The maiden flight of ZK-MBB - Issue 925 - 24 November 2020 - Mercury Bay Informer
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Issue 925 - 24 November 2020 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,500
The maiden flight of ZK-MBB
By Stephan Bosman
ZK-MBB, the fourth aeroplane built by a group of community mentors and senior Mercury Bay Area School students, just west of Hahei on Saturday last week.
It was an emotional moment when the fourth In addition, we’ve also lost community mentor, get the better of them, they can achieve amazing pilot in charge of the maiden flight of
Van’s RV12 aeroplane built by a group of Roger Beasley, during lockdown in April.” things. After Jim’s death, we’ve seen his family ZK-MBB. “The aeroplane handled beautifully,
community mentors and senior Mercury Bay Jim Evans founded the MBAS plane build walking with us every step of the way, we’ve exactly as I expected,” he said afterwards.
Area School students took to the skies for programme in 2012 and was still the central seen students who departed the programme at “I’m very happy.”
the first time at the Whitianga Airfield on figure at the time of his death. He was a highly the end of 2019 returning this year to help us Former MBAS students, Emanuel Johnston
Saturday last week. A large crowd witnessed experienced aircraft engineer and private pilot, get the aeroplane finished and we’ve seen the and Kal Rabarts-Small, were both involved
the aeroplane’s maiden flight, which included and enjoyed a huge amount of respect in the community mentors really stepping up to fill the in the building of ZK-MBB. They were at the
two low passes along the length of the airfield’s international aviation community. His loss void left by Jim’s death. Whitianga Airfield on Saturday. Both agreed
main runway. could have dealt the programme a devastating “And number four isn’t the end of it. that they felt a huge sense of pride when they
“It was unlike any other aeroplane we’ve blow, but his family, the MBAS students In February 2021, we’re starting to build saw the aeroplane become airborne. Kal has
built before,” says Patrick Pfister, one of the and staff, and the community mentors rallied aeroplane number five. Jim’s family is still recently started an apprenticeship as an aircraft
two MBAS staff members involved in the together to not only ensure they finish ZK-MBB, on board, something we’re very grateful for, engineer in Auckland. “The MBAS plane
plane build programme. “The reality is that the registration number of the new aeroplane, and the community mentors are as motivated build programme is a wonderful opportunity,”
we ran a year behind schedule. The extremely but also to ensure the programme continues. as ever. he said. “It not only made me interested in the
unfortunate deaths of community mentors Jim “We started building ZK-MBB in February “We look forward to working with a group of mechanics of flying, it helped me to land a job
Evans and Peter Austin in 2019, brought the 2018,” says George Fletcher, the other MBAS dedicated students, to get to know them better and gave me a career.”
build to a standstill for a long time and then staff member involved in the programme. and to produce another spectacular aeroplane by ZK-MBB has been purchased by the Mercury
we’ve had to contend with all the challenges “If there’s one thing we’ve learnt the past three the end of 2022.” Bay Aero Club and will remain in Whitianga as
the COVID-19 pandemic threw at us this year. years it’s that if people don’t allow adversity to Community mentor, Alan Coubray, was the a training and hire-and-fly aircraft.
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
The Dunes is the Coromandel’s Community kindness celebrated
newest art space as Nigel Latta comes to town
Some of the Coromandel’s finest artists have found a new home in the beautiful surroundings of New Zealand’s best-known psychologist, Nigel It was also announced that work is rapidly
The Dunes resort in Matarangi. Latta, made his first ever visit to Whitianga progressing on securing some new public
The location is the most recent space to become an outlet for Bread & Butter Gallery Limited and owner, on Friday last week where he highlighted the health services for Whitianga that will mean
independent art consultant Christine Rabarts, is excited about the partnership. “Since restructuring the spirit of kindness in the community, which he fewer people will need to travel out of the
Bread & Butter business to become more mobile and flexible, one of the most enjoyable things has been said was the most important factor in terms of Mercury Bay area for treatments, with more
seeing our artists’ work showcased in a variety of new spaces,” she says. “The team at The Dunes have getting through the stress and uncertainty of details to be confirmed early next year.
been really enthusiastic and great to work with.” the coronavirus pandemic. Referring to all these initiatives, Nigel said
Christine says the venue was a great place for local art lovers to visit, while having lots of people coming Speaking at a social evening hosted by all the effort which so many people were
through over the summer to play golf and eat at the restaurant would also create the opportunity to The Informer at the Whitianga Town Hall, putting in to benefit their wider community
introduce the artists to a new and wider audience. Nigel said the greatest challenge in terms of was ultimately motivated by kindness.
One of the artists currently on display at The Dunes is Erica Lyons who is based in Coromandel Town the lockdown had been the social isolation it “The fundamental thing that differentiates
and has been a permanent artist at Bread & Butter for many years. Erica creates mixed media works, created. “When it comes to your health and us as humans is kindness and that’s what has
among them her limited edition digital art. Erica’s work is recognisable for its exceptional use of colour wellbeing, loneliness is as bad as smoking,” gotten us through the pandemic.”
combinations, beautifully pulled together to create a harmonious burst of creativity. “After painting for he told the 220 strong gathering which He said when he thought about the people
many years with conventional brushes and paint on canvas, I discovered 15 years ago that digital painting
using Adobe Photoshop opened up an exciting and infinite universe to explore,” she says. “The best part
included representatives from the local who were at the heart of this effort, it was
of it all is I can practice art and be creative wherever I go with the use of my laptop.” business, education and volunteer sectors. essentially our own communities. “I think
The main focus of the evening was on of our healthcare workers, the people in our
“Red Boat with Blue Float” (pictured) is one of Erica’s limited edition prints currently on display at
The Dunes.
the many positive developments happening supermarkets, the Police, our local council
around Whitianga and the wider Mercury staff who have been doing a tremendous job -
Christine said the resort is showcasing around 25 different pieces, all of which can be the purchased Bay area, including the return of the Westpac ultimately it was all of us who did it.”
online. More information is available at www.breadandbutter.co.nz or on their Facebook page.
