Stitching connections with "Lockdown Knitfest" - 31 August 2021
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Issue 965 - 31 August 2021 (07) 866 2090 - office@theinformer.co.nz Circulation 8,200 Stitching connections with “Lockdown Knitfest” By Suzanne Hansen Connection and purpose are common casualties of Covid-19 lockdowns, but the residents of Marlin Waters Lifestyle Village in Whitianga have found a way to generate both that’s proving so successful enthusiasm is now growing right across the community. It all started when residents Judy Hindrup and Norma Hart discussed their shared concerns for those in the village who might need a bit more interaction during the lockdown of the past two weeks. They brainstormed a brilliant yet simple idea to create a sense of community during this difficult time - knitting for a common cause. Entitled “Lockdown Knitfest”, Judy and Norma reached out to the Marlin Waters residents to engage them in a shared project where each knitter is asked to knit as many squares of a similar size that they can. The squares must each start with 40 stitches but, from there, the participating knitters are free to use whatever stitch pattern and wool colours they want. The squares will all be connected into throws/rugs for the Marlin Waters Community Club once it is open. However, the Knitfest products are now also set to be offered to Whitianga Social Services such is the level of output as more and more knitters join the collective effort. Around 20 ladies from Marlin Waters are involved, but the project is reaching beyond the village with other community groups and individuals joining in. Judy is no stranger to pastoral care roles in the community, spending her last 23 years before retiring to Marlin Waters managing aged care facilities in Cambridge. She has been in Marlin Waters for nine months and has been active within the village community helping ensure her neighbours are thriving. It was this philosophy which led her to the conversation with Norma about what they could be doing to counteract the isolating effects of lockdown. Many of the Marlin Waters knitters have not picked up a knitting needle for decades, including Norma herself who has not knitted for 50 years. Some like Eleanor Brydon has been looking for something to fill the monotonous lockdown time, but couldn’t think of what to knit. Judy connected with Eleanor and she was off and running and, by all accounts, incredibly productive with her squares. Another resident, Ruth Hansen, says she hasn’t knitted since her youngest grandson was in need of knitwear, some 23 years ago. Now she is spending her time in the evenings in front of the television, enjoying having a reason to knit. The Marlin Waters Lockdown Knitfest will keep on going, irrspective the Covid-19 alert level settings. What the project needs is more wool. If anyone has leftover or part used balls of double- knit wool or just wants to get involved, they can phone Judy on (027) 480 9648. There is a constant contact-less flow to her doorstep of wool deliveries and knitted squares for the project. Judy and Norma say anyone who would like to help is most welcome. Judy Hindrup, one of the organisers behind “Lockdown Knitfest” at Whitianga’s Marlin Waters Lifestyle Village.
Whitianga home named in New
Zealand’s Top 100
By Stephan Bosman
A Whitianga couple say they are thrilled that inside and outside the home, including cedar
their Waterways property has been named as weatherboard, cedar sarking and Hinuera
one of New Zealand’s finest homes for 2021. stone. Power is generated through solar panels
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom house, on the roof and the house also features the latest
built by HAMR Home Building Contractors, electronic technology. “It’s amazing what you
was named as one of the Top 100 Homes can control from your cell phone these days,”
in the Master Builders House of the Year says Warren.
competition. The announcement follows hot HAMR Homes was awarded the building
on the heels of four Mercury Bay homes - contract after Richard noticed Warren and
including the Top 100 contestant - achieving Toni’s building consent application had been
gold in the 2021 regional Auckland/Northland/ approved a few months prior and nothing was
Coromandel House of the Year awards. happening on site. He was looking to fill a void
The house was entered in the Resene New left by another contract that was unexpectedly
Home Over $2m category and is now in the suspended and contacted Brendan Gordon.
running to be crowned a Master Builders 2021 That led to Richard catching up with Warren
national winner in November. and Toni and showing them several of the other
“It’s a real privilege to have a house in the houses he has built in Whitianga, including
Top 100 Homes,” says HAMR Homes owner, some previous Master Builders gold recipients.
Richard Warwick. “The New Home Over $2m “We were very impressed with Richard,”
category features some of the most stunning says Warren. “It was clear from the outset that
homes imaginable and to have an entry from he’s an exceptional builder and throughout
Whitianga is amazing.” the building process that was confirmed to us
Owners, Warren and Toni Griffin, say never time and time again. We were unfortunate to
in their wildest dreams did they think their This Whitianga Waterways house was last week announced as one of the Top 100 Homes in be caught up in last year’s Covid-19 lockdown,
home would end up as one of the best new New Zealand in the 2021 Master Builders House of the Year competition. but Richard’s management skills meant that we
houses completed in New Zealand over the “We spotted a section for sale on Robinson spaces sheltered from the wind. didn’t lose too much time overall and weren’t
past year. “It was a real surprise, but more Road, but when we contacted the agent, “Being retired, it’s mostly just Warren and too badly affected by the price increases that
than well-deserved by Richard and his team,” it had just sold. Fortunately, the agent told us of me at home, so our focus wasn’t on a large hit the building industry when things got back
says Toni. another section on the canals in the Waterways. number of bedrooms, rather the ability to have to normal.”
