Some days a loss is a win - Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 - Mercury Bay Informer
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Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,200
Some days a loss is a win
By Stephan Bosman
The Mercury Bay Area School First XV rugby team after the Coulter Cup final in Ngatea on Saturday last week.
I debated whether to put this story on the in the first round of the competition. half, the Bay enjoyed more possession and supporters will remember in years to come.
front page. If the Mercury Bay Senior A The week before last, MBAS met HPC Paeroa started to make mistakes. With Paeroa What they will remember is the MBAS boys,
Marlins win the Thames Valley Rugby Union again, once more at HPC’s home ground, in scoring their second try, but Cullen Bevan our boys, playing the most epic game of rugby
McClinchy Cup this Saturday (14 July), after the semi-final. And once again the boys’ lack kicking three more penalties, the lead kept in the history of the Coulter Cup. What they
a brilliant semi-final win last week, it would in size didn’t matter, but their level of courage changing until it settled down at 15-all. will remember is a team who fought until the
mean two rugby stories on the front page in and motivation did. They were hungry for the And then the final whistle blew. After 70 bitter end. What they will remember is how
two weeks. win and they were duly rewarded with a spot minutes (35 minutes each way) of some of proud they were when they embarked on the
But in the end, it really was a no-brainer. in the final. the best, most intense schoolboy rugby ever long drive home.
As everyone who was at the Coulter Cup First On Saturday last week, it was clear for witnessed by the spectators, the boys faced “The one characteristic the boys displayed
XV final on Saturday last week in Ngatea all the MBAS supporters who made the another 20 minutes of gruelling extra time. during the year was their sheer determination
would attest, the Mercury Bay Area School trip to Ngatea that the Bay boys were the And what a 20 minutes it was. Both to never give up,” MBAS head coach, Cody
boys, despite the fact that they didn’t win, underdogs. Their opponents, Paeroa College, teams played like never before. There was Muir, said to me when I spoke to him after
deserve our highest admiration. was undefeated and looked so much bigger brilliance on attack and defence, there was the game. This is a sentiment that was
The Bay boys were up against it from the and stronger. From the kick-off there was grit and determination. But no points were echoed by assistant coach, Stacey Bevan.
beginning of the season. They were a young no doubt, however, that MBAS came to scored. Until, literally, the last five seconds “This was an astonishing game of schoolboy
team and smaller than the other teams. play. They didn’t have a lot of ball, but their when MBAS unfortunately conceded a rugby,” he said. “Some days a loss is a win.
But their hearts were bigger. Despite a tough defence was extraordinary. They managed kickable penalty. Credit to the Paeroa kicker And the final was one of those days. That is
first two games, they never gave up. The wins to confine Paeroa to one converted try while who didn’t buckle under the pressure. just how life works. And that is how it was
started coming. A highlight was undoubtedly MBAS second five eight, Cullen Bevan, He slotted the penalty and the final whistle with this game. The boys may not have the
winning a second round-robin game, and an kicked two penalties to put the Bay only one blew. With the scoreboard at 15 - 18, won the Coulter Cup, but they are winners.
away game at that, against Hauraki Plains point behind, 6 - 7, at halftime. the Coulter Cup was going to Paeroa. They have my utmost respect.”
College after having been trounced by HPC With the wind from behind in the second But losing the final isn’t what the Bay As I said, a story worthy of the front page.
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Mercury Bay Area School’s unique new
platter boards for Colenso Café
By Tony Stickley
According to the gastronomic experts, profit to perhaps help fund other projects.” seared into the boards by Whitianga laser And knowing that the boards are going to be
food presentation is as important as taste, Candice and the students took up the engraver, Peter Morrison. used every day is really exciting for them.”
so when Colenso Café at Whenuakite needed challenge with enthusiasm, sourcing the wood “The whole project was amazing,” said Leah added, “It is something the kids can
new “ploughman’s platters” to serve their from Hayden Smith, who runs Cathedral Candice. “The students have been able to be very proud of… and when they come back
customers, they decided to commission Cove Water Taxi, while Candice’s builder see what a raw piece of natural timber can be to visit in years to come, they can point to the
Mercury Bay Area School’s middle school to husband, Jamie, helped oversee the work. changed into with a bit of work and planning. logo and say, ‘I made that’.”
design and make them something unique. “I think it was a great project for the children
The result was a distinctive batch of boards to undertake, where they learned a bit about
crafted from refurbished kauri, rimu, totara business,” said Candice. “They would have to
and macrocarpa (featuring the kids’ own think about the project from go to whoa and
logo for their class, Hei Five) which were the skills they would need.”
delivered last week. “They had to think about where to source
To say thank you for a job well done, the raw materials, to confirm the design to
Colenso’s new owners Leah Barker and make sure the customer was happy, ensure
husband, Dean Jackson, hosted around 20 consistency of product, apply quality
Year 7 and 8 students as well as tech rotation control and how to cost them - all the things
teacher, Candice Van de Ven, at a special a business would have to think about,”
morning tea at the café last Wednesday. said Leah, who for many years ran all the
Leah said that after taking over the business logistics for Australia’s biggest oil and gas
in March, they were keen to support the local company, before quitting the corporate world
community. They needed to replace their old to return with her family to New Zealand.
platter boards and came up with the idea of “It was a creative, little business project where
asking the school if they would be interested the kids go from the initial idea through to
in a project for students to design and make delivering the finished product, which is what
a set of hand-made wooden serving boards. happened here today.”
