Year-long running challenge rounded off with impromptu marathon
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Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 Phone (07) 866 2090 Circulation 8,000
Year-long running challenge rounded
off with impromptu marathon
By Gillian O’Neill
Whitianga physiotherapist, Grace Smith, piece of toast and off I went.”
is not quite sure how the idea of running In terms of route planning, Grace says she
5km a day to stay physically and mentally quickly rejected her first thought of running
well during last year’s lockdown culminated to Coroglen as she felt the main road would
in her spending a recent afternoon off work be particularly tough. Instead, she set out
completing a marathon, but that’s exactly from her home in Wharekaho and ran all
what happened, a feat that brought both the way to Hahei taking the short ferry ride
agony and ecstasy. across and back, eventually being met by
Although extremely active with a passion her PhysioFirst colleague and housemate,
for high adrenaline activities like MotoX Terri Evanson, who ran the final kilometre
and snowboarding, distance running was with her.
not among the notable skills or indeed on “I don’t think Terri had ever seen me so
the bucket list for the young professional grumpy,” Grace laughs. “The body was
who relocated to Mercury Bay in January definitely hurting by then. There were a few
this year. times out there when I was asking myself
“It wasn’t something I had done before or why I had decided to do it and it was pretty
had planned,” Grace says. “It started with hard to keep going. Luckily I am a physio
just wanting to have a plan for getting out and I live with another physio, so we were
and moving during lockdown. I was living in able to put me back together.”
Auckland at the time and a lot of my activity However, the agony quickly gave way to a
was based around the gym, so with that not
real sense of accomplishment. “Within half
available I wanted to make sure I was doing
an hour I was a lot better, it’s almost like you
something else to stay well both physically
forget how bad it was,” Grace says.
and mentally.”
Although it wasn’t in the plan, her 365-day
By the time lockdown came to an end,
challenge has seen Grace develop a bit of a
the 5km a day had become an enjoyable
habit, but the seeds of a new challenge had love affair with running. “I’m fully addicted
been sewn - running 5km every day for a now,” she says. “I can’t stop now, I just
year. “Then you start talking to other people love it. Some days it is hard to get out there,
and they are suggesting things that you but you always feel better when you do.”
should do,” Grace says. “So on the 200th day Asked if her sister was proud, Grace says
I marked my 25th birthday by running 20km for sure. “Although when I talked to her at
and that went okay, so I decided I would do the 30km mark when I wasn’t feeling all that
30km on the 300th day. Then I was talking great, she laughed at me,” she says.
to my twin sister, Sophie, who is in the UK, As to whether another marathon might be
and she said you’ve got to do a marathon for on the cards, it’s possible but not planned
the 365th day.” at this point. “Terri and I are going to a half
Initially, Grace wasn’t sure how she felt marathon in Hawke’s Bay, so we’ll work
about the idea, or even if the 42km distance towards that for now,” Grace says.
would be achievable. “The weekend before I In the meantime, the tracks and trails of
was hanging out with my friends who were Mercury Bay provide the perfect backdrop
all encouraging me to do it, but even then I for Grace’s newfound passion. “Sometimes
didn’t want to commit,” she says. “But it got I’ll go on a run, maybe to Hahei or Cathedral
to the night before and I just thought if I feel Cove and I look around and think is this
okay tomorrow I will do it. So I left work at really where I live,” she says. “It’s pretty Whitianga physiotherapist, Grace Smith, has recently celebrated 365 days of running 5km
midday, came home, had some coffee and a special and I feel really lucky.” a day with an imporomptu marathon from Wharekaho to Hahei and back.
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to north of Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
Newest Aero Club life member “someone
special in New Zealand aviation”
By Tony Stickley
For a man who has achieved so much in the of fuel and get back again, and John had his reasonably competent because I did okay, so I to receive it.
world of aviation, pilot Grant Biel is remarkably part to do.” just continued.” It was not until 1985 that he started flying
down to earth about his accomplishments. In fact, the flight in a single engine Squirrel Grant describes himself as a fortunate helicopters.
From being involved in some of the most helicopter at night across the Southern Ocean man whose career has been “interesting, In earlier years, Grant worked for James
daring aerial rescues off the New Zealand took over three and a half hours in each challenging, satisfying and rewarding,” Aviation, delivering New Zealand-made
coast to competing in the London to Sydney direction, so the margin for error was very particularly in regard to the people he helped Fletcher agricultural aircraft to places such
air race, Grant has done it all. slim indeed. save on the rescue missions. as Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and the
Last week when Grant was made a life Grant was involved in another noted rescue He added that there was an added incentive Solomon Islands.
member of the Mercury Bay Aero Club in July the following year when a crewman on to take up flying, as prior to 1963 there was Grant said that flying the slow Fletchers
(MBAC) - the highest accolade the club can the vessel Mary Ann was crushed by a pallet of a subsidy of around 90 pounds in old money over water for many hours taught him a lot
confer - a bullet point list of his achievements frozen fish 350 nautical miles northeast of the for people to get their private pilot’s licence. about preparing meticulously for flights and
in 60 years of flying was outlined. Chatham Islands. The crewman was winched That was a policy carried over from the war leaving nothing to chance in order to make
But bullet points don’t really do justice to a into the aircraft with just 10 minutes to spare years and Grant said he was the last person sure he reached his destination. “You learn
man who has made his mark in so many areas before dark for the return flight.
of New Zealand aviation. It was one of those quirks in life that
Grant, a member of the MBAC for 56 saw Grant, a young engineering student at
years, was employed as a pilot by the club, Auckland University, take up a career in
flying regular services between Whitianga and flying in 1961. In those days, the engineering
Auckland from 1965 to 1968. After moving faculty was based at Ardmore Airport, south
from Whitianga, he remained a member of the of Auckland, and students lived in two hostel
club and often returned to Mercury Bay for air buildings on site.
shows and staying at the family holiday home On the first day, during a free period from
at Opito Bay. lectures, Grant got on a bike to go exploring
However, other major milestones in his and chanced upon the Auckland Aero Club
career set him apart as someone special in which had just moved there from Mangere.