Richard says he’s “stoked” with how the We went to have a look and had no doubt that friends and family over to entertain,” says Warren and Toni moved into their new
project turned out. we had found what we were looking for.” Toni. “Through our House and Garden tours, home in November last year. “It’s fabulous,”
Warren and Toni moved to Whitianga from After several years of being inspired by we came across Brendan Gordon, an architect says Toni. “We’ve had a hen’s party for one
Cambridge. Looking for a section on the going on New Zealand House and Garden from Tauranga. His way of thinking and style of of our children and celebrated a big birthday
eastern seaboard of the Coromandel, they tours, Warren and Toni were clear about their design aligned very much with what we wanted already. There’s more than enough space when
stumbled across the 1,600m² site after missing requirements. Top of the wish list was a large to achieve. We were excited to engage him and all the family come to visit. To be able to spend
out on another option. “We spent a weekend site on which they could build a single-story what we ended up with is really a collection of so much time outside - in the courtyard where
in Cooks Beach and came to Whitianga house with three bedrooms and large living some of his best ideas. We’re very happy.” the pool is, or out the front of the house on the
to have a look around,” says Warren. areas that flowed out to several outdoor living Natural materials feature prominently deck or in the hot tub - is a real privilege.”
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of Tuesday, 31 August to Tuesday, 7 September - This week we can observe the direction the Earth is moving around the Sun. If you look at the
Moon on Tuesday, 31 August, it will be pretty near the point where the Earth will be in space in about three-and-a-half hours. This is also a good week
to see Venus and Mercury move away from the Sun quite rapidly using the star, Spica, as a reference point. This is a great week to spot the International
Space Station (ISS) making some very nice evening passes, sometimes twice on the same night as it completes its 90 minute orbit around the Earth.
Tuesday, 31 August - A very low ISS pass tonight from 7:19pm starting just below the Southern Cross in the SW before disappearing into the Earth’s
shadow. Thursday, 2 September - Another low ISS pass tonight from 7:22pm in the south. Friday, 3 September - Two ISS passes tonight with the
first from 6:35pm low in the SW and then again at 8:12pm in the SW. Saturday, 4 September - The ISS will make a very bright pass from 7:25pm in Astronomy Tours and B&B
the SW passing right near the Southern Cross. Sunday, 5 September - Brilliant Venus lies just below and to the right of Spica in the west after sunset Phone (07) 866 5343
with Mercury about halfway to the horizon below it. Two ISS passes again with the first bright pass from 6:38pm in the SW and the second much less www.stargazersbb.com
brighter and shorter from 8:15pm in the west. Monday, 6 September - A good ISS pass from 7:28pm in the west tonight.
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 965 - 31 August 2021
Alert Level borders will be
strictly enforced
By Gillian O’Neill
Keep doing the right things is the message to residents from the Coromandel Peninsula’s Civil Defence
Controller, Garry Towler, as the district moves to Alert Level 3 on Wednesday this week and more businesses
prepare to resume trade.
Mr Towler said the response to the current Covid outbreak from locals to date has been incredible with few
issues of concern for Thames-Coromandel District Council to deal with. “We have had a few complaints
about people not doing what they are supposed to, but there seems to be a lot less angst this time,
people are calmer. I think we have all learned lessons from the last lockdown and we are more prepared,”
he told The Informer.
While a Civil Defence emergency has not been declared, Mr Towler said he was among a team of three
staff directly monitoring and responding to the needs of the community throughout the lockdown.
“We are playing a conduit role if you like, keeping in touch with our community groups such as the
food banks for example, with a particular focus on ensuring our vulnerable people, including our elderly,
are being supported.”
While praising how the people of the Peninsula responded to the threat of a potential outbreak following
the three-day visit of a Covid-positive Devonport man, Mr Towler said the same diligence would be
required throughout Alert Level 3, including with regard to travel in and out of Auckland which remains
at Alert Level 4. “The Police have confirmed they will be conducting roving roadblocks and they will be
strictly enforcing the rules around travel.
“If you are attempting to travel to or from Auckland it is highly likely you will be questioned by the Police
and you have very little chance of being allowed through unless you have a permit from the Ministry of
Business Innovation and Employment.”
Looking towards summer, Mr Towler said it was important for the local economy that people did the right
things now so as to avoid having to deal with restrictions during the busy holiday season. “I take my hat
off to the people of the Coromandel. They have done a phenomenal job so far. We didn’t just dodge a bullet,
we dodged a missile.
“The numbers that turned out for testing were incredible and the vaccination rates are skyrocketing.
Now we just need to keep going and we will all get through this.”
Last Sunday marked the final day of Te Korowai Hauora o Hauraki’s pop-up Covid-19 testing clinic at
the Woollams Avenue carpark in Coromandel Town. Day 12 swabbing is now complete for those who
found themselves caught-up in the outbreak having visited a location of interest at the same time as the
Devonport man.
All tests carried out on the Coromandel to date have been negative and no evidence of the virus has been
found in wastewater samples.
In a message to the people of Coromandel Town and the surrounding communities, Te Korowai Hauora o
Hauraki’s CEO, Riana Manuel, who has been on the frontline each day delivering Covid testing, thanked
all those who had been part of the response over the previous 12 days, including those who had come to
be tested, vaccinated, the Te Korowai Hauora o Hauraki staff, the Coromandel Family Health Centre team,
Waikato DHB and Pathlab. “It has been a massive turnout. It has been a real team effort, they say it takes
a community and it really has been a community-wide focus,” she said.
Covid tests remain available from medical centres and GPs across the Peninsula. Please call ahead to
make an appointment.
