Local Weekend Events in Mercury Bay, Whitianga, Tairua, Pauanui

TheMercury Bay Circulation

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Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula, coast to coast from Thames to Colville - www.theinformer.co.nz

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Issue 682 - 30 March 2016 Phone 07 866 2090

One game at a timeThe Mercury Bay Senior A rugby team is ready for the Thames Valley Rugby Union competition that’s kicking off this weekend.By Stephan Bosman

PROUDTO SUPPORT THE

COROMANDELRESCUE HELICOPTER

TRUST

After an outstanding season last year, the Mercury Bay Senior A rugby team and their supporters are looking forward to the 2016 Thames Valley Rugby Union competition that’s kicking off this Saturday, 2 April.

Eight teams - in addition to Mercury Baythere are Tairua, Thames, Waihi, Paeroa,

Hauraki North, the Te Aroha Cobras and Waihou - will each play 14 games this year over two rounds to determine who will go through to the semi-finals. The final is scheduled for Saturday 30 July in Thames.

Dwayne Mansell, coach of the MercuryBay team, says they’re ready for the

season ahead. “We’re a relatively new team. A few of last year’s stars have moved to the Waikato or overseas, but fortunately some very good players have moved into or returned to the Mercury Bay area. A few players who suffered from injuries last year are also fit to play again

“The players are verymotivated.

They are keen to train and they kept their fitness levels up during the off-season last year. At every one of our trainings since the beginning of January we’ve had more than 23 players turning up.”

The team has played two pre-season games

this year. The first was an away game against Tokoroa, which they lost 22-24. The other was at home against Mahurangi, which Mercury Bay won 19-12. “I was very pleased with the way both games went,” says Dwayne. “We could try out various combinations and played some structured rugby.”

Dwayne is cautious to predict how the team

will fare this season. “Having drawn last

year’s final can put a lot of pressure on us,

but we’re going to take things game by game. We’ve had a huge amount of local support last year and one goal certainly is not to disappoint our supporters. We’ll focus on winning one game at a time and then start thinking about the next one.”

The team will this year again be captained by experienced front rower Kieran Ramage. The manager is Ted McVerry and former team member Trent Hill will help Dwayne with

the coaching. Local businesses New World Whitianga, Frankies Sports Bar and Grill and The Whitianga Hotel have also been secured as major team sponsors. Their names will be displayed on the team’s jerseys and warm up shirts. “The team has a number of other sponsors too,” Dwyane says. “We appreciate every business’s support and will endeavour to give as much exposure to the sponsors as we possibly can.”

The final draw for this year’s Thames Valley Rugby Union Senior A competition will be made available later this week. Dwayne says it’s quite possible that Mercury Bay will play a home game this Saturday. Details of the game, as soon as it becomes available, will be posted on the Mercury Bay Rugby and Sports Club’s Facebook page, The Informer’s Facebook page and The Informer’s website.

Attending last Thursday evening’s training of the Mercury Bay Senior A rugby squad. From left to right - team contenders Connor McVerry, Mitchell Main, Zarric Auriom and Jared Hill and coach Dwayne Mansell.

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DAY/ DATE

HIGH AM

LOW AM

HIGH PM

LOW PM

Wed 30 0:28 6:24 12:45 6:43

Thur 31 1:12 7:09 1:30 7:29

Fri 1 2:00 7:58 2:19 8:20

Sat 2 2:53 8:52 3:13 9:15

Sun 3 3:48 8:49 3:11 9:14

Mon 4 3:46 9:47 4:11 10:13

Tue 5 4:42 10:44 5:11 11:11

The Mercury Bay Informer is published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula.Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address. Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher.Published by Mercury Bay Media Limited Editor - Stephan BosmanContributors - Len Salt, Gillian O’Neill, Meghan Hawkes, Cheyenne Walmsley, Deli Connell and Jack BiddleAdvertiser Management - Petra Bosman and Bronwyn BurkhartOffice - 14 Monk St, Whitianga 3510, Mail - PO Box 426, Whitianga 3542 Telephone - (07) 866 2090, Fax - (07) 866 2092Editorial - email [email protected], tel (07) 866 2090Advertising - email [email protected], tel (07) 866 2094ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online)© 2016 Mercury Bay Media LimitedThe Mercury Bay Informer is subject to the principles of the New Zealand Press Council. Please contact us first if you have concerns about any of the editorial content of The Informer. If we were unable to address your concerns to your satisfaction, you can complain to the New Zealand Press Council, PO Box 10 879, Wellington 6143 or www.presscouncil.org.nz.

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Gospel choir and Young Guitarist Award features of Mercury Bay Music FestivalThe organisers of the Mercury Bay Music Festival have announced that they have joined forces with Crossroad Encounter Fellowship in Whitianga to present a gospel music concert on the Sunday morning of the festival weekend (5 June).

“Anita Prime and Dennis Acraman of Crossroad Church came to us with the idea of putting together a gospel music concert on the weekend of the festival,” says Len Salt, a member of the Music Festival organising team. “We thought it was a great idea. Gospel music has played an essential part in the development of many genres that we hear today in popular music, from blues and jazz to R and B and soul music.”

Dennis is the new Crossroad pastor, with Anita providing the creative energy and expertise. She has an impressive pedigree as an international performer, teacher, composer and arranger of both her original music and traditional genres.

Anita has put thecall out for anybodyinterested to participate in a gospel choir performance to come along on Saturday afternoons. “We’ll start rehearsals this Saturday 2 April,” says Anita. “All the rehearsals will take place at Crossroad Church between 2:00pm and 4:00pm every Saturday. We’re keen to see people of all ages and abilities come along.

“We’ll have some musicians forming a band to back the choir. The music will be based around the roots of gospel, how it began with tunes that were created on the slave plantations of America and that went on to influence popular music on almost every level right through until the present day.”

Len says that while the Mercury Bay Music Festival is a secular event, by the nature of

the people and community involved, there is going to be a diverse range of people and

faiths represented. “We have a number of artists performing who are Christians and we don’t hesitate to acknowledge the important

part that our churches and their congregations play in our community at almost every level,”

says Len. “Without the support of our local churches, many of the best musicians in our community would struggle to find places to

rehearse. There is an unfailing spirit of generosity there that deserves to be

recognised.” Another key event happening as part of the Music Festival is the Young

Guitarist Award. “This is an essential part of our programme to

nurture young Kiwi talent,” says Len.Young guitarists will be competing for the

top prize, which is a trip to Saratoga Springs in New York, spending four days at the Tommy

Emmanuel Guitar Camp from 27 June to 1 July. Tommy Emmanuel is one of the foremostfinger-style guitarists in the world.

Twice nominated for Grammy Awards, he has a huge list of credits and performances to his name and has became famous for his high energy solo concerts in his much played and battered Maton acoustic guitar.

“This will be the experience of a lifetime for the young person who wins the prize,” says Len. “Places in the Tommy Emmanuel camp for 2016 are now sold out, so it’s a highly sought-after prize. We managed to get one ticket and we want to find the best young guitarist we can, somebody who will get a real benefit from the experience.”

Competitors can enter from anywhere in New Zealand, but they must be in Whitianga on 4 and 5 June.

“There’s an entry fee of $50, which entitles the participants to a two hour workshop at the Mercury Bay Music Festival with a selection of top guitarists,” Len says. “From the workshop a shortlist will be chosen to perform in the Sunday night festival concert in the Whitianga Town Hall on 5 June. The judges will be looking for skills in a number of different areas, including technical

ability, performance technique, composition, music theory knowledge, original composition and the ability to play with other musicians. The winner will be announced at the end of the concert.”

The finalists will also have opportunities to perform at other times during the festival programme.

More information about the Young Guitarist Award is available on the festival website at www.mercurybaymusicfestival.co.nz/young- guitarist-award.

Some of the members of the Mercury Bay Music Festival organising team. Back, from left to right - Suzanne Hansen, Sharyn Morcom and Caren

Squire.Front - Jan Wright (left) and Len Salt.