“We approached the school because we Candice said that her husband’s firm milled
thought it would be an interesting exercise and laminated the wood for the platters,
for kids at the school to do,” said Leah, getting them to the point where the children
whose daughter, Koru (16), attends MBAS, sanded and oiled them. She also wanted to
while sons, Jonte (13) and Casey (10), go to mention floorer, Nick Stephenson, who put
Whenuakite School. “The concept was for them in touch with Hayden for the wood,
them to design the boards, source the raw and Guthrie Bowron Whitianga, who
materials, make the boards and deliver them. provided the food-grade oil at trade discount.
“We needed to buy new boards anyway, Candice said there was also a competition Colenso Café owner, Leah Barker (left), and Mercury Bay Area School tech rotation teacher,
but we thought this would be a cool little among the students to design a logo to go on Candice van de Ven, with some of the MBAS Hei Five students who delivered new
project and the school would make a bit of the platters, won by Taj Lorimer, which was “ploughman’s platters” to the café on Wednesday last week.
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of Wednesday, 14 July to Wednesday, 21 July - This week is a good one to watch Venus and Mars in motion at sunset near the horizon in the
NW. Venus is by far the brighter of the two and starts the week just above and to the right of very faint and slightly reddish Mars. The separation between
the two will grow from night to night and by the end of the week, it will have moved much higher to be almost next to the bright star Regulus in Leo.
The Pleiades or Matariki can be seen just before sunrise, low in the NE just to the left of the reddish star Aldabaran in Taurus. The International Space
Station (ISS) makes some passes in the mornings this week. Keep in mind that the timings given may change slightly if it has to move to avoid space junk.
Wednesday, 14 July - The crescent Moon is now high above and to the right of Mars and bright Venus, which is moving rapidly up towards the
star Regulus. Thursday, 15 July - The crescent Moon is now high above bright Venus and much fainter Mars, which lie close to the horizon. Astronomy Tours and B&B
Monday, 19 July - Venus is low in the NW dusk sky and about halfway between the bright star Regulus above with faint Mars below. Tuesday, 20 July - An Phone (07) 866 5343
early morning ISS pass starts at 6:31am in the NW passing high overhead. Wednesday, 21 July - A low ISS appearance this morning from 5:45am in the
north passing just above Matariki at 5:47am and then right through Orion. www.stargazersbb.com
Whitianga and Hot Water Beach tides Tides data sponsored by
nzwindows.co.nz
4 Dakota Drive
Whitianga
Tel 07 869 5990
Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021
More than $6,000 raised at
Pink Ribbon cocktail evening
A sold out Pink Ribbon ladies cocktail evening at the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club on Saturday
last week saw $6,412 being raised for the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.
Event organiser, Alana Baker, says she knows people who have suffered from breast cancer and
the evening was a way to contribute to lifesaving education and research into more effective breast
cancer treatments, and support during breast cancer journeys and recovery, including rehabilitation,
counselling and advice. “Nine Kiwi women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day,” she says.
“We were overwhelmed with the generous donations made by sponsors near and far for the spot
prizes, silent auctions and the raffle. Tickets sold out in just two weeks of being made available.”
Alana would like to acknowledge The Goods Coromandel Catering Co and The Harbour House Café
for the evening’s grazing table, Dr Hannah Walker, who was the guest speaker, Toya Fleetwood for
entertaining everyone and the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club, especially Louise Davis and Caroline
Franklin who were instrumental in helping her to organise the event
“Also a massive thank you to everyone who came and enjoyed the evening,” Alana says. “We look
forward to going bigger and better next year.”
Pictured is Alana (right) with Paula Fawcett, one of the guests who enjoyed the evening on Saturday.
699 - 13
Issue 958 27 July 2021
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
Dramatic results in Photographic Club’s Light Painting challenge Light painting expert, Denis Smith, hosted a very entertaining and helpful Zoom meeting for the Photo of the Month, “Birth” (pictured right), a lovely and delicate still life of an agapanthus bud, was Whitianga Photographic Club early last month. Denis shared his passion and tips, and gave the snapped by Karen Moffatt-McLeod. In second was Deborah Pham van Xua followed by Sean King. members plenty of inspiration. That resulted in some powerful images being entered in the club’s For July, the photographers will be getting creative and abstract with a theme of Intentional Light Painting challenge for June. Camera Movement. Anita Ruggle-Lussy’s dramatic creation, “Maleficent in the Woods with her Magic Staff” (pictured To see more of the Whitianga Photographic Club’s work visit their Facebook page. Anyone keen to left), took the top spot with Paul Schrader in second and Wendy Pemberton third. join the club, can email the admin team at whitiangaphoto@gmail.com. Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021
Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Creative Mercury Bay to wind-up after nine
years of service to the community
A contribution by Creative Mercury Bay
Creative Mercury Bay (CMB) has made the Jan Wright, CMB trustee and one of the
decision to wind up after nine years of service original founding members, is thrilled with
to the Mercury Bay community. The charitable what the organisation has accomplished.
trust will cease operations at the end of “We are of course very sad to be dissolving the
this month. trust, but we are also incredibly proud of what
CMB was formed in early 2012 by a group has been achieved over the last nine years,”
of arts-passionate locals who identified a need she said. “We’ve always been community
to strategically support the development of oriented - run by locals for locals, and we take
the performing arts in Mercury Bay, after pride in the connections, enjoyment, learning
dissolution of the the Whitianga Music Society. and fun we have helped to create through our
Since then, the mostly volunteer-run trust has mahi and the opportunities we have created for
actively developed and nurtured enjoyment, so many local artists to perform.