699 - 31
Issue 965 27 August
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
Future still unclear as councillors wade
through water debate
Thames-Coromandel District Council is asking on the overall proposal and boundaries yet,” note that we won’t be responding to individual ensuring all communities have both a voice in
residents for their views on the government’s TCDC said. “After the eight-week period, the questions or queries through this email.” the system and influence over local decisions,
radical Three Waters Reform Programme, government will consider next steps, including However, any submissions will be collated and and effective representation on the new water
but has yet to provide an indication of whether the process and revised timing for decision- provided to the elected members to assist their entities’ oversight boards so that there is strong
it intends to opt in or out of the scheme that will making. No decisions deliberations. accountability to the communities they serve.
see four new public entities set up to run the on this have been The Department of This would include “…effective assurance that
country’s water services. made, or will be Internal Affairs and entities, which will remain in public ownership,
While elected members held private talks made, until after this Local Government cannot be privatised in future.”
at an online workshop last week, a council engagement period.” New Zealand have Councillors and staff are also scrutinising
statement on the issue revealed few new details, The boundary also confirmed that statistics released from the Department of
saying only that the issues raised during the map currently places a period of formal Internal Affairs estimating that joining the
discussions would form part of a report to be Thames-Coromandel public consultation scheme would see current average annual
brought to council’s next public meeting in two in Entity B with the could potentially be water costs of $2,250 per Thames-Coromandel
weeks’ time. rest of the Waikato, undertaken before household almost halve to $1,220 over the
“Council staff have briefed our councillors on Taranaki, the Bay of final decisions are next 30 years, as opposed to rising to $5,450
the government’s proposal and got their thoughts Plenty and most of the made if that is the over the same period if TCDC retains charge.
on the impact of the proposed reforms, including central North Island. feedback provided by As part of the scheme, TCDC’s $89m in water
the financial implications, involvement of iwi, It is envisaged that councils. related debt would transfer to the new water
what boundaries we might sit inside, and the the new water bodies The report due on management agency.
scale of community input and feedback,” TCDC would be operational 14 September will The government has already confirmed that
said. “This is being pulled together into a report by July 2024. likely reveal what councils and iwi will share ownership of the new
that will go to our next council meeting on Although inviting issues councillors entities and are proposing a further safeguard
14 September.” the public to have are grappling with against any risk of privatisation by legislating
TCDC, along with all other district councils, a say, TCDC said without pointing to that any such move would require a referendum
is more than halfway through an eight-week it won’t respond to any firm direction. with 75 percent in favour. However, there is
period within which they must consider individual questions “That… report won’t uncertainty about how the reforms can proceed
and respond to the proposals set out by the from residents and A map illustrating the proposed catchment be talking about unless the majority of the 67 district councils
Department of Internal Affairs, which include ratepayers at this areas for the four new public entities opting in or opting agree. Whangārei District Council has already
the boundaries and management arrangements stage. “We’re also out of the reform formally opted out with many others expressing
which would be responsible for the control
for the four proposed entities. However, interested in listening programme, but doubts. This has prompted speculation that the
and management of New Zealand’s
this response will consist of feedback only and to our communities’ will have responses minister in charge, Nania Mahuta, may yet make
views, so we are
three waters services.
will not include a decision on whether or not to certain points,” it compulsory, although both the Department of
to participate. inviting you to send us TCDC said. Internal Affairs and Local Government New
“Our council is in the process of preparing your thoughts and points of view on the reforms These points will centre on what TCDC and Zealand say, while the best chance of success is
feedback to give the government on the and how it could affect the Coromandel. You other local councils have highlighted as the if all councils participate, the focus remains on
[boundary] map and hasn’t firmed up a position can email threewaters@tcdc.govt.nz. Please main issues that need to be worked through - a partnership approach.
Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 965 - 31 August 2021
Tips for Business Owners
By Christine Petrie
Be proactive in seeking help
Without warning our businesses and time employees experiencing a 30
communities have been thrown into disarray. percent drop in revenue.
And while you may be feeling déjà vu, • Small Business Cash Flow Loan Scheme
be alert to marked differences this time around - Interest free for two years, must be paid
which need to be built into your business back in five years.
recovery plans. Depending on your employment contracts,
Links to the government support packages it is likely illegal to reduce an employee’s
for employers whose revenue has reduced pay rate or hours without consultation and a
because of the recent Covid-19 lockdown can signed variation irrespective of the level of
be found on the Covid-19, Work and Income government support.
and Ministry of Business Innovation and If you are feeling disconnected from the
Employment websites. These are intended to macroeconomic news of “great” GDP and
keep people in work and include: employment statistics, you are not alone.
• Wage Subsidy - Paid fortnightly if A survey completed by Business Mentors NZ
you’ve experienced a 40 percent decline (blog.businessmentors.org.nz/the-emotional-
in revenue over 14 days. toll-of-running-a-small-business) showed 69
• Short Term Absence Payment - percent of small business owners are stressed/
For workers isolating while awaiting anxious, half are burnt out and at least a third
their test results and who cannot work feel isolated and vulnerable. No one can
from home. succeed alone. If you can relate, proactively
• Leave Support Scheme - For workers seek help to get through.
who cannot work from home, but must Information included in this column is of
self-isolate. a general nature and is not a substitute
• Covid-19 Resurgence Support Payments for tailored legal, accounting and other
- For businesses with 50 or fewer full- professional advice.
Christine Petrie, the author
of this column, is the owner
of Shifting Focus Business
Consulting. She can be
contacted on telephone
(021) 775 571 or email
christine@shiftingfocus.co.nz.
Issue 965 - 31 August 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Art Escape momentum
continues to grow
The Mercury Bay Art Escape is reporting a record number of new artist applications as preparations are
underway for the 2022 Open Studios.