The Mercury Bay Informer - www.theinformer.co.nz Issue 682 - 30 March 2016



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Issue 682 - 30 March 2016

A fantastic Easter egg hunt

The Fun Zone annual Easter egg hunt that took place on Easter Sunday morning was a resounding success. “There were about 450 egg hunters and all up just under 1,000 people,” says Fun Zone owner Sandy Gaskell. “We raised just shy of $3,000 for a new Year 4 - 6 playground for Mercury Bay Area School. That’s $1,200 more than what we raised last year!”In addition to the Easter egg hunt, there were a bouncy castle for the kids, a sausage sizzle and fun activities like sack races young and old could participate in.A highlight was the auctioning off of a rugby ball signed by World Cup winning All Black captain Richie McCaw. Well-known Mercury Bay Junior Rugby coach Garth Scott assumed the role of auctioneer and did a stellar job convincing Greg Brown from Tauranga to pay $200 for the ball. Greg (pictured at the hunt with his daughters - from left to right - Gabby, Alice and Jenna) said afterwards he has a rugby mad friend in Auckland suffering from muscular dystrophy and he would like to donate the ball to him.From all angles a fantastic event. Well done to Sandy and her husband Eric.The hunt was sponsored by New World Whitianga, The Warehouse Whitianga and The Informer.


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Tairua postage stamp competition winnerTairua has selected the image that will showcase the town to a worldwide audience in the form of a specially designed postage stamp.Vivienne Cory-Wright’s stunning shot of Paku (pictured) was the winner of a photo competition run by the Tairua Information Centre over the past few weeks in a bid to find an iconic image worthy of travelling the globe.“We had such an incredible selection of entries. There were any number of gorgeous photos that could have been chosen. It was a fantastic reminder of what an amazingly beautiful place we live in,” said Tairua Information Centre manager Rowena Brown.The centre committee was given the task of choosing the three top contenders, which were put on display, with the public invited to come and vote for their favourite. “It generated a lot of interest, everyone was talking about it. In the end, just one vote separated first and second place,” Rowena said.Viv’s image is now in the hands of freight company DX Mail who will turn it into a $2 international stamp, which will be sold both individually and in strips. The back of the strip of stamps will also have some information about Paku and the town of Tairua and 15 per cent of all sales will go to the Information Centre.It is hoped that some of the other photos submitted may be able to be used for other projects. “We suddenly have this absolutely amazing, unique collection of images of our town. We will be talking to the owners about some other ideas. One of the things we are already looking at is a postcard,” said Rowena.“On behalf of the committee, I would like to sincerely thank all those talented people who entered the competition, we are so grateful and it was a joy to look at your work. And of course huge congratulations to our winner Viv Cory-Wright, it really is a beautiful photo that will do Tairua proud.”

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No place like homeHot Water Brewing Co in Whenuakite has a new manager. This isn’t only a story about an award-winning craft beer brewery and a new brew pub menu. It’s also a story about coming home.

Jen Walker grew up in Mercury Bay and attended Whenuakite School until Year 8. A few years out of school and having travelled the globe, she decided, in her words, “To chase the sun,” and landed herself a job as a communications officer with the Queensland government in Brisbane.

During her time in Brisbane, Jen foundout that her good friend from Whenuakite

School, Dah Kydd, was also living in Brisbane. Somewhat of a coincidence. Jen made contact and the two caught up. Dah worked in the hospitality industry and soon introduced Jen to her Australian partner, Dylan McMahon, a chef.

A few months ago, out of the blue,Jen received a call from her parents, Don

and Dawn Walker, the owners of Hot Water Brewing Co and Seabreeze Holiday Park. They asked her to take over management of the brewery and the brew pub next door.

Somewhat homesick after five years acrossthe Tasman, Jen gave the opportunity to

move home and help with the family business some serious thought. She has been developing her knowledge of craft beer since her parents established Hot Water Brewing Co in 2013. “My palate for beer is much more refined than before,” she says. “I wasn’t concerned about the brewery. As I don’t really have any hospitality experience, the brew pub posed a challenge. I had a chat to Dah about ideas

that possibly could work and before I knew it, she and Dylan were on board.”

A few weeks ago the three arrived in Whenuakite and got to work in the brew pub. It didn’t take them long to work out what they wanted to achieve.

“Hot Water Brewing Co is first andforemost about the beer,” Jen says. “We set

out to develop a menu consisting primarily of what we call ‘beer food.’ That’s small plates like buffalo wings and salt and pepper calamari people can snack on while they taste our beers. We also included a few burgers and dinner options like green lip house-made mussel fritters and fresh tarakihi with mint and pea rissotto for guests who would like to enjoy something more substantial.

“We designed the menu so that it’sattractive for backpackers and Seabreeze

holidaymakers as well. The brewery and brew pub are situated on the holiday park land and I think there’s a real opportunity to market the pub and the holiday park together. We want to promote ‘Eat, Drink, Stay,’ especially among overseas tourists.”

Jen says she, Dah and Dylan enjoy learning more about the award winning beers brewed by Hot Water Brewing Co brewer Dave Kurth, as well as interacting with customers and talking about the beer.

“For me, what I’m doing now is so different from what I’ve done only three months ago in Brisbane. I need to be honest, it’s way more fun.

“And it’s great to be back on theCoromandel. It’s true what they say - at

the end of the day, there’s no place like home.”

Jen Walker (on the right) with Dah Kydd and Dylan McMahon in the brew pub of Hot Water Brewing Company in Whenuakite.




More than 80 people attended the Pet Rock Day of Kuaotunu Rudolf Steiner Kindergarten that was held at the Kuaotunu Reserve on Easter Sunday. As is customary, the rock entries were innovative and of a very high standard across all age groups.“We raised more than $1,400 in the auction of the rocks,” says kindergarten manager Ursula Gaebler. “Harcourts estate agent Rob Ball was the auctioneer. Every year he does the auction for us, he’s fantastic. He just has an ability to convince people to keep on bidding. I want to say a big thank you to all the people who bought rocks at the auction. We appreciate your support very much.”A number of professional artists support the event every year with pieces of rock art they donate to be auctioned off. This year was no different. Artist Claire Eliot’s contribution always achieves in excess of$150. This year her rock, which she called “Slice of Paradise,” fetched $220.The first Pet Rock Day was held 12 years ago and was the brainchild of Kuaotunu local Paul Reilly. It makes the event quite possibly one of the longest running annual events in Mercury Bay.In the photo on the left is Milan Evans, winner of the two to five year old age group with his prize and his rock creation of an eagle in his hands. The photo on the right is of is Claire Eliot’s work “Slice of Paradise.”

Another very successful Pet Rock Day




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The very social Whitianga Wheelers Sunday cycling group decided to have a break away from their leisurely and regular 12km ride around town recently and take on a section of the slightly more demanding Hauraki Rail Trail.From small beginnings the group has slowly built in numbers over the past year with its number one aim of encouraging those wanting to give cycling a go in a safe, friendly and non-competitive environment. “It’s all very social, you don’t have to own a flash bike or have cycled on a regular basis in the past. In fact, the coffee and friendly chatter at the end of the ride often takes longer than the ride itself. We want people to go away having had an enjoyable experience and keen to return,” says organiser of the rides, Bryan Layton.The idea of riding a section of the Hauraki Trail was initially put forward by members of the group who had no past experience in trail riding, but wanted to give it a go in the company of old campaigners like Bryan and designated leader for the day Tony Remnant.Tony’s wife Carol kindly offered her services to drive the hired shuttle van and cycle trailer from the drop- off point in Paeroa to the finish in Thames to make the transport logistics a lot easier.Along the way an enjoyable break at the Cheese Barn in Matatoki allowed for refuelling and a recharge of batteries before the final leg through to Thames was undertaken. That was followed by drinks and fish and chips at the Thames waterfront café kiosk.Pictured are members of the group in Paeroa just before they embarked on the 33km ride to Thames.

Social cycling group tackles Rail Trail



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Cancer support for WhitiangaBy Maria Low - Cancer Society Communications Manager

Sadly, 60 New Zealanders every day hear the words, “You have cancer.” This diagnosis can cause tremendous uncertainty and upheaval for the person with diagnosed with the disease, their friends and loved ones.

The Cancer Society of New Zealand knows how a cancer diagnosis can affect every aspect of a person’s life.

The Society receives no direct government funding, so relies wholly on donations, fundraising and bequests in order to provide free services to those with cancer and their families, deliver cancer prevention and health promotion programmes and fund vital research in the field.

“We’re here to help people get through this time. If you and your family want to talk, we are here to listen. No one should face cancer alone,” says Waikato/Bay of Plenty Cancer Society liaison nurse Penny Parsons.

Cancer Society liaison nurses are very experienced, with specialised knowledge and skills in supporting people with cancer in the community. Following a diagnosis, the liaison nurses provide telephone, email and home-based support for clients and their families.

Although based in Hamilton, Penny frequently travels to Thames, Coromandel Town and Whitianga to visit clients and

run the Cancer Society’s nurse-led support programmes. In April the Cancer Society will hold a two-day Living Well programme in Whitianga (see the sidebar).

