Fay and David commercial opportunities available. Denis Connor recognized that multi hulls were not prohibited and evident with the publicity generated which was of great benefit
Richwhite required a small, affiliated club from which to Toby came to the rescue with an iconic logo with mainsails sailed the first multihull in an America’s Cup regatta. The big boat to the small organisation.
mount a confidential challenge. Utilizing one of the big clubs and a spinnaker with MB and the star of the planet Mercury challenge saw Mercury Bay represented with a 90 foot monohull, Sadly the appeal by San Diego was eventually successful -
from other major centres would have been problematic with featured. somewhat reminiscent of earlier challenges and defenses. informing them that they could keep the cup.
confidentiality being a paramount concern. As details of the challenge emerged there was huge local The racing was a one-sided affair with the wing powered multihull The town was later treated by a visit from KZ-1 and KZ-7
“They needed a club that would remain strictly confidential,” and international interest. Many of the club members were being too slick during the races of September 1988. after being towed from the Gisborne anniversary celebration.
says Al Gould, past Commodore of the Mercury Bay Boating privileged to view the challenging boat prior to launching, I was at the challenge and although obviously disappointed with Because of the 28-foot draught the yacht could not come
Club. having been sworn to secrecy. the outcome was super proud of witnessing our challenge and close into the Bay. Many club members took the opportunity
Sir Michael, as co-owner of Mercury Island, had had previous Toby’s wife Diana Morcom was given the special honour of the effort of our sailors together with their sportsmanship. I was to experience the thrill of sailing the big boat and had a most
dealings with, and assistance from, Toby Morcom so the private christening the yacht and evidently required several attempts amazed at the size of our yacht, 120 feet overall, and with a crew memorable trip on board.
liaison was initiated and the “plan” was outlined. This was for the giant bottle of Moet to crack. of 40. The yacht is now outside the Maritime Museum in Auckland. For the next challenge (Nov 1991) the commodore of the club
shared in confidence with a select few. The actual launching was a grand affair with full international It was interesting to note that many I spoke to in prominent at the time, Al Gould, signed the registration for the challenge
Bob Scott, Mercury Bay Boating Club Commodore at the time, media coverage, large crowds, bands, a pōwhiri and full hospitality venues whilst in San Diego were blissfully unaware of on the back of his quad bike on his farm. This was also featured
continued on page 4
2 3
The Seagull
in many media posts. Toby duly obliged.” Al Gould
NZL 20 sailed successfully into the finals of the Louis Vuitton “We sold apparel. “
Cup but was unfortunately beaten by the Italian crew. (Hopefully The club became the focus of international attention among
the current contest against the Italians will reverse this result!). yachting circles.”
Other challenges in more recent times have been well There have been so many changes to the Cup rules,
documented and more familiar but did not involve the local club. format and yachts used in the challenges and defenses.
However, the Mercury Bay Boating Club continues to flourish at “Courses are today more viewer-friendly with great television
all levels with a strong programme for junior members and many coverage. Some earlier races had 20 nautical miles per leg with an
a sailboat out on the Bay is a fine sight mid-week with our local out and back course.”
fleet enjoying twilight sailing. “More expensive”
A conversation with past Commodores of the MB “Greater media coverage”
“Massive increase in the use of technology with new components
being utilized for sails, hull and electronic aids.”
Boating Club - Bob Scott and Al Gould. “Yachts are much faster.’
“Less crew on the racing yachts”
What was your reaction to the news that Mercury Bay “A totally new board game with massive investment and
had lodged a challenge for the America’s Cup? sponsorship”
“One of complete bewilderment and astonishment- Fantastic.”
Bob Scott.
Mercury Bay was the first NZ club to challenge for the
Al Gould America’s Cup
“Just an incredible opportunity and as it unfolded it was The club was established in 1948.
unbelievable.”
Mercury Bay Boating Club has its name on the trophy.
How did the club benefit from the challenge?
Bob Scott At the time the Boating Club had a mobile clubhouse –a
“Growth in associate membership” Mark II Zephyr owned by Carol Moyes.
“It certainly placed Mercury Bay to the forefront in sailing circles
around the world.”
“It required us to make a logo for tee shirts and publicity- luckily
4 5
The Seagull
An interview
culture
A Maori Phrase a Month
with Momoko Burgess
Would you like to introduce a little Te Reo Maori into your day to day
conversation but feel too nervous?
Don’t be! Each month we’ll introduce a commonly
of Legasea
used phrase to help kick start your Te Reo journey.
FEELINGS AND EMOTIONS
We are humbled and delighted to
Ka nui taku aroha ki a koe – I love you very much (aroha is have the support of Hemi Kelly who
is generously providing the phrases
love) for us from his most recent book. If
Tell us a little bit about your background me talking about how ‘Asian fishermen come and take everything’. you’re impatient and can’t wait for a
As an Asian person hearing this, sometimes these comments
I grew up in West Auckland, mostly by the sea. I wanted to be a
Rockstar, and then one day I read a book full of beautiful fish and hurt. Yes, this stereotype has some truth behind it, but blaming I rutua ahau e te mataku – I was overcome with fear. new phrase next month then purchase
the entire Asian community is unfair – Often people from Asian
Hemi’s book and enjoy a new phrase
decided I wanted to do something with the sea instead. I come
every day!
from a family of avid explorers and environmental activists, and
from a young age I was always curious about why people were
countries utilise the whole fish, which I see as a positive.