The move towards an artist-led strategy continues, with the artists at the heart of the event’s success
taking ownership of the planning, design and future growth of the now highly successful celebration of
local art. The two Open Studios weekends have already been confirmed for 5 - 6 and 12 - 13 March when
upwards of 50 local artists along the Coromandel’s eastern seaboard will open their doors to showcase
their works, with many also offering workshops and participating in other community events.
“We are halfway through the new artist selection process and have had our highest ever number of
potential applicants this year which is exciting,” said Art Escape chair, Ian Preece. “We are looking
forward to seeing the outcome of the selection team’s work under the guidance of Monique Rush.
“In terms of marketing this year, we have a new approach led from within the group headed by Reina
Cottier and Leanne Adams who both bring strong backgrounds in business and social media expertise
to the mix. Our other key development is a new team of regional representatives - Debbie Lim,
Sarah Gordon and Jean McCann - who will be the key contact points within the different geographic
locations of Whitianga, Tairua and Flaxmill Bay. This helps us to overcome some of the challenges of
Thumbs
managing a large geographic area and gives everyone a clear point of contact in their respective area.
All in all, it’s an exciting, interesting and significant few months ahead.”
Ian said the Open Studios steering group had used the latest Covid-19 lockdown to assess, explore and
Up design key components for a successful 2022 event. “Despite the uncertainty that we all face, we are
unanimously committed to making next year’s event come alive,” he said. “We believe the right thing to
do is to continue with the event planning and adjust as we need to.
To all the “One of the major learnings from last year was that we all benefit when we keep our eye firmly on the
end goal and manage today the best way we can, adjusting as we need to along the way. Last year was
frontline unprecedented with just about everything you could imagine happening right up to the Open Studios -
a Covid outbreak in Auckland, an earthquake and potential tsunami threat the Friday morning of the first
workers in the weekend, and huge numbers of people from around the country supporting the America’s Cup.
wider Mercury Bay area “Yet despite all of that, 2021 was one of the best events ever. We had huge support from the
Thames-Coromandel locals, a strong representation of travellers from Auckland and the Waikato,
for taking such good care and increased presence on social media generated greater interest nationally. In the end, we had a higher
number of sales than ever before which simply proved how strong the Mercury Bay Art Escape brand and
of all of us during the Open Studios event are.
“The Art Escape provides enormous benefits to us as artists, our community and our local businesses.
latest Covid-19 lockdown. We have had a positive response from our current sponsors who firmly believe the Open Studios is pivotal
to our community to continue. A few have offered to step up their support and add their own events to the
We salute you! mix which we are currently exploring with them. We are also in the process of approaching a few new
sponsors to increase our reach into the community and new partnerships that support the bigger picture.”
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 965 - 31 August 2021
Nature photo competition to
Letters to the Editor mark Conservation Week
See page 8 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
Dear Editor - Misinformation concerns
Over the last week I have received in my letterbox two pamphlets from the anti-vaccine
brigade, one to do with the vaccine and the other to do with wearing a mask.
I believe that people have a right to express opposing views, but we also have the right
to challenge.
It disappoints me that the message they are sending to some of our vulnerable groups is full
of misinformation. I only hope that the writers of these pamphlets do not follow their own
preaching as they may find that, like in the animal kingdom, adaptation is the key to survival.
Peter Grant
Whitianga
Dear Editor - Consequences of the Three Waters Programme
With all the attention being focused on the recent Covid-19 lockdown, an important issue is
flying under the radar somewhat. The government’s Three Waters proposal is an insidious
power grab to control our drinking water, stormwater and wastewater. The drinking water
proposal is so far-reaching that it will even affect private water sources where water is supplied
to a second or third house.
Local government is not always very efficient, but it gives ratepayers democratic control Nature lovers are being encouraged to celebrate New Zealand Conservation Week by capturing
over their district. Government-run departments are even less efficient, take district health and sharing glimpses of our local environment.
boards as an example. The Department of Conservation is running a photo competition with members of the public
On the face of it, our district would benefit by reducing debt and taking running costs off invited to submit images of the natural Hauraki-Coromandel environment that reflect the key
the balance sheet, however, the reality is somewhat different. We will lose those assets and the message of this year’s Conservation Week which runs from 4 to 12 September - take a moment
control of them. to notice nature.
Our three waters in the TCDC area are by and large up to scratch, especially on our eastern With all of the week’s in-person events across the county cancelled due to Covid-19 restrictions,
seaboard. In a centralised system, contributions would flow from the well managed districts to the competition enables local residents to participate while out and about safely in their
the not so well managed ones and to the rapidly expanding major cities that need to increase bubbles. “It could be of you enjoying nature, something you love in in our natural environment,
their waters infrastructure. Add to that the decreased efficiency and we will all be worse of. a favourite scene. Add a caption to complete the story,” DOC advises.
Our district council would be reduced to make decisions over stuff such as libraries, parks and Photos must be taken somewhere in the Hauraki-Coromandel area and can be posted to the
street lighting. Roading would be the only major subject under its control. With fewer powers Kauaeranga Valley Visitor Centre Facebook page or emailed to kauaerangavc@doc.govt.nz.
would come a drop in qualification levels of elected TCDC candidates. Photos must be received by noon on Monday, 13 September. There are two categories -
The three waters proposal is part of a socialistic drive to centralise our economy. adults and youth aged 16 and under. All eligible entries are in with a chance to win prizes
Most centralised economies eventually fail. Our mayor and councilors need to reject generously donated by local businesses.
the proposal. DOC says more virtual experiences and online activities to engage with will be available on its
Dirk Sieling website during Conservation Week and is encouraging people to explore fun ways to celebrate
Whitianga nature in their own backyard while remaining safe and following current alert level rules.