New Zealand aviation, both with regard to He was invited to go for a flight - the first time
fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. he had ever been in a plane - and has never
Grant was involved in many helicopter looked back.
rescue missions with his friend and business But to say Grant was instantly hooked or
partner, John Funnell, including the dramatic that adrenalin took over and that he suddenly
rescue of meteorologist, Mike Fraser, from discovered the passion of flight, is something
Campbell Island after he had been severely that he adamantly denies. “To me flying was
mauled by a great white shark in April 1992. primarily a convenient and rapid means of
“I was only flying from A to B, but the hard transportation in a country that wasn’t easy to
part was John Funnell’s who did the work get around,” he said matter-of-factly. “There
locating Mike and transporting him to the wasn’t much to do at Ardmore except work,
hostel where the medic worked on him for an so it became a form of recreation.
hour and a half,” Grant said. “I had my job to “But I don’t get too passionate about Grant Biel (left) receiving his Mercury Bay Aero Club Life Membership
do, which was to get us there, not to run out things. It was interesting and obviously I was award from club president, Brian Wigley, last week.
What’s happening in the night sky? Night sky information
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of six. It will be visible for a few minutes on some nights as a bright moving “star.”
Thursday, 29 April - The very bright Moon sits at the head of Scorpio this morning with bright Jupiter and fainter Saturn overhead.
Friday, 30 April - The Moon, Saturn and Jupiter form a nice line in the sky today with Saturn the faintest of the trio. Astronomy Tours and B&B
Monday, 3 May - The pre-dawn sky shows the Moon sitting in Sagittarius above Saturn with brighter Jupiter below. A short ISS pass low in the SW starts at 7:08pm.
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Page 2 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021
Newest Aero Club
life member
how to read winds and how to read weather, salvage sectors across Australia and the South
and how to navigate with reasonable accuracy Pacific, and overseeing the construction of the
because there were no navigation aids to help main runway on Great Barrier Island.
you, except a compass,” he said. Over the years, Grant has had occasional run-
When things went wrong, there was no point ins with New Zealand officialdom, including
in panicking. “Even when you get caught up the purchase by him and two co-owners of a
in St Elmo’s fire and electrical static on the Piper Comanche in the US in 1969.
aircraft, it is interesting but there is no point Grant said that after buying the plane, he had
in being scared,” Grant said. “Just hang on in two extra fuel tanks fitted for the flight home
there and keep it the right way up… you can’t to New Zealand. “That was the first time,
do anything about it.” I think, any New Zealander had ever flown
While Grant always tried to stay calm a single engine aircraft over from the US on
whatever the circumstances, he admits that a personal delivery flight,” he said. “I know
the air races he competed in from London to that the powers that be were pretty upset at the
Sydney in 1969 with co-pilot, Peter Pellew, time and spent weeks with Crown Law trying
and from Singapore to Christchurch in 1987 to stop me from coming home.
with his son, Qwilton, got the adrenalin “But the plane was registered in the USA
flowing and the heart pumping. and I had an American licence, so it was none
“Air races were a different thing for me,” of their business.
Grant said, who at one time held the record Grant said he is immensely proud of his life
(which may still exist) for the fastest turn- membership of the MBAC and was glowing
around at Singapore of just 25 minutes. in his tributes to the club, saying they are
“Yes, I did enjoy them. It wasn’t just going “great people.” He said that after the original
from A to B. It was competitive and enjoyable, Whitianga airstrip on land near the end of
and it was great.” Buffalo Beach became unusable, due to the
Grant has many other memorable construction of a bridge on the approach
achievements to his name, including being that made it too difficult for planes to land,
a director of Airways Corporation and a life the club made arrangements for the
member of the Aviation Industry Association, construction and further development over the
helping build an airstrip on Raoul Island, being years of the current airfield.
instrumental in the deployment of pressurized, “It showed great financial bravery and
turboprop and then turbofan aircraft for capability,” Grant said.
ambulance and organ donor flights, setting up At 79, Grant said he will continue flying
heavy-lift helicopter company, Heli Harvest, as long as he meets all the medical and other
in 1993 with John Funnell and pioneering requirements. When asked what he thought
sustainable harvesting of native timber, was his greatest aviation achievement,
delivering firefighting services in Australia, he replied in a single word, “surviving.”
Indonesia and Turkey, providing aerial crane “With every flight, the greatest achievement is
services to the construction and marine getting out at the end,” he said.
699 - 27 April
Issue 947 July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 3
Page 4 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021
Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 5
Festival evolves to support
recovery of Coromandel’s
scallop beds
One of the Coromandel’s favourite festivals is trading one seafood delicacy for many as it plays
its part in a community-driven effort to protect a vulnerable species.
The 16th Whitianga Scallop Festival will become the Whitianga Oceans Festival as organisers
rebrand and pivot the much-loved event to support the regeneration of local scallop beds.