Mataku means fear but you can swap it for another noun like
What advice do you have for other young people
so intent on destroying nature. I ended up studying Marine and whakamā (embarrassment), riri (anger) or hiamoe (sleepiness).
Environmental science at uni, and now here we are. when looking for a career...thinking out of the
square?
How did you hear about Legasea...what made
Don’t give into social constructs, what others might be doing or Kei te tino harikoa ahau – I’m elated.
you want to be involved? perceive to be the important thing to do might not be for you and Swap harikoa (elated) for another state such as pōuri (sad), hiakai
I heard about LegaSea through some marine scientist friends. that’s sweet as. It’s important to do whatever holds value to you.
We thought it was cool people want to advocate for fish. I love Sometimes you may be the only person supporting yourself, so it’s
(hungry) or ora (well).
fish, and I love activism. And like most people who appreciate the important to stay strong and remember you’re always entitled to
beauty of a fish, we all have the same ambiguity – We love eating
eat them too. It’s nice to work in a team that’s passionate about
pursue your dreams. Maybe your friend wants to earn big bucks
and buy a house, and maybe you just want to go for a surf. For me,
Kua hōhā au I tenei – I’m over this.
protecting the marine environment and loves seafood. People my value is educating people about the ocean.
often disassociate the two, but they’re one in the same – People
are part of the environment too, and both work together in
sustaining each other. “This summer the people of Coromandel and the Bay of
Plenty have taken bold steps to address concerns about
What kind of work do you do? the depleted state of local scallop beds. The community
All kinds of things! We have a cohesive yet dynamic team, we
collaborate a lot to get things done. At the moment, I am working and visitors have largely complied with a voluntary ban
on the Coromandel Scallop Restoration and Sustainability on taking scallops from Opito Bay, exceeding expectations
Project which is going really well. In Opito Bay, people have over the busy holiday period.
been respectful of the voluntary ban on scallop harvesting, and LegaSea is pleased to be celebrating the effort of so many
we’re advocating on behalf of local Coromandel communities to people. Their combined efforts to measure and enhance de-
ban scallop dredging altogether. It’s destructive for the marine pleted scallop numbers while respecting the rāhui by Ngāti
environment and needs to go. Hei is heartening.”
What makes you excited enough to get Trish Rea LegaSea Communications Lead
out of bed in the morning to go to work?
Every aspect of my job honestly! Knowing we are making change
that will mean more fish, more jobs, a healthier ocean, and
stronger communities is exciting. Also working with such an
amazing group of people – They’re strong and kind-hearted with
so much knowledge and patience. They tackle each issue with
determination and with a smile on their faces and that is super
inspiring.
What kind of difference do you hope you're
making?
Definitely a positive one. I hope to bring communities together
in raising awareness of issue in our ocean, whether that involves
exposing consecutive government failure in managing our
fisheries and protecting our seas or providing support and
solutions to better manage and respect marine environments.
The Coromandel Scallop Restoration and Sustainability Project
has brought many kinds of communities together, and that is
inspiring to watch unfold. Alongside raising awareness, shifting
attitudes around fishing is important to me. People often come to
6 7
The Seagull
WORD SEARCH
Yes Chef!
Eggscentric Café
& Restaurant
Flaxmill Bay
Like an oasis in a desert, Eggscentric Café and curated by Kenzie Sampson of ‘Think’ and regular music gigs from small
and intimate solo performances to sold-out events like “Eggfest’.
Restaurant, nestling into the hillside opposite Flaxmill Bay, offers an
unexpected foodie haven to the foot-weary wandering the walkways to “Dad started the music and performance and we’re now expanding on
Shakespeare Cliff and beyond. Those already in the know make a beeline that and starting to get in bigger shows, up and coming bands, Indie music
for its shady garden and welcoming interior. but never DJs,” says Sam. “We’ve even had Lawrence Arabia playing on
Sculptor and painter Dave Fowell started the Eggscentric journey back in grandma’s old piano.”
1998 but for the last six years his son Sam and partner Alesha Innes have That kind of sums it up really doesn’t it? That feeling of pure relaxation
nurtured and developed the business, giving it a new lease on life and and enjoyment, homely without having to wear a knitted cardy and great
attracting a new generation of food, art and music lovers. food, art, music and company.You may never want to leave! Pop over for
“Dad was ready to move on to new things so Alesha and I stepped in. We breakfast, lunch or dinner soon.
had no business experience but we’re hard grafters and thought “Why
not?” In a real baptism of fire they’ve learned a lot on the job. Alesha and A big shout out to Dave Fowell for having the original eccentric vision.
Check out his new venture designing T-shirts at www.dtees.co.nz
Get a Wheelie bin for home this year
Sam actually went to school together at Whenuakite so their personal
rapport translated easily into the business.
