Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
Mercury Bay
Issue 672 - 20 January 2016
PORTING
P
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S
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LOCALS
Circulation 6,500
Outstanding performance
by Mercury Bay
archers at national
championships see Sport Results
on page 28.
By Deli Connell
Some very tired and tousled Mercury Bay
youngsters arrived home on Thursday last
week from their great adventure at the Cubs
Summer Camp at Waitawheta located
in a small farming community outside the
Southern Coromandel town of Waihi, with
beautiful rolling hills, rivers and waterfalls.
Cubs are members of Scouts New Zealand
who are in school years four to six.
Whitianga Cubs leader (Akela) Garth
Scott says 184 Cubs from Rotorua through
to Whangaparaoa attended the camp, 10 of
those from Mercury Bay.
Arriving on the Sunday before last,
the Cubs first task was to set up camp and
make an entrance way to the camp with the
theme Indiana Jones. The entrance made by
the Whitianga Cubs won best camp entry.
Camp activities were organised into
three categories - home-based, water-based
and off-base.
Home-based activities included first aid
and crafts. The Cubs learned important skills
such as how to bandage a sprained ankle,
how to make a sling out of a cub scarf and
how to make a stretcher out of branches and
a blanket.
Off-base, the Burma trail was both popular
and challenging, with the trail winding its
way through slim tunnels, up ladders and
along ropes while wearing a blindfold, an
exercise which really tested the kids courage.
Other activities involved a confidence course
and a flying fox and the use of a compass.
The water-based days saw the campers
searching the river for fish and water
snails with an aqua scope and kayaking.
Some children had never been in kayaks
before and were very nervous, but the adult
leaders managed to get them all in and
paddling around happily.
Phil Keoghan from The Amazing Race
could pick up some ideas for the next series
Cubs leader Garth Scott with Amy Bosman (in the centre) and Zoe Simmonds,
two of the Whitianga Cubs who attended Summer Camp last week.
from these guys challenges requiring speed
and logic and the ability to deduce the answers
to tricky questions saw the Cubs making and
defending cardboard box forts (nothing like a
good battle with a slingshot and tennis balls),
trekking around the rim of the Martha mine in
Waihi and rowing to an island in the middle
of a lake to solve yet another clue.
A talk from the local fire brigade culminated
with the hot and dusty campers being squirted
with the fire hoses... and a lot of shrieking to
boot. Do camp leaders get issued with ear
muffs I wonder?
Another highlight was he train journey
to Waikino the gorgeous views were
supplemented with the kids seeing how many
Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz
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nzwindows.co.nz
4 Dakota Drive
Whitianga
Tel 07 869 5990
Bowies brother
threw doves as a sign of peace. That feeling
of looking out at 80,000 people at Western
Springs was euphoric. Its amazing how many
people still pull me up when Im walking down
the street and say, Hey, you are that guy that
was on stage with Bowie in 1983? Its weird.
James kept in touch with Bowie via the rock
stars personal assistant and in 2004 he had the
chance to catch up again with his music idol
during Bowies visit to Auckland for the 2004
Reality Tour. James was by then aged 34 and
he met Bowie in the hotels private conference
room. We had a yarn, I told him I was a father
and I gave him my CD and I said that I was
hoping to get something back from the CD.
Unfortunately the big break never came and
James had also decided by then that acting
was not a career he felt completely suited
to. There are a lot of egos among actors,
though he never says never to returning to
the profession.
Bowies death has been a time for
reminiscing and grieving the man that was
influential not just in Jamess own life, but to
the world of music, fashion, art and culture.
But what of the Bowie that James knew?
He was just an all-round nice guy, always
willing to have a yarn about singing,
the character he was playing and the role and
story around it. The week before he died, I had
been thinking about him a lot, the whole thing
has been a major part of my life and the guy is
like a music god.
It was the type of music that he did that
really distinguished him. No one has ever
come close to him, he has always gone with
the eras, but done his own take on things
instead of going with dance music. He has
been true to himself. After the Beatles we had
the Seattle music scene and there hasnt really
been anything since. David Bowie influenced
Page 3
Valentines Day
Amazing Set Menu
Bookings open soon
Fridays
Happy Hour
from 4pm to 6pm,
with selection of
French wines for
$5 a glass and
amazing nibbles
Dine In FREE
on your Birthday
One main, rice & naan.
Minimum 2-person party.