A rāhui is already in place preventing the collection of scallops in the Opito Bay area, while
consultation is underway on a request from Ngāti Hei for the formal closure of most of the
scallop fishery along the eastern Coromandel for a period of at least two years.
“The sustainability of scallops locally and nationally is a priority for Whitianga Scallop Festival
Inc,” the festival organisers confirmed. “In observing the need for the rāhui and the need to
ensure the regeneration of scallops, the festival… will focus on offering a variety of seafood
from New Zealand waters this year as the local scallop beds are left to rest.”
The festival branding has been evolved to recognise the scallop which sits at the heart of the
event and the need now to champion its cause, along with the New Zealand-caught seafood
that will instead be enjoyed at this year’s event, officially titled “Whitianga Oceans Festival -
From Dock to Dish.” The move has the support of those leading the call to protect the scallop
beds, including Ngāti Hei, the Opito Bay Ratepayers Association and LegaSea.
The organisers said the format of the iconic event will be unchanged, so while the treats on
the menus and in the cooking demonstrations may change, the overall flavour of the festival
will remain the same. “The festival has grown into one of New Zealand’s iconic kaimoana
celebrations and we do not expect that to change,” they said. “Once again, we have a great
line-up of celebrity chefs. The live music line-up will see seven great bands across the main
stage as well as the acoustic stage. We hope our valued followers will embrace our reason
for change and join us once again for what promises to be another fantastic event set against
Whitianga’s stunning harbour.”
The site for the 2021 festival on 18 September has also been altered due to construction taking
place at the Whitianga Marina. The new location will be spread across Lyon Park (the Mercury
Bay Rugby Club grounds) and the marina’s southern carpark reclamation area. The marina
management has advised users that, in order to support this important community event,
the marina boat ramp and hard stand will not be accessible on the day of the festival. However,
boat owners will be able to use the Thames-Coromandel District Council boat ramp to launch
and retrieve their boats.
Page 6 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021
Moving tribute concert by the Mercury Bay Big Band to commemorate ANZAC Day By Anusha Bhana The Mercury Bay Big Band (MBBB) “Forces’ Sweetheart” and remained active in delivered a stellar concert of the greatest the music industry for an incredible 96 years. wartime hits last Sunday afternoon in front She passed away last year at age 103. of a packed audience in the Whitianga Town “This is the first time the MBBB has put Hall. The concert, titled “Lest We Forget,” together authentic arrangements of these was staged in honour of ANZAC Day. songs,” said Yvette Audain, who plays alto The audience thoroughly enjoyed seeing saxophone and clarinet in the band. “It feels and hearing the 15-piece band perform very fitting to be performing these songs a selection of songs that reached peak on ANZAC Day, such an important day for popularity during World War II. “These are New Zealanders.” the songs that soldiers had with them, the Once the audience returned to their seats songs they turned to for comfort when they after a short intermission, former MBBB were away from their loved ones,” said Kevin band leader, Trevor Hildreth, handed a life Robinson, the MBBB’s new band leader. membership award to band founder, Helen The set list of more than 20 songs was Lee, in recognition of her unwavering put together by Kevin and guest conductor, commitment to ensuring the success of Alistair McMillan. “We did a lot of research the band. to seek out the songs that were most That was followed by a member of the popular in that era of uncertainty and grief,” audience encouraging everyone to give Helen said Kevin. “Some of them were written a standing ovation. “My wife and I have lived before the war, but ended up becoming here for 40 years and Helen is a huge reason extremely popular later during the war.” The Mercury Bay Big Band after their “Lest We Forget” ANZAC Day concert why Mercury Bay is the place it is today, she Big band jazz orchestras were at their in the Whitianga Town Hall last Sunday. has contributed so much to the community,” most popular during the 1930s and 1940s, said Kevin. “The music kept them going.” audience and were carried out with expert the audience member said. composing and performing music that was The concert featured performances of musicianship, each song complimented The grand finale had Jenny Jackman energetic, easy listening and dance worthy. Glenn Miller’s “In the Mood,” “Moonlight by solos on either alto saxophone, bass back on vocals to perform the Vera Lynn Their songs became wartime classics listened Serenade” and ‘Chattanooga Choo Choo,” saxophone, flugelhorn, trombone, trumpet classic, “We’ll Meet Again,” an emotional to on radios in army camps, factories and Count Basie’s “April in Paris” and “One or clarinet. song which had everyone on their feet and hospitals, helping to boost morale, provide o’Clock Jump,” the Andrew Sisters’ “Boogie Guest vocalist, Jenny Jackman, performed singing along. solace and lift spirits. “If we think about Woogie Bugle Boy,” and jazz standard tunes a medley of well-known Vera Lynn songs, “We didn’t get to perform at all last year,” what it’s like with COVID-19, people not “My Funny Valentine,” “Stompin’ at the emulating the iconic singer’s rich and said Kevin. “But after today’s performance seeing their loved ones for long periods of Savoy” and “Sentimental Journey.” sonorous voice. Vera Lynn became popular and the overwhelming support from the time, imagine what it was like back then, The toe tapping, uplifting tunes were during the World War II with her songs of community, we will definitely be back again not seeing your family for five or more years,” greeted by murmurs of recognition from the love and longing. She became known as the on ANZAC Day next year.” Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 7
Tips for Business Owners
By Christine Petrie
For many organisations, the start of a new leadership role, eg personal wellbeing, caring
financial year is a time of reflection on for others, solving a problem or generating
what aspects have served operations well an income? If a community organisation,
over the last year and where there are areas has there been any reduction in the issues
for improvement. Often organisations use you intended to address? By focusing on and
performance targets to measure how well measuring results against their definition of
individual employees, departments and the success, organisations are much more likely
entire business are doing. For example, to achieve the results that they desire.