Rescue Helicopter to the Coromandel base Welcoming Nigel to Whitianga, Joe Davis of
for the month of January. Simon Tompkins, Ngāti Hei thanked The Informer for bringing
chairman of the Auckland Rescue Helicopter people together after what had been a very
Trust, took the opportunity to thank the people tough year. “Some of us might be thinking it
of the Coromandel for the support they have will be great to say ka kite to 2020, but there
given the helicopter over many years. have been silver linings too and they have
Mercury Bay Area School principal, come from the way we have worked together
John Wright, and Head of Kura Wellbeing, to look after one another,” he said.
Carolyn Gibbs, talked about how the school A book donated by local author, John
was embracing technology to develop new Steele, and a bottle of champagne, courtesy of
ways for students to seek and access help Councillor Tony Fox, went under the expert
when they needed it. “We are creating an hammer of auctioneer Joe Walls and, combined
environment where it is considered normal with bar receipts for the evening, raised a total
to put your hand up and say I need help with of $3,000 for the Mercury Bay Skatepark Trust.
something,” Carolyn said. On behalf of both himself and his wife Petra,
Details were also revealed about a new Stephan Bosman, owner of The Informer,
service that will transport people from the acknowledged all those who had displayed
Cooks Beach side of the Purangi Estuary to such amazing resilience and generosity over
the Stella Evered Reserve, completing the first the past few months, including those who had
stage of the Te Ara of Hei walk. For the first continued to support the newspaper during
time people will be able to hike all the way what had been such a challenging time.
from Whitianga to Cathedral Cove and on “I believe we live in the best place in the best
to Hahei. country in the world,” he concluded.
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
provided and sponsored by
Week of Wednesday, 25 November to Wednesday, 2 December - Jupiter and Saturn are still visible in the western evening sky, but are getting steadily
lower each night. They are gradually getting closer to each other in preparation for their “great conjunction” on Monday, 21 December, while Mars is now
high overhead in the evenings. It is getting a bit fainter each week as it moves ever further away from us, but is still unmistakable with its reddish hue.
The International Space Station (ISS) makes some high passes overhead this week, but you will have to be up very early or stay up very late to see the
passes. The ISS now has seven astronauts on board since it received a new lot of four who arrived on SpaceX’s second manned mission to the ISS last
week. This is one more than it usually carries, so things could be a bit crowded up there for a while as the new crew are expected to stay for about six
months. Thursday, 26 November - The almost full Moon is now just above and to the right of Mars in the evening. Friday, 27 November - A very bright Astronomy Tours and B&B
Moon lies directly to the right of reddish Mars in the eastern evening sky. Saturday, 28 November - The ISS will make a very early pass high overhead this Phone (07) 866 5343
morning from 4:33am in the northwest, starting in Orion. Sunday, 29 November - Another very early ISS pass this morning from 3:47am high overhead
in the NW and then again at 5:21am low in the west. Tuesday, 1 December - An early ISS pass starts at 3:48am high in the SW this morning. www.stargazersbb.com
Whitianga and Hot Water Beach tides Tides data sponsored by
nzwindows.co.nz
4 Dakota Drive
Whitianga
Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Tel 07 869 5990
Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020
New appliance for Kuaotunu
Voluntary Rural Fire Force
A large crowd attended the blessing of the Kuaotunu Voluntary Rural Fire Force’s new fire
appliance last Sunday afternoon.
Before performing a karakia, Ngāti Hei kaumātua, Joe Davis, spoke of the importance of
community and how the new appliance is a silver lining in a troubled year. “Not that we hope
the machine will be used a lot,” he said.
When it was his turn to say a few words, Kuaotunu Chief Fire Officer, Garrick Simpson, thanked
former Thames Valley Principal Rural Fire Officer, Paul Shaw, for his role in obtaining the
appliance. “Normally we’re at the end of the line with hand-me-downs, but here we are, a brand-
new piece of equipment that undoubtedly will help us to operate so much more efficiently,”
he said. “Without Paul’s vision and tenacity, it would never have happened.”
Paul, now a national wildfire specialist with Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ),
told The Informer after the blessing that one of his priorities as Principal Rural Fire Officer
was to ensure adequate rural firefighting equipment was strategically located around the
Coromandel Peninsula. “The new Kuaotunu fire appliance is a 4x4 machine and can hold 3,000l
of water,” he said. “There are 4x4 appliances at Onemana and Colville also. Kuaotunu was the
last piece of the puzzle. I’m delighted that I could get their new appliance across the line before
I moved on to my current position.
“FENZ is retaining ownership of the new machine, and is also responsible for its maintenance
and upkeep. The Kuaotunu Fire Force is a highly professional organisation and I have no doubt
that the appliance is in the best hands possible.”
Pictured are Paul (left) and Garrick in front of the new appliance on Sunday.