Liaison nurses can also refer clients to other Cancer Society and community services, health care professionals and support groups and provide advocacy to clients resolve any difficulties or anxieties about their treatment.During her visits to Whitianga,Penny meets regularly with the Mercury Bay Cancer Support Group - a group of local volunteers who have either personally experienced cancer or have supported others through their cancer journey.

The Mercury Bay Cancer Support Group provides practical and emotional support to

people living with cancer as well as their families in order to assist them to maintain

the best possible quality of life during treatment. “This is an incredible group of people who do so much for others in their

community who have cancer and are facing difficult

times,” says Penny.“Like many others cancer support groups,

the Mercury Bay group is independent, but affiliated to the Cancer Society and they fill a very real need, helping to ensure that people with cancer feel supported no matter where they live.”

Living well with cancer

Paeroa’s Lorraine Wilson says she’d encourage anyone in Whitianga who has cancer or is supporting someone with cancer to register for the Cancer Society’s Living Well programme at the Mercury Bay Boating Club on Thursday 7 and Friday 8 April.Lorraine attended Living Well in Paeroa in 2014, two years after being diagnosed with a form of ovarian cancer.Living Well offers practical ways of living well, building knowledge, self-confidence and self-help skills wherever someone is at in their cancer journey.“When you first get told you have cancer it’s overwhelming and like a foggy maze - you don’t know where to go or who to ask or what to expect. You’re still in shock and the whole thing is a nightmare. Living Well is invaluable, there is so much great information from the liaison nurse and guest speakers, but it really helps to know there are other, everyday people out there going through the same thing as you,” says Lorraine.Topics include understanding cancer, managing the side-effects of cancer treatment, nutrition, relaxation and stress management, looking after yourself and communication.Living Well is a free programme suitable for anyone with any type and stage of cancer. A carer, spouse partner, family member or friend is also welcome to attend.For more information and to register for the Living Well programme, please contact Penny Parsons (pictured), the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Cancer Society liaison nurse for the Whitianga area, on telephone(07) 838 2027 or email [email protected].





Learner focussed

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Enquir ing mind

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Creat ive thinker

Bus iness owner

Learn more at www.trustee-election.co.nz

If you canshare your skills you can bea trusteeBecoming a school trustee could be one of the most rewarding roles you have.Being a school trustee is an important role that needs people with a range of skills and experiences, who

believe in making a positive difference to our children’s learning. Step forward and nominate yourself or

someone you know by filling out a nomination form available from your school.

YOUR RETURNING OFFICER IS:Kather i ne Nei lson-Jones Mercury Bay Area School 20 S outh H ighway Whit i anga07 8665916, nei [email protected]

Monday 21 March to Monday 28 March 2016

Police ReportWith Sergeant Andrew Morrison

GENERALA pretty quiet week, but please don’t get complacent. Excellent to see no domestic incidents reported this week and a reminder to take some time out if you are arguing around in circles with your partner.

Four bicycles stolen from around town this week and a burglary reported in Cooks Beach. Please secure your valuables and make it as hard as possible for criminals to steal your stuff.

Alot of found property still being reported in our area. Please take care and hold on to your stuff, but if you do lose something valuable, let us know as someone may have handed it in.

ARRESTSNo arrests this week.OCCURRENCESNo domestic incidents attended this

week. On the 23rd a mountain bike was stolen from beside a garden shed at a Springbok Avenue address, while on the 26th two

bicycles were stolen from a garage at a Cook Drive address.

Also on the 26th a specialised Roubaix bicycle was stolen from a vehicle roof rack on Joan Gaskell Drive.

A garage was burgled at an Oyster Drive, Cooks Beach address on the 26th, with an 8hp Yamaha outboard motor, petrol and fishing gear stolen.

TRAFFICNo drunk drivers apprehended this week.On the 22nd a moment’s inattention by a

driver heading into town from Matarangi resulted in a moderate crash when she turned into the path of another driver, thinking the way was clear.

Thankfully no one wasinjured.Please concentrate when driving.Another pleasing result related to only

three seatbelt offences detected this week with an operation in place to target people not wearing their seatbelts just prior to Easter.

Board TalkWith the Mercury Bay Area School Board of Trustees

This year is the year for the Board of Trustees parent representative elections. Do you have a passion for helping to manage Mercury Bay Area School alongside five other community members? Being a trustee is a rewarding experience and it is a good way to gain an in- depth knowledge of how your school works and what it takes to run.

As a member of the board you will help plan for the future - build new buildings, construct new playgrounds, improve existing technology and assist to employ new staff, as well as manage the here and now. These are just a snippet of the things you could be involved in.

I have been on the BOT for around six years and in that time I have seen a big shift in the culture of the school and the positive direction that it is heading in.

We have currently a very focused board, who all have a small part to play in a wide

range of areas. I am a member of the student welfare committee, which convenes when there is intervention required for a student. We meet with the student and their family to discuss the issue and usually come to a positive outcome in the student’s schooling. There are many other sub-committees to belong to - finance, property, staffing and the occasional impromptu one that pops up for a specific reason.

This year there will be an election for fourmembers of the Board. If you are

interested in any way please come and talk with one of the existing members - Phillip Morcom, Darren Walker, Stacey Rolton, Dan Asquith, Sandi Lowe or myself - and think seriously about putting your name forward. We would love to work alongside you!

Sandra JohnstonParent Representative


http://www.trustee-election.co.nz/

mailto:078665916%[email protected]





,

The Department of Conservation monitored possums in the southern Coromandel in November 2014 and found numbers were at damaging levels.

To preserve the special values found in the Coromandel, the blocks of Kauaeranga/Kapowai, Whenuakite and Mataora were all treated aerially with cereal baits containing the pesticide sodium fluoroacetate (1080).A pre-feed of non-toxic cereal pellets was sown aerially by helicopter in early September 2015, followed a week later by aerial application of 1080 cereal pellets.Results of the pest control operation Post-operation monitoring has now been completed

in the three treatment blocks which made up the southern Coromandel pest control operation. The monitoring results show thatpossum,

and where relevant,rat control, has

been achieved with outstanding results.

Kauaeranga/Kapowai Results:The operation in this area had a target to reduce the amount of possums caught, to two or less possums per every 100 traps set over one night. Post-operation monitoring was completed by a contractor in November 2015 and the final result was one possum caught in 200 traps set over three nights.

This is a significant reduction in pests as independent pre-operation monitoring produced a result of 90 possums caught in 200 traps set over three nights. The success of this operation will benefit the whole forest community in this part of the Coromandel Range.

Whenuakite Results:Possums and rats were targeted in the conservation and private land which make up Whenuakite. Post- operation monitoring found a result of no possums caught in 140 traps set over three consecutive nights. In addition, 100 tracking tunnels were set for one night and no rats were detected. This success will ensure the considerable biodiversity gains made in this valuable ecological management unit, since pest management commenced in 2000, will continue to grow.

Mataora Results:Prior to the operation, monitoring was completed by an independent contractor and 25 possums were caught in 100 traps set over three consecutive nights. Post-operation

monitoring was completed by the same contactor in October and no possums were caught in 100 traps set over three nights. This is a very successful outcome for this block of

canopy

bush, where large scale collapse was occurring.

Important information:Carcass monitoring commenced on Monday 14 September 2015. Carcass monitoring determines when pesticide residue is no longer

present. Warning signs were recently means

normal area

cannow

removed, which activities in the resume.

Thank you:DOC would like

to thank thecommunity for their

support, input and feedback into the operation. Land owners, our iwi partners, contractors, communities, clubs and agencies have helped us achieve the successful outcome of this pest control operation. This, in turn, should greatly contribute to the collective success in managing the ongoing problem of pests on the Coromandel Peninsula.

For more informationVisit the following websites: www.doc.govt.nz /1080 www.doc.govt.nz/battleforourbirds

Or contact:

Nicholas

HamonDepartment of Conservation Hauraki OfficeThamesT: 07 867 9180E: [email protected] or

Southern Coromandel pest control 2015

fextensive pest control operation to reducepossum numbers over 25,500 hectares in the southern Coromandel.

Produced by:Department of Conservation Hauraki OfficePO Box 343ThamesMarch 2016

Archey’s frog (left) and Hochstetter’s frog (right) both found in Coromandel Forest Park. Photographer: Dick Veitch

Pepper, a Coromandel North Island Brown kiwi will benefit from pest management. Photographer: Project Kiwi Trust

Flocks of kereru seen in paddocks surrounded by Whenuakite bush



http://www.doc.govt.nz/1080




http://www.doc.govt.nz/battleforourbirds






Martinus Sarangapany’s “Home Away from Home”Artist Martinus Sarangapany lives and works in Hahei… attracted by the prospect of a job on the water and life at the beach, he has been a guide for Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours for nine years now. It appears that the place has gotten into his blood.