converting the sales pipeline, new product Employment legislation continues to
development, orders received, no accidents be reviewed with up to three day’s paid
or incidents, and delivery in full on time bereavement leave now being allowed for
and in specification (DIFOTIS). While miscarriage or still births.
valuable measures, they tend to drive Make sure your employment agreements
performance rather than the achievement of are up to date, including variations for hours
the organisation’s goals, mission and vision, and wage rates. Be alert to the inflationary
ie organisational success. pressures that these changes might have
In looking to a new season, try adding and clear on what cost increases you can
in some measures of success to gain an realistically absorb.
understanding of how well your organisation Information included in this column is of
is doing at delivering its intended impact. a general nature and is not a substitute
What personal goals did you have when for tailored legal, accounting and other
starting your business or taking up your 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.
Page 8 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021
Day Camp back with a bang The Mercury Bay Day Camp was back with a bang last week with 300 excited children, aged six all those who had been a part of the success of the 2021 camp, including the sponsors and the to 13, enjoying three days of adventure, challenge and fun. Whitianga Lions for taking on barbecue duty for the final day’s sausage sizzle. It was a slightly belated 20th birthday for the camp after COVID-19 saw the milestone event “I also want to thank all the parents, grandparents and caregivers for bringing their children to cancelled last year. Once again, a huge team of adult organisers and supervisors and an even camp, they have all done so well,” Tina said. “Wherever you went as you walked around camp bigger crew of teen leaders came together to run an action-packed programme that included over the past three days, they have been amazing to deal with, so polite and so well behaved.” rock climbing, kayaking, a confidence course, woodwork, sack sliding and a massive water As well as presenting two individual $1,000 leadership scholarships sponsored by Whitianga slide among the activities on offer. residents, Richard and Diane Vetter, to the outstanding male and female teen leaders, The Mercury Bay Community Support Trust organises the camp each hear at Graham and Tina praised the efforts of all the 14 to 18 year olds who volunteered their time helping the Selma Morcom’s property on Purangi Road, Cooks Beach. All 300 spots were snapped up within children have a great time. “You have inspired all of us on this camp,” she said. days of the online booking system opening. Most of the adult helpers are drawn from various Tina’s leadership was acknowledged with the presentation of a handwoven traditional Tongan Mercury Bay church communities and the camp has a Christian ethos with the children also taʻovala worn by leaders on ceremonial or special community occasions. learning faith-based songs and stories. Pictured in the photo on the left is the massive water slide at the camp. In the photo on the right Speaking at the finale and farewell on Thursday, camp director, Tina Bartlett, acknowledged is the final day sausage sizzle. Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 9
New face at the helm of the Wanted - artists to participate
Coromandel National Party in major exhibition
There’s a new face at the helm of the Coromandel The new chairperson wouldn’t be drawn on any
National Party with Sue Edens taking over the further strategies to reverse the trend in the last
role of chairperson for the next three years. two elections in particular that saw the National
Mrs Edens was elected at the recent AGM and Party relinquish a hefty chunk of its party vote
succeeds retiring chair, Lawrie Smith, who held to Labour. However, she said the fact that
the position for nine years. “Lawrie has been a the electorate had successfully returned their
very steady hand for the Coromandel National National MP to Wellington in 2020, despite the
Party over the years. He never gets flustered, party’s poor performance, was testament to the
he takes everything that comes and deals with it work being done by supporters on the ground
with calmness and sound counsel. He has been across the Coromandel.
great to work with for all our local National Congratulating Mrs Edens on her election,
Party supporters and we’re all very grateful Mr Simpsons said, “I am looking forward to
to have had his knowledge and guidance,” working with Sue in her new role as I have
Mrs Edens said in tribute to her predecessor. done for several years through her capacity as
Coromandel MP, Scott Simpson, also vice-chair.”
acknowledged Mr Smith’s dedication and
service as chair of the local branch for nearly
a decade. “The contribution he has made to the
Coromandel and to the National Party cannot be
overstated,” he said.
Mrs Edens who resides at Opito Bay and has
long connections to that area has been involved
with the National Party “since the turn of the The Lions Club of Whitianga is looking for artists to participate in a major art exhibition they are
century,” playing an active role in the local planning for Queen’s Birthday Weekend this year.
administration and serving as vice-chair for “The exhibition will be held in the Whitianga Town Hall,” says Lions president, Ian Robbie.
several years. She said the timing was right to “We will be doing all the leg work, including setting up and packing down, organising the
take on more responsibility. “I’ve always been catalogue detailing all the artworks and processing the sales. All the artworks on display will
a National Party person, I already attend all be for sale. The Lions will receive part of every sale price as commission. All the money we
the conferences so have that knowledge that I raise through the exhibition will be funneled back into the community through other projects
can bring to the role. My business life has been we support.”
very busy in the last few years completing a
The Whitianga Art Group is already onboard with the exhibition and several members of the
successful subdivision up at Opito Bay. That is
Mercury Bay Art Escape have indicated that they are keen to be involved.
now coming to an end so it’s a good time for
a change of direction and a new challenge,” “We expect a lot of people in Whitianga over Queen’s Birthday Weekend,” says Ian. “It will be
she said. a great opportunity for local artists to have their artworks available to a large audience right in
Mrs Edens said getting the membership more the heart of Whitianga.”