Issue 965 - 31 August 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Ironically titled play among the events
halted by Covid-19
By Gillian O’Neill
Seven sinister suspects were in the final Zealanders’ freedom, won’t be deferred for too Meanwhile this weekend’s Goldrush Rally “I’d like to thank our sponsors for their
fortnight of their rehearsals for the Coromandel much longer. Tickets purchased for the original of Coromandel has been cancelled after the understanding as well as Thames-Coromandel
Players’ latest production when lockdown dates will remain valid although refunds will organisers were unable to find alternative dates District Council, our army of volunteers and
struck - but they had to raise a wry smile. be available. For more information, contact the for the event. everyone that had contributed to staging this
The murder mystery that had them grappling Coromandel Town Information Centre once “We are gutted to be calling off this year’s event. We’d also like to express our sympathy
with their lines and moves was none other lockdown restrictions have been lifted. Dayle ITM Goldrush Rally of Coromandel,” to the competitors who have made travel plans
than Stuart Ready’s ironically titled “Murder Rehearsals are also suspended for the event chairman, Steve Foster, said. “There has that will now need to be changed.
Deferred”. Not only was the murder deferred, Tairua Troubadours’ production, “Tradies - been so much work go into organising it and to “We love coming to Whitianga and
it was put off indefinitely as Coromandel Town No Surprises There”. As lockdown kicked in, get so close to the event and essentially have rallying on these amazing gravel roads on the
coped with finding itself at the centre of New the cast were just two weeks into preparations the plug pulled on us by Covid-19 is extremely Coromandel Peninsula, and we look forward to
Zealand’s latest Covid-19 outbreak. for the four-night run scheduled to commence frustrating. returning here in the future.”
“We were supposed to be opening on Friday on 22 September at the Tairua Community
27 August,” said director Don Hughes. “But we Hall. The Troubadours’ committee will wait
have had to postpone to a date to be confirmed. for a clearer picture about future alert levels
It is a nuisance, but nothing compared to the before making a decision regarding a potential
worry that others have had as they discover postponement.
they or their loved ones have the virus.” The Mercury Bay Lions’ Spring Festival
Coromandel Town, home to the amateur of Fashion will have a delayed showing after
company with its 60-seat theatre, has been in being pushed out from its original 3 September
the media spotlight since it emerged the first date to 19 November. Featuring seasonal lines
identified case of the current Delta outbreak for Stilo Design, Mainly Casual and Annah
had visited locations across the town during S, accessorised by new spring shoes from
a weekend stay. The population has been Tango’s, the fun charity event at the Whitianga
praised for their vigilance in testing, following Town Hall will raise funds for the Mercury
lockdown rules and vaccine uptake. So far, Bay Cancer Support Trust and the Whitianga
no cases have been identified there or on the MenzShed. Attendees will be given a glass
wider Peninsula. of bubbles or orange juice on arrival and
The Coromandel Players cast have thrown there will be a cash bar throughout the show
themselves into Zoom rehearsals with Don with plenty of yummy food catered by the
and theatre president/prompt, Liz Cameron, Mercury Bay Lions included in the ticket price.
both retired school teachers, endeavouring to There will also be a host of raffles and
keep control. The duo’s efforts have had mixed goody bags for all attendees with fantastic
success, but the conference calls have proved items supplied by many generous Whitianga
vital to boost cast morale and humour, while businesses.
keeping lines and character portrayals slick. Tickets for the show can be purchased (when
Despite the hilarity and bad behaviour stores are permitted to re-open) from Stilo
on Zoom, the cast continue to do a great job Design, Mainly Casual and Annah S. Premium
of bringing the murder mystery alive and tickets (first few rows) are $30 and general Bronnie Kennedy as the indomitable antique dealer, Minnie Akers,
everyone hopes that Murder Deferred, like New admission tickets are $25. in the Coromandel Players’ production, “Murder Deferred”.
The following organisations can help you stay safe during the Covid-19 alert levels.
Please contact them if you need support.
Vaccination Bookings: 0800 28 29 26 or www.bookmyvaccine.nz (a list of sites closest to
you will be displayed when you enter your location).
Healthline: 0800 358 5453 for advice on testing if you are a close contact, have been in a
location of interest or have symptoms.
Covid Testing
• Whitianga: Mercury Bay Medical Centre, phone 866 5911 and Te Korowai Hauora o
Hauraki Whānau Health Centre, phone 869 5244.
• Tairua: Tairua Medical Centre, phone 864 8737
• Coromandel Town: Coromandel Family Health Clinic, phone 866 8500.
Non-emergencies: You can report a matter of concern to the Police that is not an
emergency online at 105.police.govt.nz or by calling 105.
For Emergencies Dial 111: All emergency services including ambulance, fire and Police
are operating.
Counselling/Food Bank: Whitianga Community Services Trust can organise online
support from trained councillors or food parcels, phone 022 643 4965.
Kuaotunu Community Emergency Response Team: If you are in the Kuaotunu
community and in need of assistance/support phone 808 3060 or 021 216 3255.
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust: Volunteers are available to assist during
lockdown - email mercurybaycst@gmail.com or phone 021 363 840 and leave your contact
The Mercury Bay Informer is published weekly on Tuesday afternoons and is distributed details for a call back.
throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. Need to Talk: Phone/text 1737 if you are feeling anxious or distressed.
Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are Food/Shopping Coromandel Town and Colville: Coromandel Independent Living Trust
entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when in collaboration with Coromandel Four Square are providing a shopping and delivery
accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address. service for those who cannot get out to shop, don’t have someone able to shop for them,
Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher.