Open 7 Days
From 5pm
Dine In Takeaway Delivery
13 / 1 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga
LUNCH
12 noon - 2pm
Dinner
5:30 - 8:30pm
SNOOKER 1:30pm
POOL 7:15pm
Tai Chi 9am
Mon - Fri
12 noon - late
THIRSTY
THURSDAY
HAPPY HOUR & TRIVA
4 - 6pm
Lunch
12 noon - 2pm
DINNER
5.30 - 8.30pm
Members Draw
Raffles 5:30pm
Meat/Seafood
LUNCH 12 noon - 2pm
Dinner 5:30 - 8:30pm
Tai Chi 9am
Closed
Late night
Friday
Tues & Wed
8pm
from the 20th
7 Days
Opening Hours:
Mon - Sat
10am - 6pm
Fresh
Pacific
Oysters
Saturday Morning
Raffles 11am
Lunch
11am - 1pm
BIKE DOWN
FOR A
COFFEE &
BIKKIE
Saturday
Happy Hour
5-6
Sushi
Japanese Cuisine
Dine in or Take away
Beer
tastings &
platters
info@poivresel.co.nz
FREE POOL
TAB POKIES
DINNER
5:30 - 8:30pm
Book a table
07 866 0053
or
Authentic North
Indian Cuisine
MEMBERS DRAW
Raffles 5:30pm
Meat/Hams
BISTRO
CLOSED
HALF PRICE
KIDS MENU
TAB
FREE POOL
POKIES
Burgers
Salads
Snacks
HARDSHAKES
SPIKED FLOATS
Try our
KAMIKAZE
BURGER
Korean bbq pork
belly & slaw
Sundays
Jazz Brunch
11:30am
Live Music
Constantly changing
tapas menu
Dishes from $8
Page 4
Tuesday to Sunday
Dinner 6pm onwards
Set menu
for
group
bookings
Lunch
12 noon - 2pm
Dinner 5:30pm
Tai Chi 9am
DARTS 7:30pm
Woodfired
Pizzas
Pork cutlets
Fish of the Day
69 Albert Street,
Whitianga
Ph 07 866 5858
Beer -B-Que
Fresh barbequed food marinated in our famous award winning beers, ales & stouts.
Steak night
Bistro
Scotch Fillet w
open daily fries, salad &
12 noon - 2:30pm
choice of sauce!
5pm - 9pm
Only $18
Open 6 days
Breakfast/Lunch
9am - 2pm
Dinner from 6pm
El Espaol pizza is
back!
Open 7 days
5pm - 10pm
Lunch
Fri / Sat / Sun from 12 noon
Toasties
BREAKFAST MENU
GLUTEN FREE
OPTIONS
Tavern Made
Mussel Fritters
CHICKEN SALAD
B.L.T
MAXI MIX
COME CHECK
OUT OUR MENU
Happy
DJ LEON
9pm
The home of
summer fun
in Whiti!
19 Amazing KaiZen
(sharing plates) available on the
dinner menu
Bookings advisable
Lamb Burger
Fresh Fish Burger
Chicken Wrap
Live Band
Chill out
in our cruisy
garden bar
Cooks Beach
Middle Reserve,
Bank Street
250g
SCOTCH
Blackboard
specials
Wishing tree
5 - 7pm
Vouchers to be won
T20 Series
Blackcaps v
Pakistan 6:30pm
3rd test
11am - 8:30pm
Crumbed
Camembert w/ Salad
Mini Mix
mini spring rolls
+ mini samosas
TAB
POKIES
Last bookings
8pm Fri & Sat
evenings
Full menu at
www.govino.co.nz
Ph 07 867 1215
for bookings
Closed today
We are
Beefteki
TAIRUA
next to Tall
5 - 8pm
Steak night
Scotch Fillet w
fries, salad &
choice of sauce!
Only $18
FULLY LICENCED
Greek wine & beer
WHITIANGA
Outside
KILLER
BURGERS!
4:30 - 8pm
Free live music in the
Garden Bar
Phil & Tilley
1pm
FAMILY
FRIENDLY
Yummy Lunch Menu
FREE
POOL
All Day
WHITIANGA
Outside
5 - 8pm
BREAKFAST?
LUNCH?
DINNER?
Hair of the dog?
Cheeky Banter?
Early Morning Lala Fix?
07 866 3809
We got it ALL
www.coroglentavern.co.nz
ODI
Happy
Hour
Blackcaps v
Pakistan
LIVE
10:30am
Every weekday
4 - 6:30pm
Page 5
Health Improvement
and Maintenance
Shiatsu Massage
and Jin Shin Jyutsu
Gentle Experienced Therapist
Phone 021 250 1278
or Phone 866 2313
Claudia Pentner 14 Monk Street,
Whitianga
House visits available
Espy Cafe
10 The Esplanade
07 866 0778
the.espy.whiti@gmail.com
Page 6
This years
entry
Try
me!
Woohoo
my mangos
got
pashinit!!
Fake ad
competition winner
Sanoma Munday of Whitianga was the lucky winner of the Spot the Fake Ad competition in
The Informer of 6 January. The fake ad was Imagine Food on page 6 (the restaurant where
you dont eat, the restaurant where you think about food)
With a lot of holidaymakers in town and a $100 Whitianga Hotel bar tab up for grabs,
we expected many people to enter the competition, but the more than 600 entries submitted
via email and Facebook and hand-delivered to our offices, blew us away. Thank you to all
who entered.