The couple have always disliked the cold, city-vibe some cafes have. “Take a wander around our sculpture garden and admire the art on our
“We want our customers to come here to feel the love, listen to the walls. Devour our scrumptious food whilst listening to epic live music.
music and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere,” says Sam. “We’ve worked hard to Get everything you need from Eggsentric Eggstra’s deli shop, all ten
3 SIZE
OPTIONS
Co nt ac t us tod ay ! create a feeling like you’re at home, it’s hard to define but having bright
walls, great staff who care about their work and honest Kiwi-European
minutes’ walk from the Whitianga ferry & across the road from the
wonderful Flaxmill Bay.
PHONE 0800 4 MY BIN (0800 469 246) food all adds to the experience.”
And good coffee of course.
We are a playground for young & old – so feast your eyes on one of
Coromandel’s iconic must dos!”
EMAIL sales@smartbins.co.nz The menu reflects the couple’s love of seasonal and local-whenever-
possible ingredients which include venison, smoked kahawai and scallops,
ONLINE www.smartbins.co.nz (Sam is an ex-fisherman so he knows his seafood) beautiful salads and
cakes, no ‘bar-food’ and definitely no pizza. Theirs is simple food done
well with everything hand-made on site.
Alesha is responsible for the beautiful flowers that often appear on plates
and Sam is responsive to what appears in the garden in creating items for
the menu.
So, what of the name? If you’re new to these parts you may not know
the providence, that the Fowells actually had a free-range chicken farm in
Lees Road near Hahei. “It was genuinely free-range too,” says Sam who
continues to use only genuine, free-range eggs in his food.
There is much to enjoy other than what’s on your fork with artwork
WE ARE LOCAL – proudly 100% Kiwi owned & operated
8 9
The Seagull
places
STREETS
of Whitianga
White Street
Abraham Bennett White married a high-caste woman of the Ngāti Awa
tribe and established a business in Whakatāne.
One night in early 1865, when the Hau Hau rebellion flared up, the
cutter Kate lay at anchor off Whakatane bar, awaiting the flood tide. Mr
Mr Albert White Snr, White had chartered the cutter to run supplies to Auckland and he and
champion sculler, 1902
The youngest White brother Photo courtesy MB Museum
his 14-year-old son George went aboard, joining the captain and crew
below deck. A group of young men of a tribe yearning to qualify for Hau
Hau honours also boarded.
Passenger Lieutenant Falloon of Auckland and four Europeans were
shot to death while White and his son looked on. Because four of the
raiding party were Ngāti Awa, Mr White and his son were spared but
held prisoner on shore, later escaping.
In 1867, White was murdered by the Hau Hau in retaliation for giving
evidence in the Lieutenant Falloon murder case. Following White’s
death, his eight children settled in Whitianga at Trelease Point with
their uncle, who was the first white settler to build on the west side of
So if you are not a member yet please contact us, to sign up and
KUAOTUNU
the river there, around 1860. enjoy the Library facility provided for both you and your family as
part of the greater Kuaotunu community.
The five White brothers, Billy, James, George, Robert and Albert,
Your team of volunteers
formed a partnership building cutters, schooners, light-racing skiffs,
Maxime 866 4341
LIBRARY
and making boat repairs. They produced some dozen vessels, the largest
Denise 866 0450
commissioned by the Mercury Bay Timber Company.
Marguerite 866 2626
The oldest brother, Billy, owned the block of land that White Street fyi and input to: Deli Connell
passes through today. A great sportsman, Billy died when a driving dam A new location and extended service since
burst in the Whangapoua area in 1903. Only 55 years old, he left behind December 2017
wife Ettie and 11 children. The boat Ettie White was named after Billy’s
wife. When you come from Whitianga going north towards Kuaotunu
West, you will find our Library on the Kuaotunu Domain just in front
of the tennis court. Massage Therapy,
This Library service, now nicely revamped and cared for by the
Personal Therapeutic Oil
community, was, for many years, in the back room of the Kuaotunu Blends
Mrs Cassie Watts and Sarah Watts. Photo courtesy MB Museum Hall and offered limited access to the public.
Catherine Crescent and Aromatherapy Products.
In 2017 it was decided that a committee should be formed to
investigate the possibility of a 24/7 access library similar to the service
Named for Catherine Watts (known as Cassie), a tall Scottish woman from offered at Ferry Landing.
Nova Scotia. She was very patriotic and a tireless worker who spent many Bookings available at
hours travelling door-to-door on horseback collecting money for local Now, with everything finally coming together, the volunteers can Earthstore, Albert Street,
causes, receiving the George Medal for her fundraising on behalf of the proudly report that, after two years of operation, more then 160
Mercury Bay Hospital. families have signed up and make good use of their new library. Whitianga.
It is perceived by everyone as a rejuvenating, comfortable and good
Ms Watts was Mr Trelease’s housekeeper and would, after making butter spirited space.
on his farmlet, drive the horse and trap to the village twice weekly to
sell the produce. Mr Trelease left her all his property when he died on Both children and adults alike enjoy the ambience and comfort of
condition that it be kept as a farm. this library, built on trust and respect for fellow book lovers of all
ages. ESSENTIAL
Excerpt from “A Brief Guide to the For a $10 yearly fee, members receive a code to open the door. This
THERAPY
History of Whitianga” enables access at their leisure to choose books, just writing up details
of what and when you borrow and off you go with the books of
AOTEAROA
90 pages of Historic photos and
personal Whitianga interest selected from the wide range on offer. Tania Lajunen
stories.