Statement of scientific fact needs to be accompanied by evidence of the fact. are vulnerable, elderly or are self-isolating. Phone 022 524 8511 or email orders@cilt.org.
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Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 965 - 31 August 2021
Issue 965
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2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
Catherine’s Column
By Catherine Delahunty - Coromandel Peninsula resident and former Green Party MP
So maybe the Hauraki has dodged a bullet It was very heartening to see a graph from
with Covid this time. I am really hoping last week showing only 10 percent of us
so and thinking of our friends in cafés in oppose the elimination strategy. Most
Coro Town. Dodging bullets only works if of us are committed, but we do need to
you are lucky and you have some place of respect people having doubts and concerns.
shelter - and only some of us do. Dodging Demonising and dehumanising people will
the bullets means getting tested if we are never work. We also need to talk about
sick and getting vaccinated to reduce risk of collective good. Look at how the Western
hospitalisation and death. world is hoarding vaccines because we can
I see a lot of complaining on social media and it’s totally against our own interest,
and it’s very tiring. More than half the let alone the common good. Being selfish
world has no shelter from Covid, no free with vaccines creates new Covid variants,
and reasonably robust public health system. relying on herd immunity costs lives.
We just had 169 days without a community On the upside, it’s definitely getting
case. During that time what did you do? lighter in the morning and the evening.
I toured a play with my sister, I took my Lockdown is easier knowing that we are
grandson to “The Lion King”, I attended a not heading into colder weather and early
family funeral, I went to some great movies. darkness. The birds in the valley are busy and
In the last year I have travelled around to loud, the smell of freesias floats a delicate
work and enjoyed local social events such tone into the room while outside I can see 10
as the Thames Market. I have been to court different coloured camellia trees smashing
cases to support environmental and cultural out new blossoms day after day. The lemon
challenges, I have participated in meetings trees are bending with golden fruit and the
and protests on mining. I have had my kereru are flapping in the forest, their wings
grandchildren to stay in my home. It has sound like a drumbeat or a big out breath.
been absolute freedom and it has not cost They lumber past at speed and I duck, elated
people’s lives. and happy in the moment.
Now back in lockdown I am reflecting on Also on the upside, walking every day
some people I have met who are convinced is always the same and different. The dog
Covid is not real or proudly announce that is always on high alert for new smells,
their immune system is great so they won’t the pukeko are always strutting across
get sick. The conspiracy people are not the paddock by the river. When walking,
wrong that big pharma is making fat profits I try and focus on the privilege and beauty,
from the pandemic, but they are really wrong and then back to work on Zoom. I try
about Covid. When I heard from my friend not to agonise about American-led war
Andreas in Jakarta who has lost 40 friends to consequences and climate chaos starvation.
Covid, I just felt sick. I thought of 40 people The brain is so plastic that it can jump from
I loved and how losing them would be. beauty to despair in a millisecond. The brain
My friend is a well-known journalist who and the heart need to stay faithful to knowing
never accepts corporate or government hard facts, working for positive change and
rhetoric, his very painful losses should be a justice, but also celebrating the experience
warning to all sceptics. we are so lucky to have of being alive here.
The “I trust my immunity” people are just Somehow, as we struggle through the
so irritating. They have not grasped the basics pandemic, we have the opportunity to
of what new diseases can do to perfectly recognise the practices of tangata whenua
healthy people. The history of pandemics which uphold human dignity and the lessons
shows that a healthy people living a natural they offer us all. As a great leader from the
life can be devastated by a new disease sawmill workers fighting pollution used to
because they do not have immunity to it. say when times got tough, “Hard on issues,
Take the 1820 pandemic brought by HMS soft on people.”
Coromandel to Hauraki or the flu epidemics Turn off the news sometimes and turn
that attacked World War I soldiers and their up the music which gives you joy. Also,
communities. Healthy young people can die chocolate is proven to make us happy, it has
of Covid or get long-term serious effects, been proven by scientists. We need to listen
why would you risk that? to them.
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 965 - 31 August 2021Issue 965
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2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 965 - 31 August 2021
On the Covid frontline in Tairua
By Pam Ferla
Quiet roads, red-hot phones and kinder people Grant points out that places like Pumpkin
summarise the latest Covid-19 lockdown for Hill, Sailors Grave and Rewa Rewa Valley do
Tairua’s frontline workers. not have mail delivered and parcels are piling
Life is hectic at Tairua-Pauanui Pharmacy, up that can’t be collected.
with the phone “red hot”, prescription He is a familiar face on the local stage
numbers up and vaccination bookings and known to practise his songs while on
streaming in. Fronting the pharmacy during his mail run. When Tairua Troubadours’
lockdown is Maria Cory-Wright. “There’s writer/director Jennie Turner featured on
more prescriptions than usual because people TVNZ’s Good Sorts, Grant was filmed on his
might be panicking a bit and stocking up,” motorbike singing “Everyday People”.
she says. “But in last year’s lockdown we had Tairua’s fire chief, Chris New, says there
nearly double our usual prescriptions because have been no call-outs so far during the latest
a lot of people left the cities and came here. lockdown. “Everything has been very quiet,
“Our phone has been hot with people the same as last time, but it’s business as
making vaccination bookings. They are quite usual if we are needed,” he says.
straight forward to do online and there’s also Chris has been instructed that only the basic
the 0800 number.” crew of four are required to turn up to a call-
Maria says customers have been more out and they have to wear masks. “We are
understanding about the situation during the urging people not to light fires in the open,”
latest lockdown, probably because they are he says.
now used to it. And the number of people Chris is on Tairua-Pauanui Community
wearing masks is nearly 100 percent. She has Board and anticipates the next meeting may
worked at the pharmacy for around 25 years be a virtual one with all Thames-Coromandel
and knows most of the town’s residents. District Council meetings taking place online
“But when they are at the door wearing during current restrictions.
sunglasses, a hat and a mask I may not Tairua Residential Care owner, Nina Rowe, Tairua postie, Grant Brooks, says there’s plenty of socially distanced
recognise them until they speak,” she laughs. helps residents understand the Covid-19 waving as he is out on his daily run.