participation and education in the arts by “I will be eternally grateful to the Mercury
providing an exciting annual programme of Bay community for so enthusiastically allowing
events and workshops. CMB the opportunity to develop and showing
“As a team, the decision to wind up the trust
up as a warm, receptive audience each time.”
was not an easy one and several factors have
CMB has successfully created a place for the
contributed to this decision,” says Anusha
performing arts in Mercury Bay and the team
Bhana, chair of CMB. “Even though we have
hopes that the trust’s departure will present an
done our best to streamline processes and
increase efficiency, operating a charitable trust opportunity for something or someone else to
is hard work. A lot takes place behind the scenes take its place. “We’re leaving the door open
to organise events, plan annual programmes for others to take the lead,” says Anusha.
and secure funding grants and sponsorship. Some of the local artists who participated in Creative Mercury Bay’s “Bubble Bites” “We strongly encourage other arts groups
This has been hard to sustain, both financially online performing arts series from April to June last year. and locals to continue to create in this space
and operationally, with limited funds and a and keep the strong performing arts scene in
trustees and a committee member, however which took place on 7 February 2021 and the
small team of volunteers, most of whom have Mercury Bay thriving.
Anusha, together with fellow locals Dave always popular Auckland Youth Orchestra
day jobs and other commitments. Rhodes and Emma Mudgway, joined at that which performed to a sold-out audience “CMB would like to sincerely thank each and
“A minimum number of trustees is required point, breathing life into the organisation for on 20 March this year. every person who has had a hand in our success
for us to operate legally and it has become another 12 months. In nine years, Creative Mercury Bay has over the years - volunteers, local businesses,
increasingly difficult to find volunteers who And what a year it was with the successful created over 75 events and workshops which sponsors, media partners, stakeholders,
have the capacity, skills and willingness to online performing arts series, “Bubble Bites”, introduced the Mercury Bay community to a audiences, artists and performers, local and
be trustees.” that took place from April to June last year wide range of artistic disciplines, including visiting. More acknowledgements will be made
CMB was on the verge of winding up in during the first COVID-19 national lockdown, theatre, film, dance, comedy, music and in the coming weeks on the our social media
April 2020, following the resignation of several the summer busking festival, “Whiti Fest”, photography. channels and website.”
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021
The Small-time Investor
By Whitianga resident, Max Ross
Final words
The markets are ticking upwards and I’m back companies that I like and I think will do well
at my all-time highs. This is my last column over time and then I hold. When the markets
article regarding my year-long experiment drop and my balances drop with them,
and I am really happy that I am finishing on a I don’t sell.
positive note. Currently I’m up 12.1 percent, Diversify and spread the risk. I pick my
which is $633.87. My top performer is own stocks and I think it’s good to have
Nvidia, up 55.5 percent, followed by EBOS, your money spread around. It smooths out
up 45.94 percent. My worst performer is the highs and the lows of your investments.
Plexure, down 52.4 percent, followed by The ultimate way to do this is with an
Microstrategy down 29.5 percent. Thirty of exchange traded fund, but I really like picking
my picks are up and 10 are down. my companies and it feels great when I beat
My vision when this experiment started was the indexes.
to show others how easy it is to get started Think for yourself. By the time shares make
with investing in the sharemarket. Share the news it’s too late. Think for yourself about
investing has really changed with online your investments. Read and seek the opinions
trading and fractional share trading means
of others, but use your brain. Why did
you can get started with small amounts.
someone write that article? Is there an ulterior
All the dividends that I receive, I will invest
motive? Is this article about something that
into Tesla. It is my intention to report back
has already happened? Don’t jump onto the
every six months so you can see how my
investments are doing over the long haul. bandwagon and don’t “fear of missing out”.
Thank you to the people who signed up to This happens when things surge upwards and
online trading platform, Sharesies, using the people buy in because they don’t want to miss
link I have provided every week. We have out. Often these people buy at the top and the
each earned $5. I’m investing mine into Tesla, price drops soon afterwards.
of course. I hope you have been successful Have fun investing, it’s a great way to make
with your investing. your money work for you so that hopefully
I would like to finish with the top three one day you don’t have to work anymore.
most important lessons I have learnt over my Please remember that what I wrote over
investment journey. the past 12 months in this column was all my
Time in the market beats timing the market. personal opinion. I have shared my thoughts
I have read somewhere that 90 percent of and strategies along with my results so that
active traders lose money. I cannot accurately you could see how easy it is to invest, even
pick the highs and lows of the market and a small amount. As always, be careful with
it’s stressful trying to do so. I buy shares in your money.
4
Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Tradies take the limelight in Tairua
Troubadours’ second show for 2021
By Gillian O’Neill
Builders, chippies, plumbers and can continue to be donated to local charities
sparkies - our tradies are credited for keeping and organisations.
the Coromandel moving and now they are “This year, we bought a rear projector
about to take centre stage in their very own that displays images for our backdrops.
theatre production as the Tairua Troubadours It instantly sets the scene and saves extra
tackle their second show for 2021. wordy script trying to inform the audience
Dedicated to the hundreds of tradespeople of what is happening. As the saying goes,
who serve our local communities, “Tradies - a picture speaks a thousand words, so the
No Surprises There” will capture the unique ticket sales from this show will go towards
humour and camaraderie that one only finds offsetting that cost.”