engaged in planning for the future direction of The exhibition will be formally opened on Friday evening, 4 June with public viewing days on
the National Party was important. “I think we Saturday 5 and Sunday, 6 June.
need to be hearing more from our membership,
so we are looking at things like bringing our Artists interested in participating can email the Whitianga Lions at whitiangalions@gmail.com.
smaller branches together into area groups with Outgoing Coromandel National Party Details of all artworks forming part of the exhibition will need to be with the Lions no later than
more events where we can get different thoughts chairperson, Lawrie Smith (on the left), Saturday, 15 May for inclusion in the exhibition catalogue.
and ideas being shared. From there we can feed with Coromandel MP, Scott Simpson, and newly Pictured are Ian and Jenny Cotterell, a Whitianga Art Group member who will be involved in
that back to our MP,” she said. elected chairperson, Sue Edens. the exhibition.
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Page 10 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021Issue 947
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July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 11Page 12 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021
Issue 947
699 - 27 April
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 13ANZAC Day in
Mercury Bay
The ANZAC Day services around Mercury Bay were very well attended on Sunday last week.
In Whitianga, more than 2,000 people attended the Dawn Service at Soldiers Memorial Park.
For the first time, the Mercury Bay RSA displayed photos and details of the names listed on
the cenotaph in the park on a big screen. The display was the result of years of research by a
dedicated RSA team.
A highlight of the service was the performance of “Sons of Gallipoli” by a choir especially
formed for the service.
After the service, many of those who attended enjoyed breakfast at the Mercury Bay Club.
The Matarangi Civic Service was attended by approximately 300 people. It was once again an
opportunity for everyone present to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for the
freedoms we enjoy today.
More than 250 people attended the first ever Hahei Civic Service at the Kotare Reserve
Memorial Garden. An address on behalf of the New Zealand Defence Force was given by
Lieutenant Commander Matt Harrison, followed by a speech by Whenuakite School student,
August Popadich.
“Many people within our community were involved to make the commemoration a success,”
says Gilbert Bannan, organiser of the Hahei Service. “I specifically would like to thank the
Mercury Bay RSA, Penne Clayton for her valuable assistance with organising the day,
Kevin Milroy who officiated, piper Carroll DePape, sound engineer Dave Burton, Fire and
Emergency Hahei, Whenuakite School and Richardsons Real Estate.”
Pictured in the top photo is the crowd at the Whitianga Dawn Service. In the second photo is the
parade arriving at the Matarangi Civic Service. In the third photo is August Popadich addressing
the Hahei Civic Service. Kevin Milroy is behind him.
Page 14 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021Issue 947
699 - 27 April
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 15Free school lunches on the way for
Coroglen School
By Gillian O’Neill
Kai time will look a little different at Coroglen
School from the start of next term with all 30
students set to receive a free lunch every day
courtesy of a national programme to support
learning through healthy, nutritious food.
Coroglen will become the sixth school
in the Thames-Coromandel District to join
the Ka Ora Ka Ako scheme which is funded
through the government’s Child and Youth
Wellbeing Strategy.
School principal, Jean Saunders, says, as of
March this year, over eight million free lunches
had been served in 542 schools to more than
132,600 learners. Coroglen will be one of the
960 schools due to be part of the programme
by the end of this year. “The students are
enthusiastic about it,” Jean says. “There is
certainly a novelty about the idea of seeing
what they will get every day. Our parents are
also very happy with the initiative. It isn’t Coroglen School students will be enjoying a free school lunch every day from next term.
compulsory and any parents who wishes to can
still send a homemade lunch with their child.” that they have come on board.” that with us. “We just see this as a good way for us to further
Jean says while schools had the option of As well as meeting the $5 per serving “We will also be monitoring the amount support our students and whānau,” Jean says.
preparing the meals in-house or outsourcing, budget, lunches must meet a range of of food that is being supplied to ensure we “It also provides a real focus for learning for
limited space and facilities at Coroglen nutritional guidelines and cater for specific do not have wastage. Students will be able the children, not just about healthy eating,
School meant an external supplier was the dietary needs. “It has been quite a process of to take any leftover food home to share with but also where their food comes from.”
only practical option. “We are delighted that putting together menus that don’t just meet other whānau.” With the lunches set to be rolled out from
New World Whitianga have agreed to be all the requirements, but that students will The Ka Ora Ka Ako scheme is a response to the first day of term, Jean is optimistic but
our supplier,” she says. “It really is quite a enjoy and want to eat,” Jean says. “We also inequitable outcomes in education across New also practical. “We are suggesting that parents
challenge for them and given the dollar value had other considerations that were important Zealand, with food and nutrition identified as still send a lunch for that first day, just in
involved, there certainly isn’t a huge amount to our school such as ensuring the packaging one of the causes. Evidence shows regular, case things don’t quite go to plan,” she says.
in it for them financially, so they are really just was compostable or recyclable as part of our nutritious food is vital for children’s physical, “I’m sure there will be great excitement among
doing it to support us and we are very grateful environmental commitments, and New World mental and educational development. It affects the students and hopefully they’ll be open to
have been fantastic in working through all their ability to focus, concentrate and learn. trying some new things.”
Thumbs
Up
To the
organisers
of all last
Sunday’s ANZAC
Day services in
Mercury Bay. A job
well done!