Pictured is Dave Simmonds, the owner of Whitianga Hotel, handing Sanoma her prize.
85
COASTAL SANCTUARY
HAIR, SKIN AND BODY THERAPY
Page 7
Two of Otama Beach artist Claire Elliots paintings have been included in publications that are
now available to the general public.
Both paintings are of Otama Beach.
The first is a mixed media painting and forms part of a 13 Artists Contemporary New Zealand
Art wall calendar. The second is an acrylic painting on the cover of the book Stories of the
Southern Sea. The book was written by Lawrence Winkler, a friend of Claires and Otama Beach
bach owner.
Lawrence will have an authors reading of his book at the Mercury Bay Library in Whitianga on
Friday 12 February at 10:30am.
Pictured is Claire at Otama Beach with a copy of Lawrences book and her painting that have
been included in the wall calendar.
Page 8
The Whitianga Art Groups annual Summer Exhibition is shaping up to be another successful event,
with visitor numbers getting close to 70 per day. The exhibition opened on 4 January.
The number of patrons tends to vary a bit depending on the weather, but were very happy with how
its going so far, says Marianne Sikking, president of the group. Sales of our members artworks
have been steady and it looks like they might be on track to equal last years numbers.
Our guest artist this year is Mercury Bay Art Escape member Reina Cottier. Her paintings have been
attracting strong attention since opening night.
Vice-President of the group Merle Ward says that the fundraising raffle they run in conjunction with
the exhibition is very popular due to the quality of the prize on offer. Local artist Frans van Hoppe has
generously donated a painting for the raffle.
Their Summer Exhibition is the Art Groups big event of the year, with a chance for all the members
to display their best work and offer it for sale to the public. Its been 36 years since the group was
formed and their regular Thursday and Friday open art days have become an established feature for
local artists.
The exhibition is open each day from 10:00am to 5:00pm in School Road, Whitianga. The last day will
be Monday 1 February.
Pictured are Marianne Sikking (left) and Merle Ward at the Frans van Hoppe painting that can be won
in the groups raffle.
Page 9
Opito Bay (pictured) has topped Vodafones list of the most connected holiday hotspots in New
Zealand the past Christmas and New Years period. Data usage between 22 December and
5 January increased with a massive 1,269 per cent compared to the first part of December.
In Whitianga data usage increased almost four fold from the first week to the last week
of December.
Other Coromandel hotspots included Cooks Beach, Matarangi, Tairua and Pauanui.
Overall, judged on data usage, the Coromandel Peninsula was New Zealands most popular
holiday destination.
Ph 07 866 0937
Mob 021 063 8367
Page 10
Page 11
Ian Hopper (pictured), one of the founders of Pauanui, passed away last week. He was 86
years old.
Ian and his son Leigh developed Pauanui Waterways, the first canal housing development in
New Zealand. Leigh is in Whitianga known as the driving force behind Whitianga Waterways.
Ian had a direct involvement in Mercury Bay with the development of Hardy Martin Estate in
Cooks Beach. Ian also kept a distant eye on Whitianga Waterways and was proud to see many
of the design principles he implemented in Pauanui carried over into Whitianga, says Peter
Abrahamson, the manager of Whitianga Waterways.
When I was new to my position, Ian drove me around Pauanui in his old Land Cruiser and
showed me many of the design elements used in Pauanui Waterways. It was a development that
was ahead of its time with regard to design and amenity value, much of that down to Ians hard
work and foresight. He will be greatly missed.
Page 12
Page 13
To the Editor
See page 2 for our requirements with regard to letters and contributions
Whitianga
07 866 0070
Spouting
Roofing
Water treatments systems
Septic tanks
Hot Water cylinders
New Housing
Alterations
General Maintenance
Solar water heating
All LPG gas installation
Page 14
Page 15
Rolla-Tilta-Sectional
and custom made doors
Garages
Automatic Openers
Houses
We service all
makes and models
5 Year warranty on all
new doors and openers
More than 50 motorcycle riders and classic car owners from around the North Island met early afternoon
last Saturday at the Whitianga Fire Station on Joan Gaskell Drive for the annual Peninsula Rider Poker Run.
The run was started in 2003 as a means for like-minded people to enjoy the scenery along the Coromandel
Loop together and to raise money for a worthy cause at the same time. Founder Dave McGaw passed
away two years ago.
Participants had to pay a $20 entry fee and we also had a few raffles going, says this years organiser
Shane Butler. Included in the entry fee was a poker hand, which participants could play at the start of the
run or at any of the stops at Coromandel Town, Tapu and Kopu.
Lots of local Mercury Bay businesses support the run, some of them from way back when the run started.
We genuinely appreciate their support.
The Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade will be the recipient of all the funds raised this year. A Whitianga
fire truck led the riders through the Whitianga CBD and along Buffalo Beach Road on Saturday before they
headed off to Coromandel Town.