on a typical building site, with plenty of Fresh off her own recent build, Jennie
chaos and musical interludes thrown in for says the keyboard ran hot when creating
entertainment purposes. the characters and the interactions between
Writer/director, Jennie Turner, wrote the them. “It’s not all about what I’ve just been
show in record time, inspired by a piece through, it’s also about experiences others
of advice she was given back in primary have shared,” she says. “I was lucky enough
school - write about what you know. to have a great bunch of tradies, a couple
“Forty years married to a builder, I know have been with me since the 80s and they’re
about this industry - I’ve heard it all over the the best. They’re now referred to as old
years,” she says. school, but there’s certainly nothing wrong
The run will include four evening with that.”
performances in September by the Having fully painted two houses inside and
Troubadours cast and crew who have just out, along with project managing and being Lisa Radford (on the left), Johann von Allmen and Sabeena Tsan in action during the Tairua
come off a hugely successful eight night official floor sweeper, Jennie says, if not quite Troubadours’ recent show, “80s People Magazine - All the Gloss”. The theatre group will stage
it’s next production, “Tradies - No Surprises There”, in September.
run of the eighties inspired “80s People a certified tradie, she definitely feels qualified
Magazine - All the Gloss”. to capture in writing the trials and tribulations, script,” she says. “I think we’ll all relate to The show will run for four nights - Wednesday
“We don’t usually do two shows in the same fun and frustrations of life on the site. “None someone or something in it. But as ever with 22 to Saturday, 25 September - at the Tairua
year,” says Jennie. “However, it’s something of the characters are based on a particular Troubadours shows, it’s all about having fun, Community Hall. Tickets priced at $30 are
we have done on occasions to help raise funds person, although I suspect some people may on and off the stage. This one certainly has now on sale.
when we need to invest in new equipment. recognise elements of themselves or someone plenty of laughs and I’m looking forward to Email tairuatroubadours@gmail.com for
That way the proceeds from our main show they know, that’s the nature of this particular seeing what the cast does with it.” more information and bookings.
Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021
Lots to love at Whitianga’s indoor winter market Whitianga’s newest market is proving to be a hit with locals and visitors, attracting large numbers to explore the huge variety of locally made art, crafts, gifts and produce. The indoor Winter Community Market is hosted by Coro Club Café at the Flight Club Ballroom (at the Whitianga Airfield) and provide local traders an opportunity to avoid the temperamental winter weather and a cool new event for the public to enjoy. “It’s got a really lovely vibe, we have music playing and there’s a real fun and friendly atmosphere,” says organiser, Jane Lupton. The market is held on the third Saturday of every month and has been growing since it first started in May and will feature over 30 stalls this Saturday, 17 July. “The response has been fantastic, there is such a great range of products with a strong focus on upcycled and repurposed items,” says Jane. “Our local crafters are often a bit starved of opportunities to sell over the winter, it’s just too difficult to have an outdoor market because the weather can cause all sorts of disruption. So we are very grateful to have the support of Maree Champion, Coro Club owner, and her team who have allowed us to use their venue and, of course, they have plenty of yummy treats and coffee available for those who come to the market.” Among the goods for sale are vintage linen and clothing, wooden toys, honey, preserves, bread, jewellery, dried flowers, woven items, art and much more. “There is a vast selection with something for everyone,” says Jane. The market is also a non-profit event. Stall fees cover the small rental charged by the Mercury Bay Aero Club and advertising, with any profits donated to the Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust. Anyone interested in having a stall can contact Jane at nowandtheng@gmail.com. The market runs from 9.00am until 1:00pm. Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
Police target boy racing hoons doing
burnouts on Whitianga bypass
By Tony Stickley
The Police are clamping down on boy racers as 6:00am,” said Anna. “For some reason then they do whatever they do to make the put up surveillance cameras. That is what
doing burnouts on the Whitianga bypass, they want to do wheelies or doughnuts at the tyres screech on the tarmac. they should do here, because I think if they
terrifying nearby residents. Racecourse Road junction with the bypass “But there is so much smoke that maybe don’t stop it, someone could get killed or
In recent weeks, two cars have been where the speed limit is 80km/h. an on-coming vehicle might not see them in very badly injured.”
impounded and officers are warning that “It is just ridiculous. It is a state highway, time. It could end in disaster, people could get In a statement, a police spokesperson said
others involved in the illegal and highly a main road. There is other traffic on the killed. The last time it happened, the car spun they were aware there had been some issues
dangerous manoeuvres on State Highway 25 roads at that time of the morning, so they are out of control and finished up just six inches involving a minority of road users in the
could also have their vehicles confiscated. taking a huge risk. I hear the tyres screeching from the fence. The guy skidded off the road Whitianga area. “Two vehicles have been
Residents living on Whitianga’s Carina impounded in the past month,” the statement
Way said they fear hoons doing burnouts on said. “We have no tolerance for illegal driving
the highway just behind their homes in the activity. We do not want drivers on the road
middle of the night could end in disaster. who are endangering the lives of people in
“It is only a matter of time before someone our communities.
gets killed,” said Anna (who did not want her “Illegal driving activity creates unnecessary
real name to be used), who has lived in the risk for the drivers themselves and members
street for the past five years. of the public. While we appreciate there are
Another resident said that on one occasion car enthusiasts who meet up and socialise
the burnouts at the bypass junction with without engaging in illegal activity, there are
Racecourse Road was so bad that his whole a minority who have little regard for road
house was engulfed in acrid smoke when safety and the communities they are affecting
they inadvertently left some windows open. with their behaviour. We are determined to
“The smoke actually filled the house with the put a stop to this.
smell of burning rubber - it smoke-screened “Road safety is everyone’s responsibility
our house,” said the man, who estimated and the Police want people to be safe and feel
burnouts occurred at least once a week. safe on our roads. [We] take our responsibility
“It is pretty scary. Our fear is that someday, in preventing death and injury on our roads
someone will lose control and come through seriously and will continue to target poor
The State Highway 25/Racecourse Road junction in Whitianga where boy
our fence and into our house.” racers are doing burnouts late at night and early in the morning.
driver behaviour to keep our community safe.”