“I came for the job, but it’s become home… we’ve got a little ‘family’ here, it’s a great place to live,” says Martinus. But it’s not only the people and place that have managed to seep into his soul, the history of the area has done so as well, influencing both his day job and his art.

In the role of guide Martinus has learned the local history, especially the story of Hei, to enhance the kayaking experience for his guests, giving them a sense of time and space and of the rich heritage of Mercury Bay.

Martinus was joint recipient of the People’s Choice Award at this year’s Mercury Bay Art Escape Open Studio Tour launch in early March for his work “Home Away From Home.” It’s a striking pencil and graphite drawing measuring (2,440 x 1,290mm). “It is an historical piece,” says Martinus. “It depicts Hei, who back in 1350 pointed towards Motueka Island saying that it looked like the curve of his nose (Te Kuraetanga O Taku Ihu).”

The entire bay encompassing the island and beyond was given the name Te Whanganui A Hei (The Great Bay of Hei). “The name refers

to this being Hei’s home away from home, as it is for many of us who live in this area.”

It is especially true for Martinus who lived in many places, attending different schools, but always engaged with art. After leaving school he went on to study for a qualification in visual arts at Northland Polytechnic and has also done a stint with Te Kowhai Print Trust in Whangarei as an artist in residence, working on his own art as well as teaching printmaking.

“We held a public event to produce very large prints using a steam roller… people were stoked to be there making really big prints… it was good fun,” Martinus says.

Martinus draws on life experience, snippets of conversations, fragments from dreams and his own vivid imagination for inspiration for his work, which he describes as surrealistic. It is obvious from “Home Away from Home” that he can turn his hand to the use of Maori symbolism and imagery, whilst his own whakapapa comes from Dutch and Indian roots… his work is indeed a meeting of interwoven cultures and ideas.

Martinus’s message to other artists is to be true to yourself and what inspires you and not to worry about the commercial side of being an artist. It is clear from his work that he lives this philosophy and that he has created a beautiful lifestyle in Hahei, his “Home Away from Home.”

Artist Martinus Sarangapany next to “Home Away from Home,” his graphiteand pencil drawing that was joint winner of the Artists’ Choice Award at the launch of

this year’s Mercury Bay Art Escape Open Studio Tour.




Exclusive private laneApprox 20ha. Lovely building site with views to rural, Whitianga and sea to the north.

2 bedroom

Easy care unit with garage Handy to town, beach and pools

10 acre bush block with a home and income. Two dwellings plus a studio.Approx 10 mins to town.

•4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home• With views to Whitianga.

• Cooks Beach home with a lot to offer•3 bedroom, 2bathroom• Open plan living

For Sale $469,000Viewharcourts.co.nz/wi20992Wayne AndersonM 021 963 354 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty Ltd MREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

• Approx 28 ha (70 acres).• Sprawling rustic shed• Spring water supply• Fenced boundary

For Sale $579,000 +GST( if any)Viewharcourts.co.nz/wi 21000Katrina CarlyonM 021 724 200 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty LtdMREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

For Sale $345,000Viewharcourts.co.nz/wi20997Katrina CarlyonM 021 724 200 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty LtdMREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

For Sale $765,000View Wednesday 6.00 – 6.30pm harcourts.co.nz/wi20983Bronee StanfieldM 0272 929 742 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty LtdMREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

For Sale $490,000Viewharcourts.co.nz/wi21006Noelene BellinghamM 0272 808 477 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty LtdMREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

• Views and privacy• Only 3 minutes walk to Opito Bay sands• Reserves on two sides• Lots of space


Private north facing home

3 bedroom, single garaging. Close to boat ramp and school

Low maintenance3 bedroom, 2 bathroom homeGaraging with extra garage/mancave at back

Big high stud modern boat shed In good neighbourhoodClose to the beach

For Sale $349,000Viewharcourts.co.nz/wi21007Marie OsbornM 027 433 4027 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty LtdMREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

• North facing• Brick beauty• In Waterways location•4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2x living areas, 2x garaging

For Sale $739,000Viewharcourts.co.nz/ID# wi21002Katrina CarlyonM 021 724 200 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty Ltd MREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008


For Sale $286,000Viewharcourts.co.nz/wi21004Rob BallM 021 0238 9767 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty LtdMREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

3A Sarah Avenue

20 Waitotara Way

4 Seascape Avenue

9 Pipi Dune

• Quality apartment• Sea views•2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, complete furniture package• Holiday here and/or rent out!

For Sale $299,000Viewharcourts.co.nz/wi20907Peter MacGregorM 027 224 7332 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty Ltd MREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

For Sale $499,000Viewharcourts.co.nz/wi20981Marie OsbornM 027 433 4027 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty LtdMREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

128B Cook Drive

20B Crows Nest Apartment

14B Cooks Lookout

10 Hawk Hill Crescent, Cooks Beach

575 Mill Creek Road

119 Fagans Lane

1779 The 309 Road

20 Thompson Place

harcourts.co.nz Harcourts Whitianga71 Albert Street P 07 866 4981

Harcourts Tairua238 Main Road P 07 864 7822

7 Meadow Drive

1118 Purangi Road

Auction (10pt)Saturday XMonth 11.15am, on site View Wednesday 6.00 –6.30pm harcourts.co.nz/XXXXXXXX

Katrina CarlyonM 021 724 200 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty LtdMREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

AuctionFriday 22 April 20162pm, 71 Albert Street, WhitiangaViewharcourts.co.nz/wi21008

Seriously for sale by Auction! Ticking lots of boxes here. 842m2 site, 3 bdrooms, 2 car garaging, close to beach. Opportunity here- this could be yours!

Marie OsbornM 027 433 4027 P 07 866 4981Larsen Realty LtdMREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Auction (unless sold prior)Thursday 28 April 20161pm - 71 Albert Street, WhitiangaViewharcourts.co.nz/21009

Ferry Landing magic.Superb water views walkway to Front Beach close by. Generous decks to maximise views.

AUCTIONUNLESSSOLDPRIOR

AUCTION 22 APRIL 2016




The end of Daylight Saving - time to take stock


By Deli ConnellThis Sunday 3 April the clocks will go back at 3:00am… becoming 2:00am… making those early mornings a lot easier to deal with. The old serotonin levels will get a boost as the daylight hits the back of our retinae again… for a while at least. The result? A greater sense of wellbeing than we’ve been experiencing lately and less reliance on multiple cups of coffee to get going. On the other hand, the evenings will begin to draw in and after work walks and swims will rapidly become a thing of the past.

It’s a time for taking stock. Keen gardeners are harvesting the last of summer’s bounty, pulling out plants past their best and eyeing

the garden centres for their winter inspiration. We begin to look inwards too…

those living spaces where we will be spending more time over the colder months.

Perhaps digging out those warm throws, dusting off the crockpot and soup tureen

and splashing out on a couple of new cushions for watching movies

(and rugby…).Looking inwards should include our

bodies, taking stock and assessing the shape we’re in to combat inevitable winter ills and chills. Here’s a few of the best tips picked up from both conventional and complementary medicine -

Wash your hands. A timely reminder to big and small that this is the simplest thing you can do to prevent the transmission of germs… after the loo, before you eat, after a good sneeze… after touching all those door handles at work or school...