The run finished at The Coroglen Tavern with prize-giving.
Pictured is participant Rock Brooking (right) from Wellington with Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade Chief
Fire Officer Merv George just before the start of the run.
Sleepouts
Your design or ours
Licensed building practitioners
All concrete work
www.hoylandcontracting.co.nz
Page 16
www.mercurybaypools.co.nz
Page 17
to make a contribution.
All the members senior student leadership
team will be attending a leaders camp in
Akaroa this April. Its something Cadyn is
excitedly looking forward to. Ive never been
outside the North Island and never been on a
plane, he says.
Looking forward, Daniel plans to explore
the field of robotics engineering next year,
while Cadyn will in all probability pursue a
The Mercury Bay Area School senior student leaders for 2016. From left to right Amelia Tomkins, Jonika Edgecombe, Daniel Vickers and Cadyn Bennett.
P: 07 866 5787
F: 07 866 5780
M: 0274 521 298
mjfgeorge@xtra.co.nz
Page 18
E IN
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WH RU J 30AM
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9
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!
WA INING
5
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O
S
RRY CTION
U
H
SE
NT
GRAND OPENING 29 DEC 2015 FROM 11AM2PM ENTRANCE AT 60 CHARLES GREEN DRIVE
Come and check out the new subdivision, playground and showhome!
All sales enquiries are being managed by Richardsons Real Estate, Cooks Beach.
Phillip Dawson
Mob. 027 477 3443
Bus. (07) 866 5826
phild@cooksbeach.richardsons.co.nz
Paulette Tainsh
Mob. 027 241 2001
Bus. (07) 866 5826
paulettet@cooksbeach.richardsons.co.nz
LONGREACH.CO.NZ
Page 19
Op-Shops
Social Services Op-Shops - 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm and Coghill Street
(west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00am - 1:00pm.
The Church Op-Shop, at St Andrews by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street, Whitianga. Open Thursday to
Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pm.
St John Opportunity Shop, Coghill Street (east of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday,
10:00am - 4:00pm. Phone 869 5416.
Justice of the Peace
Every Monday 10:00am - 12:00 noon at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. Phone 866 4476 for more information.
Free Budget Advice
Confidential and no pressure. Phone Whitianga Social Services on 866 4476 for more information.
Mercury Bay Community Bus
Available for transport to hospital, specialist or health related appointments outside of the Whitianga area.
Phone 866 4993 for information and bookings.
Road Cycling and Mountain Biking
Road cycling meet every Saturday at 8:00am at the Fire Station intersection, Whitianga. Phone Bryan on
022 155 8944 for more information. Mountain biking meet every Tuesday at 5:15pm and every Saturday at 7:30am at
the Fire Station intersection, Whitianga. Phone Paul on 021 605 230 for more information.
Social Cycling Group
Meet every Sunday at 9:00am at Taylors Mistake, Whitianga. Short 45 minute cycle and coffee. Phone Bryan on
022 155 8944 for more information.
Waka Ama Have a Go days
First and third Sunday of every month and Thursday afternoons. See Facebook.com/whitiangawakaama.
Whitianga Movers and Losers (the Old WWs)
Wednesdays 5:00pm - 6:00pm at St Peters Anglican Church, Dundas St, Whitianga. $2 donation (to cover cost
of room rent). We promote a slow, steady weight loss based on eating well, nourishing foods and moving more towards maintaining our our ideal weight and optimal health. New members always welcome.
Whitianga Toy Library
Isabella Street (off Coghill St), Open Wednesday 2:30pm - 4:00pm and Friday 10:00am - 11:30am. New members
welcome.
Whitianga Art Group
Painting days have now stopped for the summer but will resume on Thursday 4 February 2016. The groups Summer
Exhibition is now on until 1 February, 10:00am - 5:00pm at the Art Centre, School Road, Whitianga.
Social Darts
Every Tuesday at 7:30pm at the Mercury Bay Club. Contact Pauline Curtain at paulinecurtain@msn.com for
more information.
Mercury Bay Table Tennis
Every Tuesday 9:30am - 11:30am at the Whitianga Town Hall. All welcome. Phone Pat or Neville on 867 1447 for
more information.
Mercury Bay Badminton
Every Wednesday 9:30am - 11:00am at the Whitianga Town Hall. All welcome. Phone Diane on 027 246 1915 for
more information.
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated
Classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various times. We give older adults an opportunity to demistify their
computers and to learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Lorna Russell on
866 4215 for more information or to join.
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club
Meet Mondays in the Whitianga Town Hall, 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Bowls, scrabble, card games, housie etc. Afternoon tea,
55 plus age group. Phone Lance Hayson (president) on 866 5817 for more information.