We are confident that almost everyone will find a book to enjoy and Dip. Aromatherapy
Available at Mosaic,
53 Albert St
whitiangahistory@orcon.co.nz
"go on holiday with".
ph: 022 039 1216
10 11
The Seagull
Tiff and Lee have been together 14 years, opening Evolution Sitting across from me, Nathan shows me his first ever
Studios as a team iin January of 2016, originally located tattoo down his left arm. Not only was the first tattoo on
in Coromandel Town. Tiff is the friendly face that greets himself, but also the first tattoo he ever did. Nathan has been
you at the desk as you walk in, and is in charge of all the tattooing for nearly 11 years and been with Evolution from
administration and a lot of behind the scenes work. “You can’t it’s early days back in Coromandel. Just like Lee and Paul,
have a successful business without a good admin person!” Tiff Nathan says he can’t imagine ever doing anything else, a good
says with a laugh and a cheeky grin towards Lee. thing given how much effort an artist puts in. “It’s a lot more
time consuming than people think,” says Nathan. “Probably
fifty percent of your time off is spent still working, designing
If you were to walk past Lee in the street, “tattoo artist” may and planning ahead for the week.”
not be the first assumption that comes to mind, as other than
his arms there are no visible tattoos when donned in a t-shirt,
shorts, and his favourite jandals. However, a creative through Each artist on the team has their own specialty, so when a
and through, Lee has been tattooing for 15 years, and working client comes in with an idea it’s all about finding the right fit.
from a studio for 11. “I’ve always been creative, constantly “We won’t just tattoo anything on anybody, and I have had to
drawing and doodling. At previous jobs I used to get in turn people down on the odd occasion,” explains Lee. “It’s all
trouble for it,” says Lee. “So as soon as I found tattooing, that about coaching each person through what they really want,
was it for me; I knew that was what I was meant to do.” and making sure they leave here absolutely stoked about it.
When people come back time and time again it shows us
Lee Jones we’re doing something right.”
Walking off Albert Street into Evolution Studios is a comfortable feeling,
not only because I am a regular client, but becuase of the atmosphere.
The studio is immaculate and beautiful, with an eye-catching snow
leopard covering half of the back wall, created by the owner himself.
Warm, friendly greetings are given all around as I sit down to chat with
the team, comprised of owners By JordanGower
Lee Jones & Tif fany Reed
with artists
Paul Collier & Nathan McMahon.
Evolution Studios came to be after Lee spent a year and a half Evolution Studios is a piece of art in itself, and what Lee, Tiff
in Brisbane refining his skills as an artist. “The Coromandel and the team have created is an ode to the ever changing art
was always a great holiday destination, and I love the area. of tattooing. It’s clear how much they each take pride in what
There was no studio on the whole peninsula, so I wanted they do: creating art that people can share in and enjoy.
to bring one here,” Lee explains. Deciding on a name for
the studio was a tricky process, but when Lee thought of
‘Evolution’ he knew it was perfect. “Tattooing is constantly
evolving,” says Lee, “there used to be a lot of negativity
around it, but now it’s really just about expressing yourself.”
The studio moved from Coromandel Town to Whitianga in
April of 2019, which was when Paul joined the studio. “I tried
out other jobs and to find a ‘proper career’ that was socially
acceptable, but something was always missing,” Paul chimes in
from my left. A sentiment that all three artists seem to share.
While Paul has only been at Evolution for a couple of years,
this year will be his tenth in the profession. Born and raised in
the area, Paul says he used to sell his drawings to other local
artists. “That kind of got the ball rolling for me, even though I
was only making about $5 a sale,” he laughs.
Paul Collier Nathan McMahon.
feature artist photos by Karen Mcleod
12 13
The Seagull
Healthy Eating
How hard is it really?
If you think it’s too hard to make healthy whole food
meals, to cook in season, and to make it something
that the whole family will eat, then think again. These
days, with Covid19 and other bugs going around,
healthy eating is a lifestyle change that the whole family
will benefit from.
At Earth Store, we have a passion for learning, and One of the easiest ways of starting that journey, is
for teaching others how to modify their food lifestyle by eating organically grown, seasonal produce. It’s
to become more aware of what they are putting into healthier (they contain higher minerals and vitamins
their bodies. It’s amazing how small changes can really – as these degrade with age and storage), it supports
make an impact on your health and well being. We local growers and reduces transport costs, reduces
are often heard telling people not to think of healthy the need for chemicals, refrigeration etc. And if
eating as a “change of diet”, as a diet suggests a start you are still not sold on seasonal produce, then
and a finish. Think of it as a lifestyle change without an remember that in season produce tends to be more
end, it becomes who you are. Sure it’s fine to have a abundant so it’s better for the budget.
glass of wine or a piece of chocolate cake – that’s ok in Healthier, friendlier on the environment and easier
moderation, don’t let little treats deter you from your on the wallet – why not start the journey of healthy
ultimate goal – making you and your family healthier. eating right now?