Page 16 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021Issue 947
699 - 27 April
July 2016
2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 17What’s On In the next few weeks
Regular Activities (07) 869 5162 or (027) 565 5575 for more information.
Op-Shops Mercury Bay Badminton
• Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street Meets every Wednesday from 9:30am - 11:00am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome.
(west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday, 9:300am - 2:00pm. Phone (07) 866 5476 for more information.
• The Church Op-Shop - At St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Whitianga Menz Shed
Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm. Open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway, past the diesel
• St John Opportunity Shop - Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and Saturday truck stop. All welcome.
10:00am - 2:00pm. Alcoholics Anonymous
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop - Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Monday - Saturday from Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6:30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone
10:00am - 2:00pm. 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club Serenity Al-Anon Group
Meets Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street from 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie Meets every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Phone 866 5104 or (021) 086 10955 for more information. For those affected by
etc. Afternoon tea, 55 plus age group. Phone Adrian Telders (president) on 866 5377 for more information. someone else’s drinking.
Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga
Meets the fourth Monday of every month at 10:00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Meets every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in Room 10 at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga.
Phone Joan on 866 3801 or (027) 275 1372 for more information. Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals and eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely.
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated Check out our Facebook page or phone (027) 294 1750 for more information.
Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their
computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on
(027) 486 0150 for more information or to join. Specific Activities/Events
Whitianga Playcentre Archaeology Week at the Mercury Bay Museum
Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00am - 12:00 noon at 1D White Street, Whitianga. For children 0 - 6 years, Tuesday, 27 April - Going Potty.
free entry. Visitors welcome. Wednesday, 28 April - Archaeology is Rubbish.
Scottish Country Dancing Friday, 30 April - Digging Deep.
Meets every Tuesday from 7:00pm - 9:00pm in the Supper Room of the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Phone Anthea Friday, 30 April - “HMS Buffalo - A ship and its Survey.” A presentation about the HMS Buffalo Re-examination
on 866 4516 or (021) 158 1522 for more information. Project from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at the Monkey House Theatre, Coghill Street, Whitianga. Nibbles and cash bar,
Whitianga Tramping Group $5 entry.
Meets every second Sunday at 8:30am. Phone Wally on (021) 907 782 or Lesley on (021) 157 9979 for more information. District Libraries’ Holiday Programme at the Mercury Bay and Tairua Libraries
Whitianga Art Group Tuesday, 27 April - Bug Motels
Meets every Thursday and Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm at 23 School Road, Whitianga. Visitors are invited to join us for Thursday, 29 April - Art from Recycled Materials.
a day of painting. Start-up materials supplied. Phone Jenny on (027) 210 0160 for more information. Sessions run from 10:30am - 11:30am. Bookings essential.
Mercury Bay Contract Bridge Club Coromandel Town Seafood Fest
Meet every Wednesday at 1:00pm and every Thursday at 7:00pm at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Saturday, 1 May from 9:00am - 4:00pm at Coromandel Area School, Woollams Avenue, Coromandel Town. A variety
Phone Gavin on (07) 866 2343 or (021) 146 9203 for more information. of stalls, cooking demonstartions and a variety of entertainment. Gold coin entry.
Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club Thames Valley Senior Rugby - Saturday, 1 May
Meets every Thursday at 6:45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Come along and join in or phone Alan on Senior A - Silcock Shield finals.
866 4024 or Cheryl on 0274 527887 for more information. Mercury Bay Senior B v Thames in Whitianga. Kick-off at 12:25pm.
Mercury Bay Pickleball Club Whitianga Marathon
Meets Every Tuesday from 4:00pm - 6:00pm and every Sunday from 3:00pm - 5:00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School Saturday, 22 May. Four course options - 42.2km, 21.1km, 10km and 5km. Entries now open.
gym, South Highway, Whitianga, $5 per session. Paddles and balls supplied. Tuition available. See whitiangamarathon.co.nz for more information.
Mercury Bay Tennis Club Whitianga Town Garage Sale
Club night every Thursday at 6:30pm at Lyon Park, Albert Street, Whitianga. Saturday 5 - Monday, 7 June. Entries now open, $15 fee. All fees to be donated to a Mercury Bay community group
Mercury Bay Table Tennis or charity.
Meets every Tuesday from 9:00am - 11:30am in the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Phone Anne on
Page 18 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021Earthy creations at Mercury Bay Library There was an abundance of creativity at the Mercury Bay Library in Whitianga during the first week of an Earth Day-inspired school holiday activity programme. It was all about the great outdoors with handmade birdfeeders and seed bombs on the menu at two busy and highly productive sessions. “Charlotte Allen (pictured) showed innovative thinking and decorating skills to make an outstanding bird feeder from a recycled milk bottle on Thursday last week,” said librarian, Christine Towgood. “The birds can be fed on bird seed and peanut butter, but they can also enjoy a swing before or after eating, and they could make use of the top storey eating platform too.” Other children made birdseed feeders from other recycled materials, including pine cones, drink cartons and ice cream sticks. Meanwhile, on Tuesday last week, 19 participants relished getting their hands dirty making their own seed bombs. After pulverizing the clay, mixing it with water and potting mix with wild flower seeds, the children pushed the mix into moulds and then took their seed bombs home to dry and scatter around the garden. The holiday activity programme continues at the Thames-Coromandel District Council libraries in Whitianga, Tairua and Thames on Tuesday and Thursday this week with Bug Motels and Recycled Art. Bookings are essential. Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 19
The Fire Siren
Sponsored by Safety + Apparel - tel 0800 726 726
The last four weeks have been very quiet for a donation tin available at Whitianga Sports
the Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade with We are still looking for another two new
only eight calls for assistance. We responded firefighters. If you think you have what
to three private fire alarm activations and it takes, want to do something for your
three motor vehicle accidents and we assisted community and would like to be part of a
St John Ambulance twice. great group of people, drop in and have a
The call-outs may have been quiet, but the chat with me or come along to our training at
brigade is always busy. The arrival of a brand- the Whitianga Fire Station every Wednesday
new fire appliance got the crews excited and night at 7:30pm.
of course we have five firefighters that are Be careful and stay safe
in serious training for the Sky Tower Stair out there.
