Rest in peace, Stacey - Circulation 7,200 - Mercury Bay Informer
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
80
Issue 834 - 27 February 2019 Phone 07 866 2090 (07) 867 15
Telephone the Coromandel
Circulation 7,200
pport
Proud to su Helicopter Trust
Rescue
Rest in peace, Stacey
By Stephan Bosman
More than 450 people farewelled Stacey Bale, Stacey didn’t allow her illness to get her
one of Mercury Bay’s most-loved residents, down. During her many trips to Thames and
at the Whitianga Airport on Wednesday last Waikato Hospitals for treatment, she made it
week. Stacey passed away on Thursday 14 her job to cheer everyone up - fellow patients
February after a 17-month-long battle with and the friends and family who accompanied
cancer. She was 47 years old. her. One friend recalled on Wednesday
Friends and family travelled from as far as how Stacey urged her to show her what her
Australia, the South Island, Northland and (the friend’s) new, powerful car could
Wanganui, to celebrate Stacey’s life with her do during one of the trips to Thames.
husband, Stephen, sons, Fletcher and Kodi, A family member recalled how Stacey always
parents, Kevin and Carolyn Jackson and insisted on having a paua fritter after a bout
brothers, Paul and Shaun. of chemotherapy. “It was a duel of sorts,”
Kevin and Carolyn and their three children the family member said. “Stacey loved paua,
moved from Wanganui to Hahei when Stacey but the paua didn’t always love her.”
was 11 years old. She attended Whenuakite Stacey loved travelling. In the past 12
School during Years 7 and 8 and Mercury months, she has been to Australia twice,
Bay Area School from Year 9. on a cruise to Fiji and to Queenstown and
The Bale family were also residents of the Christchurch. All these trips were precious
Hahei/Cooks Beach area. Stephen and Stacey opportunities to spend time with her family.
met not long after the Jackson family arrived She also went on several road trips with
in Hahei. They went to school together and her closest friends. It was times of laughter
got married in 1994. They lived in Hamilton and happiness, times Stacey’s friends will
for the first few years of their marriage. never forget.
Stacey was a talented sportswoman and John Wright, MBAS principal, said on
represented the Waikato on the hockey field. Wednesday that Stacey was a dedicated
She also became the Chartwell Tavern’s mother, passionate about sport and
arm-wrestling champion. competition and she always encouraged
Fletcher was born in 2000. A year later everyone to do their best.
Stephen and Stacey moved back to Mercury “Stacey never gave up,” John said.
Bay. Kodi was born in 2003. “She had incredible resilience and an
When Fletcher was old enough to start amazing commitment to everything at the
playing ripper rugby, Stacey threw her 100 per cent level. She had a perpetual
heart and soul into rugby in Mercury Bay, smile and an amazingly positive attitude to
initially as an integral part of the junior everything - even to unforgiving adversity.
rugby club and later as chair of the MBAS She championed championing.”
Secondary School Rugby Club. Over the MBAS will be planting a kauri tree in
years, she raised more than $50,000 for Stacey’s honour. “Stacey lived our schoolwide
school rugby, from arranging grants and KAURI values - kindness, achievement,
sponsorships to sausages sizzles and putting Stacey Bale (10 November 1971 - 14 February 2019). unity, respect and identity,” John said.
raffles together. year, and Kodi were Stacey’s pride and joy. MBAS First XV. “She was a truly remarkable lady.”
At the MBAS Secondary School Rugby Nothing gave her more pleasure than to Likewise, Stacey was Fletcher and Kodi’s On Tuesday evening last week,
Club prize-giving last year, the Mercury Bay support both of them when they represented hero. Fletcher’s head boy speech at the MBAS Stephen played for his team, the Cut Hut,
Rugby & Sports Club presented Stacey with Thames-Valley on the basketball court senior school academic prize-giving last year, in the business house competition of the
a Service Award, recognising her dedication (and Kodi when he represented New Zealand one of the best speeches by a head boy ever, Mercury Bay Tennis club. “Stacey would
and leadership over the years. in Australia last year) and Fletcher when was evidence of his love and respect for have wanted me to play,” he said. “I played
Fletcher, who was MBAS head boy last he was on the rugby field as part of the his mother. the absolute best I could. I played for Stacey.”
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Roimata Taimana’s moa
By Meg Tatton-Brown
Two years ago, Kuaotunu artist, Roimata been found already. He suspects that the shown to the children attending the Rudolph to participate in more show and tell sessions
Taimana, was ecstatic to be gifted a bag filled moa died a natural death and wasn’t hunted. Steiner Kindergarten in Kuaotunu, which with his moa bones at schools and early
with moa bones found on a Coromandel “When I inspected the inside of the leg bone, thoroughly excited them. Roimata often has learning centres in the Mercury Bay area.
beach by a friend and the friend’s daughter. there were no scrapings to indicate that tools parents coming up to him at Luke’s Café in If you are interested in Roimata’s
It is thought that the moa, endemic to were used to remove the marrow,” he says. Kuaotunu to tell him their children keep on extraordinary collection, contact us here at
New Zealand, was driven to extinction in The friend who initially gifted the bones talking about his collection. The Informer and we will put you in touch
about 1445. to Roimata is Pakeha and felt that Roimata Roimata says he would be more than happy with him.
The tallest bird species ever known, would be a suitable guardian of the bones.
the moa reached about 3.6m in height with its A Google search shows that moa bones have
neck outstretched and weighed approximately been sold online in the past for upwards of
230kg. Moa were herbivores and enjoyed a $1,000, however it’s illegal to do so if the bones
diet of twigs, plants and berries and like many were found on Department of Conservation-
birds, had to swallow stones to grind up the owned land or an archaeological site.
food in their gizzard (part of the stomach). In 2014, a complete moa skeleton was sold
Roimata has had a passion for fossils ever at an auction in Britain for $110,000 amid
since he was young, so he knew instantly controversy that the bones may have been
the bones he was gifted weren’t cow bones exported from New Zealand illegally, having
and had a good idea of how to piece them possibly come from the DOC estate.
together. He recalls finding many moa It’s very likely that there are many more
bones in paddocks as a young boy living in moa bones to be found in the New Zealand
Whangapoua, but at the time didn’t know landscape.
what they were. A friend of Roimata’s tells of an instance
A few months after having been gifted the documented in the early 1950s when a severe
bones, Roimata returned to the site where the storm blew the sand dunes clean on a popular
bones were initially found and many hours Coromandel beach, uncovering a huge
spent sifting through the sand resulted in number of moa bones scattered far and wide.