E-Bikes and regular bikes
Full mechanical workshop
New stock arriving weekly
Great accessories
Experienced and knowledgeable team
Escape to The Lost Spring
WHITIANGA’S GEO-THERMAL OASIS
Geo-thermal Pools Day Spa Cocktails, Poolside Dining, Restaurant
121A Cook Drive, Whitianga 3510, Supervised children
The Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand 14 years & over welcome
www.thelostspring.co.nz +64 (07) 866 0456
14 15
The Seagull
Tour de France Just four hours away we have the world-class facility mountain
bike facility at Whakarewarewa Forest in Rotorua. If you ride a
There is an undeniable romance to the challenge and sense
bike and you have never been it’s a must do.
of adventure of long-distance cycle rides, none less than the
The great thing about bike parks is the variety and grade
mother of all the Tour de France.
of trails. Lots of choice to suit your experience level from
Established by Henri Desgrange to boost the sales of his paper
beginner to adrenaline fuelled cycling warrior and no cars to
L’Auto, the inaugural Tour event was held on July 1st 1903. In
bother you.
those days there was a different feel to the modern event. The
roads were terrible, the stages longer (up to 450 km) and there
were no mountains as it was believed that man was incapable
of riding them as well as the 1500 miles of the Tour. Safety
The Ballon d'Alsace in the Vosges Mountains of France was the Bikes are getting lighter, more comfortable and easy-to-use and
first official mountain climb in the Tour de France on 11 July making what used to be difficult areas to ride more accessible to
1905. After seeing the ascent, Desgrange declared that it: more people. E-bikes the most obvious example. Like any form
“was one of the most thrilling sights I have ever witnessed, and of transport there are risks and it is really important to take
confirms my opinion that man's courage knows no limits and a responsibility for your own safety. A few tips:
highly trained athlete can aspire to remarkable performances” Make sure your bike is working properly. Having it regularly
In a nod to romanticism and an attempt to connect with my serviced or hire from a reputable dealer.
cycling heroes, I rode up the Ballon d’Alsace on a cold and Make sure you, or someone who is riding with you, is able to fix
wet winters day whilst recovering from flu. It certainly wasn’t a puncture. E-bikes are great but are very hard to push up a hill
my best day and I felt neither courageous, highly trained or if you have a flat tire.
remarkable at the end of it. Have the right gear. Helmets are mandatory, glasses and
As if the mountains were not hard enough, another major gloves are really useful too. Use lights from dusk to dawn
difference in the early days of the Le Tour was that riders were and a rear light all day on the road. A lightweight wind and
responsible for their own repairs and outside assistance was waterproof jacket is always an essential for me.
prohibited for fear of disqualification. Always be aware of what’s around you. If you cannot see
In 2013 on the mountain stages of the Pyrenees Eugène around the corner just assume there is something there. If you
On Ya Bike…
Christophe, the current leader, had a mechanical failure are off-road that could be a family you are just about to collide
when his front forks broke. He walked 10 km to the nearest with. If you want an adrenaline fuelled ride then pick a track
blacksmith where he was shown how to use the forge so he where you can do that.
marshal the event. Each of those communities takes
could fix the bike himself. Unfortunately he was given a time Make sure you take supplies. Running out of energy on a bike
a turn in hosting. This year its Tairua, next year will
K2
penalty because he allowed a seven-year-old boy to pump the through lack of water or food is absolutely draining. Known as
be Whitianga then Coromandel Town and Thames in
bellows for him. He finished the race but unfortunately not as
and other adventures subsequent years.”
“We give back to our communities through the Spirit
leader.
‘hitting the wall’, or ‘bonking’ for some strange reason, it is a
grim experience and one to be avoided.
By Ian Preece of Coromandel of Trust. We have already funded the
If you don’t like the idea of riding with busy, or indeed any, It happened to me on a long ride in Wales many years ago.
traffic there are other options. I foolishly took very little food or water and no money. I
As you travel around the Coromandel I am sure you bike park in Coromandel Town and our next goal is an
A wonderful initiative in New Zealand has been the ‘bonked’ about 20 miles from home, slowed to a crawl and even
will have noticed the signs heralding the arrival of the Outdoor Pursuit Centre.”
establishment in 2009 of our 22 Great Rides known in Māori got off for a sleep in the grass to recover. By the time I got to
Mito Q K2 Road cycle classic on 13 March. Normally Not for the faint hearted, as the K2 website quotes “at
as Ngā Haerenga (‘The Journeys’). Predominantly off road the bottom of the final climb I was dizzy and shaking and the
held in November, it was postponed due to the impact 2,300 metres of screaming descent, the Mito Q K2 is
they range from 21 km to over 300 km and can be done as a hill had taken on Himalayan proportions. It wasn’t happening.
of the lockdown. Thanks to the efforts of Keith and possibly the toughest one day cycle challenge in the
multi-day adventure exploring some of New Zealand’s most My only option was the rental property of a friend of mine who
Rita Stephenson and Andy Reid the Mito Q K2 has Southern Hemisphere.”
amazing backcountry landscapes. was out of the country. I knocked on the door and the tenant
become a significant date on the National cycling Known as being one of the hardest events on the
We’re very fortunate to have one of the most accessible trails answered and I blurted out “You don’t know me but I have to
calendar in New Zealand. cycling calendar, the main race is a punishing 192 km
on our own doorstep, the Hauraki Rail Trail. cycle up a big hill and I’m not feeling very well and wondered if
circumnavigation of the Coromandel Peninsula. There
My own personal favourite stretches are the Karangahake I could come in for a cup of tea and something to eat”. At least I
It was the sealing of the road 19 years ago between are ‘easier’ routes of 106km and 53km with e-bike
Gorge and the coastline of the Hauraki Gulf past the Miranda had a bike. Luckily his charitable side took over and after I had
Coromandel Town and Kuaotunu that paved options for people who don’t want to take on the
Bird Centre up to Kaiaua. We were on the trail at Miranda just eaten all his digestive biscuits I scaled the cycling equivalent of the
the way for the establishment of the K2 event. whole circuit.
over week ago and saw a colony of over 2000 Godwits. Eiger and collapsed on my sofa.