Challenge on 22 May. Support them if you Deputy Chief Fire Officer
see them out and about and if you would like Derek Collier
to make a donation to a great cause, I have
Page 20 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021Open Day offers unique
labyrinth walking experience The Small-time Investor By Whitianga resident, Max Ross
ERoad
My shares are up 9.87 percent, which is I see this software fulfilling a need for
$401.36. I am really happy with this return delivery companies. When thinking about
and pleased things have bounced back. a new company, I consider the idea of a
The fluctuations in the share prices when moat. This is something that makes it harder
investing is always interesting. It does help if for other companies to enter the space and
you don’t need to sell. It’s a good idea to not compete. What makes it difficult for ERoad’s
put everything into investments, in case there competitors to start up a similar company?
is a dip and you have to sell. Once a client has committed to software like
Seventeen of my picks are up and 14 are this in their business, I think it is difficult to
down. However, four of these are my new switch to another company. By increasing the
dollar cost averaging investments, so we are different things companies like ERoad can do,
talking cents down only. My biggest winner they are locking in their existing customers.
is Tesla, up 50.1 percent. My biggest loser The software looks at the driving style
is still Plexure, down 39 percent. It’s down and safety of drivers. You can set virtual
all the time. I thought about selling it. The speed cameras near schools or other safety
problem is I’ve lost $40 and maybe one day
measures. Having a reputation as a business
it will go back up. Is it worth my time selling
A chance to experience what it is like to wander through an 11-circuit medieval labyrinth is being offered with safe drivers helps the entire business’s
to anyone interested in a unique walk in a very special environment. the $60 left and putting it somewhere else?
reputation.
Probably, but I’m going to keep it as the
Te Moata Retreat Centre north of Tairua is marking World Labyrinth Day on Saturday, 8 May with an Open Recently, online share trading platform
Day for anyone who would like to walk an earthy labyrinth, a hidden treasure and living work of art nestled original plan always was to invest each week
and not sell. Sharesies announced the removal of their
in the native bush. subscription price, a month after I’ve paid
According to Te Moata, “The labyrinth is an ancient pathway of quiet contemplation and inspiration. It can This week I’m going to invest my $75 into
a New Zealand fleet management software for the next 12 months. So please, if you
be approached as a walking meditation, a path of prayer, a crucible of change, a way to reduce stress and
company called ERoad. I’m dollar cost are following along, don’t pay the yearly
find balance in life. Walking the labyrinth quiets the mind, opens the heart and grounds the body.”
averaging the other $25 into an Exchange subscription because it’s being removed soon.
Those new to the experience are assured that the labyrinth is not a maze and you cannot get lost. There
Traded Fund (ETF), so I have $75 left over Please remember that what I write in
is one entrance and as long as you take one step after another you will eventually arrive at the centre.
from my $100 a week I am investing. this column is all my personal opinion.
Ancient spiral and circle labyrinth patterns are found in many cultures around the world, some dating as
far back as 5,000 years. The labyrinth design at Te Moata (pictured) is a replica of the labyrinth at Chartres As my investment in Mainfreight is doing Many of my investments are losing money.
Cathedral in France. so well and there is growth in online shopping I am sharing my thoughts and strategies so
Te Moata will be open for visitors from 9:30am to 5:30pm during the Open Day. Visitors can arrive at any and deliveries, I was looking for a company you can learn from my mistakes. Be careful
time, take their time to walk the labyrinth and to look around. Hot cuppas will be available. Entry is by that helps to enable transportation. ERoad with your money.
koha and Sonya Lyn, a Veriditas-trained labyrinth facilitator, will be on site. Those who would like to visit produces software that helps commercial If you wish to join in and buy shares with
are asked to register in advance on the labyrinth page at temoata.org or text Maniisha on (021) 273 9946. fleets to manage its compliance. It deals Sharesies, you can use this link - https://
Te Moata is 6km north of Tairua. A short drone video of the labyrinth and Te Moata surrounds is also with health and safety, road user charges and sharesies.nz/r/KHQQWP. You and I will each
available on the website for those who would like a preview. tax compliance. get $5 into our Sharesies accounts.
Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 21Crossword
© Lovatts Puzzles
Crossword Puzzle 947
Name: _________________________________________________________________
Tel no: _________________________________________________________________
Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver or mail or scan and email your entry to
The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk St, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or
info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 3:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim
their prize from the New World check out manager directly before the Wednesday of the week
following the issue in which they were announced the winner.