Operation Cover-Up
Meet the last Wednesday of every month at Whitianga Social Services from 1:30pm - 3:30pm. An initiative knitting
clothing for Missions without Borders in the Ukraine and Moldova. Phone Brenda on 866 5814 for more information.
Coroglen Farmers Market
Every Sunday, 9:30am - 1:00pm. Locally produced seasonal fruit and vegetables, honey, olive oil, jams, chutneys,
home-baking, handmade soap, coffee, hot snacks, art and craft, quality vintage items and much more. Phone Fiona on
866 3315 for more information.
Whitianga Art, Craft and Farmers Market
Saturday 23 January from 8:30am - 1:00pm at Soldiers Memorial Park, Whitianga. Locally produced fruit and vegetables
and art and craft. Phone Anne on 866 5550 or Doreen on 866 5237 for more information.
The Beat Goes On...
Saturday 23 January at the Coromandel Mussel Kitchen, Tiki Road, Coromandel Town. Doors open at 5:00pm.
A performance by the well-known Beatgirls. Tickets $25 each, concession tickets $20 each, available from the
Coromandel Information Centre, the Mussel Kitchen and www.eventfinder.co.nz.
Guided Walk Through Halls Arboretum in Thames
Saturday 30 January at 9:00am at the Currie Street entrance of Halls Arboretum. To be lead by Graeme Platt and to cover
the botanical work of William Hall and the current value of the arboretum to the Coromandel.
Tsunami Open Days
Talks to experts about tsunami hazards and risks.
Saturday 30 January from 10:00am - 3:00pm at the Matarang Fire Station and Sunday 31 January from
10:00am - 3:00pm at the Whangapoua Fire Station.
Whitianga Summer Concert
Sunday 31 January at the Whitianga Waterways Arena. Gates open at 11:00am. Featuring Melissa Etheridge at 1:00pm,
REO Speedwagon at 3:00pm and Huey Lewis and the News at 5:00pm. Opening act at 11:30am by Paul Foulds and The
Blind Venetians. Tickets $89 plus booking fees at the Whitianga i-Site and the Tairua and Pauanui Information Centres.
Mercury Bay South Ratepayers Association AGM
Sunday 31 January at 5:00pm at the Cooks Beach Community Hall.
Weekly Church Services
Mercury Bay Co-operating Parish
St Andrews by the Sea Community Church, 9:30am every Sunday worship service and kids friendly Bible sessions,
Albert Street, Whitianga.
Anglican Services
St Peter the Fisherman, 9:30am Sunday services. All are welcome, Dundas Street, Whitianga.
Crossroad Encounter Fellowship
10:00am every Sunday, cnr Joan Gaskell Drive and Cook Drive, Whitianga.
St Patricks Catholic Church
Weekend Mass Saturday 5:30pm and Sunday 8.30am, Monday - Friday 9:00am (except Tuesday no Mass,
Wednesday 12:00 noon). Tairua Sunday 10:30am, Tuesday 9:00am, tel 866 2189.
Whitianga Baptist Church
10:00am every Sunday, childrens programme, 112 Cook Drive, Whitianga, tel 866 4027.
C3 Whitianga
10:30am every Sunday, childrens programme, 23 Coghill Street, Whitianga,
email info@c3whitianga.org.nz.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons)
Meet on Sundays 10:00am - 11:30am at the Whitianga Social Services Building,
2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Childrens programme. Phone 021 277 2126 for
more information.
Seventh Day Adventists
Home study group. Phone Laurie/Lois on 866 2808 for more information.
Page 20
The Mercury Bay South Ratepayers Association Chairman Bob Nicholls says several major issues are
expected to be raised at the Annual General Meeting of the association that is to be held on 31 January
(Anniversary Weekend Sunday).
To the fore of these will be the erosion mitigation measures to be taken for the badly eroded beach areas
of Flaxmill Bay and eastern Cooks Beach.
Mercury Bay Community Board and Thames Coromandel District Council staff members have been invited
to address the meeting.
Several matters have been raised over the years with TCDC that seem to have slipped between the cracks
at Council level, says Mr Nicholls. Among these are the re-establishment of a green waste disposal
facility, the need for a pedestrian bridge at the Flaxmill Stream, traffic calming controls on Purangi Road
and improved safety measures at one-way bridge approaches.
Mr Nicholls also says the association is concerned about some of the complexities surrounding the
proposed TCDC Great Walks extension from the Purangi Estuary to Ferry Landing. We feel that better
consultative measures with the residents and property owners of our area need to be taken sooner rather
than later.
The meeting will also be updated on progress with the proposed use of the Supergold Card on the
Whitianga ferry.
Although only financial members will be eligible to vote, the meeting is open to all residents and property
owners of the area, who will be given an opportunity to become members on the day.
The meeting will be held in the Cooks Beach Community Hall and will commence at 5:00pm.
Pictured is the result of a sand push-up that was done in September last year by TCDC to curb beach
erosion at Flaxmill Bay.