additional finds. He’s now in possession of a There was also an incident where two
whole moa leg, as well as a tail bone, toes, hip farmers many years ago came across roughly
bone, vertebrae and a piece from inside the 100,000 moa bones, but ground them up to
moa’s oesophagus. He also found bones from use as fertiliser.
the bird’s other foot. Roimata thoroughly enjoys being able to
Along with this collection, Roimata show his collection to people, so they have
also ended up with some gizzard stones, the opportunity to pick the bones up and have
a fossilized cockle, an enormous fossilised a good look themselves. People are amazed to
oyster shell lid and some obsidian stone that find that the bones are extremely brittle and
looks as though it had been worked with a light, not unlike the texture of pumice stone.
tool. He also found a piece of egg shell that “There are treasures everywhere, you just
looks as though it may have come from a moa have to keep your eyes open,” says Roimata.
or kiwi egg. “But at the same time, we need to make sure
Roimata thinks that the rest of “his” moa’s we always respect our natural environment.”
bones are either still buried or may have Roimata’s collection of bones were recently Roimata Taimana with his collection of moa bones and other fossils.
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of 27 February - 6 March - We can use the Moon this week to find Venus in the early morning sky. It is fun to use it to see just how
long we can still see Venus with the naked eye as the sky steadily brightens. Venus is actually often visible all day, but you usually need
a landmark in the sky like the Moon to help you find it. With a big telescope, Jupiter and several bright stars can also be seen during
daytime as well. During a total solar eclipse, the sky gets sufficiently dark in the daytime for many stars and planets to be briefly visible.
Thursday 28 February - A half Moon will lie just below bright Jupiter in the early morning sky, making an impressive sight.
Astronomy Tours and B&B
Saturday 2 March - A crescent Moon low in the eastern morning sky holds slightly yellowish Saturn just above its arms.
Sunday 3 March - A very slender crescent Moon sits just above brilliant Venus low in the eastern dawn sky. Try and follow Venus into Phone (07) 866 5343
the daytime by noting its position relative to the Moon. www.stargazersbb.com
Whitianga and Hot Water Beach tides Tides data sponsored by
nzwindows.co.nz
4 Dakota Drive
Whitianga
Tel 07 869 5990
Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday
Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019
Work on Sea Scouts’ new
den site started
Work on the Whitianga Sea Scouts’ new den site next to Crosby Field (the Coromandel rescue helicopter
base) started last week with Whitianga company, Roadworx Limited, flattening and filling the land to meet
the requirements of the 50-year flood plain levels. Once that is completed, the land can be grassed and
made useful for outdoor scouting activities.
Mike Brown, chairman of the Whitianga Sea Scouts, says the generous support of The Informer,
Planners Plus, Ross Andrew Architectural Design, Mercury Bay Civil Design, Surveying Services,
Thames-Coromandel District Council and TCDC Mercury Bay Ward councillor, Tony Fox, allowed the work
to get underway.
Development of the den’s plans to building consent level is also progressing well.
“Once the plans are completed, we’ll go through a registration of interest and then a tendering process
for local builders to build the new den,” says Mike. “This will be followed by a major grant application
for the rest of the funds to complete the job. Once the funding is secured, a contract will be let to the
successful builder.
“We’ve spent only $8,000 to get to this stage of the project. Our den fund stands at $140,000 currently,
which reflects the generosity of the people of Mercury Bay and the huge amount of work by all the Scout
families who’ve tirelessly helped in our quest for a new den.
“We also need to say a big thank you to the Mercury Bay Rugby Club for allowing us to use their facilities
at Lyon Park until our new den is ready. We really appreciate their help.”
The Whitianga Sea Scouts ask everyone in Mercury Bay to support them with their two big upcoming
fundraisers. The first is “The Gathering” (more than 600 motorcycles are expected) from Friday 8 March to
Sunday 10 March at Taylor’s Mistake in Whitianga. The second is a big Easter egg hunt at the Whitianga
Bike Park on Easter Sunday (21 April).
The Scouts are also looking for new Cubs and Keas leaders. Any adults who are interested must please
contact Chrissie Reilly, the Whitianga Sea Scouts deputy-chair, at Pacific Coast Marine in Bryce Street,
Whitianga or on telephone (07) 866 0551.
Pictured are Mike Brown and Chrissie Reilly at the site of the Scouts’ new den.
702 - 27
Issue 834 17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
Open 7 Days Dine in FREE Authentic
Lunch from 11am - 2pm on your birthday North Indian Cuisine
Dinner from 5:00pm - late Wide selection of seafood,
One main, rice & naan. vegetarian & gluten-free.
Dine In • Takeaway • Delivery
13 / 1 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga Minimum 2-person party. Children’s menu available.
Wednesday Saturday Sunday
Friday 4pm - late
4pm - late 12 noon - late 12 noon - late Closed on
12 noon - late Pasta Special
Pizza Special Chicken/Lamb Persian Duck Mondays
$22 Fish & Chips Souvlaki Lamb Rack
$18
Guinness & Grace O’Malley’s Hurricanes Chiefs Ask about our ALL YOU CAN
We are open
9 The Esplanade,
v Brumbies v Sunwolves
function room Monday - Sunday EAT RIBS
Stella Artois Whitianga is back!!
Available for all your 11am till late
On Tap Ph. 07 866 4546 7:35pm 7:35pm social occasions
From 5pm till we
run out - $26
Burrrrrrritos! Taaaaacos! 6 days
Closed Tuesdays
Pork/Chicken/Fish/Vege $13 - $15 12 - 8:30pm
Check out our Lunch Specials and OPEN FOR Closed Open 6 Days
LUNCH and
our lunch club for a FREE Lunch DINNER
33/3 Albert Street, Whitianga
Upstairs above Fagans
~ ~ ~ P h o n e 869 5919 for res ervatio ns a nd ta k eaways ~~~
HAPPY SUPER RUGBY SUPER RUGBY SUPER RUGBY You’ll be fine once
HUMP DAY DARTS HURRICANES Put your feet up love…
the caffeine kicks
BREAKFAST?
LUNCH?
NIGHT v BRUMBIES
LIVE ON THE
SUPER BIG
JAGUARES
in…
We’ll cook tonight!
DINNER? 7:30pm 7:35pm SCREEN! v Menu online
EVERYONE
Hair of the dog?