Apart from the focus on health and fitness, the As a cyclist I know that there are few places to go here
Another cycling trend that has taken off in New Zealand is the
motivation to set up the event was to share where you cannot find a hill and with only one road
development of mountain bike parks and trails. There are a
the beauty of our home in the Coromandel they are impossible to avoid. They are typically steep
number of these in the Waikato including Hamilton, Raglan, The point is think ahead and be prepared!
and to engage and give back to the and often not that short or easy to climb. Despite
Morrinsville, Tokoroa, Pirongia, Te Aroha and on our own turf
community. As Rita says: that, I never tire of cycling here as the sight of our
in Whitianga.
“What makes the K2 unique is the mountains, forests and beaches are always rewarding.
way it brings together the four
communities around the
peninsula to organise and
16 17Côte Bleu
The Seagull
people
Home
is owned by Danielle Robinson and her fiancé Jean-christophe
Soriano.
Jean grew up in Toulouse, France but has lived in NZ for the
past 11 years and has a background in sales, importing and
purchasing. Danielle is NZ born and with a background in
hairdressing and cosmetics and, most recently, interiors. Her
role was in sales, purchasing and marketing as well as being an
interiors consultant.
Danielle and Jean-christophe have a blended family and have
lived in separate towns since meeting eight years ago. ‘
“Once our children were all off to high-school we decided
it was a good time to finally set up home and shop together,
says Danielle. ”We found this old, original 40s bungalow which
formerly housed an organic food store. It still had the original
kitchen and bathroom inside and was very run-down and need-
ed extensive renovations in order to get it up to scratch.”
The couple completely gutted it, opened it up, removed win-
dows, added windows, replaced all the rotten French-doors,
added panelled walls, added a front deck, painted throughout
Ramblings of a near 70 year old, and sanded the original kauri floors.
“This was quite a mission as you can imagine, as we were in the
by Ross Liggins
middle of renovating when COVID-19 struck. The majority of
When Seagull editor Deli Connell asked me to write an article, altering substances during my youth or the regular glass or 3 our stock was on the sea and due to arrive any day when the
I pretty soon forgot that she’d asked me and when I belatedly of red wine I indulge in now, I’d probably feel guiltily obliged national lockdown occurred. Our builder and tradies all had to
remembered, I couldn’t quite recall what it was to be about. So to do something about it and that would take effort which is stop work. So our due date to open (April1 Happy April Fool's
in keeping with the spirit of that hazy start I decided to write becoming less and less one of my strong points. Day to us!!) was pushed out another five months. We finally
about memory or as in my case a lack thereof, which is a bit of I do seem to be able to remember things of the very recent opened our doors at the end of August last year. And Jean
a concern for those of us, who are, in what some people call, past. Like yesterday when I rode my old bike down to the beach wanted a French name for our store - something that wasn't
our twilight years. So here we go…. to have a swim and after impressing nobody with my body- hard to get your tongue around and we decided on Côte Bleu
I don’t often remember my dreams but last week I awoke with surfing I wandered back up the beach. “Excuse me, but have as it means Blue Coast and we can see the sea from our front
a very lucid memory of sitting in an Auckland bar and suddenly you found any glasses here? My wife lost her $1500 bi-focals deck.
Store Design and Brief
having Australian rugby captain Michael Hooper appear beside here yesterday,” came the voice of an elderly gentleman “No
me. We started chatting and my offer to buy him a drink was sorry, I haven’t seen them,” I replied. “Where do you live? If I
met with a predictable “Cheers mate, I’ll have a Fosters.” So I find them I’ll get them to you.” “We’re staying in Whangamata. Coastal, rustic and bohemian inspired, our aesthetic is natural
reached in my pocket for my wallet, only to discover it wasn’t After we got back there yesterday we prayed about the glasses and organic.
there and realised I must have left it in my car. “Won’t be a and the lord told us to return to Wharekaho to look for them “Our store has a very relaxed, ethnic, eclectic feel to it as we
minute mate, I’ll just go grab my wallet” I got outside and blow again.” Well, I helped them for a while with no success and then like to source items from all over the world. We prefer to use
me down I couldn’t remember where I’d parked my car and to we all left the beach. While riding home I noticed a young lady reclaimed timber in the majority of our furniture and get very
make matters worse I then woke up and left Michael sitting in struggling to change a car tyre. I stopped and being a chivalrous excited if we find something vintage or unique which has a
that bar waiting for his Aussie beer. If you ever read this Michael, type, offered to help. She gratefully accepted and I duly changed history, as we feel that these special pieces are not only inter-
“Sorry about that, hope you’re not still waiting” the tyre for her and had a pleasant chat about her bridesmaid’s esting but give a home 'soul.' I like to use a lot of colour in the
That dream reminded me of a phone conversation I had with role at her mother’s wedding this weekend. On arriving home, store with an emphasis on splashes of serene blues and greens
my mate Pete. I’d called him to ask for his brother Keith’s I must say I had a good think about this chain of events. I know as I feel it provides visual interest as well as lifting the mood!”