The SeniorNet Christmas Social that was Nana shame. It seems as if advertisers
held in November last year marked the have now acknowledged that seniors are
end of another learning year.
using the latest devices.
A very interesting and amusing talk
There are further advances in care
on writing her book The Lights in my robots, both in the home for people
Life was given by Helen Drew, a local with mobility needs and in rest homes.
author. Afternoon tea was arranged An experiment, co-funded by the
by Gael who has looked after the Korean and New Zealand Governments,
SeniorNet catering for a number of years. resulted in four Gore residents trialling
Gael has now moved from Whitianga and robots (called iRobi) which check blood
we would love to hear from any member pressure, remind about medication and
who would like to take over her position. much more. They have a touch screen,
We only need occasional catering and it which allows ordinary laptop use.
is not a requirement to become a If you search on Google for care robots
committee member.
Japan, there are several YouTube videos
SeniorNet classes will be starting again showing the development of robots for
in February. Enrolment for classes and
rest homes. Its most interesting that this
Membership Registration Day will be on
is being developed in Japan to cope with
Tuesday 9 February. People wishing to
their projected increase in numbers of
join SeniorNet can do so then.
If you want to find out more about older people requiring help.
These advances in the use of technology
SeniorNet and information on classes,
into
every aspect of everyones lives is
phone Lorna on 866 4215 (during the day
a
reminder
that we should keep up our
please). In early February there will be
computer
skills.
a newsletter and schedule circulated to
There will be many older people in
current members.
The last year has seen news of more our community with new tech Christmas
and more advances in technology. This is gifts, so join us at SeniorNet. Bring along
a constant reminder that we must move your new techy toys and learn how to use
with the times. One of the latest TV all the features.
Finally, from the SeniorNet committee
advertising slots featured Nana showing
her latest phone to her granddaughter a very happy and safe New Year.
We look forward to seeing you all
and the speaker suggesting the girl
should have the latest phone to avoid in 2016.
Page 21
UK Style Crossword
Lovatts Puzzles
UK Puzzle 672
Name: __________________________________________________________________
Tel no: __________________________________________________________________
Win a $6 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 6:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim
his/her prize from the New World check out manager directly before the Wednesday of the week
following the issue in which he/she was announced the winner.
ACROSS
DOWN
1.
5.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
13.
14.
18.
21.
22.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
12.
15.
16.
17.
19.
20.
Poked
Genghis ...
Lay oneself open to
Window ledge
Inscribe
Sparkle
Madness
Slope
Game park tour
Change title of
Criss-cross structure
Uneven (in quality)
Below
Territory, Puerto ...
Swoop
Turn upside-down
Performs slalom
Tribal seniors
Bumps roughly
Light timber
Drab
Conspirator
Moscow citadel
Praise
Aggressive dog
Ill on plane
Laborious
Chilled cuppa (4,3)
Argentinas ... Peron
Paris boulevard,
Champs ...
22. Priggish person
23. Kept us going, ... us over
Squeaky Clean
Windows
Summer is here.
Time for a
clean!
We promise
you a superior
job at a
competitive
price.
Phone Nick on
866 4724
021 522 041
H O U S E WA S H I N G
Call Drew for a free quote
The Expert with the time tested and guaranteed method of removing mould,
lichen, moss and stains. In fact any exterior surface that needs a clean, Drew can
deal to with a harmless but totally effective wash. And remember a pre-paint wash
will extend the life of your paint job and make painting easier.
Police Report
Willis Electrical
Electrical installations and
maintenance
Paul Willis
Registered Electrician
E: paul@williselectrical.co.nz
W: www.williselectrical.co.nz
Page 23
3
5
1 49
7
8
6
2
Fishing Report
Sudoku
Race 3 of the Mercury Bay Boating Club Offshore Series that took place last Sunday saw
seven yachts head out of the Bay and down the coast to Castle Rock and return.
A variable 10 - 12kt breeze oscillating out of every point of the compass tested the mental
strength of all skippers and crews.
Being a longer drag race, there wasn't the cut and thrust of close contact racing usually
experienced when racing around the Bay. Having said that, there was only two minutes
34 seconds between JJ (Mike Phear) and H2GO (Paul Dimmock), 22 seconds between
Kahurangi (Stu Crockart) and Blue Print (Matt Agie) and one minute 40 seconds between
Vanadis (Barrie and Treveene Goldsbury) and Contrast (John Wright).
After three and a half to four hours of very fluky racing, there was some epic battles
between same sized yachts.
As they finished - JJ 1st, H2GO 2nd, Pteradactyl 3rd, Kahurangi 4th, Blue Print 5th,
Vanadis 6th and Contrast 7th.
On handicap - Pteradactyl, JJ, Kahurangi, H2Go, Blue Print, Vanadis and Contrast.
Pictured is Blue Print under full sail in Sundays race.