Cheeky Banter? WELCOME
HAPPY HOUR CHIEFS v BLUES
5:00 - 7:00pm SUNWOLVES coroglentavern.co.nz
Early Morning Lala Fix? Best night of the week
EVERY Friday
10:40am
We’ve got it ALL! 7:35pm
Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019
Win $200 Burger night
$15. 50 Happy Hour 4 - 6pm All Burgers
Badly BistRo Twice Cooked scotch
Steak Night $15.50
1kg of Stuffed pork belly fillet
$18 Scotch Fillet Served with fries Open $12.50
Wings DJ LEON Animals salad & fries
Vegas Live 12 noon to late 5 - 9pm $18
9 to late 9 to late 9 to late
BALL THIRSTY Members TAB
Draw
Saturday INDOOR DARTS
7:15pm THURSDAY Morning Raffles POKIES BOWLS 7:15pm
HAPPY RAFFLES 5:30pm 11am $1 EACH FREE POOL
SNOOKER Members
1Pm HOUR Performing from 7:30 SNOOKER BALL BISTRO Draw
QUIZ NIGHT 4 - 6pm DOC JEFFRIES 1PM 1pm CLOSED Raffles 5:30pm
7:30pm
••• ••• ••• $10 LUNCH TUESDAY - SATURDAY 12 noon - 2pm ••• ••• •••
Jugs Out Winning Wheel Chiefs v
Car Club Monday $16 Steak Special
Breakfast
Happy Hour Thursday!
Meat Raffles Sunwolves from 10am Madness! 200g sirloin steak,
Free Nibbles 7:30pm Kids eat free salad, chips and
4 to 6pm
Jugs from $12 5 - 7pm BINGO
is back! and a free an egg!
Black Caps v Super Rugby 7:30pm Reds v Crusaders
Bangladesh Test
From 2pm
game of pool! Only on
Vegas Brown 9:45pm
Match Day 1 • 11am LIVE *Conditions Apply
Tuesdays!
Open 6 days a week from Tuesday to Sunday 9am till late.
Free ride from the ferry if you book with us at night.
Full menu at www.eggsentriccafe.co.nz, phone 866 0307, bookings essential.
Coming Up Wine Club 4pm Full menu at
Mediterranean Dinner All welcome
Bookings required
Open for Dinner
from 6pm
www.govino.co.nz
5 Courses for $60 $25 Closed Tuesday
Phone
07 867 1215
Great food and great wine 6 drinks
and Wednesday
3 food tasters for bookings
Book your table now - Friday 22nd March
Double loyalty
stamps all night Thirsty Thursdays Happy hour 6pm - 8pm
Tuesday closed
Open from A free drink of your Late night Buy any burger and get the second
burger up to the same value ½ price! for mental
3pm - 9:30pm choice with any
866 0196 $15 burger!
Open from 3pm - 1am Including all kids meals!
Open 3pm - 9:30pm
reconstruction
Delivery and Takeaway
- Like us on Facebook to see our weekly specials -
Bookings Sunday
Dip & Dine Package Happy Hour Summer Function enquiry?
recommended
$65 per person - 5 - 7pm Contact
for weekend Roast
book now. Every Friday dining rachel@thelostspring.co.nz
$21
702 - 27
Issue 834 17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Whitianga resident one of the pioneers
of the New Zealand wine industry
By Jack Biddle
A shopping trolley doesn’t look quite complete the market initially. “While there was a small
these days without a couple of bottles of wine local wine industry already established, the bag
added to it. Enjoying a glass or two of one’s and box concept really did bring an alternative
favourite wine before, during, or after a meal drink to the table for many New Zealanders
has become a firmly accepted part of daily life and help prepare their taste buds for what lay
in New Zealand. ahead,” says Kerry.
It wasn’t always the case, however. Kerry started life in the wine industry in
Countries such as Italy, France and Spain 1966, when he worked for the government’s
dominated the global wine industry for many Viticultural Winemaking Research Station
years. For many Kiwis, wine was something the based in Te Kauwhata. At the time, a number
Europeans drank, while they stuck mainly to of studies were carried out on different varietal
their beer and sherries. types of grapevines, soils and climates from all
Roll forward and we now have a huge around New Zealand.
award-winning wine industry of our own in “We quickly learned different regions could
New Zealand, with consumers having strong produce the same wine, but end up with a very
opinions on and a preference for a particular different flavour,” says Kerry. “Above all else,
type of wine and where it originated from. the research told us New Zealand had huge
Whitianga resident, Kerry Hitchcock, potential for producing its own, very unique
is one of the pioneers of the New Zealand wine wine. The key was knowing just where and
industry and played a significant part in bringing when to plant the varietal grapevines.”
this transformation about. In 1969, Kerry headed to Australia to carry
Over time, the buying public and the out the same research work, returning two
New Zealand wine industry itself have years later and landing a job with Cooks in
matured significantly. Many people will no Te Kauwhata as their chief winemaker.
doubt remember the name Cooks Chasseur - “Cooks was a public company and in my
wine in a labelled cardboard box that was poured opinion well ahead of its time,” says Kerry.
from a tap attached to the bottom of a plastic “They had a long-term vision of the wine Kerry Hitchcock with the Medal of Fellowship the Wine Institute of
bag. It was at the time one of the few affordable industry in a period where many Kiwis were New Zealand awarded to him in 2003.
wines available and was produced specifically returning home from overseas travel with a new That was followed in 1972 by a range of varietal By today’s standards, the amount was laughable
to appeal to the Kiwi sweet tooth. It was, appreciation of wine in general, but in particular wines. The Cooks Cabernet Sauvignon took out with just one pallet, or 56 cases (12 bottles per
in hindsight, a very basic attempt at producing the varietal wines.” the THC (Tourist Hotel Corporation) trophy for case), of wine being delivered to Sainsbury’s
and introducing a local wine for the masses. The company was quick to grab a large share the top wine at the 1972 NZ Wine Awards. in London. “It was a promotional, non-profit
Kerry knows the Cooks product better than of what was an untapped market - the bag Cooks was also the first New Zealand company making exercise, but really the beginning
anyone as he was responsible for bringing it to and box. Cooks Chasseur was just the start. to commercially export wine to the UK market. of what lay ahead for the wine industry in
Squids Seafood
Restaurant
The place for the freshest fish and seafood
from around the region as well as an
awesome selection of local wine and beer
Open for lunch Mon - Fri 11:30am - 2pm
Open for dinner 7 days from 5:30pm
www.squids.co.nz Fb Squids Seafood Restaurant
Blacksmith Lane 07 8671710
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019
Wine industry
pioneer
New Zealand,” says Kerry. made it extra special.”