What we have to offer
number. Pete replied “Sure mate, his number is in my phone, I’ll the lord is said to work in mysterious ways but I thought that
text it to you. Now where the hell did I put my phone? I had it if I was god, which is almost definitely not going to happen
this morning. I’ll text you when I find it mate.” “OK” I replied given my innate desire for decadence, I would create a far less “We collect nautical, vintage pieces such as old glass buoys,
and hung up wishing I could see his face when he finally realised. complicated way of helping the lady change her tyre. I mean to original ship's wheels, bells, life rings etc.. as well as new and
A bit like the ever-increasing experience of going into the make someone lose their keys and make 2 trips to Whangamata vintage furniture from Indonesia and India, crockery and
bathroom and on arrival wondering what it was I wanted to do and then have me go to the beach at exactly the time of their pottery from Mexico, the Philippines,Vietnam and Morocco,
there, which could prove messy in the coming years, unless of second coming to Wharekaho seems a bit long-winded, not to glassware, cutlery, linen and home fragrances from France,
course I am wearing the inevitable adult diapers. mention the environmental degradation caused by all the car Australia and Portugal as well as many varied items made
When I was a kid I could read a page of a book and remember emissions. I would’ve thought god was more of a greenie, having here in NZ. We support local artists and have their work on
it almost word for word. Nowadays, I can’t count the number of allegedly created a pretty clean planet. But then again, if I was our walls. We also have an outdoor range consisting of bird
times I hear “I told you that yesterday. Weren’t you listening?” or god I’d probably forget why the glasses got lost anyway. baths, furniture and pots.”
I get half way through the page of a book and can’t remember My God, I hope I remember to send this before the deadline.
a word of what I’ve just read. I put it down to the scourge Danielle and Jean-christophe
of old age because if I blamed the over-indulgence of mind- Cote Bleu Home
1 Monk St - Whitianga
078662088
18 19Be
The Seagull
Chattered Ceilings
people
Beach Life Edition
By Jordan Gower
I never thought I would start my own business, and especially not by society we have come a very long way since the days where it was
the age of 22. I grew up in a very small town (emphasis on the very) frowned upon for women to have even a part-time job let alone
surrounded by rolling farmland. At the time I thought small-town-life start an entire business from the ground up.
wasn’t for me, so after high school I moved to Auckland to study
communications, imagining a life of city apartments, a high-paying Tracey Bowen, owner of Miss Piper’s Goods in Cooks Beach, and
PR job and fancy dinners. Towards the end of my degree I began co-creator of The Common Room and Gathered Co in Whitianga,
to feel claustrophobic in the city, and the day I handed in my last says her passion for business in a small town came from the desire
assignment I bolted out of there and straight to the beach. to add to the local community. “I really love my town, and I just
wanted to create something fresh for the locals, and also for people
Something that became immediately clear was this idea that those who come to visit,” says Tracey.
of us who chose the ‘beach life’ mustn’t work very hard, or at least
not as hard as those who live in the city. However, as I’m sure many Finding work in a small town can also be very difficult, and finding
of you readers are aware of, that couldn’t be further from the truth. work you actually have a passion for even more so. Erika Kurth, a
I am surrounded by some of the hardest working people I have local wedding photographer, explained that sometimes work in a
ever met, be they farmers, baristas, tradies, parents, surf instructors, small town means putting your eggs in a few different baskets. “You
teachers, shop assistants, or some culmination of all of the above. really have to diversify and think outside the box here. A lot of
We work to create a life that we want, one that suits us, and often people have multiple jobs on top of starting their own businesses.”
that means diversifying and doing something you never thought you
There are many obstacles on the the gravel road to starting a
a Hometown Hero
would.
business in small town, however there are quite a few positives
For me, creating that life included starting my own business, and we should revel in too. Small towns mean small communities, and
with just a brief look around my community, it is blindingly obvious there is no kind of support like seeing your entire town show up
for you on opening day. With the amount of women in business on We don’t have a Hometown Hero this month
that I am not alone. I am regularly surrounded by small business
owners, who have moved here and worked so hard to build this peninsula, it is so easy to remember you are not alone in your but we’d love you to be a hero and help out
themselves a work life that fits within their personal lives, instead struggles, and there is always someone willing to have a glass of this local family.
of the other way around. Something in particular that fills me with bubbles at the end of a good or bad day.
pride about these people, is how many of them are women. As a
By Tony and Kelly Austin
David Johnston - one of the most genuine people you may Dave having major surgery and engaging in expensive
ever meet, or if you already know him, you are a better alternative treatments and multiple rounds of debilitating
person for having him in your life. Dave is a terrific guy, chemo. In November 2020 it was looking promising, scans
and his beautiful wife Mel is incredible. A Whitianga local, showed that the cancer appeared to be inactive.