A new equestrian academy has just opened in Mercury Bay, specifically for young people, which will also
offer the opportunity for handicapped children to ride and handle ponies.
Former Olympic equestrian Ron Cooke has been keen to get the project started and with the support
of some volunteers and local businesses, he succeeded in putting a team together to turn the idea into
a reality.
The Mercury Bay Equestrian Academy will teach show jumping, cross-country jumping and dressage and
will run competitions, says Ron. On these special days we will invite the community to come and enjoy
our kids compete against out-of-town riders. Some of these competitions can have many competitors and
the extra people coming to the area will certainly be of benefit to the wider community.
The academy will be run in a professional manner and the achievements of all riders will reflect the spirit
of their own hard work and belief in themselves.
Ron brings a lifetime of experience to the new academy. He started working with horses at the age of 14
and has competed at international level. He has been selected twice for the New Zealand Olympic team
and has also been a master farrier for many years.
The academy is at the moment operating from temporary premises on Racecourse Road in Whitianga,
but Ron is on the lookout for three to four acres to set up properly. Anyone who can help must please
phone him on (027) 498 4447.
Pictured is Ron teaching Aimee Harnett, one of the academys first students.
Page 25
Across
Down
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
13
15
17
21
23
24
WAITAIA NURSERY
Native Ornamental
Big Trees Fruit Trees
Citrus Hedging
Palms Hire plants
and more
Bagged Products
Bulk mulch
Open
Thurs - Sun 9am - 5pm
other days by phone
appointment
(07) 869 5910
Waitaia Road
Kuaotunu
Page 26
Name: __________________________________________________________________
Tel no: __________________________________________________________________
Magic Squares instructions - Complete this clever mini crossword by answering the clues. If you
have done so correctly, the words will read the same both across and down the grid. British English
spelling is used.
NZ
NZ WIDE REMOVALS
7 Day Service
Weekly runs to
Auckland
Free Quotes
Friendly & Reliable
Storage Available
Phone Josh
07 866 5589
027
256 6009
www.nzmoveit.co.nz
chris mcKibbin
M: 021 046 7169
www.mercurybayfloorsanders.co.nz
Page 27
Sport Results
MERCURY BAY ARCHERY CLUB
New Zealand National Championships held
in Wellington - Saturday 2 January to Friday
8 January
Members of the Mercury Bay Archery Club had a very
successful New Zealand National Championships in
Wellington.
The Field Championships were shot over two days in
wet weather.
Members Results - Dennis McLeod - Silver Men's
Longbow, Karen Moffatt-McLeod - Gold Women's
Longbow (and broke her own New Zealand record),
Steve Brown-Douglas - Silver Men's Barebow and Tim
Brown-Douglas - Gold Intermediate Men's Barebow.
The conditions for the Clout Championships were
perfect.
Members Results - Dennis McLeod - Gold (and broke
the New Zealand record), Karen Moffatt-McLeod
- Gold (and broke her own New Zealand record),
Steve Brown-Douglas - Silver and Tim BrownDouglas - Gold (and setting a New Zealand record that
is awaiting confirmation).
The Target Championships were shot over two days in
extreme heat and sun.
Dennis McLeod - Silver, Karen Moffatt-McLeod - Gold
(and setting New Zealand records for a 1440 round
and each of the 60m, 50m, 40m and 30m distances),
Steve Brown-Douglas - Silver and Tim Brown-Douglas
- Gold (and New Zealand records for a 1440 round and
each of the 40m, 35m, 30m and 25m distances).
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday 13 January
Best of three frames
Peter Challis took home the meat with three straight
wins. Two wins for Barry Roach (runner-up) and
Brian Codyre.
Highest break - Brian Codyre 27.
We welcomed back Kevin from British Columbia in
Canada who spends his summers in lovely Whitianga.
Saturday 16 January
A good sized field, sprinkled with visitors, contested a
mixed scramble.
The winners were Carl Mitchell and Rod Stewart,
both with 43 points. Well played guys! Next was Gordon
Kirkham (Te Awamutu) with 41, followed by Rob Baines
with 38, Glen Clark 37 and Jack Skinner 36. Tied on 35
points were John Lister, Ho Chian (Te Aroha), Steve Tull,
Gordon Davidson and Wayne Cosgrave.
The only two was scored by David Watson,
winning seven balls.
The Mercury Bay Archery Club members who did exceptionally well at the
New Zealand National Championships that were held in Wellington from Saturday 2 January
to Friday 8 January. From left to right - Dennis McLeod, Karen Moffatt-McLeod,
Steve Brown-Douglas and Tim Brown-Douglas.
GARAGE SALES
Garage Sale
Wed 20 Jan - Sun 24 Jan, 8:00am
9 Campbell Street, Whitianga
Household stuff
Furniture, tools, saw bench,
bunk bed, beds, bedding,
kitchen stuff & more.