As well as working weekdays at the restrictions by reminding them of the polio to get involved with such as indoor bowls, keep them safe.”
pharmacy, Maria is on-call for the local St outbreak in the 1950s and the influenza balloon tennis, bean bag basket toss, quoits Tairua Four Square owner/operators,
John ambulance one day during weekends. epidemic of 1918, which took the lives of and a passive exercise class, plus happy hour, Rob and Erin Adam, say their staff have
Tairua postie, Grant Brooks, says his mail millions around the world. “While some art and crafts, housie, cards and quizzes.” really pulled together to ensure locals can
run feels different in this second lockdown. residents may not recall or comprehend Nina says she feels fortunate to have a get the essentials. “Going into lockdown
“For a start, the weather is colder and there’s information in the media regarding lockdown band of dedicated volunteers to assist with is definitely a challenge, but we’ve done it
more pedestrians than cars,” he says. “When levels and Covid restrictions, they are able to some activities. “But during lockdown these before,” says Erin. “Our priority is keeping
I’m on my run, there’s a bit more waving than recall - or at least are aware of - past events in good people are not allowed to come into the everyone safe and ensuring there’s stock on
usual and I seem to have more small parcels the last century,” she says. facility,” she says. “We decided to go ahead the shelves. We’d like to thank the team and
for letterboxes. Of course, I keep away from “They have been restricted from their usual with our high tea [for Daffodil Day] although, the community for pulling together to make
people and can put my helmet visor down if daily walking group along the waterfront, without guests, we could not do the usual sure we all look after each other.”
needed. When I’m in my sorting room in the however they’re encouraged to walk inside fundraising for the Cancer Society. Although Rob and Erin remind people to shop
early mornings, I’m the only person around the perimeter of the grounds. And there’s residents miss seeing their families because normal, mask up, sign in and nominate one
as everything is closed.” numerous other activities they can choose of lockdown, they appreciate we are trying to shopper per household.
Issue 965
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27 August
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13Mega Crossword
© Lovatts Puzzles
Crossword Puzzle 965
Name: _________________________________________________________________________________
Tel no: _________________________________________________________________________________
Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver, 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 on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World check out manager directly. The prize can only be redeemed under Covid-19 Alert Level 2
or lower.
See page 18 for last week’s crossword solution and winner.
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 965 - 31 August 2021Nissan continues to set the trend in
today’s diverse market
A contribution by Brian Tunnicliffe Motor Group
The new car industry has never been quite that connection, the brand has moved with the comes first) battery warranty and a claimed have had major upgrades in recent times to
so diverse or hectic. The government’s times, often being a leader rather than playing range of 270km, coupled with the ever- reflect passenger comfort and safety, as well as
announcement of a Clean Car Rebate has seen catch-up in getting new models to market. increasing number of public charge stations improved performance and fuel economy.
sales and interest of fully electric vehicles and So what choices do potential buyers have to popping up, concerns around range are starting The big daddy of the Nissan SUV range is
plug-in hybrids reach unprecedented levels in mull over currently? to become much less of an issue for fully the ageless all-terrain Patrol which is a luxury
recent months. The fully electric and second-generation electric vehicles like the Leaf. Plus, charging package on wheels for those with a shy over
At the other end of the emission scale, Nissan Leaf has come a long way in recent can all be done from home using a standard $100,000 to spend.
year to date registrations of new utes is the years in both technology and road appeal, 240V socket much like an e-bike. With the ongoing demand for new utes,
strongest on record, while sports utility with the current model fulfilling the needs of The Nissan SUV range starts with the baby Nissan has kept pace with its competitors
vehicles (SUVs) currently account for more an increasing number of buyers. At $61,990 of the family, the all-new Juke (prices starting
from both a price and specification level, and
than half of all new vehicle sales. plus on-road costs (ORC), the Leaf is currently from $29,990 plus ORC), then moves up to
offers a wide range of Navara options starting
SUVs in particular have been either stretched eligible for the full $8,625 Clean Car Rebate the very popular Qashqai (from $33,990 plus
when registered before December 2021. ORC) and onto the larger X-TRAIL ($42,100 from $41,990 plus ORC. Buyers are spoilt
or shrunk in size to keep up with the consumer for choice with too many options to mention.
appetite for high risers at the expense of With an eight-year or 160,000km (whichever plus ORC). All are competitively priced and
From a good old fashioned work horse to a
the once popular low-slung sedan, hatch or
refined family vehicle ideal for a weekend
station wagon.
escape, the Navara is packed full of features.