Exporting overseas turned out to be a smart Coming from such a senior position within the
move, as at the International Wine and Spirits wine industry, we couldn’t resist asking Kerry
Show in London in 1986, Kerry was on if it was hard not to comment on what type of
hand to receive an award for producing the wine people drink. “People drink what they like
best Chardonnay (in its class) in the world - and that’s the way it should be, although the
the Cooks Chardonnay 1982. The awards reason they say they like a particular wine can
ceremony took place at the House of Commons. at times be amusing to hear,” he says.
Spurred on by their success, Cooks sent Kerry Now firmly settled in Whitianga, Kerry first
to California for two months to study their wine came to the town as a 12-year-old with his
industry and to network with industry leaders. parents on a camping holiday. That was 60 years
Sometime later and after several different ago. Many more holidays were to follow and
takeovers and name changes, he was put in this convinced him Whitianga was the place to
charge of the total viticulture winemaking retire to six years ago.
production for Corbans Wines, part of what was Kerry enjoys a bit of cycling, golf and outdoor
then called the DB Group. bowls. His big love is rugby and the All Blacks
Kerry’s obvious talents were recognized in particular. He has been on several overseas
when he was head hunted by local competitor, All Black tours and will attend the Rugby
Nobilo, in 1996 and made CEO of the business. World Cup in Japan later this year - his fifth
In 2001, Kerry decided he had done his bit in the World Cup.
corporate world and became a wine consultant. Along with his wife, Margaret, Kerry
He ended up travelling to many of the is contributing significantly to the local
burgeoning wine producing countries of the community.
world, providing advice on viticulture and They were some of the first people to make
winemaking in general and also setting up a sizable donation to the Mercury Bay x-ray
agencies to sell winemaking equipment. machine in 2014. They are also ongoing
In recognition of his long and distinguished supporters of the Auckland and Coromandel
service to the New Zealand wine industry, Westpac Rescue Helicopters, the Whitianga
Kerry was awarded a Medal of Fellowship Coastguard and St John in Mercury Bay.
by the Wine Institute of New Zealand at their Margaret is involved in a lot of local charity
awards evening in November 2003. work as well.
“It was a real honour to be recognized by the It is good to have Kerry and Margaret as part
wider wine industry,” says Kerry. “The Medal of the Whitianga community. They are definitely
of Fellowship is not presented often, which a couple worth raising a glass to.
Issue 834
702 - 27
17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Panel to discuss climate
change risks and opportunities
Three commentators on the challenges of climate change for the communities of the Coromandel
Peninsula will take part in a panel discussion in Whitianga on Sunday 10 March.
Lawyer and researcher, Denis Tegg, science teacher, Thomas Everth, and electric vehicle
advocate, John Leenman, will discuss a range of topics, including how people can deal with the
challenge of climate change both collectively and individually.
The Mercury Bay Informer is published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed throughout the The meeting is the first in a new series of “Nature’s Local Heroes,” to be run by the Coromandel
Coromandel Peninsula. Branch of the Green Party. The meetings will be chaired by Whitianga resident, Stella Pennell.
Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are
entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when
Denis will talk about the roles of central government and local government in adapting to
accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address. coastal hazards and how adaptation and support for those affected could be funded.
Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. Thomas will focus on promoting long-term thinking and forward planning with the aim of
Published by Mercury Bay Media Limited avoiding future losses to society from predictable impacts, such as new developments in low-
Editor - Stephan Bosman lying coastal sites.
Contributors - Meghan Hawkes, Jack Biddle, Cara Bosman, Debbie Wilton, Suzanne Hansen,
Pamela Ferla and Meg Tatton-Brown John will outline the opportunities and rewards from taking personal action to reduce transport
Advertiser Management - Petra Bosman and Alex Kennedy and energy emissions. This will include debunking some of the common myths about electric
Administration - Diane Lodge vehicles and solar power prices. He will also compare electric cars with internal combustion
Office 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Mail PO Box 426, Whitianga 3542
vehicles and address electric car-charging infrastructure and home charging.
Telephone (07) 866 2090, Fax (07) 866 2092 Green Party Coromandel co-convenor, Theresa Pharo, says there will be an opportunity at the
Editorial email info@theinformer.co.nz, Advertising email sales@theinformer.co.nz meeting for robust discussion about how to respond to climate change. “But this will not be a
ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online), © 2018 Mercury Bay Media Limited venue for debating the vast preponderance of accepted science on climate change,” she says.
The Mercury Bay Informer is subject to the principles of the “The emphasis will be on responses and solutions.”
New Zealand Media Council. Please contact us first if you
have concerns about any of the editorial content published
The meeting will be held in the Coghill Theatre and will start at 3:00pm. The entry fee of $5 will
in The Informer. If we were unable to address your concerns include afternoon tea.
to your satisfaction, you can complain to the New Zealand Pictured is some of the flooding Thames suffered during the storm surge in early January
Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or
www.presscouncil.org.nz.
last year.
See page 2 for what’s happening Like us on Facebook.
in the night sky and the Whitianga and Follow us on Twitter.
Hot Water Beach tides. Check us out on Instagram.
What’s that Number?
Emergency (Ambulance, Fire, Police) 24 hours .....................................................111
Police (Whitianga) ........................................................................................866 4000
Police (Tairua) ..............................................................................................864 8888
Police (Coromandel Town) ...........................................................................866 1190
Fight crime anonymously - Call Crime Stoppers .................................0800 555 111
Dog and Noise Control ................................................................................868 0200
Dental Emergency (Mercury Bay) ................................................................869 5500
Civil Defence ...............................................................................................868 0200
Mercury Bay Medical Centre (Whitianga) ....................................................866 5911
Doctors Surgery (Whitianga) ........................................................................866 4621
Medical Centre (Tairua).................................................................................864 8737
Harbour Master (Whitianga) .................................................................027 476 2651
Coastguard Radio Operators ......................................................................866 2883
Whitianga Social Services ...........................................................................866 4476
ONLINE POLL FOR MARCH 2019
Should small businesses and farms be
made subject to capital gains tax?
Have your say at www.theinformer.co.nz.
Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019
Issue 834
702 - 27
17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
Police Report
By Sergeant Andrew Morrison of the Whitianga Police
Monday 18 February to Monday 25 February 2019
General On the 20th a Mill Creek Road company had
It is usually quite a major process when a their computer hacked, bank details changed
business changes bank account details and it and money fraudulently deposited into a
is recommended practice for customers to be false account.
advised in advance. Customers should rightly Firewood was reported stolen from a Mill
be suspicious if account details change Creek Road address on the 21st, while also
between quotes and invoices as hackers that day a man verbally abused a couple
have targeted businesses in our area and walking past a Powhiri Place, Cooks Beach
fraudulently stolen money. address and our enquiries are continuing.
Please check with the relevant business Damage was discovered to a tractor motor
if anything suspicious occurs while paying at a Purangi Road address on the 22nd.
your bills. We also attended an incident at a Catherine
We attended a Disorder incident in Albert Crescent address on the 22nd where there
Street on the 18th, which has resulted in was a dispute over payment for work done
one woman being charged with Assault and
and the parties were separated before things
Threatening to Kill, three men being warned
got out of hand.
for their actions and nine people being
On the 23rd a 1993 Toyota Hilux coloured
trespassed from a licensed premises.
Red/Grey, registration number CSN178,
Arrests
was unlawfully taken from outside a Kenneth
20th - 1 x 33-year-old local man warned for
Breaching Bail Conditions. Avenue address. This vehicle is still to
Occurrences be located.
Two Family Harm incidents attended Traffic
this week. No drunk drivers apprehended this week.
On the 21st an argument between a teenager We received a report of trucks speeding
and his mother’s partner became physical and through roadworks near Coroglen on the 20th
the case has been referred to Oranga Tamariki. and remind all drivers to adhere to the posted
A bail breach relating to this incident is also speed limits.
being investigated. Two cars collided on the one lane bridge
We attended an incident at a Cook Drive north of Wharekaho on the 22nd. Thankfully
address on the 22nd where a couple were no one was injured. Both drivers were advised
arguing about their relationship and sound to reduce speed when approaching one
advice was given. lane bridges.
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING
(NOT HIGHLAND DANCING)
Starts Tuesday 5 March 2019
at the Mercury Bay Hall Supper Room, Monk Street.
Arrive at 6:45pm for 7:00pm start
until 8:30pm
Light supper to follow
Casual clothes and comfortable shoes.
For an enjoyable evening and friendship.
Phone Anthea 8664516 (0211581522) or Kathy 8664136
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019An exciting find for the Mercury Bay Museum
By Meg Tatton-Brown
The old water tank of the Mercury Bay Dairy Beach Road in Whitianga. 1908 and the last on 22 March 1965. number of children they had, as well as their
factory (the building that is now the Mercury The museum is not sure who gave the The register contains a detailed and husband’s occupation. In many cases female
Bay Museum) is home to a substantial register to them, but assume it must have carefully written record of the name, gender patients stated their own occupation as
collection of historical maps, records, books been donated when the hospital closed down and age of the hospital patients, where they “housewife” or “household duties.”
containing financial transactions and novels - several decades ago. were from, their occupation, the reason Due to privacy reasons, entries must be
many more than a century old. Because the register has not yet been for their admission, the date and length of at least 100 years old before they can be
Mercury Bay Museum staff and volunteers catalogued by the museum, no one had any their stay, any outstanding fees owed to the made public.
were excited to recently discover the old idea that it was in the old water tank until it hospital and whether or not they passed away While the pages of the register are in very
Mercury Bay Hospital Register of Admissions was stumbled upon. while in the hospital’s care. good condition, the outside cover is worn,
among the collection of maps and documents. Now over 100 years old, the first entry in Female patients were usually required so the museum is planning to photograph
The hospital used to be situated on Buffalo the register was recorded on 18 February to state whether they were married and the and transcribe the entries onto their
computer system.
The museum staff and volunteers were also
excited to see how accurately the museum’s
death index corresponds with the records of
patients that had passed away while in the
hospital’s care.
Museum volunteer, Kim Allan, who has a
passion for genealogy and is also a member
of the local genealogy society, will now
work with museum manager, Rebecca Cox,
to index the register.
This means that individuals wanting to
conduct research into the history of deceased
family members will be able to view the
information contained in the register at
the museum.
The first 10 years of entries in the register
(from 1908 to 1918) will be made available
for public viewing.
The board of the Mercury Bay Museum
adopted a policy last week to allow
all children aged 13 and under free
admission into the museum if they are
accompanied by an adult. The policy is
effective immediately.
The recently discovered Mercury Bay Hospital Register of Admissions contains patient information as far back as 1908.
Issue 834
702 - 27
17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11A “Wet ‘n’ Wild Weekend”
in Tairua Coastguard News
January saw 34 call-outs for the Whitianga Coastguard member and require Coastguard
Coastguard unit of which four were urgent. assistance, the cost is $280 per hour.
The balance were mostly tows back to Membership of the Whitianga Coastguard
Whitianga. A total of 57 people were assisted. unit is $90 and is generally considered to be
The urgent calls were vessels taking on water good insurance cover.
or people in the water. One trend we have seen recently is the
In addition to the call-outs, our duty number of boats not having some or all of the
officers had to deal with many incidents of following - VHF radio, chart plotter/sounder,
flare sightings, overdue vessels and the like, flares and even lifejackets. In summary,
which, while the incidents did not result in heavy reliance on a cell phone to provide
our rescue vessels being launched, took on support is not good enough. One of our urgent
average over two hours each to close off. night time call-outs was to a boat needing
We have some new crew starting, assistance with only a cell phone (with no
but are looking for more people to join us. data and little battery life left) on board and
The Tairua Wet ‘n’ Wild Weekend saw plenty of action and excitement on the water last Saturday and
Anyone interested in becoming a no real idea as to where they were.
Sunday as jet skis zoomed around the harbour to delight onlookers relaxing on the shore. member of our unit in either a wet crew Coastguard has the ability to ping a cell
(CRV operations) or radio operator capacity, phone and upon the person accepting the link,
Jet Ski Racing New Zealand and the Auckland Jet Ski Riders Association secretary, Diane Daly,
said the weekend has become “an absolute favourite” on their social events calendar.
please give me a call on (021) 0222 5625 or we can track their GPS position.
pop into Longshore Marine and talk to me. Safe Boating,
This year saw the participation of eight novice riders, including two women, with each of the riders With boating at its peak, it is timely to Stuart Brown
proving highly competitive. The Cullingworth family excelled, winning top placings in the novice class
on both days.
remind skippers that if you are not a current Whitianga Coastguard President
Diane said the “absolute highlight” of each day was the hour spent giving rides around the race
course to local children. “The smiles and excitement this brought to children and adults made it a
special community time for all of us,” she said.