Drink plenty of water. It’s way easier when it’s warm weather… so how about herbal teas

(no sugar), lemon and honey or a jug of water in the fridge with citrus peel and/or mint to make it more palatable?Get seven or eight hours sleep every night. Recent research suggests that women need a little more than men. Good sleep helps your immune system, reduces stress and can help with maintaining a healthy weight.Use herbs and spices. Turmeric has had some good press lately… add to that ginger, garlic, cayenne, black pepper and all spice. I feel a curry coming on! All of these are said to have immune boosting qualities, along with many other benefits.Avoid antibiotics. Don’t ask for/insist on antibiotics… your Doctor will only prescribe them when they are absolutely necessary to fight a bacterial infection and then you must take the whole course as you are meant to. Many winter sicknesses will not be helped by antibiotics, but do seek your Doctor’s advice on what other measures you can take to alleviate your symptoms.Get some sun. And fresh air for that matter. Morning or afternoon sun (not midday) on your skin for 30 minutes can help your body to produce Vitamin D which helps your immunity… you’ll find Vitamin D in oily fish too.Up the Vitamin C. It’s an oldie but goody… eat citrus, kiwifruit, tomatoes, berries, capsicum and potatoes. Yes, spuds!Eat a balanced seasonal diet with whole foods. Source what’s in season as locally as you can… then you know it doesn’t have additives, hasn’t been canned or frozen

and hasn’t travelled far to your plate. Go for colourful fruit and vegetables - “eat the rainbow” if you can and throw in some good quality lean protein. Introduce nuts and good fats like avocado and oily fish for variety and their health-giving properties.Exercise. It’s a no-brainer… keeps you in shape, helps you sleep better and therefore boosts your immune system. You’ll be stronger, ready for next summer and, because of the happy hormones you create while exercising - called endorphins - mentally a

much happier person… even a walk on thebeach has benefits!

Have fun. It’s tempting to stay in and shut out the world, but socialising is important for relaxation, mental health and your immune system! Laughter really is the best medicine.

Don’t worry too much about the longer evenings coming to an end this weekend, Daylight Saving starts again on Sunday 25 September… yes, reason to smile, it’s less than six months away!

Less than six months and it’s Daylight Saving again. And with that spectacular Mercury Bay sunsets.



Tile & Grout restoration work including cleaning, repair work

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Pftone/txt Jack 021 775 118

Whitianga07 866 0070

• Spouting• Roofing• Water treatments systems• Septic tanks• Hot Water cylinders• New Housing• Alterations• General Maintenance• Solar water heating• All LPG gas installation

Rolla-Tilta-Sectional Garagesand custom made doors Sleepouts

Automatic Openers HousesWe service all Your design or oursmakes and models

Licensed building practitioners5 Year warranty on allnew doors and openers All concrete work

Ph 07 866 5544 or 027 493 2691 71a Cook Drive, Whitiangawww.hoylandcontracting.co.nz

The Fire Siren with SSO Derek CollierSponsored by Safety Safety + Apparel Tel 0800 726 726

The Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade has been fairly busy over the last month with a variety of calls.

We had a man decide to get rid of a wasp nest by pouring petrol on it and setting fire to it at midnight. Sounds funny, but the potential for disaster was very high and neighbours were rightly concerned.

We were called to back up Coromandel three times, but weren't required. We had a rubbish fire upsetting neighbours. We were also called to glass on SH 25 and had two Private Fire Alarm activations.

With all the rain we had, we were called to only one house with flooding and the wind again caused power wires to come down.



The increase in motor vehicle accidents is of great concern to us. We were called to four over the last month and in one case we had to cut a lady out of her car. This is a scenario that the brigade is continuously training for and we have just had four of our newer members do a motor vehicle accident course to improve their skills.

Our Road Crash Rescue team that competes are always training and if anyone out there has an old car they don't need, we are always in need of them to

practise on.Remember if you can't be

good at least be careful.Senior Station

Officer Derek Collier

http://www.hoylandcontracting.co.nz/


What’s On the next few weeks Sponsored by Dive Zone Whitianga Tel (07) 867 1580

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Op-ShopsSocial 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 toSaturday 8:30am - 12:30pm.St John Opportunity Shop, Coghill Street (east of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm, Saturday 9:00am - 2:00pm. Phone 869 5416.Justice of the PeaceEvery Monday 10:00am - 12:00 noon at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. Phone 866 4476 for more information.Mercury Bay Community BusAvailable 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 BikingRoad 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 GroupMeet every Sunday at 9:00am at Taylor’s Mistake, Whitianga. Short 45 minute cycle and coffee. Phone Bryan on 022 155 8944 for more information.“Whitianga Movers and Losers” (the Old WW’s)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.Mercury Bay Community ChoirMeets every Monday from 6:00pm - 8:00pm in the Mercury Bay Area School music room. Non-auditioned. New members welcome. Contact Kate Nielsen on telephone 866 2573 or (027) 270 9058 for more information.SeniorNet Whitianga IncorporatedClasses 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 ToastmastersMeet Tuesdays from 6:30pm - 8:00pm at the Whitianga Art Centre, School Road, Whitianga. Competent Leadership - listening, critical thinking, giving feedback, time management, motivating people, mentoring and team building. Phone Merle on 866 0240 or (021) 0241 9368 for more information.Scottish Country DancingEvery Monday 7:00pm - 9:00pm in the Whitianga Town Hall. Phone Anthea on 866 4516 for more information.St John CadetsMeet every Monday from 6:30pm - 7:30pm at the St John Ambulance Station, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Beth on(07) 869 5294 or (021) 241 9757 for more information.Mercury Bay Table TennisEvery Tuesday 9:30am - 11:30am at the Whitianga Town Hall. All welcome. Phone Pat or Neville on 867 1447 for more information.Mercury Bay BadmintonEvery Wednesday 9:30am - 11:00am at the Whitianga Town Hall. All welcome. Phone Diane on 027 246 1915 for more information.Whitianga Senior Citizens ClubMeet 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-UpMeet 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.Whitianga Toy LibraryIsabella Street (off Coghill St), Open Wednesday 2:30pm - 4:00pm and Friday 10:00am - 11:30am. New members welcome.Whitianga Art GroupMeet every Thursday and Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm, at the Art Centre in School Road, Whitianga. New members welcome. Phone Rose on 022 139 2968 or Maryanne on 866 4099 for more information.Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling ClubEvery Thursday evening at 6:45pm in the Whitianga Town Hall. New members always welcome. Phone Alan on 866 4024 or Doreen on 866 5237 for more info or just come along.Kuaotunu Rudolf Steiner Kindergarten Pumpkin and Harvest FestivalSaturday 2 April from 2:00pm - 8:00pm at Cemetery Road, Kuaotunu. Music, games and food. Giant pumpkin weigh-in at 2:30pm, prize-giving at 4:30pm. Phone 866 0094 for more information.Cancer Society’s Living Well ProgrammeThursday 7 and Friday 8 April from 10:00am - 2:30pm at the Mercury Bay Boating Club, Buffalo Beach Road, Whitianga. A free programme for anyone with cancer, as well as their whanau and carers. For more information or to register phone or email Penny Parsons on telephone (0800) 22 7744 or email [email protected] Drumming WorkshopSaturday 9 and Sunday 10 April at the Mercury Bay Area School Drama Room. Saturday from 11:00am (16 plus) and 3:00pm (children). Sunday from 11:30am (16 plus) and 10:00am (children) The second of three weekend workshops. More information from Judy Evans, email [email protected] or telephone (027) 282 4636 (after hours). A Creative Mercury Bay initiative.A Taste of MatarangiSaturday 9 April from 10:00am - 4:30pm at the Village Green, Matarangi. Stalls and live entertainment. Tickets $15 adult, $5 child, $30 family - available from www.atasteofmatarangi.co.nz, the Whitianga i-SITE and Richardsons Real Estate Matarangi.Church ServicesMercury Bay Co-Operating ParishSt Andrews by the Sea Community Church, 9:30am every Sunday worship service and kids friendly Bible sessions, Albert Street, Whitianga.Anglican ServicesSt Peter the Fisherman, 9:30am Sunday services. All are welcome, Dundas Street, Whitianga.Crossroad Encounter Fellowship10:00am every Sunday, cnr Joan Gaskell Drive and Cook Drive, Whitianga.St Patrick’s Catholic ChurchWeekend 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 Church10:00am every Sunday, children’s programme, 112 Cook Drive, Whitianga, tel 866 4027.C3 Whitianga10:00am every Sunday, children’s programme, 23 Coghill Street, Whitianga, email [email protected] 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. Children’s programme. Phone 021 277 2126 for more information.Seventh Day AdventistsHome study group. Phone Laurie/Lois on 866 2808 for more information.




http://www.atasteofmatarangi.co.nz/




Welcome to our world

Phone: 07 866 2413 Mobile: 027 404 8941

E: [email protected] W: www.williselectrical.co.nz

Paul WillisRegistered Electrician

Willis Electrical

Electrical installations and maintenance

DOMESTIC | COMMERCIAL | INDUSTRIAL

Ph 07 866 0937Mob 021 063 8367

••••

Noel Hewlett and his wife Nicola first arrivedin Whitianga 34 years ago. They came from Auckland and bought the local supermarket. There was only one supermarket at the time, and it didn’t have a fancy “scan-it-yourself” system, where you can go in, get your shopping and leave again without speaking to anyone.