Apart from the doughnuts, the man was Anyone witnessing any dangerous driving
also concerned about the speed of some as they spin round and round and round, and and into a dip. He was revving and revving behaviour is encouraged to notify the Police
drivers on the bypass and believed that my daughter who lives several kilometres his engine until he managed to get it out. by phoning 111 and to take note of the vehicle
automatic speed indicators would help slow away can hear it as well. It is so loud it “He was very lucky - there are also power registration, if possible, to allow officers to
people down. “You can hear them revving up is unbelievable. poles at that junction and if they brought take immediate action.
their engines,” said the man. “They are doing “It ends up that you can’t even see the down one of those poles, they could get “There are a range of options available to
well over 80km/h.” car becuase of the smoke from their tyres. electrocuted. As residents, we have had the Police depending on the circumstances,
Residents said the burnouts usually happen Maybe they choose that spot because there enough, I know I have. Sometimes I only get including issuing infringement notices,
late in the evening or early morning. “It has is more room there. They seem to come out two or three hours’ sleep. filing court charges, impounding vehicles
been going on all the time I have been here, of Racecourse Road and they can look both “In Hamilton they had a problem with and suspending drivers’ licences,”
sometimes at 1:30am and sometimes as late ways to see if there is any other traffic and youngsters doing doughnuts and the police the statement said.
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Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11
Users of Pepe Bridge invited
to complete online survey Police Report
By Sergeant Andrew Morrison of the Whitianga Police
Monday, 5 July to Monday, 12 July 2021
General argued over parking issues with the argument
On a weekly basis we are getting fraud deteriorating into name calling.
complaints where people have purchased On the 6th a fraud matter was reported from
items which have not arrived, with the an Arawa Lane address with bank enquiries
supposed seller then blocking the purchaser. continuing.
Make all enquiries you can with the seller An offender yelled abuse at a shop owner
and as always if the deal is too good to be in Hahei complaining that his food cost too
true, you should be even more suspicious. much on the 7th.
Sometimes paying a few more dollars with Four children were unlawfully on a property
a registered store may save you money and at Albert Street on the 9th and enquiries
hassle. will be made with their parents to establish
Arrests
Users of the Pepe Bridge in Tairua (pictured), including motorists from Mercury Bay, are being encouraged appropriate boundaries.
7th - 1 x 29-year-old local man for Theft Ex-
to share their thoughts on key priorities for a replacement structure with construction potentially getting Traffic
Shop.
underway as early as next year.
11th - 1 x 26-year-old Auckland woman for 1 x 27-year-old local man apprehended
New Zealand Transport Agency-Waka Kotahi is currently completing a business case for the project and Breach of the Peace. driving while Suspended/Revoked.
has invited Tairua residents and other bridge users to share their thoughts through an online survey. Occurrences On the 7th a driver lost control of his car
Proposals, including a concept plan, are expected to be available by the end of the year and will be
One Family Harm incident attended this on South Highway and crashed into a parked
presented to the community for further feedback. car. He was transported to hospital and we are
week on the 9th at a Cholmondeley Crescent
The current one-way Pepe Stream crossing, a notorious pinch point for peak summer traffic, is 80 years address where an adult brother and sister’s awaiting a blood sample analysis.
old and is nearing the end of its life. The main focus of the business case is to identify and consider all Restraints, Impairment, Distractions and
potential options for a new bridge. The questions being asked of locals and bridge users include how often
argument became physical and they were
separated to calm down. Speed are traffic targets this month, so please
they use the bridge, the times of the day they use it and whether they typically cross via car, bicycle or
on foot. They also have the opportunity to let Waka Kotahi know what they think are the most important On the 5th a Hot Water Beach store had wear your seatbelt, don’t drive drunk or
priorities for a new crossing. doors interfered with overnight, while also intoxicated, don’t use your cell phone while
The Tairua Residents and Ratepayers Association is urging all members of the community to be part of that night neighbours in Mayfair Close driving and drive within speed limits.
the process. Locals have already been highlighting issues including improved visibility, a safe means of
crossing State Highway 25 on the south side of the bridge for pedestrians and ensuring the iconic summer
image of children (and grown-ups) jumping off the bridge is not lost.
The Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan 2021 - 2051 identifies the Pepe Bridge replacement for
implementation from 2021 - 2022 at a cost of $7m. A decision on funding and a potential timeframe will
be made by Waka Kotahi in August when the National Land Transport Plan 2021 - 2024, which establishes
what roading infrastructure projects across the country will be funded over the next three years,
is finalised.
Geotechnical investigations to examine the bridge’s foundations were carried out earlier this year.
The online survey can be taken until Sunday, 18 July at surveymonkey.com/r/9Y9N5YK.
Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13
Free carpark to be retained at
Hot Water Beach
A proposal to impose parking fees at the last remaining free carpark providing direct access to Hot
Water Beach was rejected by the Mercury Bay Community Board after a wave of opposition from
local residents.