born and bred, Dave’s parents Monett and Bruce moved Fast forward two short months and Dave's health was
the family here in 1974. Locals will remember that Bruce not improving when it should have been. Dave began
had Whitianga Glass and Aluminium for 23 years and experiencing severe pain and, after more tests, was told
Monett started Travel Options which is now You Travel, this January the further life-crushing news for the family -
over 40 years ago. David went to MBAS from start to the cancer was back.
finish and after finishing school, he travelled the country Dave, Mel, and their family have another fight on their
and world enriching his passion for food creation. While hands and are determined to do everything they can.
he was in Spain, he fell in love with tapas dining and Treatment is still an option, and Dave has a chance to
the restaurant TuaTua was born. David and Mel opened beat the cancer with the amazing immunotherapy drug,
TuaTua in 2003 (where “That Curry Place” is now) and Keytruda. But there is a huge barrier. It is only available
after 11 years, the restaurant finished up and they moved to through self-funding for Dave's type of cancer. Dave needs
Pukekohe where Dave trained to be a qualified builder. Mel many sessions and at over $10,000 each time, this is a
started working for Air NZ and they have lived and worked huge financial strain on the family, at a time when they do
there until recently moving back to Whitianga. not need any extra stress.
Dave has an insatiable passion for the outdoors, loves This is where our community comes in. This could be any
surfing and fishing, but more than anything in the world, of us. Your son, your brother, your husband, your friend.
he loves his soul-mate Mel, and their three boys Mannix, You. Cancer does not discriminate. Maybe, instead of
Harlan and Nation. eating out at a restaurant this week, or buying that coffee
Life was going well for Dave and his family until January tomorrow morning, or picking up the latest magazine,
2020 when his health suddenly began to deteriorate, and bottle of wine or box of beers, why not do something
he received the devastating news he had an aggressive amazing and invest the money in Dave's life-saving
form of cancer called Cholangiocarcinoma or bile duct treatment. Any help you can give will be appreciated more
cancer. This type of cancer is known as a silent killer as it than you could ever know.
does not usually present symptoms until end-stage. Dave
and Mel put everything into fighting the cancer, including
https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/get-behind-dave-and-his-family-to-help-pay
20 21The Seagull
Work from Open Studios’ artists
who’re joining the event for the
first time
The popularity of Mercury Bay Art Escape’s Open Studios con-
tinues to grow, with seven new artists taking part in this year.
The annual event is over the first two weekends of March, when Self-taught stained glass artist Denise Gunson is a
fifty creatives across the eastern Coromandel Peninsula are open- must visit in Coroglen.
ing their workspaces to the public. Virginia O’Sullivan from Whenuakite
repurposes unusual objects, giving them new
Mercury Bay Art Escape chair and Kuaotunu photographer Ian life
Preece says this is one the highest numbers of artists they’ve had
in the event’s sixteen-year history. “This is evidence of just how
popular the Open Studios are. People who are curious about how
artists practise their craft enjoy looking inside working studios,
meeting the people behind the art, and buying pieces directly
from the makers. It’s brilliant seeing the high level of public sup-
port for, and engagement with, our arts’ community.” Coroglen-based artist Lucy Beard’s stunning
circular boards feature acrylic, resin, tattoo
Ian says, for the artists, who mostly work by themselves, the inks and pastes.
Open Studios are an opportunity to connect with others. “It’s
lovely to meet and talk to people who’re interested in learning
about processes, tools, materials, and sources of inspiration that
go into making art. There are many talented people in our region
and this is a fantastic way for them to get their names and work
out there.”
The Open Studios are on March 6-7 and 13-14, form 10am to
4pm. This is a free event and an interesting way to find out more Debbie Lim specialises in a variety of work including
about what’s happening in our own back yard, from Tairua to landscapes, weddings, family and abstract collages.
Rings Beach. The Mercury Bay Art Escape website has all the She’s in Whitianga.
maps and information you need to design you own art-centred Jane Parson produces prints and paintings in
road trip: www.mercurybayartescape.com. This year’s artists in- cold wax, oil and acrylic from studio at the top
clude flax weavers, furniture makers, jewellers, glass and mosaic of Hahei
artists, painters, photographers, potters, printmakers, sculptors,
and woodworkers.
The 2021 season kicks off with the Opening Gala at Hot Waves
Café on Friday, March 5. Tickets are $45 from the Mercury Bay
Art Escape website. Tickets include the chance to meet artists
and other art lovers, and have an early viewing of work, with live
music, hors d'oeuvres and a glass of wine. Special guest speaker
is the renowned sculptural cast glass artist Di Tocker. Di is an
engaging and entertaining speaker and will be offering a piece
for auction on the night. Work from each artist will be on display
at Hot Waves Café, Hot Water Beach until Easter Monday.
The Mercury Bay Art Escape organisers would like to thank
these local businesses for their generous support:
Bayleys, The Breeze, Magic, MORE FM, All About Whitianga,
Big Toe Foundation, The Mercury Bay Informer, Guthrie Bow-
ron, New Zealand Holiday Homes, Hot Water Beach Top 10
Lynda Walters in Whitianga is sculpts in clay and
Holiday Park, The Pourhouse, and Hotties Beachfront Eatery. Visit artist Jean McCann in her purpose-built bronze, as well as drawing and painting large
studio in Tairua figurative works.
22 23You can also read