ACROSS DOWN
1. Massaging 1. Water boiler
2. Modify
5. Multiple-birth child 3. Angry
7. Canned fish 4. Brief look
5. Waited in line
8. Nonprofessionals 6. Refuse to acknowledge
9. Detest 10. Charismatic air
11. Brave man
12. Tribal leader 12. Belonging to him
15. Pastures 13. Opposed to
19. Tendons 14. Fashion
15. Disguised
21. More humane 16. Benumb
22. Courageous 17. More cautious
18. Incidental comments
23. Small, soft feathers 19. Varieties
24. Admires 20. Aristocratic
Last week’s solution
Last week’s winner - Liz Sims
Page 22 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021Farmer Autovillage expanding into the Coromandel The Bay of Plenty’s largest new and used vehicle dealership has expanded into the Coromandel Peninsula. On 1 April, Farmer Autovillage became the new owner of SubLab Whitianga. The purchase included a rebrand of the business’s premises at 6 Abrahamson Drive to Farmer Autovillage Coromandel. A wider range of servicing options are now available to customers and five new vehicle brands - available on the Peninsula for the first time - have been launched. Farmer Autovillage Coromandel will remain committed to Subaru customers as an authorised centre. In addition to Subaru, the other brands represented by the business are Jeep, RAM, Haval, Great Wall and SEAT, all part of the 12 international vehicle brands available at Farmer Autovillage’s Mt Maunganui headquarters. “For some time now we have been looking for an opportunity to expand our services into the beautiful Coromandel area,” says Mike Farmer, Farmer Autovillage managing group director. “After a long relationship with Sublab Whitianga owners, Brent and Sue Willcox, it made sense to take this step which will not only provide the residents of the Coromandel Peninsula an expansion of the existing brilliant, authorised Subaru servicing centre, but also provide authorised servicing and parts for other brands that we represent in the area. “We will also have a selection of new demonstrator vehicles on display for service loan and test drive purposes as we have done in the past with the Subaru brand.” SubLab Whitianga was established in 2006 and purchased by Brent and Sue in 2015. Brent is remaining on with the business as divisional manager. “I’ve been with Sublab Whitianga almost since day one, first as an employee and then five-and-a-half years ago my wife and I bought the business,’’ says Brent. “The SubLab team are excited to stay on at Farmer Autovillage Coromandel as we expand our service and sales offering with the backing of a large-scale dealership. Our customers will continue to find all same the familiar faces when they call in to see us and we also welcome Daniel Finlay from Farmer Autovillage as the workshop foreman.” Farmer Autovillage Coromandel services all makes and models of vehicles with customers benefitting from the award-winning Total Care Services offered by Farmer Autovillage that also includes warrants of fitness, repairs, wheels and tyres, genuine parts and accessories, roof racks, windscreen repairs and replacements, The Farmer Autovillage Coromandel team. From the left - Brent Willcox, Ethan Dagger, Shelly McPherson, and courtesy transport. Tyron Fong, Daniel Finlay and Bevan Sheppard (Farmer Autovillage service manager). Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 23
Sudoku
Sudoku Puzzle 947
Name: _________________________________________________________________
Tel no: _________________________________________________________________
Win two Trumpet ice creams. Hand deliver or mail or scan and email your entry to
The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk St, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or
info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 3:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim
their prize from Buffalo Beach Four Square directly before the Wednesday of the week following
the issue in which they were announced the winner.
Sudoku Puzzle Instructions
Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of nine boxes
inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.
Last week’s solution
Last week’s winner - Peter Sheehan
“Kīwaha o te wiki” (saying of the week)
“Tāu mahi rā, e te iti kahurangi!” - You’ve done that well, my little treasure!
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 and Tuesday 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 24 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 947 - 27 April 2021Silver for two Mercury Bay
Fishing Report
Sponsored by Mercury Bay Marine - Tel (07) 867 1280 touch players
After an action-packed few days on the game fishing front the week before last (when more
than 10 marlin were landed or tagged and released), the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
(MBGFC) members enjoyed good snapper fishing success last week.
“There’s a lot of kahawai in the Bay at the moment,” said keen angler, Peter Maxwell.
“They are very good snapper bait. Those who fished from the shore have also caught great
snapper at dusk.
“Somewhat deeper into the Bay, around Centre Island, quite a few anglers caught some nice
John Dory, they’re a beautiful fish to enjoy around the dinner table.”
The MBGFC Junior Tournament took place last weekend. A total of 59 anglers fished off 33
boats. Whenuakite School student, Jaxon Walker (pictured), came very close to catching
the first marlin in the history of the tournament on Saturday when he managed to get the
marlin he hooked up on to the boat, but somehow the fish managed to get away at that point.
At the prize-giving on Sunday evening, he received a consolation prize from club president, John
Neighbours, for his effort as well as a round of applause from the packed MBGFC clubrooms.
The winners of the categories in which prizes were handed out were
Kingfish - Thomas Joblin (14.14kg), Kahawai - Masen Schlaepfer
(3.01kg), Trevally - Kate Stables (2.89kg), Tuna - Kolbie Fraser (3.05kg)
and Snapper - Lexi Ford (9.25kg).
Two Mercury Bay athletes, Haven McLean and Tiana Tiro, played for the Thames Valley
Open Mixed touch team in the New Zealand Touch National Tournament that was played in
Christchurch over the weekend of 17 and 18 April.
The Thames Valley team was undefeated heading into the final against Auckland, but was
unfortunate to lose the final by only one touchdown.
Haven and Tiana and can add their silver medals to the bronze medals they won playing for the
Thames Valley Under 18 Mixed touch team in the New Zealand Junior Touch Nationals earlier
this year.
Pictured are Haven and Tiana with the silver medals they won in Christchurch.
Issue 947 - 27 April 2021 The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Page 25You can also read