It was a very personal business, where you knew the customers and they knew you.

The locals wondered who this flash bloke from the Big Smoke was with his tie and a name tag on his shirt and they started a sweepstake on the wall of the hotel. It asked the question, “How long will the Hewletts last?” Bets were placed on when they would pack up and move out of town.

The sweepstake was taken down two years later. The Hewletts themselves were the ultimate winners, along with the town itself, which has had the benefit of their contribution to the community for more than thirty years.

Not only are the Hewletts still here, but Noel is launching a fresh idea for welcoming new people coming to Mercury Bay. “I’d like to try and extend the hand of friendship, to let people know right from the start that we welcome their contributions, their ideas and the skills they might have brought with them.”

Noel says that Whitianga has been good to him and Nicola and they have made some

great friends over the years. “We got a chuckle out of the sweepstake, because although we

had come from Auckland, I’m originally from Otorohanga. Living in a small town again was almost like going home. We were here to stay.”

He says they also tried to make a positive difference to the way things work. “Within four

years of arriving here I was president of the

Business Association. We got involved in church as well as the service clubs and with three young children the school was an important part of the mix. I also became a member of the Community Board and then later-on a district councillor.

That was more than 16 years ago and nowNoel’s new initiative, which he is launching

through the Social Committee of the Whitianga Lions Club, is a group called “Welcome to Our World.”

Noel says that one of the reasons for settingup the group is that Whitianga is a relatively

isolated community and for some people that isolation can end up leaving them feeling alone and without any connections to the people in the Mercury Bay area. “The other key reason is that we are open to new ideas, to positive change and to inviting the energy and new skill sets that people are capable of bringing with them.

“We want to hear from you about why youcame to Whitianga.”A steering committee has been set up in

conjunction with the Lioness Club of Mercury Bay to organise a welcome get together for newcomers to the area.

Noel says that it’s not about them tellingnewcomers how it is in Mercury Bay and

laying down a set of rules. “The new group will be very informal. We have prepared a welcome leaflet with a bunch of things that people can enjoy in the area, but that’s about as formal as it gets.

“We just want people to feel welcome and totake in what the area has to offer.”Everybody is welcome to attend the first

get-together at the Monkey House theatre in Coghill Street, Whitianga on Sunday 10 April at 5:00pm.

Noel and Nicola Hewlett, Whitianga locals for 34 years. Noel is launching through the Whitianga Lions Club a new initiative welcoming people to Mercury Bay.




http://www.williselectrical.co.nz/


ACROSS1. Child absconders5. Indonesian isle7. Post of doorway8. And so forth (2,6)9. Congenital12. Mode of transport15. Seat divider19. Lyrics21. Makes shipshape (6,2)22. Carnival23. Lengthy story24. Eden

DOWN1. Renew membership of2. Beer colour3. In advance4. Feed from breast5. Water scooter (3,3)6. N American tribe10. Edge of hat11. Great Lake10. Animal physician11. Humans, ... sapiens12. Castro’s land13. Eases off14. Back of eye15. Recaps (4,2)16. Large property17. Adder18. Imprisoned

Last week’s solution

UK Style Crossword© Lovatts Puzzles

Last week’s winner - Neil Masters

Mobility equipment available for locals or visitors.Walking frames, crutches, walking sticks and mobility scooters

Phone Roger on 07 867 1986 for more information

UK Puzzle 682

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 [email protected] 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.

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The annual Town Garage Sale - have we got a deal for you!Is it the thrill of the chase… that one-off chance of finding a “jewel” in the dust? Or is it practicality beckoning you to set up a house or flat? Or are you, perhaps, the “work- shoppy” type looking for that one “bit” that will complete the drill set, the go-kart project, fix up the old girl (car, I mean)? Or… is it just the lure of ferreting through someone else’s stuff?

Why is other people’s stuff way more interesting and exciting than our own? I’m sure there will be a psychologist’s report somewhere to attest to that and perhaps explain it.

Conversely… is it time to purge? Do you need to let go of that stuff you’ve been hanging on to for months/years in the hope that “one day” it might come in handy?

Whatever your motivation and/or budget… have we got a deal for you! The annual Informer Whitianga Town Garage Sale is happening again on Queen’s Birthday Weekend this year (Saturday 4 to Monday 6 June). It’s a tradition now in its 8th year with the $15 registration fee being donated to a charity chosen by the Mercury Bay Area School primary school student leaders each year.

We promote the garage sale widely and print a map of all the sales in our issue before Queen’s Birthday Weekend. When you register, you need to tell us the times and days you wish to hold your sale, which may be any or all of the Saturday, Sunday and Monday… it’s totally up to you.

Last year 45 garage sales were registered and, like pirates armed with a treasure map, a steady procession of cars and people did the rounds around Whitianga to grab their bargains.

Garage or yard sales are a long-standing tradition, we’ve learned. There is debate on when the first ones were held, but it seems the practice is attributed to the dockside as early as the 1500s. Ships plying regular trading routes would offload unclaimed and excess cargo and sell these at the docks at a greatly discounted rate.

The word “romage” is, in fact, a nautical term describing the way cargo is packed into the hold. Over time this has evolved/morphed and has become synonymous with the term “rummage” which, being a completely separate word in its own right, means to “search unsystematically

and untidily.”A couple of centuries later or so, such sales

moved to community centres like churches and town halls and really began to take off. Today they’re in our own garage or front yard or out of the back of our car boot and are also a feature of school galas.

There are some well-publicised incidents of real treasure being found at garage sales… like the $5 sketch sold at a yard sale in the US, which turned out to be an Andy Warhol original worth in excess of $2 million!

My personal favourite is the very uninspiring ceramic bowl (looked like something you’d pick up ten of on sale at Briscoes) that a family in New York bought for $3. It turned out it was a 1,000 year old Chinese bowl valued at $2.2 million. I have to admit this doesn’t happen very often… you can but dream.

So start sorting now. The rule of thumb is if you haven’t used it in a year or it’s not of great sentimental value, then let it go. And they tell us it’s great therapy to have a clear out!

Don’t forget to email us or pop into our office in Whitianga in the next six weeks to register your sale. We’ll be printing reminders, so we can all look forward to a good rummage!

This year the Informer Town Garage Sale will coincide with the inaugural Mercury Bay Music Festival which, it is anticipated, will bring lots of extra folks to town. There should be a real buzz in Whitianga this Queens’ Birthday Weekend.

By Deli Connell

Mercury Bay Area School students Ella and Cody Scott at their family’s garage sale during Queen’s Birthday Weekend last year.




Last week’s winner - Jan Apps

Sudoku

3

26 87

1 4 9

5

Fishing ReportSponsored by H&M Pascoe Tel 0274 852 046

Mercury Bay Service Station5 Monk Street

Whitianga Phone : 07 866 5485Fuel, LPG Refill, Bait, Tackle, Ice, Lubricants,

Auto Parts We also do Diesel delivery to Wharf and Farms

Sudoku Puzzle 682

Name:

Tel no:

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. Deliver or mail or scan and email your entry to The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk St, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or [email protected] to reach us by 6:00pm Monday each week. The weekly prize is one butter chicken combo (including rice and a poppadom) from Hurry 4 Curry, Whitianga. The winner must please claim his/her prize from Hurry 4 Curry directly.

Striped marlin are known as a “highly migratory species,” essentially meaning they travel large distances, usually reliant somewhat on currents as they follow their food.We never really know what is going to turn up, but in a pattern that seems to be similar up north, our catch records show that 66 per cent of striped marlin reported caught at our club this year weighed 90kg or less, compared with 45 per cent last year and 37 per cent the year before.Fish reported to weigh between 90 and 110kg made up just 13 per cent of the catch, half of last year’s 26 per cent and the year before it was 34 per cent of the total catch.The number of fish caught that were reported to weigh 110kg or more has remained reasonably static for the last three years.With access to more data, no doubt the reasons for the significant increase in smaller fish caught will be debated in the future, but for now we are pleased to be having such a bumperseason with more than two thirds of the striped marlin caught by our club members being tagged and released to fight again.In the photo is Maria Edwards with an outstanding 170kg striped marlin she caught during our trailer boat tournament three weeks ago.Tight lines, Alan


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Ella Tomkins achieves in Southland and again at homeBy Len SaltOne of the bonuses of what we get to do here at the Informer is being able to follow the progress of talented young people through the stages of their sporting, academic and artistic achievements. This is exciting stuff, especially when the names of school students start appearing in the results of national competitions.