699 - 24
Issue 925 27 November
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
Iconic cartoon provides inspiration for En Pointe Dance Studio’s 2020 production After entertaining audiences across the world since they first graced television screens back in 1969, the infamous Scooby Doo characters are about to be brought to life in Whitianga courtesy of the En Pointe Dance Studio annual production. En Pointe owner/director, Lisa Gifford, has called on her own fond childhood memories of the cartoon along with the latest reincarnation in movie format to develop and choreograph Mystery Inc, a dynamic production that combines modern-day flair with a touch of nostalgia. “It has been a super fun show to do and there is something for everyone, from the youngest kids to the grandparents,” Lisa says. “It really crosses the generations, everyone will instantly recognise those five main characters.” The line-up Lisa is referring to is brainiac Velma, jock Fred, fashionista Daphne, hippie Shaggy, and Shaggy’s highly strung, talking Great Dane, Scooby-Doo. The team regularly climb into their green van, the Mystery Machine, The principal characters from En Pointe Dance Studio’s production, Mystery Inc. From the left - Meg Hoyland, Charli Thackray, setting out to expose the evil mastermind behind Indaria Bainbridge-Davies, Mel Robbins and Isabel Lunn. the latest criminal scheme. thrilled with them, so we’re ready to go,” Studio, which Lisa says the team negotiated hard at home,” Lisa says. “When the seniors “It’s classic goodies versus baddies, so the Lisa says. incredibly well. “Presenting this show will returned, it was like they had never been away. audience can expect to see villains and ghosts With performers from aged three to 18 be a celebration of the fact that we survived Two of our amazing dads even produced some popping up, lots of twists and turns, and plenty showing off their talents, Lisa says creating and still managed to achieve so much in spite homemade tap floors that were delivered to the of that 70s cartoon humour,” Lisa promises. a storyline from what was essentially a blank of everything,” she says. “The students were houses during lockdown. It was an amazing effort With 130 students taking part, it’s a massive canvass provided scope to introduce a huge remarkable in how they coped and I feel very from everyone.” undertaking getting the production to the stage, variety of dance styles. “So we have ballet, proud of them.” Mystery Inc will be on stage at the Whitianga taking three months of work and preparation. tap, jazz, hip-hop, acro, lyrical, contemporary - Despite having seven weeks out of the Town Hall on Saturday, 5 December at 4:00pm “We have great support from our parents it’s all in there, it’s a really fun and entertaining studio earlier this year due to COVID-19, and Sunday, 6 December at 2:00pm. Tickets who have been helping with making sets and show,” she says. the students all returned fit and ready for their are available from En Pointe Dance Studio, backdrops, our senior students are making The annual production marks the end of what exams, delivering some excellent results. 31 Albert Street, Whitianga or online at props, the costumes have arrived and we are has been a challenging year for En Pointe Dance “We did online classes and they all practiced www.enpointedancestudio.co.nz. Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020
Issue 925 - 24 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Trial loop bus service
Letters to the Editor discussed at public meeting
See page 22 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
Greypower Mercury Bay and the Whitianga Residents and Ratepayers Association teamed up to
Dear Editor - Water meters in Whitianga host a public meeting last Thursday about a proposal to provide a loop bus service in Whitianga.
I refer to the issue of Whitianga’s water supply.
Denis Tegg, Waikato Regional Councillor for Thames-Coromandel, provided details of costings,
Unbelievably there is talk by Thames-Coromandel District Council of a solution in the form
of metering local property owners. It looks like it’s going to happen. What part of public debate, potential timetables and routes, and how the service could be established and funded.
discussion and consultation can suddenly/possibly be a done deal? Such thinking beggars belief. Mr Tegg was responsible for establishing the Thames Connector service, which started originally
Why oh why has no one in council suggested water tanks and subsidising rates as a as a six-month trial. The trial was so successful that it has now become a permanent service.
one-off way for current home owners to install their own water tanks? Therefore supplying home There have been calls from local groups and individuals to introduce a similar service in
owners with their own water supply for gardening, car and boat cleaning, toilet flushing and pool
Whitianga, which has one of the highest proportions of over 65 residents per capita in the country.
filling by saving our region’s lovely free rainwater throughout the year.
Then making it mandatory for all new builds to have tanks. In Australia they call it grey water. “The Thames Coromandel population over 65 is already at 30 percent,” Merle Edwards, president
Metering water penalises locals who know how to conserve water through summer. Tourists and of Greypower Mercury Bay, said. “That is forecast to double over the next 25 years. We see many
holiday makers are here for a good time and give no thought to conserving water because it is not of our members become increasingly isolated once they lose their driver’s license and their ability
their concern. to get out and about.”
TCDC needs to get real and think long-term about what best benefits all. It is no good to be Jill Edmunds, an occupational therapist with Dementia Waikato, attended the meeting
decidedly disappointed by one-dimensional decisionmakers who are not thinking long-term for this and said that the prospect of having a loop bus service in Whitianga was very good news,
beautiful region with its pristine oceans and rivers. based on their experience in Thames. “We are strongly in support,” she said. “Thames has been
Stand strong and say no to meters and yes to water tanks.
an outstanding success. It’s about being socially connected, and giving people the ability to
Deb Beechey
Whitianga
get to the supermarkets, to the doctors, and pharmacies. All of us at some stage will lose our
driver’s license.”
Dear Editor - Fibre in Whitianga
Visitors to Whitianga must wonder at the sign from Chorus at the town entrance telling Sue Huntleigh-Smith, a teacher at Mercury Bay Area School, provided some background on
them that ultrafast broadband (fibre) is coming to the town in October 2020. We are well into students living in the Moewai Park and South Highway areas who currently use a Ministry of
November already. Education-subsidised school bus to get to and from school. “When they get to Year 8, they are no
They may wonder if Whitianga is a bit behind? Or did Chorus really mean October next year? longer eligible to use the school bus, so an alternative service would be very welcome,” she said.
If not, Chorus seems to be a bit out of tune? The meeting heard details of potential New Zealand Transport Agency subsidies available to
David Lynch support a service once it is established. “Ultimately this needs to be a community-led service to
Whitianga
get it underway,” Mr Tegg said. “The cost to each ratepayer if this was council supported would be
Editors’ Note - See the Chorus advertisement on page 13. Fibre is now available in parts of Whitianga. around $5.70 a year, depending on which route and timetables were chosen.”
However, there are alternative funding options available if ratepayers are not thrilled about an
increased cost burden. “If this was established as a permanent service, NZTA would provide
51 percent of the funding, with the remaining 49 percent coming from local sources,” Mr Tegg said.
“That could be a mixture of council or community board contributions, sponsorships, or grants
from local or national charitable organisations.”
The meeting resolved to work on a business proposal which could be used to gather support for a
six-month trial of the service. If the trial proved successful, then a case could be made to turn the
The Whangamaroro River, Whitianga’s sole water source. service into a permanent option.