Five residents spoke directly to board members at their July meeting held last Wednesday,
one presenting a petition which had garnered 1,500 signatures. As well as highlighting the high use
of the Domain Road carpark (pictured - photo courtesy of Thames-Coromandel District Council) by
local families, dog walkers and surfers, members of the Hahei Residents and Ratepayers Association
also slammed the lack of consultation from council with the local community. It was claimed the
introduction of fees would effectively make Hot Water Beach the only beach in New Zealand without
free access.
Board member, Jeremy Lomas, said for all the reasons that had been outlined by the residents
he could not support the proposal. He also noted that, more generally, submitters to the Thames-
Coromandel District Council Long Term Plan 2021 - 2031 had made it clear that they did not see
parking charges as the way to target tourists because residents and ratepayers were also impacted.
TCDC said the carpark had recently been sealed, had kerbs installed and had been line-painted to
demarcate parking bays for 43 vehicles. This work, and a coming upgrade to the toilet at the site,
was partially funded by a grant from the government’s Tourism Infrastructure Fund. Councillor Tony
Fox queried whether this financial investment should have been made if the decision was now being
taken not to introduce fees to offset those costs.
It was estimated that the daily and hourly parking fees of $15 and $2 respectively would generate
between $23,000 and $30,000 per year.
Board chair, Rekha Giri-Percival, said targeting Hot Water Beach was an attempt to pick “the low
hanging fruit” when what was needed was a district wide conversation about how to charge tourists
for their use of local infrastructure.
The community board decision not to introduce parking fees at the carpark was unanimous.
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021Issue 958
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27 July 2021
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15What’s On In the next few weeks
Regular Activities Serenity Al-Anon Group
Op-shops Meets every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by
• Social Services Op-shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street someone else’s drinking.
(west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm. Matarangi Craft Group
• The Church Op-shop - At St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Meets fortnightly at the Matarangi Fire Station. Phone Lesley on 866 0788 for more information.
Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm. Scrapbags Quilting Group
• St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday Meets every Wednesday from 9:00am - 3:00pm at the St Andrew’s Church Hall, Albert Street, Whitianga. All welcome.
10:00am - 2:00pm. phone Shelley on 866 0236 for more information.
Justice of the Peace Mercury Bay Creative Fibre
Available every Monday (except public holidays) from 10:00am - 12:00 noon at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. Meets the first and third Wednesday of every month from 10:00am - 2:00pm. in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street,
Bookings not necessary. Phone 866 4476 for more information. Whitianga. Phone Wendy Russell on 866 3225 for more information.
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop - Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Monday - Saturday from Mercury Bay Quilters
10:00am - 2:00pm. Meets the first and third Mondays, and second and fourth Saturdays of every month from 10:00am - 4:00pm at Whitianga
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club Social Services, Cook Drive. New members welcome. Phone Margaret on (07) 866 0411 for more information.
Meets Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street from 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie Whitianga Menz Shed
etc. Afternoon tea, 55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. Open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway, past the diesel
Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) truck stop. All welcome.
Meets the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Whitianga Playcentre
Phone Joan on 866 3801 or (027) 275 1372 for more information. Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon at 1D White Street, Whitianga. For children 0 - 6 years,
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated free entry. Visitors welcome.
Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their Dog Walking Group
computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on Meets every Thursday at 2:00pm at Lovers Rock, Robinson Road, Whitianga. An opportunity to socialise your dog.
(027) 486 0150 for more information or to join.
Chinwag Café Special Events
Every Friday from 10:00am - 12:00 noon at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. A place for over 50s to meet other Mercury Bay Library School Holiday Programme - Blast Off to Space
people, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a chinwag. Tuesday, 13 July - Rocket Mayhem (from 10:30am - 11:30am).
Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga Thursday, 15 July - Space Crafts (from 10:30am - 11:30am).
Meets every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in Room 10 at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Tuesday, 20 July - Lunar Landing Challenge (from 10:30am - 11:30am).
Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals and eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely. Thursday, 22 July - Space Stop Motion Video (from 10:30am - 11:30am).
Check out our Facebook page or phone (027) 294 1750 for more information. Bookings essential. Contact the Mercury Bay Library for more information.
Scottish Country Dancing Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Winter Tuna Tournament
Meets every Tuesday from 7:00pm - 9:00pm in the Supper Room of the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Phone Anthea Until Tuesday, 31 August. Entry fee $250 per boat. Great prizes on offer. See mbgfc.co.nz for more information.
on 866 4516 or (021) 158 1522 for more information. Model Railway Show
Mercury Rockers Saturday 17 and Sunday, 18 July from 10:00am - 4:00pm (both days) at the Ray White Building, Monk Street,
Rock ‘n Roll every Monday at 7:00pm at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. All welcome, lessons Whitianga. Entry $4 adults, $10 family, Under 16 free. Hosted by the Mercury Bay Model Railway Club.
available. Phone Chris on (021) 504 246 for more information. Winter Community Market
Whitianga Art Group Saturday, 17 July from 9:00am - 1:00pm at the Flight Club Ballroom, Whitianga Airfield. Vintage linen and clothing,
Meets every Thursday and Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm at 23 School Road, Whitianga. Visitors are invited to join us for wooden toys, honey, preserves, bread, jewellery, dried flowers, woven items, art and much more.
a day of painting. Start-up materials supplied. Phone Jenny on (027) 210 0160 for more information. Thames Valley Senior Rugby - Saturday, 17 July
AA Driver Licensing McClinchy Cup Final - Mercury Bay Senior A Marlins v Thames Senior A in Thames. Kick-off at 2:00pm.
The second Friday of every month at St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Protecting the Sea on Our Doorstep - Where from Here?