GARDEN SERVICES
GARDEN MAKEOVERS
All aspects of tree care or
complete disposal.
Landscaping and more.
Free quotes.
Phone Jeremy Haszard
(07) 866 0118
FOR HIRE
HUGE BOUNCY CASTLE,
$100 on site. FREE BBQ and
playground facilities. Ph: 866 0038,
www.combatzone.co.nz
TREE SERVICE
TREE SERVICE
Any tree work at all.
Free quotes.
Phone Jeremy on (07) 866 0118.
PORTABLE CABINS
SITUATIONS VACANT
DELIVERY SUPERVISOR
WANTED
For Circular Distribution Business in the
Whitianga area. Must have own vehicle,
cell phone and internet access.
Please phone 027 220 5516
or email CV to
courtney.clarke@reachmedia.co.nz.
Merchandiser
We seek an experienced
merchandiser in Whitianga to work
in the Grocery Industry
servicing our clients products.
Candidates will need to be
dependable and have reliable transport.
This is a permanent part time roll.
Enquiries to andrea@achiever.net.nz.
TOY LIBRARY
NOW RECRUITING
Busy charity shop support centre has two positions available customer service and quality control.
These are voluntary roles.
Application packs available in-store at 2 Coghill Street, Whitianga.
Contact Jo on (07) 869 5416 for more information.
Page 28
WORK WANTED
DAVES DRAINAGE
Drainlaying
Public & Private
1.8 Ton Digger Hire
30 Years Experience
Free Quotes or Advice
Call Dave
027 727 0348
davesdrainage@xtra.co.nz
HOUSE WASHING
Detergent Soft Wash,
Roof Clean/Treatment, Window Cleaning.
Phone Russell Short on
866 2097 or 0273 602 937.
MIKES MOWING
$25 empty sections, fortnightly
or monthly mowing.
Free edge spraying. Free quotes.
Phone Mike or Deb
866 4678 or 027 320 1703.
Tricky Trees
Pruning
Felling
Stump grinding
Firewood
Call Chris
Hedge maintenance
Crown reductions
Difficult removals
Chip waste to mulch
PUBLIC NOTICES
Page 29
**Quality Greenhouses**
Award Winning NZ Brand
Options in toughened
safety glass,
polycarbonate and shade mesh
See us at Outspace
Cnr Cook Drive and Lee Street,
Whitianga
07 869 5590
FIREWOOD
Pururi, Pine, Gum, etc.
Dry or green,
bagged or loose.
www.trickytrees.co.nz
or Phone Chris
021 240 9909.
CATTERIES
KRISTINS
BOARDING CATTERY
Vet nurse, warm, clean,
secure, outdoor run.
Phone 866 4724.
BOATS WANTED
ACCOMODATION AVAILABLE
WE NEED YOUR
BOAT NOW!!!
Quality late model trailer boats
needed for sale on behalf!
We have buyers waiting!
Call the team at
Whitianga Marine Centre
today on 867 1182
or come in to
233 South Highway, Whitianga.
SHORT TERM
RENTALS AVAILABLE
TO LET
2 BDRM FLAT, close to school, polished floors, wood burner, sleepout, covered
deck, double garage, partly fenced, $300 p/w. Ph: (07) 867 1513
BOAT JETTY, close to entrance of Waterways. Preferably long term.
Ph 027 231 6788
MOORING, close to hardstand, $30 per week. Preferably long term.
Ph: (07) 866 3246.
STORAGE SHEDS available, various sizes, reasonable rates. Dry and secure.
Free furniture trailer available - conditions apply. Ph: 07 866 5147
STORAGE SHEDS Whitianga Total Storage opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660
CHURCH SERVICES
ANGLICAN
SERVICES
COURIER SERVICE
ALL WELCOME
ST ANDREWS
BY THE SEA
Presbyterian/Methodist
Community Church
(opposite the
Z Service Station, Whitianga)
Sunday Worship 9:30am
Come, join the
family of God!
www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz
Page 30
HAIR SHOP
MONK STREET,
WHITIANGA
Hair Shop wishes to advise
that Lia will be back from her
adventures soon and we are taking
bookings for her now.
She starts back on the 10th of February.
Phone 866 5178.
06 Nissan Pulsar Q, H/B, 1.8, 5spd, t/bar, alloys $6,900 03 Navara S/Cab F/Deck, 2WD, 2.5 D/Turbo $9,900
READINGS
TEA LEAF/CARD
INTUITIVE READINGS
Massage, healing, spiritual.
Phone Catherine Gwendoline
(021) 756 655.
05 Toyota Corolla S/W, 1.8, auto, 43,000km $10,900 02 Toyota Rav 4 Ltd, auto, 2.0, ABS $7,900
Seven-year-old Lily Monrad was all dressed up and ready to show the crowd what she was
capable of in a Go Kart at last Sundays race meeting of the Mercury Bay Speedway Club.
Page 31