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020
Tips for Business Owners
By Christine Petrie
Reporting around the most recent community includes an initiative to help meet the cost
transmitted COVID-19 case in Auckland of apprenticeships, support for employers
shows just how quickly a business’s if employees need to self-isolate, tax relief
reputation can be damaged. for qualifying businesses and research and
While these are tough times, communities development tax credits.
still expect people to do the right thing Some business models will be impacted if
and to be seen to be doing the right thing. central government’s intentions to attract high
As ideas rapidly disseminate online, this is net worth visitors and discourage freedom
a timely reminder for businesses and other camping are put in place.
organisations to routinely stand back and Locally, Thames-Coromandel District
look at their property, products, services and Council is seeking feedback on their new
processes, and consider how a casual observer Long Term Plan pre-consultation. Topics
might judge them. include rubbish, fees, charges and tourism
Changes and consultation on proposed promotion. While presented as binary value-
changes continue to be rolled out by central for-money decisions, the flow-on effects
government and local councils at pace. could have a huge impact on businesses
Effective 1 December 2020, the Privacy and their communities, for example parking
Act heightens the importance of secure and fees in town centres and information centre
ethical data management with the reporting funding. Through constructive engagement,
of privacy breaches mandatory. As part businesses can influence these important
of the COVID-19 response, the Small decisions.
Business Cashflow Scheme’s interest free Information in this column is of a general
period is being extended. Other COVID-19 nature and is not a substitute for tailored legal,
government assistance still in place accounting and other 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 925 - 24 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Students to unleash their creative skills to bring festive cheer to Whitianga Learning support students at Mercury Bay to give something back by helping them Area School are about to unleash their brighten up their premises for Christmas.” creative talents to inject some festive cheer For the learning support students, each of into the Whitianga town centre. whom has their own special learning needs, In collaboration with the Mercury Bay having opportunities to build connections Business Association (MBBA), the group within the community is an important focus, of five students will be decorating the particularly for those preparing to transition windows of local businesses using Christmas out of school. “Being able to go and themed stencils which were created with the essentially work for someone for a couple assistance of teacher aide and local artist, of hours and add value to their community is Emma Mudgway. very important, and this is another great way MBBA chair, Milan Lukic, says building to experience that while meeting and talking partnerships between the business sector to new people,” says Karen. and the wider community is an important The students are at the moment testing out goal for the association. “We really wanted their stencils and their skills on the MBAS to make more of an effort this year to bring windows, so they will be well practiced some Christmas cheer into the centre of by the time they visit their first customers town, especially post-COVID,” he says. next week. “Being able to collaborate with MBAS and The MBBA will be sending out an email help them to raise some funds at the same invitation to participate to all those in its time is fantastic.” database. However, anyone can get involved The association will cover the cost of paint by emailing them directly. and materials, and the students will be out in “Businesses can book in to have force from next week painting and spraying. their windows decorated by emailing “We’ll all have our Santa hats on, so we’ll be mbba@whitianga.co.nz,” says Milan. easy to spot,” says MBAS learning support “We will coordinate it with the school and a coordinator, Karen Johansen. “The kids came koha of $10 will be collected for the learning up with the idea, so we have bells, Santas, support group, which I believe they will put reindeers, snowflakes, trees, everything towards the cost of an end of year celebration Christmassy. It has been a fun project for to acknowledge the work and achievements them to get involved in at the end of the year of the students over the year. and they’ve really enjoyed it. “We would love to see as many businesses Mercury Bay Area School students, Kieran Clayton and Paige MacPherson, “The learning support group receives great as possible joining in to get our town working with Emma Mudgway, teacher aide and local artist, on the Christmas-themed support from our local business community looking great and show our support for our stencils the learning support students at the school will use to decorate and we are looking forward to being able local students.” the windows of local businesses. Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020
Issue 925
699 - 24
27 November
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020
Issue 925
699 - 24
27 November
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11Police Report
By Sergeant Andrew Morrison of the Whitianga Police
Monday, 16 November to Monday 23, November 2020
General they were referred to support agencies.
Summer is nearly here and we are expecting On the 21st a couple argued at a Centennial
plenty of visitors to come and enjoy what our Drive address after a night out and direct
area and community has to offer. Please make advice was given.
them feel welcome and remind them to look On the 16th we attended a threatening
after themselves and their property. behaviour incident at an Albert Street
If you are planning a work/organisation address and the offender was warned for his
end of year party, please include in your actions, while prior to the 17th more than
plans how everyone will get home safely. 30 Pohutakawa saplings and their protective
The Booze Bus and other traffic staff have cages were stolen from a conservation
operations planned in our community over property on Blackjack Road.
the summer period. “If you Drink and Drive On the 18th a holiday home on Omara
you are a bloody idiot.” Place, Matarangi was burgled with artwork,
Arrests a Kontiki fishing motor, a red woman’s
16th - 1 x 34-year-old Auckland man for mountain bike, clothing and alcohol stolen.
Theft Ex Car (x3). A white Toyota Hilux, registration YZ4656,
Occurrences was unlawfully taken from SH25 on the 22nd.
Three Family Harm incidents attended Traffic
this week. There is a lot of traffic expected in town on
On the 16th a separating couple argued Thursday, 26 November with the Beach Hop
about their relationship at a Purangi Road, convoy visiting Whitianga. Please drive to
Cook Beach address and sound advice was the conditions and remember drivers might
given, while on the 20th a couple argued about be going a bit slower to protect their classic
their relationship at a Cook Drive address and cars from stone chips.
Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020Issue 925
699 - 24
27 November
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13No intervention to address
erosion at Boating Club
By Gillian O’Neill
There will be no immediate action to address Brophy’s Beach to the Whitianga Wharf,”
coastal erosion in front of the Mercury Bay the report stated. “This area is one coastline
Boating Club building in Whitianga until and it is not possible to determine a solution
more is known about the potential threat to for only a part of it, such as the Boating Club
the wider Buffalo Beach shoreline and where area, without it impacting on the other parts.”
the site sits in terms of priorities across the The culturally significant Taputapuatea
Thames-Coromandel District. Spit is one of the other locations that may
At their final meeting of 2020, the Mercury be impacted.