Ella Tomkins is one Mercury Bay Area School student whose name has consistently been at the top of the school swimming sports results. Through the summer she trains three times a week at the Mercury Bay Community Pool and usually competes in the Mercury Bay Swimming Club’s race nights on Wednesdays. In winter she travels to Thames twice a week to train in their covered pool. She is also a member of the Thames Valley Swim Academy.

Recently Ella was picked to represent Waikato in two relays in in the 15 year old age group in the Swimming New Zealand Division 2 Nationals held in Invercargill from 9 to 12 March. The 4 x 50m freestyle relay team she was part of won bronze and her 4 x 50m medley team came first equal in the final.

Ella also qualified for four individual events in the Division 2 Nationals in the 15 year old age group and made it through to three of the finals. She went on to achieve

a fourth place in the 100m butterfly, a fifth place in the 50m butterfly and a sixth place in the 50m freestyle. In her fourth event, the 100m freestyle, she qualified 9th which put her in first reserve position for the final in that event.

Ella was very close to picking up a medal in an individual event in Invercargill, but coming home with a bronze and joint gold from the team relays was a significant achievement and certainly puts her on the right path for future competitions.

As if that wasn’t enough, Ella and her mother, Gilly, who’s also her coach, arrived home after an exhausting week in Southland on Monday 14 March, just in time for Ella to represent Mercury Bay Area School the following day at the Thames Valley Schools Triathlon competition in Cooks Beach. Ella left all competition in her tracks and won the 15 year old age group convincingly.

Gilly says that both she and Ella’s father Graham are incredibly proud of their daughter. “Hopefully Ella’s achievements will show that swimmers from a summer only club can compete on the national stage.”

Talking to Ella about her goals in the swimming pool, she says that last year she wanted to qualify for the Division 2 Nationals in the 14 year old age group. This year she

wanted to make the finals at the Division 2 Nationals in the 15 year old age group in some of the individual events. She has achieved these goals.

Next year, as a 16 year old, she wants to win medals at the Division 2 Nationals or, even better, qualify for the New Zealand Age

Group Championships (the top New Zealand junior swimming competition, a step up from the Division 2 Nationals).

We have little doubt that Ella will achieve her goals for next year. For us, here at The Informer, it’s a bonus to follow her progress in the swimming pool.

Mercury Bay Area School star swimmer Ella Tomkins in the swimming pool.

Photo by Marie Relph.




Name:

Tel no:

Go in the draw to win a package of Mercury Bay delights (including restaurant, cafe and attraction vouchers). Hand deliver or mail or scan and email your entry to The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga or PO Box 426, Whitianga or [email protected] to reach us by 6:00pm Monday each week. The winner will be drawn in July 2016 and will be notified by phone. No correspondence will be entered into once the winner has been notified. Conditions apply.

Observer Puzzle 682

Across1 Physicist showing new path he’s

worked out with chess piece (7,7)9 So marsh, except for odd parts,

happens to be fertile spot (5)10 Carnivore in rage, very unhappy,

coming back with new energy (9)11 Increasing taxation initially

relatingto jewellery (8)

12 Most unusual depth in poem by saint (6)

14 End of annual period aroundChristmas (4)

15 Dignified arrangement of a quest setup without pressure (10)

18 Fruit began to go rotten invehicle (10)

19 Search with horse covering miles (4) 21 Meal, excellent, quietly consumed (6) 23 On the whole exhausted before

melodrama’s last lines (3,2,3)25 Passed area in open range (9)26 Material from speech in order (5) 27 Crime writer’s odd gems one

ignores (7,7)

Everyman Cryptic Crossword© The Observer


Down1 Print lingo boss translated for football

team (8,6)2 Point for example about registration

mark’s hidden feature (6,3)3 Trouble with fluttering lashes (6)4 Occasionally negative, therefore

receiving stick (3,3,4)5 Clever chart from which temperature

is taken (4)6 Very involved requirement in

store (4-4)7 Sound from hooter, overwhelming

one (5)8 Get through election mostly

workingfor high-flying data collector (7,7)13 Plots beginning to subvert Conservative policies (10)

16 Extract estimate of cost (9)

17 Doctor cares not for predecessor (8)

20 Funny series? Some miss it completely (6)

22 Bit quiet, vocally (5)24 King unknown in middle of

desert island (4)

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A long day at the office

Three yachts started in the Mayor Island Race of the Mercury Bay Boating Club on Easter Friday morning. The conditions were virtually no wind and, with a heavy fog, no visibility.The yacht JJ (skippered by Mike Phear) reached Mayor Island first in a time of 12 hours 30 minutes. Pterodactyl (Carl Reinsfield) took 13 hours and Kahurangi (Stue Crockart) took 15 hours 45 minutes.That’s a long day at the office. Congratulations to the skippers and their crews for the effort.





Brain Teaser Puzzle 682

Name:

Tel no:

Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Cafe in Whitianga. 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 [email protected] to reach us by 6:00pm Monday each week. The winner must please claim his/her prize from Espy Cafe directly before the Wednesday of the week following the issue in which he/she was announced the winner.

Last week’s solution - Vaki

Last week’s winner - Athol Hansen

Brain Teaser - Magic Squares© Lovatts Puzzles

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.





HOUSE WASHING 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.

Buildings. Boats. Fences. Wood. Concrete. Metal.Call Drew Edwards - The Chemwash Man

Mobile: 0274 375 578 a/h 07 867 8493

TAIRUA INDOOR BOWLING CLUBJohn Mooney Cup - Monday 21 MarchFour mats were required and some good games were on show.Winners - Ray Bruce, Ron Annan and Bronwyn Williamson. Runners-Up - Joan Smith, John Boon, Beryl Burrows and Jan Spinley.Chocolate Fish Award - Sandra Morris, Carol Thompson and Frank Gosling.Raffles were won by - Terry Hefferan, Peter Carverhill, Sandra Morris, Johnny Morrison, Georgie Matchett, Beryl Burrows, David Wilkinson and Shirley Pedersen.MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUBThursday 24 MarchA very enjoyable club night with 23 players.Winners - Jim Hargreaves, Merle Ward and Wayne Fisher. Runners-Up - Norm Strong, Pat Fisher, Maree Denney and Judith Nicol.Good Sports - John Taberner, Max Nicol, Glynne Jackson and Dot Codyre.HAHEI BRIDGE CLUBPaku Pairs - Tuesday 22 MarchNorth/South - 1 Robyn Waters and Doreen Harris 57.64, 2 Chris Rendle and Bev Dickie 54.51, 3 Robyn Hogg and Anne Knowles 51.74.East/West - 1 Annette Cox and Ernie Pitchfork 57.94,2 Myra Hoogwerf and Annette Cummings 56.75, 3 Peter Hogg and Peter France 3rd, 53.57.MERCURY BAY CONTRACT BRIDGE CLUBHandicap Pairs Round 4 - Wednesday 23 March North/South - 1 Robyn and Pete Hogg 55.08, 2 Laura Scaglia and Giorgio Allemano 52.02, 3 Jenny Layton and Sue Gill 49.48,East/West - 1 Vivienne Leigh and Kate Palmano 60.32, 2 Ian Peden and Martin Lewis 56.31, 3 Val Lewis and Faye Smith 55.02.MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKERWednesday 23 MarchBest of three frames.A bigger field with eight players. No problem for Brian Codyre to overcome the opposition with three straight wins after a hard fought final against Peter Challis (two wins).