As well as the thrills of riding on a jet ski, there were several other fun activities for children,
including a long slide with a big splash into the water. Another delight was an inflatable seesaw.
“A special thanks to Brent Turner and his Tairua Wet ‘n’ Wild committee who have been our inspiration
to return year after year,” said Diane. “The committee has supported this event in so many ways with
marketing and publicity. The Pepe Café has also provided generous support over the years. We look
forward to returning next year and working with the very active Tairua community.”
One of the Tairua locals helping over the weekend was Alan Roper. He said overall the weekend went
very well and the weather was good. “We look forward to next year and would like more volunteers
to join us in making it another successful jet ski event for Tairua,” he said.
Pictured are some children enjoying the inflatable seesaw while jet ski racing is taking place in
the background.
Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019Golden Girls bring pleasure
to Continuing Care residents
Twice a month on Friday afternoons, the Golden Girls turn up to sing some of the old favourites WHITIANGA PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC
to the residents at Whitianga Continuing Care. One resident in particular eagerly looks forward
to these visits. Robert Lindsay Dip Phty(Otago) ADP(OMT), Dip.MT.
Betty Towgood, soon to be 97, waits at the door of the Continuing Care recreation room where Co-author of ‘Treat Your Own Shoulder’
she knows the Golden Girls gather before going into the residents’ lounge. In particular,
she looks for her old friend, Audrey Neville, the Golden Girls’ musical director. and Associates
Betty was once a very enthusiastic member of the singing group, then called the Glee Singers, Crystal Vause BHScPhysiotherapy
which she joined around 1963. Betty and Audrey “go back a very long way.” Betty is profoundly
deaf now and communication is difficult, but she loves the company of the singers. When it is Manipulation / Back and Neck Pain / Work Injuries
time to go into the residents’ lounge to sing, Betty comes too, and places her wheelchair in the
middle of the group, next to the piano, often asking, “What are we singing now?” Sports Injuries / Post Surgery and Fracture Rehab
Audrey chooses each programme from the Golden Girls’ very wide repertoire of music. She says Acupuncture / Hand Therapy / Women’s Health Clinic
it is the pleasure on the Continuing Care residents’ faces that makes all the effort worthwhile. Physiotherapists with the qualifications to provide
“They all remember the old songs and the memories that go with them and we can see the excellence in physical health care
emotion on their faces,” she says. “That is very rewarding.”
The Golden Girls entertain the Tairua Residential Care residents on a regular basis also.
Pictured is Betty Towgood (wearing the blue hat) with some of her Golden Girls friends at
Dr Adam’s and Hemmes’s Surgery - Ph (07) 868 9579
Whitianga Continuing Care last week.
Issue 834
702 - 27
17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13Board Talk
By the Mercury Bay Area School Board of Trustees
Welcome back to school to all our new and the vital rebuild is completed, is that we will
returning students. Also to our teachers, not be able to hold our school production
administration and support staff for 2019, this year.
a big thank you for a smooth transition and On another topic, our enrolment zone
start to the learning year ahead. has been enacted. This has been published
As you are most likely aware, and communicated extensively previously.
our technology block was severely damaged However, if you have any concerns, please see
by fire late last year. However, with a lot
the MBAS website for further information.
of hard work and tireless effort from our
Two Board of Trustees members are
dedicated team at Mercury Bay Area School,
professional trades and the wider support stepping down this year. The election process
of our community, we have transformed to replace them will be held in May. If you
the school hall into a makeshift technology have an interest in our school or are keen
block while we work through the rebuilding to be involved, here is your chance to join
process. Thank you to the numerous people our board.
involved to make this happen. Joe Reece
The downside to utilising the hall while Parent Representative
The Mercury Bay Area School hall has been transformed into a makeshift technology block
following the fire that severely damaged the school’s technology block late last year.
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019Issue 834
702 - 27
17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019
Issue 834
702 - 27
17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17Letters to the Editor
See page 8 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
Dear Editor - The Rings Beach wetland restoration project
Well-known, but woefully ill-informed anti 1080 activist, John Veysey’s Letter to the Editor in
the Informer of 13 February, indicates a total lack of knowledge about the Rings Beach Wetland
Conservation Group.
Having been involved with a great group of locals in the Rings Beach wetland restoration
project for well over a decade, I can assure Mr Veysey that none of us are in it “to grab public
funds.” We do not have a board of trustees as he suggests and for none of us is it a “search for
a paid occupation or a means of attracting public funds.” Very little of our time is spent on
“administration, meetings, self-promotion and raising funds.” Our time is spent with boots
on the ground, maintaining the hundreds of traps we have installed on many kilometres of
tracks and in controlling invasive wilding pines - not with poison, but with chainsaws and
hand pulling.
We are in it because we care about the environment and are keen to see predators eradicated from
this lovely area, so native birds can flourish and locals and visitors alike can have an interesting
and scenic area for recreation. We do manual trapping, poisons are frowned upon and not one
microgram of Mr Veysey’s dreaded 1080 has ever been used.
However, on a personal level I do believe that while not perfect, 1080 does have its place until
something better comes along. His “bit of trapping and shooting” will never eliminate the need for
some form of poisoning in some parts of New Zealand, but fortunately the Rings Beach wetland is
not one of those places.
Alastair Brickell
Kuaotunu
Dear Editor - The Rings Beach wetland restoration project
I was intrigued by John Veysey’s letter to the Editor in The informer of 13 February in response to
my Letter to the Editor the week before, regarding an anti-1080 slogan on the Rings Beach wetland
restoration project’s walking circuit. It seems as if Mr Veysey missed the point I was making and
proceeded to denigrate conservation projects in general.
Having read the past experience that shaped his views on this subject, I respect his point of view
and his right to express it.
However, it is abundantly clear that he has no knowledge of our project, despite regular publicity
through The Informer and other media outlets over the last 10 years. Perhaps a visit to Rings Beach
and a walk along our 4.7km track to observe the progress we have made would be educational.
Starting in 2009, our volunteers carved out the track on a 270ha block of land administered by
the Department of Conservation, in the course of which we discovered a 4.5ha unmodified wetland
with a struggling population of the fernbirds Mr Veysey seems to have empathy with. We laid out
280 traps to ensure the birds’ survival and significant revival, as well as to encourage other native
life to re-establish.
Mobility equipment available for locals and visitors.