Bay Community Board instructed TCDC staff The Community Board decision rules
to complete an “options report” funded from out any urgent work being undertaken
the 2020/21 Mercury Bay Coastal Protection unless there is a significant deterioration in
budget for the entire Buffalo Beach coastline the situation.
from the Whitianga Wharf to Brophy’s It is still unclear how any future work
Beach, and to report back recommended would be funded, should that be the
actions and costs. In the interim, staff have recommendation of the options report.
also been asked to continue to monitor the A project could potentially be included
condition of the beach and dune system in the TCDC Long Term Plan if it gains a
near the Boating Club and to inform the significant level of public support. Based on
Board of any significant erosion and options the current rating profile within the district,
to respond. if the roughly estimated $600,000 cost of a
Representatives from the Boating Club rock wall was funded by way of loan on
have been increasingly concerned for the a district-wide basis, it would result in
future of the facility due to the rapid pace
an additional cost of $2.47 per ratepayer.
of erosion and have lobbied the board for
The Board was informed that “…this needs to
urgent intervention. However, advice to
be looked at in the light that if other district
TCDC warned the site could not be looked at
coastal erosion priorities were also approved,
in isolation and even suggested the shoreline
the figure would multiply by a factor of at
may potentially restore itself without the need
for groynes or a rock wall, the later carrying least 10. If the work was considered a priority
an estimated cost of $600,000. for the Mercury Bay area and funded locally
In a report presented to the Board, council’s by loan, it would add 0.24 per cent to the
coastal scientist noted that the current Mercury Bay rates or $7.16 per ratepayer.”
shoreline in front of the Club is in the same It was also noted that the area of Buffalo
position as it was in 1944. The report also Beach in front of the boating club is listed
points to an alternating pattern of sustained at number eight out of 14 locations on
erosion and accretion periods, although TCDC’s list of coastal erosion priority areas.
the current rate of erosion at 4.5m per year “If council were to approve a rock wall
is exceptionally high, spurred on by an installation at this location, it would be under
increasing number of major weather events severe pressure to approve work at other
in recent years. If this rate were to continue, sites also,” the Community Board was told.
the shoreline would retreat right up to the “This would lead to the cost commitment
facility in around three years. required of council to be many times higher
However, the report said any solution than just this proposal, with a resulting
focusing on this section of coastline would impact on rates. Until more detailed work
also impact the wider area and therefore a is completed as a result of the Shoreline
more comprehensive investigation would be Management Plans and clear solutions and
required. “To be sure that the right solution priorities established and budgeted, it is
is identified, it is necessary to consider the difficult to determine that the Boating Club
whole of the Buffalo Beach coastline from area should have priority.”
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020Issue 925
699 - 24
27 November
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15New recording studio in Whitianga opens opportunities for local musicians A contribution by Whitianga resident, Anusha Bhana Calling all local musicians - there’s a new the majority of the actual building myself this diverse musical talent on the Coromandel mixing and mastering services, and is also recording studio in town and it’s open time, with help from my dad. I drew from my Peninsula,” he says. “What really excites well versed in providing pre-production for bookings. extensive experience of working in different me is recording and producing emerging sessions for musicians who want to workshop Local sound engineer and music producer, studios around Aotearoa and selected and established artists who are as passionate their ideas before heading into the studio. Dave Rhodes, has added an exciting my favourite pieces of recording gear, about their music, as I am about capturing and Before moving to Whitianga, Dave was the new feature - a custom built, boutique both classic analog and cutting edge digital, presenting it to their fans. My hope is that my studio manager at Depot Sound Recording recording studio - to his freelance business, to build a modern, high quality studio.” recording studio will open up opportunities Studio in Devonport for six years where he Dave Rhodes Productions. Dave primarily records bands, but in recent for local musicians to take their music to a worked with a variety of bands, including With 25 years’ experience in recording, years has branched out to record solo artists completely new level.” The Warratahs, Push Push, Head Like a Hole production, performing and studio as well. “I have been blown away by the Alongside recording, Dave also offers and Hamilton County Bluegrass Band. management, Dave moved from Auckland Prior to this, Dave spent eight years back to his hometown of Whitianga in May working at Stebbing Recording Centre where last year to set up his new venture. “It has he learnt from some of New Zealand’s top always been a big dream of mine to build my engineers and recorded music for Six60, own recording studio and the fact that this has the Topp Twins, Hollie Smith, John Rowles happened here is no coincidence,” he says. and Shane. In 2002, he won the Vodafone “Coming back to Whitianga was a conscious New Zealand Music Award for Engineer of return to my roots, to the place where I was the Year for his work recording and producing first inspired to pursue a career in music. the debut self-titled Blindspott album. It feels like everything has come full circle. He was also the drummer for NZ bands “My fascination with music and music Stylus, 29 Blackbirds and Static Era. production started at a really young age. “It’s important to me to make the services Both of my parents, Alan and Julia Rhodes, I offer affordable for musicians,” Dave says. are musicians. I got my first taste of a “As a former touring musician myself, I know recording studio when I was 10 years old and how tough it can be to scrape together funds I played the drums in my parents’ cover band, to record. I believe I’ve created a professional Incognito, when I was 15.” yet accessible music production service For the last six months, Dave has been within a relaxed environment that’s ideal for busy designing and building the professional getting creative.” recording studio at his home, in what For more information or to book a recording was once a double garage. “I’ve designed session, contact Dave on iamdaverhodes@ recording studios in Auckland before, but this gmail.com, and follow Dave Rhodes was a whole new challenge,” he says. “I did Sound engineer and music producer, Dave Rhodes, in his new recording studio in Whitianga. Productions on Facebook and Instagram. Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020
Issue 925
699 - 24
27 November
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020
Issue 925
699 - 24
27 November
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19Closure of BNZ will leave Coromandel succeeds
Coromandel Town with no bank in attracting Kiwi tourists
Grounded Kiwis are flocking to the Coromandel co-ordinated promotion of our gold mining
in their droves with domestic tourism up by 30 heritage, Te Ara A Toi - a collaboration with
percent in September and October compared iwi and other neighbouring regional tourism
with last year’s numbers. operators to encourage and promote Māori
The boost in New Zealand visitors is helping tourism businesses and Kaimoana Coast -
to plug the $70 million revenue hole Destination the establishment of a quota for Coromandel-
Coromandel says has been created by the based suppliers to provide locally sourced fish
absence of international tourist traffic. Interest and seafood to our hospitality sector under a
in the Peninsula is also high ahead of the peak sea to table scheme. A new project manager,
holiday season, according to early figures Whitney Steel, has also been appointed to help
from the marketing agency’s first ever summer engage the tourism and hospitality sectors and
campaign, “Where Kiwis Holiday.” oversee the roll-out of some of these projects.