Due mainly to the Covid-19 handbrake
The other big plus for owners is Nissan’s
being applied to overseas travel, Kiwis are also
wide dealer network situated around the
heading out on “roadies” across the length and
breadth of Aotearoa in increasing numbers, country which is on hand for repairs and general
and have a huge choice in regard to vehicles to servicing during ownership. So whichever end
enjoy their travels in. of the scale mainstream new and used vehicle
Those new vehicle distributors who ensure buyers are at, a visit to a Nissan dealer is well
their showrooms reflect the current trend are worth the effort.
set to do well over the coming months. On the greater Coromandel, Nissan is
Nissan is a good example of a new vehicle represented by Brian Tunnicliffe Motor Group
distributor who has their bases covered pretty which has branches in Paeroa, Morrinsville and
well. The Nissan (or as it once was called Waihi, as well a satellite agent in Whitianga -
Datsun) badge has consistently been a popular Peninsula Cars & Commercials situated at 21
choice for mainstream buyers and tradies alike Campbell Street.
in this country dating back to the early days of Brian Tunnicliffe Motor Group is also
local assembly and has always retained repeat the official new vehicle franchise dealer for
buyers loyal to the brand. And to help retain Brian Tunnicliffe Motor Group’s vehicle yard at Peninsula Cars & Commercials in Whitianga. SsangYong and LDV.
Issue 965 - 31 August 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15Sudoku
Sudoku Puzzle 965
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 Street, Whitianga or
PO Box 426, Whitianga or office@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 3:00pm on Monday each week.
The winner must please claim their prize from Café Coghill House directly. The prize can only be
redeemed under Covid-19 Alert Level 2 or lower.
Last week’s solution
Last week’s winner - Malc Cooke
“Rerenga kōrero o te wiki” (saying of the week)
“Me aha koe i te kura?” - “What do you have to do at school?” Answers could include things such as “Me whakarongo ahau ki te kaiako/
Me tākaro pai ahau/Me pānui pukapuka ahau.” - “I have to listen to the teacher/I have to play nicely/I have to read books.”
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 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 965 - 31 August 2021Boat & Fishing Club ambitions
hit stumbling block Police Report
By Constable Michael Carter of the Whitianga Police
By Stephan Bosman
The Mercury Bay Community Board has refused a request from the Matarangi Boat & Fishing Club to Monday, 23 August to Monday, 30 August 2021
develop clubrooms at Omara Reserve adjacent to the main boat ramp in Matarangi.
General They were identified and spoken to by the
The proposal was initially presented to the Community Board on 24 February by club members, The old Whitianga Fire Station was Police regarding their actions.
Steve Clay and Howie Taylor. When The Informer contacted Steve for comment at the end of last unlawfully entered on the 23rd by unknown On the 27th a Comers Road address
week, he was unaware of the decision taken at the 18 August meeting of the board. person/s. Thankfully nothing was taken, was entered and a Nissan motor vehicle
The refusal was in line with advice from Thames-Coromandel District Council staff provided via a but the Police are still looking for information stolen. Enquiries are continuing to identify
detailed report. to identify and apprehend this/these person/s. the offender/s.
Staff noted that under the recently adopted Mercury Bay Reserves Management Plan, Omara Reserve With the Covid-19 Level 4 lockdown, Also on the 27th a young couple had an
is classified as a Neighbourhood Reserve, a category “… developed and used for informal recreation several residents were still being caught argument at a Cook Drive address over
and sporting activities, play and family-based activities, and social and community activities.”
breaching the lockdown rules and various a phone call being made with whānau.
infringement notices have been issued as The aggressive person refused to listen or
The Reserves Management Plan also noted insufficient land for vehicle and trailer parking on Omara a result. speak with the Police and the victim was able
Reserve to meet demand during the peak holiday periods, some pine trees of an age where they may Arrests to leave and return to their family.
become hazardous and erosion along the Matarangi harbour edge. Proposed future action includes No arrests this week. Traffic
better parking layout, investigating replacements for the aging trees and identifying options to Occurrences On the 28th a driver in a blue BMW motor
manage the foreshore erosion. On the 24th threats were made against a person vehicle was doing burnouts/skids around
Two submissions with regard to the reserve were received during the Reserves Management Plan after an error in judgment. Two persons will the roundabout at Cook Drive, Campbell
consultation period focusing on biodiversity protection and noting that the reserve is home to a be spoken to regarding their demeanour. Street and Joan Gaskell Drive. A registration
wetland bird community. No submissions on clubrooms for the Matarangi Boat & Fishing Club were On the 25th an elderly couple had an number was obtained and the Police will be
received at that time. argument at a Mayfair Close address over speaking with the driver in due course.
Following Steve and Howie’s presentation on 24 February, TCDC said a complaint was received a television. One party refused to allow Restraints, impairment, distractions and
from a neighbour to the reserve who was “…upset about the potential siting of a club facility at the other to ring anyone for assistance. speed are traffic targets at the moment.
that location.”
Both were spoken to and further assistance is So please wear your seatbelt, don’t drive
forthcoming from outside agencies. drunk or intoxicated, don’t use your cell
The staff report listed the advantages of approving the Boat & Fishing Club’s request as better On the 26th a group of young people phone while driving and drive within
utilisation of Omara Reserve and a “satisfied boating and fishing community”. Among the were violating lockdown rules and banging speed limits.
disadvantages were potential objections from neighbours, an open space that will be tied up with on doors at Marina Park Apartments. Drive safe and drive well.
buildings and view shafts that would potentially be blocked.
It was suggested in the report that the Boat & Fishing Club could utilise some of the land and
facilities of The Dunes Golf Course, although the golf course isn’t in close proximity to the boat ramp.
The resolution to accept the council staff recommendation and decline the request was passed
unanimously by the Community Board with no discussion.
Steve told The Informer that the Matarangi Boat & Fishing Club committee could not discuss the
decision until such time as they have heard from TCDC following which they would be in a position
to make a public statement.
Issue 965 - 31 August 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17You can also read