Alcoholics Anonymous Saturday, 17 July from 3:00pm - 5:00pm at the Mercury Bay Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. A community discussion
Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6:30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. about turning concerns into actions.
Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.
Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021Issue 958
699 - 13
27 July 2021
2016 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17Crossword
© Lovatts Puzzles
Crossword Puzzle 958
Name: _________________________________________________________________
Tel no: _________________________________________________________________
Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver or mail or scan and email your entry to
The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk St, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or
info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 3:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim
their prize from the New World check out manager directly before the Wednesday of the week
following the issue in which they were announced the winner.
ACROSS DOWN
1. Iguana or monitor 1. Endearing
5. Spheres 2. Smell
7. Ship’s unloading site 3. One of Snow White’s
8. Blocking vote
9. Heavy criticism
friends
10. Gowns 4. Rubbish
11. Representing, on ... of 5. Counterbalances
13. Snake-like fish 6. Writing for visually
14. Chocolate choux pastry impaired
18. Happened next 12. Hawaiian garland
21. Door handle 15. Comprise, ... of
22. Engraved with acid 16. Sauntering
24. Peru beast
25. Short skirt style
17. Love affair
26. Impulse 19. Almond or pecan
27. Nook 20. Feeble with age
28. Doe’s mate 22. Roof edges
29. Discreetly 23. Cake morsel
Last week’s solution
Last week’s winner - Peter Hull
“Rerenga kōrero o te wiki” (Saying of the week)
“He aha te kākahu pai māu i te rangi nei?” - What clothes would you like to wear today?
Answers could include such things as “He poraka/He pōtae/He tōkena.” These mean “A jersey”, “A hat” and “Some socks” respectively.
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 meets every Monday at 9:00am at the old dental clinic at Mercury Bay Area School. All those with pēpi or young tamariki are welcome to join.
Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021Model Railway Show is back on track
this weekend
By Jack Biddle
After a forced cancellation due to the Whitianga-based modeller, Damon to what can be achieved through modelling,” display and able to be purchased.
COVID-19 lockdown last year, the Mercury Christensen, is organising the exhibition to says Damon, who has recently completed a “The show is designed for all ages, ideally
Bay Model Railway Club is back on track and not only display the work and skill levels working model of an old Kauri Dam for the suited and affordable for young families and
all set to host its fifth Model Railway Show of those actively involved in modelling to Mercury Bay Museum in Whitianga and has hopefully will spark some enthusiasm for
in Whitianga this weekend (Saturday 17 and the general public, but also to make support just been commissioned by the museum to some to have a go at modelling themselves,”
Sunday, 18 July). construct a model of Whitianga township,
and advice available to those thinking about says Damon.
While a very detailed working NZR 1977 including 30 major buildings, dating back to
giving modelling a go. The show takes place in the Ray White
model railway, complete with period dwellings the summer of 1943. That project is expected
and surrounds will take centre stage, there will “Modelling can revolve around endless to be completed in July 2022. building in Monk Street (next to the Whitianga
be eighteen other model exhibits on display, subjects and topics, and for avid modellers is Helping to provide advice to the general Town Hall) from 10:00am to 4:00pm
including miniature dolls houses, military always a work in progress with the fun being in public during the show will be Tairua business, both Saturday and Sunday. The cost to
models, antique dolls, slot cars plus a range of the journey as much as the completed project. Coromandel Hobby Supplies, who will have a enter is adults $4, family $10, children under
vehicles from the unique Fun Ho! collection. Your imagination is often the biggest barrier range of models, supplies and accessories on 16 free.
Modeller, Damon Christensen, with some of the exhibits that will be on display at this weekend’s Model Railway Show in Whitianga.
Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19Sudoku
Sudoku Puzzle 958
Name: _________________________________________________________________
Tel no: _________________________________________________________________
Win a $10 Supreme Coffee voucher from Café Coghill House in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail or
scan and email your entry to The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk St, Whitianga or PO Box
426, Whitianga or info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 3:00pm Monday each week. The winner
must please claim their prize from Café Coghill House directly before the Wednesday of the week
following the issue in which they were announced the winner.
Last week’s solution
Last week’s winner - Ian Johnson
Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021Kauri Learners whānau share
Fishing Report special evening to welcome Matariki
Sponsored by Mercury Bay Marine - Tel (07) 867 1280
Snapper are in close and biting hard, taking bad smell. Store your boat with bungs out and
pretty much anything you throw on a hook. parked so rain water drains out.
Jigs and soft baits are doing well with the Check your stowage areas, especially
flavours of the week being the Nuclear where lifejackets are stowed. These are
Chicken and Bruised Banana on 3oz lures. usually damp and full of mould. Dry these
Work out your tides and get in the currents. areas out when you can.
Ninety minutes before change of tide seem Remember to take your tote tanks off at
to be delivering the best results. Berley up night, if applicable. Mercury Bay is not
hard using frozen berley to make it last. immune against fuel being stolen. On this
Fish in your berley trail. A good idea is to set note, if you can get a lockable fuel tank cap
two berley pots, one on each side of the boat. for underfloor tanks, then do so. Fuel bandits
If fishing off the rocks, give yourself plenty will suck fuel out of your tank and normally
of line and get your berley flowing out in the this won’t register on an electronic fuel gauge
current. Tuna and pilchard berley works the as these calculate fuel based on engine use.
best and lasts longer than salmon. If you get out to your boat in the morning and
For you boaties using lead sinkers, if you smell fuel or see the fuel cap is open, chances
accidentally drop a sinker on board, make sure are your tanks have been siphoned. Call into
you pick it up and stow it as soon as possible. the gas station and top it up just to be sure.