News that BNZ is to close its Coromandel Town branch leaving the community without any bank has Marketing manager, Megan Nunn, revealed With a significant programme of work
been described as “devastating” by Councillor John Morrissey. details about the campaign during an industry in the pipeline, Destination Coromandel is
The community’s elected representative on Thames-Coromandel District Council said it was very update held online last Thursday as Thames- pushing back strongly against any potential
disappointing whenever a small rural town lost services. While accepting that the number of people Coromandel District Council considers reduction in council funding. “Together with
using the branch had declined, he said it was still very important for some sectors of the community. whether to continue to provide funding for the Coromandel tourism industry, we’ve
“For businesses and in particular the elderly it will be a devastating loss,” he said. Destination Coromandel beyond June 2021. been successful in increasing domestic
BNZ Coromandel Town will close sometime between April and July 2021, forcing residents to travel The organisation, which has been around in visitor spend during the shoulder seasons,”
to either Whitianga or Thames for face-to-face service and to carry out banking tasks that cannot some format for three decades, spearheads Hadley said. While forward bookings for
be done online. Whangamata and Waihi are also on list of 38 BNZ branches across the country that tourism promotion in the Thames-Coromandel the peak Christmas/New Year period were
will shut. and Hauraki Districts, and also operates the encouraging, he said the industry would need
i-SITES in Whitianga and Thames. to continue to work hard to ensure the stream
BNZ has blamed the rapid rise in the use of internet services as a result of COVID-19 for the decision
to renege on a commitment just last year to keep all regional branches open until at least 2022. As well as print and social media campaigns, of domestic visitors was sustained long after
“COVID-19 has accelerated trends we’ve been seeing for some time,” BNZ chief customer officer, the Where Kiwis Summer message featured on Kiwis returned to work and school at the end
Paul Carter, said in a statement. “Around three quarters of our customers are digitally active and they billboards in Auckland and was carried across of January. “We simply can’t go quiet now
are increasingly choosing to do their banking this way, or over the phone. the city for a month on the back of eight buses. while other regions ramp up their efforts to
During the update, general manager, Hadley attract visitors from our core drive market and
“The majority of our customers are banking online and our talented bankers are often waiting in empty Dryden, also briefly outlined 16 key projects neighbouring regions,” he warned.
branches for customers that simply do not arrive. We don’t take this decision lightly. We made our that Destination Coromandel aims to fund In its pre-consultation survey ahead of next
commitment on regional branches in good faith. However, COVID changed everything. Our customers from a $700,000 commitment received from year’s Long Term Plan process, TCDC says
have embraced digital services and tools, and our bankers are serving customers irrespective of the government’s Strategic Tourism Assets it is considering a review of its current
where they are. We’ve shown we can work from anywhere and there are job opportunities for all our Protection Programme earlier this year. contracting arrangement with Destination
people - it reflects the ongoing shift in how our customers are choosing to bank with us.” Coromandel. It is also looking at withdrawing
However, he emphasised securing this finance
The bank has committed to providing alternative employment opportunities for affected staff. would be contingent on continued investment funding for information centres and potentially
Coromandel MP, Scott Simpson, has also expressed his disappointment at the closures citing not from both TCDC and Hauraki District Council. replacing them with automated kiosks. It is
just the loss of a service, but also the personal connections that are important in smaller rural Among the ideas for product development inviting the public to provide feedback at
communities in particular. are Gold Heritage - a more defined and www.tcdc.govt.nz/longtermplan2021.
Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020Issue 925
699 - 24
27 November
July 2016 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21Submission supporting rescue helicopter
petition lodged
The submission supporting the rescue helicopter petition presented to the House of double than the support received from Coromandel Town Ambulance Stations’ hours
Representatives earlier this years was lodged on Thursday last week, a few days after Northern Auckland residents. and the Whitianga St John ambulance is on its
Rescue Helicopter Limited (a joint venture between the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust and This state of affairs took a turn for the way to Thames, an ambulance is dispatched
the Northland Emergency Services Trust) announced that they will base a rescue helicopter in worse when the National Ambulance Sector from Thames or Paeroa.
Whitianga during January next year. The submission is taking a longer-term view on emergency Office (NASO) announced a restructure of This state of affairs has led to an extremely
care on the Coromandel. air ambulance services in New Zealand. unfortunate outcome for several patients.