Walking frames, crutches, walking sticks and wheelchairs.
Phone Roger on 07 867 1986 for more information
Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019Letters to the Editor
See page 8 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
Over 7,000 predators have been caught since 2012, 5,000 native trees have been planted to provide I find that Mrs Goudie’s refusal to declare her beliefs on a matter of scientific certainty shows poor
a food source for returning native birds, which include kiwi, to date around $100,000 has been spent judgment and a scorn for the people who have voted her into office. People deserve to know what
on felling wilding pines, with further funds granted to complete the task, and over 12,000 volunteer her views are, so they can vote accordingly.
hours have produced a regenerating forest and significant recreational asset. William Stewart
We have no trust board, no formal committee, significant funds have been generously donated Christchurch
from among our volunteers over several years and other funding was provided by conservation
Editor’s Note - William Stewart’s letter refers to a Radio New Zealand interview with Sandra Goudie
funders, based on the proof of positive results.
Not a penny has been earned by a soul from our team, on the contrary it has cost most some level about a request from members of the public for TCDC to sign up to the Local Government Leader’s
of contribution to do the work they are dedicated to. Climate Change Declaration.
Personally, I don’t believe that Mr Veysey’s response is worth a reply, but I have done so on Following the request and Mrs Goudie’s interview with Radio New Zealand, TCDC issued the
behalf of our volunteers who understandably took umbrage at his implications of impropriety. following statement -
Ian Patrick “[Council] has not yet made a decision on signing up to the Local Government Leaders’ Climate
Secretary of the Rings Beach Wetland Conservation Group Change Declaration.
“The declaration commits councils to plans to reduce greenhouse gases, increase resource
Dear Editor - Myna birds efficiency, promote public and low-carbon transport and support the use of renewable energy and
The story of raising orphan myna chicks in The Informer of 20 February is heart-warming until you uptake of electric vehicles.
consider the way myna birds behave to our native birds. “When the declaration was discussed during a council workshop [on Tuesday 19 February],
They are extremely territorial and aggressive, particularly in the breeding season. They will councillors expressed a desire for clarity on any financial implications of the document and the
seize native birds’ nests, kill the young, build their nests and lay their eggs on top of other eggs, consequential rates increases it might place on ratepayers.
smothering them. “Councillors also indicated the importance for leadership and clearer guidance from central
They have been declared the second greatest threat to our native birds after land clearing. They are government as to what is specifically required of local government when it comes to risk and
certainly not welcome on my bush section. resilience matters such as climate change.
Luckily they are distinctively noisy and if I hear a hint of their chatter, they can be easily “Council continues to be proactive in ensuring our communities are engaged, prepared, protected
startled away. and safe in the long term.
I treasure and want to protect the many kinds of resident native birds in the area I live. “In February 2018, council adopted the government’s revised climate change guidance,
Clare Dudley as published in the Ministry for the Environment’s ‘Coastal Hazards and Climate Change Guidance
Tuateawa for Local Government.’
Dear Editor - TCDC mayor, Sandra Goudie’s stance on climate change “In June 2018, council adopted a coastal management strategy, which sets out a range of initiatives
Last week, Thames-Coromandel District Council mayor, Sandra Goudie, stated publicly that she that [TCDC] will be taking over the coming years to better manage coastal assets and understand the
did not have an obligation to tell ratepayers what her opinion is on matters of crucial importance to risk of coastal inundation and coastal erosion. The [TCDC] 2018 - 2028 Long Term Plan includes
the Coromandel Peninsula. $2.6 million over three years to help council implement this strategy.
I would like to dispute that. I believe that all public officials in elected positions have the “Council’s Proposed District Plan also includes policies that are aimed at protecting the natural
responsibility to declare their opinions and beliefs that guide their decision-making and how they features and landscapes of the Coromandel’s coastal environments and managing the effects of
carry out the duties of their office. Mrs Goudie’s statement is anti-democratic and is a betrayal to all flooding, coastal erosion and tsunami.
who have voted for her or who would consider voting for her. “Among other initiatives, council has supported the set-up of the Coromandel Electric Vehicle
Mrs Goudie said she was not obliged to reveal her stance on climate change. “I think it’s Scenic Touring Route, which is a network of fast-charging stations for electric vehicles at key points
incredibly highly politically charged and driven and I don’t think that makes for a good basis for around the Coromandel on SH25.
sound judgment,” she said. “Progression of this discussion will likely be scheduled for a council meeting in April.”
Licensed under the REAA 2008
Boundaries Indicative Only
Wharekaho Coastal Development 39 Wharekaho Road
Land Bank Opportunity At Simpsons Beach
WHITIANGA 39 WHAREKAHO ROAD 3 2 1 1
This picturesque 30ha grazing block has expansive countryside views as well as vistas of Wharekaho and Mercury Bay.
Zoned rural, the 30ha property borders the future urban zone, this could be the ultimate land bank for future development or
is the ideal location for someone who wants this slice of paradise all to themselves. For retiring farmers this would be a great
little grazing block whilst you just enjoy the location and lifestyle. The stylish architecturally designed home was strategically
built to take advantage of the stunning views. It includes spacious open plan living areas, three generously sized bedrooms
including a master with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe and numerous unique features throughout. Sold +GST if any.
28 March, from 1pm
(unless sold prior)
Durrelle Green
M 027 949 3725 HELD 247 Cameron Road, Tauranga
E durrelle.green@eves.co.nz WEB www.eves.co.nz/ektc2046
Web durrellegreen.eves.co.nz VIEW Saturday 10.00-11.00am
Issue 834
702 - 27
17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19Box office hit, “Celia,”
is coming to Whitianga
One of the biggest successes at last year’s New Zealand International Film Festival, “Celia,” is coming to
Mercury Twin Cinemas in Whitianga from Thursday this week (28 February).
Celia, directed by acclaimed broadcast journalist Amanda Millar, captures the legacy and final days of
social advocate, world-class storyteller and international author, Celia Lashlie (pictured).
In the film, Millar’s first feature film, Celia Lashlie talks openly about her life, her work and her dream of a
better New Zealand. The film explores the transformational effect of this charismatic woman in the lives
of some of the most at-risk people in the country.
“Since the festival, we’ve been inundated with requests to see the film from within New Zealand and
beyond,” says Millar. “The response to Celia’s messages has been overwhelming as so many people say
the film has had such an impact on their attitudes and lives.”
After receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis in late 2014, Lashlie asked Millar to film the final year of her
life in order to document her unfinished business.