They can cause some serious corrosion issues Don’t make anything easy for these “low life Tamaraki, kaiako and whānau came together at Kauri Learners Early Education in Whitianga on
if they end up in the bilge, especially in alloy scumbags” (as former Police Ten 7 presenter, Wednesday last week to celebrate Matariki and welcome the Māori New Year.
boats. The same with hooks. Graham Bell, would say). As well as learning about the significance of this event, the children had lots of opportunities to
Off-cuts of braid and nylon should also be Be safe out there. Keep an eye on the explore their creativity and, most importantly, share a very special evening with their families
collected. These can end up in the bilge and weather and if in doubt, don’t go out. and friends.
destroy your bilge pumps, as can cable ties. Tony Marsters Poi making, korowai creating, planting, whānau wishes, singing around the fire, a lantern walk,
Speaking of the bilge, it’s always a good Warfish Charters cooking soup, wish making, hāngi and fry bread were all part of the community celebration.
idea to flush the bilge out at least once a Phone (021) 298 5750 The Kauri Learners team acknowledged all those who had made the event possible saying,
month. It will help stop corrosion and a very Email tony@warfish.co.nz “We would like to thank our beautiful community for coming together for this evening, it truly was
a night to remember.”
Particular thanks were extended to Billie Hunter, one of the learning centre mums, who assisted
with preparations for the celebration, generously sharing her time and knowledge with the students
and teachers. “We were lucky to have Billie come each Wednesday to teach us kapa haka and
extend our knowledge on te ao Māori so our kaiako are able to continue teaching this to our future
generations,” the team said.
From 2022, Matariki will become New Zealand’s 12th public holiday. The date will change each year
to align with the rise of the Matariki cluster of stars, also known as Pleiades, but will always be a
Friday, starting on 24 June next year.
Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21Brain Teaser - Vaki Puzzle
© Lovatts Puzzles
Brain Teaser Puzzles 958
Name: _________________________________________________________________
Tel no: _________________________________________________________________
Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver or mail or scan and email
your entry to The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or
info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 3:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim
their prize from Espy Cafe directly before the Wednesday of the week following the issue in which
they were announced the winner.
Vaki Puzzle Instructions
The puzzle is solved when there is a letter (A - D) and a number (1 - 4) in each cell and each letter
and each number appears once in each row and once in each column. Each pair occurs once and
only once in a solved puzzle (A1 is the same pair as 1A).
Last week’s solution - Fill In Puzzle
Last week’s winner - Jane Jooste
Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 958 - 13 July 2021New St John ambulance will MBAS riders holding their own at
help volunteers respond faster Interschools Motocross series
Volunteers are needed to help staff a new Coromandel Town-based ambulance created especially for rural
and remote communities.
The new Volkswagen first response unit was launched in June as St John rolls out the fourth and final
year of its double crewing project.
The new state-of-the-art vehicle joins those already operating in Tairua, Hahei and Colville, to build
resilience in rural areas. “Volunteers are the lifeblood of our emergency ambulance service and we are
thrilled to be able to provide them with a fit-for-purpose vehicle in Coromandel Town to better equip them
to carry out their essential, lifesaving work,” says John Armitt, St John Hauraki Territory Manager.
“[These new rural ambulances] will benefit both our staff and patients. They are smaller and
nimbler compared with traditional ambulances, which will enable our crews to navigate tight, rural
roads and quickly locate patients. They are also tall and provide the space required for treating and
stabilising patients.”
Apart from having modern features, the new units are designed for crews to transport patients locally
or to meet a helicopter or transporting ambulance, which will shorten job cycles and enable crews to
remain in the local community and be available to respond to emergencies more often. This will improve
response times and lead to better health outcomes for patients. Seven additional paid staff have also
been hired to double crew two transporting ambulances serving communities between Coromandel Town
and Whitianga.
The rollout of the new rural ambulance in Coromandel Town means more volunteers are required to work
alongside current and new staff. Anyone interested in volunteering for St John on the frontline can contact The past few months saw Mercury Bay Area School competing in the four-round 2021 Makz Gear
their local ambulance station, call 0800 ST JOHN (0800 785 646) or visit join.stjohn.org.nz. Interschools Motocross Series.
The MBAS secondary school team was made up of Tane Skelton riding in the Competitive 12 to 16
Years 85/150f class, and Logan Humphris and Jack Horne riding in the Novice 12 to 16 Years 85/150f
class. The MBAS primary school team consisted of Reef Denton riding in the Competitive 11 to 13
Years 85/150f class, Reef Horne riding in the Trail class and Levi Jacobs riding in the MX50 class.
Injured student, Cody Scott, acted as pit crew for both teams.
The first round of the series was held at the Patetonga motocross track, the second at Rotorua
MX and the third at Tokoroa MX. The last round took place at the Ruakaka motocross track.
With all the tracks having very different surfaces and requiring very technical riding, the boys did
exceptionally well.
Tane Skelton finished second overall out of 39 entries in his class and Mercury Bay School placed
17th out of the more than 80 North Island schools that competed in the series.
First time riders, Logan Humphris, Reef Denton, Jack Horne, Reef Horne and Levi Jacobs, improved
significantly over the course of the series and according to the parents who accompanied them to
the various tracks, they are all now hooked on the sport.
The riders would like to thank Cody Scott for helping them at the start gates and all the parents for
their support.
Pictured is Tane Skelton in action at Ruakaka.
Issue 958 - 13 July 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23You can also read