The submission will be allocated to Parliament’s Health Select Committee once the committee It became clear that a rescue helicopter based We are listing a few examples -
has been re-established. The committee was dissolved together with the 52nd Parliament in Whitianga was not part of the larger plan. • Hahei resident, “A,” suffered severe chest
before this year’s general election. The local community pushed back and in pains on 20 October 2019. Emergency care
This is the full text of the submission. September 2018, NASO announced it was was required at 8:00am. An air ambulance
going to be business as usual. was not called. “A” was transported to
Background crew accommodation. Unfortunately for the residents of and Thames Hospital by ambulance, where he
In preparing this submission, we have had That was followed by the installation of GPS visitors to the Coromandel Peninsula, it was finally arrived at 7:00pm. Angiography
a choice between getting bogged down in approaches into several Coromandel locations not business as usual. Some time in the early performed at Waikato Hospital more
arguments and statistics, or allowing the and from 2016, the Auckland Rescue Helicopter part of 2019, the, what was then known as the than 55 hours after emergency care was
facts to speak for themselves. We decided Trust based a rescue helicopter permanently Auckland and Coromandel Rescue Helicopter, requested, indicated that his heart had
on the latter and rely on you to come to the in Whitianga. From that time - together with departed Crosby Field and has not as yet suffered irreversible damage.
conclusion - fully operational St John ambulance stations in returned on a permanent basis. • Cambridge resident, “B,” suffered a
• That the residents of and visitors to the Whitianga, Coromandel Town, Whangamata, At around the same time as the departure dislocated hip at her holiday home in
Coromandel Peninsula do not have the Tairua, Thames and Paeroa - the Coromandel
of the rescue helicopter, St John started to cut Hahei on 31 December 2019 at 6:10am.
level of emergency care they deserve; and Peninsula enjoyed emergency care similar to
back on their level of service on the Peninsula, Upon arrival of an ambulance, rescue
• Something needs to be done in that regard. most other New Zealand locations. Indeed,
with the both the Coromandel Town and helicopter assistance was requested,
After the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust given that a large part of the Coromandel is
Tairua Ambulance Stations now operational but the ambulance staff were informed
a long way away from a hospital, the level of
started basing a rescue helicopter in Whitianga during limited hours only. no helicopter was available. “B” was
emergency care that was available informed
over the summer holiday period more than On 31 December 2019, a petition was transported to Thames Hospital by
the decision of many people - most of them in
12 years ago, the Coromandel Rescue launched to reinstate a rescue helicopter ambulance (over the Coromandel’s windy
semi-retirement or retirement - to relocate to
Helicopter Trust was established to develop based in Whitianga, at least over the busy roads with a dislocated hip). Further
the Coromandel from Auckland, Hamilton and
a rescue helicopter base and raise funds for the Bay of Plenty. holiday periods. The petition attracted 46,439 inquiry indicated two helicopters were
the operation of the helicopter. The local The investment of the Coromandel Rescue signatures and was presented to the House available in Auckland at that time.
community embraced the rescue helicopter Helicopter Trust in Crosby Field and the of Representatives by Coromandel MP, • Auckland resident and Cathay Pacific
with open arms. GPS approaches on the Peninsula exceeds Scott Simpson on 17 June 2020. pilot, “C,” suffered a stroke on 22 January
The helicopter landing zone was initially $1 million. This was all money raised from Examples of Incidents 2020 at 3:00pm while on holiday at
at the Whitianga Airfield and at nighttime, within the local community. The residents of and visitors to the Coromandel Opito Bay. It took an ambulance an
the helicopter was protected by volunteer In addition, with a permanent rescue Peninsula are today worse off in terms of hour to arrive and four hours for “C” to
members of the Mercury Bay Community helicopter on the Coromandel, the residents of emergency care than they were in 2017. arrive at Thames Hospital. From there,
Patrol. In 2012, Crosby Field, a state-of- the Peninsula also started to give generously The number of Auckland Rescue Helicopter his family was requested to take him to
the-art rescue helicopter base, was opened to the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust. Trust missions into the Peninsula has reduced Auckland Hospital personally, where he
in Whitianga. In addition to a landing pad In 2017, the per capita support the trust significantly and, with regard to the top half of arrived at 2:00am the day after his stroke.
and helicopter hangar, the base also contains received from the Coromandel was the Peninsula, when it is outside the Tairua and Only then did he receive appropriate care.
The Mercury Bay Informer is published weekly on Tuesday afternoons and is distributed
throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. What’s that Number?
Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are Emergency (Ambulance, Fire, Police) 24 hours .....................................................111
entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when
accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address.
Police (Whitianga) ........................................................................................866 4000
Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. Police (Tairua) ..............................................................................................864 8888
Statement of scientific fact needs to be accompanied by evidence of the fact. Police (Coromandel Town) ...........................................................................866 1190
Published by Mercury Bay Media Limited Fight crime anonymously - Call Crime Stoppers .................................0800 555 111
Editors - Stephan Bosman and Gillian O’Neill Dog and Noise Control ................................................................................868 0200
Contributors - Meghan Hawkes, Jack Biddle and Suzanne Hansen Civil Defence ...............................................................................................868 0200
Advertiser Management - Petra Bosman and Alex Kennedy Mercury Bay Medical Centre (Whitianga) ....................................................866 5911
Administration - Diane Lodge Medical Centre (Tairua).................................................................................864 8737
Need to talk? Call/text anytime for support from a trained counsellor..............1737
Office 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Mail PO Box 426, Whitianga 3542
Telephone (07) 866 2090, Fax (07) 866 2092 Harbourmaster (Whitianga) ..................................................................027 476 2651
Editorial email info@theinformer.co.nz, Advertising email sales@theinformer.co.nz Coastguard Radio Operators ......................................................................866 2883
ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online), © 2020 Mercury Bay Media Limited
Whitianga Social Services ...........................................................................866 4476
Whitianga Locksmith Services .............................................................027 446 6921
The Mercury Bay Informer is subject to the principles of the New Zealand
Media Council. Please contact us first if you have concerns about any
of the editorial content published in The Informer. If we were unable to
address your concerns to your satisfaction, you can file a complaint with
ONLINE POLL FOR NOVEMBER 2020
the New Zealand Media Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or
www.presscouncil.org.nz.
Are you in favour of the installation of water meters at private
See page 2 for what’s happening Like us on Facebook.
residences in the Thames-Coromandel District?
in the night sky, and the Whitianga and
Hot Water Beach tides.
Follow us on Twitter.
Check us out on Instagram. Have your say at www.theinformer.co.nz.
Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 925 - 24 November 2020Rescue helicopter
submission lodged
As a result of this delay, “C” has suffered Thames. On a bad day, two hours will
permanent damage. not even get you to Tairua (40km away).
• Whitianga resident, “D,” fell from his boat Mandate - and financially enable - the
(while cleaning it) on 26 October 2020. Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust
He suffers from a heart condition and (through Northern Rescue Helicopter
his injuries caused his family to believe Limited) to base a helicopter in Whitianga
he was experiencing a heart attack. during the busy times.
The incident occurred around the corner • Train decision-makers (including
from the Whitianga Ambulance Station, 111 triage desk operators) in the fact
yet it took an hour for an ambulance to that the Coromandel is unique and
arrive as one had to be dispatched from require this knowledge to inform their
Coromandel Town. Only after arrival of decision-making.
the ambulance crew, was air ambulance • Mandate - and financially enable - St John
assistance requested. to operate more ambulances and crews for
These incidents all would have had a longer hours on the Coromandel.
better outcome if a rescue helicopter based in • In the longer term, mandate -
Whitianga was dispatched when emergency and financially enable - the Auckland
care was requested. Rescue Helicopter Trust (through
Exacerbating the Problem Northern Rescue Helicopter Limited)
It is obvious that emergency care on the to once again permanently base a rescue
Coromandel Peninsula, as it is at the moment, helicopter in Whitianga. This solution
is inadequate. Exacerbating the problem is may mean one helicopter at the Auckland
the fact that those who make the decisions Rescue Helicopter Trust base at Ardmore
do not have an appreciation for the fact that Airport and one at Crosby Field.
the Coromandel Peninsula is unlike anywhere From a clinical perspective, the overall
else in New Zealand. Yet it seems as if the health outcomes of this solution may be
Coromandel is treated like everywhere better than if two helicopters are based
else. Not only is there no knowledge of the in Auckland. Yes, the residents of and
availability of a rescue helicopter base in visitors to, for instance, Waiuku and
Whitianga, there is no understanding that the Pukekohe may have to wait 15 minutes
roads are windy, many one-lane bridges have longer for a rescue helicopter to arrive,
to be negotiated, it takes a long time to get should the one at Ardmore be engaged
from one point to another and the Peninsula in a mission. However, because more
floods. For example, an ambulance from ambulances are available in those areas,
Thames will take an hour and a half to get the number of rescue helicopter missions
to Whitianga (and another hour and a half to into areas south and west of Ardmore
get a patient to Thames Hospital). Also, if the is half the number of missions into the
information available to an emergency care Coromandel. To this argument can be
dispatcher shows that the nearest ambulance added the fact that a rescue helicopter
available to provide assistance to an incident crew based in Whitianga can act as an
in Whitianga is in Paeroa, that ambulance is additional local paramedic crew when not
not around the corner from the incident, it is engaged in a mission.
an hour and 45 minutes away. On top of that, With regard to missions into Northland,
the state highway network on the Peninsula a rescue helicopter based in Whitianga
was closed at least four times this year because also makes sense. A rudimentary
of floods and large slips. calculation indicates that Whitianga
The lack of understanding of the Peninsula (345 nautical miles) is only 15 nautical
is illustrated by the fact that the Whitianga miles further from Whangarei Hospital
Volunteer Fire Brigade is all too often (eg at than Ardmore (330 nautical miles).
11:05pm on 25 March 2020 and 5:24pm on Even from a financial perspective this
30 May 2020) required to set up a landing solution has merit. Our understanding
zone for the rescue helicopter at the Whitianga is that a rescue helicopter mission costs
Airfield, only for the helicopter to overfly the approximately $5,000. That means that in
zone and land at Crosby Field, less than 500m 2017, the people of the Coromandel paid
away. Please keep in mind, the Fire Brigade for a third of all Peninsula missions out
members are all volunteers, most of them are of their own pockets. After the withdrawal
employed or small business owners, and they of the rescue helicopter from Whitianga,
give up time at work, time with their families donations to the Auckland Rescue
or a few hours’ sleep to serve their community. Helicopter Trust have all but dried up.
In these instances, their time was wasted. We have little doubt that the donations
It would have been laughable if the matter was will pick up, possibly better than before,
not so serious. when Coromandel residents and visitors
The Solution/s once again see a rescue helicopter in
Let the facts about the state of emergency the hangar at Crosby Field, and rescue
care on the Coromandel Peninsula speak helicopter crews enjoying a coffee at one
for themselves. Patients on the Peninsula of the many excellent Whitianga cafés in
are suffering long-term consequences and their red uniforms.
lives may be lost. The rescue helicopter Thank you and dedication
and ambulance operators and crews all do We thank Brian Bowering, former chair of
the very best they can, but government the Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust,
intervention is necessary to ensure the best and Emeritus Professor Kevin Pringle, ONZM
possible emergency services are available to M.B.Ch.B F.R.A.C.S, retired paediatric
the residents of and visitors to the Peninsula. surgeon, for their work behind the scenes with
We submit that you consider the following regard to the preparation of this submission.
solutions, or a combination of the solutions, We dedicate this submission to Jocelyn
and make appropriate recommendations to Strongman, a rescue helicopter “frequent
the government - flyer,” who, despite her own health issues,
• A rescue helicopter based in Whitianga literally put in the hard yards to gather support
over the busy holiday periods is an for the petition to reinstate a rescue helicopter
absolute necessity. It simply must happen. based in Whitianga. Sadly, Jocelyn has passed
The Coromandel Peninsula population away earlier this year.
swells exponentially over the holidays Signed
(up to 400,000 people during the
Christmas/New Year’s period), with far Stephan Bosman
less people than usual in, specifically, Petitioner
Auckland. The Coromandel roads are Owner of The Mercury Bay Informer
jam-packed during the busy periods. Merv George
On a good day, it will take more than Chairman
two hours to get from Whitianga to Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust
Issue 925 - 24 November 2020 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23You can also read