In February 2015, Millar was summonsed to bring a camera to Lashlie’s home for what turned out to be her
first and only interview for the film. Two days after the interview, Celia Lashlie died. “We were all shocked
to lose Celia so fast, [to the extent that a single] hour-and-a-half interview ended up forming the powerful
core of the documentary,” says Millar. “It was in effect Celia’s final chance to have her say and it was such
a privilege and honour to be able to be with her and capture it on film.”
Lashlie’s messages urge New Zealanders to change their attitudes and behaviour to address the appalling
violence, child mortality, suicide and prison statistics in the country.
See the Mercury Twin Cinemas advertisement on page 31 of this issue of The Informer for the dates and
times Celia will be screening in Whitianga.
“Kīwaha o te wiki” (saying of the week)
“Mahi tahi” - Work together
Saying of the week supplied by Te Puna Reo o Whitianga - a playgroup with a focus on Māori tikanga and te reo Māori.
The group members meet every Tuesday at 9:30am at Crossroads Whitianga Church. All those with pēpi or young tamariki are welcome to join.
Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 834 - 27 February 2019What’s On The next few weeks
REGULAR EVENTS Whitianga. Visitors welcome. Phone Phone Merle on (021) 024 19368 or Beverley on (07) 866 2345 for more information.
Op-Shops Rock ‘n’ Roll Meetings
Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street See @Mercury Rockers on Facebook or phone Chris on (021) 504 246.
(west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm. Cancer Society Whitianga Coffee Group (In Partnership with the Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust)
The Church Op-Shop - at St Andrews by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Meet the first Friday of every month from 10:00am - 11:30am at St Andrew’s Community Church, Albert Street, Whitianga.
Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pm. Contact Penny on phone (027) 684 0004 or at email pennyparsons@cancersociety.org.nz for more information.
St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday Whiti Gospel Choir
10:00am - 2:00pm. Perform at 10:00m on the first Sunday of every month at Crossroads Church, Whitianga.
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop Mercury Bay Quilters
Albert Street, Whitianga. Open every Monday - Saturday from 10:00am - 2:00pm. Meet the first and third Monday and the second and fourth Saturday of the month from 10:00am - 4:00pm at Whitianga
Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss (the old WW) Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. New members welcome. Phone Delys on (07) 866 0265 for more information.
Meet every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. A support group Cooks Beach Garden Circle
for women striving to be the “best versions of themselves” they can be. “Weighing in” at meetings is optional, but all Meet the last Thursday of every month from 11:15am - 2:30pm. New members welcome. Phone Leila on (07) 866 3264
are motivated towards being more active and encourage each other to eat well. Phone 869 5648 for more information. or Anne on (07) 867 1618 for more information.
Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Dog Walking Group
Meet the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Meet every Thursday at 2:00pm at Lovers Rock, Robinson Road, Whitianga. An opportunity to socialise your dog.
Phone 866 5027 for more information. Whitianga Tramping Group
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club Meet every second Sunday at 8:30am. Phone Wally on (021) 907 782 or Lesley on (021) 157 9979 for more information.
Meet Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie etc. Afternoon tea, Mountain Biking
55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. Meets every Sunday at 8:00am at the Fire Station intersection, Whitianga. Phone Paul on (021) 605 230 if you are
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated interested in riding.
Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their
computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on
866 4215 for more information or to join. SPECIFIC EVENTS
Matarangi Craft Group On the Road
Meet the second and fourth Tuesday of every month from 7:00pm - 9:00pm at the Matarangi Fire Station. Phone Lesley Thursday 28 February at 7:00pm in the Coghill Theatre, Coghill Street, Whitianga. A comedy show by Michele
on 866 0788 for more information. A’Court and Jeremy Elwood. Tickets $25 adults and $15 students Under 18. Available from Paper Plus Whitianga.
Whenuakite Area Playgroup Mercury Bay Art Escape Open Artists Studios
Every Wednesday 9:30am - 12:30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Ages birth - six years. Visitors welcome. Tea and Saturday 2 March and Sunday 3 March, and Saturday 9 March and Sunday 10 March. Get a copy of the Mercury Art
coffee are provided. Escape Art Guide 2019 or see www.mercurybayartescape.com for details of the participating artists and art groups.
Whitianga Playcentre Whitianga Art, Craft and Farmers Market
Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon at 1D White Street, Witianga. For children 0 - 6 years, Saturday 2 March from 8:30am - 1:00pm at Soldiers Memorial Park, Albert Street, Whitianga.
free entry. Visitors welcome. Mercury Bay Senior Rugby Tournament
Mercury Bay Community Choir Saturday 2 March at Lyon Park, Albert Street, Whitianga. A pre-season warm-up tournament. Four participating
Meet Mondays at 6:00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School music room, 20 South Highway, Whitianga. All welcome. To find teams. First game at 10:30am. All games 20 minutes (two 10-minute halves).
out more, phone Kate on (027) 270 9058 or Edie on (027) 272 5733. Round 3 of the NZ Offshore Powerboat Series
Mercury Bay Woolcraft Group Saturday 2 March. Race 1 at 12:00 noon, Race 2 at 1:00pm. Best viewing along Buffalo Beach, Whitianga.
Meet every first and third Wednesday of the month in the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk Street, from 10:00am - 2:00pm. Team tents, commentator and food trucks at Buffalo Beach Reserve, Buffalo Beach Road, Whitianga.
Phone Wendy Russell on (07) 866 3225 or Michelle McLuckie on (021) 104 1205 for more information. Coroglen Farmer’s Market
Serenity Al-Anon Group Sunday 3 March from 9:00am - 1:00pm at the Coroglen Hall, State Highway 25, Coroglen.
Meet every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone (07) 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by Mercury Bay Art Escape Tuia - Encounters 250 Street Art Festival
someone else’s drinking. Monday 4 March to Friday 8 March. See local and internationally-recognised street artists create 12 murals in the
Whitianga Art Group Whitianga CBD. Details on a free leaflet available from many Whitianga retailers and the Whitianga i-SITE.
Meet every Thursday and Friday from 10:00am - 4:00pm at the Art Centre and Gallery at the end of School Road,
Whitianga
07 866 0070
• Spouting
• Roofing
• Water treatments systems
• Septic tanks
• Hot Water cylinders
• New Housing
• Alterations
• General Maintenance
• Solar water heating
• All LPG gas installation
Issue 834
702 - 27
17February
August 2016
2019 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21You can also read