Also with two wins were Evan Hayward and Warren Bellingham.Highest Break - Wayne Bellingham 18.We farewelled Kevan Taylor who is heading back to his second home in Vancouver, Canada. He will return to Whitianga in December.MERCURY BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUBHandicap Match Play Round 2 - Saturday 26 March Those players not involved in the match play took part in a stableford scramble.The winner was Micky Henderson with 44 points, shooting 75 off a 12 handicap. Jon Heaphy from Whitford Park, Auckland shot a par round off a five handicap for 41 points. Third was Mister Canada Cup, Bruce Massie, with 39, followed by Kevan Miles on 38 and Michael Shilton (Hukanui), Bob Haase and Trevor Butler (Onewhero), all with 37 points. Paul Carson, a four handicapper from Manukau, Auckland had the only two to win six balls and also won the Nearest the Pin for the Senior Divison. The Junior Division was won by Jeffrey Dixon. Longest Drive Senior - Roger Booth, Junior - Paul Lupton.MERCURY BAY TENNIS CLUBMen’s Singles Championship - Tuesday 22 MarchBrett Candelaria def Kerry Healion 9-0.WHITIANGA PIG HUNTERS CLUBAnnual Prize-Giving - Sunday 20 MarchSenior Results - Heaviest Boar - 1 Harley Hanning 73.2kg, 2 Tom Boyd 71.5kg, 3 Tom and Thomas Boyd 70.35kg, Biggest Tusks - 1 Peter and Damon Macdonald, Pete Ngarimu and Clark Taylor 18 2/8”, 2 Lloyd McQueen, Jessie Lockhart and Jacinta O'Donahue 18”, 3 Equal Jesse Mathers and Adam Novis 17 2/8”, Average Weight - Jason Hayward 47.8kg, Aggregate Weight - Luke Findlay, Lady Hunter - Jessie Lockhart and Jacinta O'Donahue 51.8kg, Goat Shield - Shaydon Richards.Junior Results - Heaviest Boar - 1 Leroy Sloane 77.8kg, 2 and 3 Carter and Caitlyn Hodge 67.4kg and 67.3kg, Biggest Tusks - 1 Aria and Riley-Jean Macdonald and Tia Ngarimu 18 2/8”, 2 Reo and Stella McQueen, Louie and Samantha Morgan and Stormi-Lee Whitford 18”, 3 Caitlyn and Carter Hodge 16 6/8”, Lindsay Arnold Under 14 Up and Coming Trophy - Trinity McQueen, Annual Young Hunter - Leroy Sloane.

Sport Results

The Mercury Bay Tennis Club men’s singles championship finalists for 2016, Kerry Healion (left) and Brett Candelaria.

Harley Hanning, winner of the Heaviest Boar prize at the annual prize-giving of the Whitianga Pig Hunters Club.




Tricky Trees

Call Chris 021 240 9909

• Pruning• Felling• Stump grinding• Firewood

• Hedge maintenance• Crown reductions• Difficult removals• Chip waste to mulch

MIKE’S MOWING$25 empty sections,

fortnightly or monthly mowing.

Free edge spraying. Free quotes.

Phone Mike or Deb 866 4678 or 027 320 1703.

Classifieds and Public Notices

DAVE’S DRAINAGEDrainlaying

Public & Private1.8 Ton Digger Hire

30 Years Experience Free Quotes or Advice

Call Dave 027 727 0348 [email protected]

WORK WANTED

HOUSE WASHINGDetergent Soft Wash, Roof Clean/Treatment,

Window Cleaning.Phone Russell Short

on 866 2097or 0273 602 937.

OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE

WHITIANGA TOY LIBRARYIsabella Street (off Coghill St)

Open Wednesday 2:30pm - 4:00pm and Friday 10:00am - 11:30am.

New members welcome.~Toys for Hire~

WHITIANGA SENIOR CITIZENS CLUBEaster Raffle ResultsDrawn 26 March 2016.

1st Prize Yellow Clubs No D40 - Tom Costello

2nd Prize Yellow Clubs No D91 - Roly Chaney

3rd Prize Orange Clubs No D98 - Yvonne Peachey

Thank you to all who supported us and to New World Whitianga for

allowing us to use their foyer.

MEAT PACKERWe have an exciting opportunity for someone with great customer service to join our Butchery Team as a Meat

Packer.The successful applicant will work well with others and be

able to exceed our customers’ expectations daily.Along with this, must be able to work unsupervised.

Experience preferred, but not essential.To apply for this opportunity, please call into the store for

an applicationform or email [email protected].

Applications close 8th April 2016.

WHITIANGA TOY LIBRARYAnnual General Meeting Wednesday 13 April 2016

7:00pmWhitianga Social Services

Community Rooms, 2 Cook Drive. All members encouraged to attend.

RnR EVENTSInvite Charities, Trusts and Not for Profit groups that would like to

apply to be the beneficiary of the 2016 Whitianga Charity Ball to please [email protected] for an application

form. RnR Events supports groups fundraising for projects that benefit the

community.Applications close on Wednesday 6th of

April.The Charity Ball will be held in Whitianga

in October - date to be confirmed.

OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASESeveral sizes available in

Central Whitianga.Phone 027 477 0132.

HOLIDAY/SHORT TERM ACCOMMODATION

Prime location in Whitianga. Close to beach and shops.

Phone Rob on (0274) 926 773.

HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATIONSPACE WANTED

Do you have an unused garage or sleepout which would be suitable for an

artist’s studio?Minimum 10m², good

light, no dust, electricity.

Whitianga or Hahei area. Required 4-6

months.Please call 021 254

5167.

Duty Manager for The Pour House, Hahei, The Coromandel Wanted - A Manager with Passion for Great Hospitality!

The New Zealand beer industry has changed tremendously over the last five years with the craft beer scene going crazy. At The Pour House we have one simple aim... to serve the best NZ beers (ours and others) with simple,

high quality food in our unique bar and garden in Hahei at the start of the beautiful Cathedral Cove Walk.

We are looking for that special someone who has a passion for managing our business like your own. Being multi-lingual will be an advantage.

If you have a positive, fun personality, love hospitality and think that you can offer us what we need, then we would love to hear from you.

In return we will offer you a good rate of pay with relevant bonuses, opportunities to provide input, ongoing training and a dynamic place to work.

If you want to be part of The Pour House family in one of the coolest little bars in the Coromandel, then contact us now.

Email your CV to us at: [email protected] contact Karen via email for a detailed job description.

HEAD CHEF REQUIREDFor busy restaurant.

Please call Marlene on (027) 659 8111.

ACCOMMODATION WANTED2-3 BDRM HOUSE, long term rental, Cooks Beach/Ferry Landing area, professional couple, very tidy and reliable. Ph: 027 226 6480

ARTIST’S SPACE WANTED

SITUATIONS VACANT

HUGE BOUNCY CASTLE, $100 on site.FREE BBQ and playground facilities. Ph: 866 0038, www.combatzone.co.nz.

WORK WANTED

FOR HIRE

TOY LIBRARY

PUBLIC NOTICES

MERCURY BAYRUGBY & SPORTS CLUBCalling all interested players for the Senior B team.Training Tuesday and

Thursday 6:30pm atLyon Park, Whitianga.

Just turn up. First game Saturday 9 April.

Phone Donutt (coach) on

(027) 648 6550 for more information.








http://www.combatzone.co.nz/


NATUROPATH MEDICAL HERBALIST

RegisteredTake out the guess work,

trust your health professional Leanne Halliwell

0274 588 626 or 07 866 5899

Classifieds and Public NoticesFOR SALE

HOME BREW SUPPLIESJoin our discount club.

Mercury Bay Pharmacy

HEALTH SERVICE

CATTERIES

KRISTIN’S BOARDING CATTERYVet nurse, warm, clean, secure, outdoor run.

Phone 866 4724.

COURIER SERVICE

READINGS

POLES, Do you need S.E.D H5 poles for retaining or house foundations?Timber and poles all lengths available. Oriental trellis made to order.MB Timber & Fencing Supplies225 South Highway. Ph: (07) 866 2457

PSYCHIC READINGS SPIRITUAL

HEALINGText Verna 027 320 0079

vernacarrspiritualhealing.com

VEHICLES FOR SALE

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 1182or come in to

233 South Highway, Whitianga.

FIREWOODPINE - almost dry $80

CYPRESS - almost dry $90 CYPRESS - dry $110

Free delivery Whiti-Matarangi minimum order 2m³

Phone Chris 021 240 9909

SMALL COTTAGE AVAILABLE FOR LONG-TERM RENTALSuit single person or quiet couple.

Five minute walk to town, plenty of storage, private backyard, $230 per week.Email - [email protected].

BOAT FOR SALECarol-ANN II at Marina, D22. Owner deceased.

As is offers.Phone 027 497 2735.

BOATS WANTED

3 BDRM HOME, double garage, long term, references required, $300 a week, 3 weeks bond. Ph: 0274 751 528STORAGE SHEDS Whitianga Total Storage opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & HOMES FOR RENT

“Our expertise in property management will ensure your investment property is well looked after. You can just sit back and relax. We also offer a selection of qualityrental homes for tenants.”We welcome your enquiry at7 The Esplanade (by the wharf).Robyn Turner 866 0098 or 027 550 [email protected]

Licensed under the REAA2008

FOR SALEMobility Scooter,

excellent condition, $900 ono.

Electric wheel chair, excellent condition, $900 ono.

For further information, please

contact Peter Weeks (07) 864 8381.

FIREWOODDry pine, shed stored, $90.00 m³,

free delivery Whitianga, Kuaotunu, Matarangi, Opito.

Phone Max on(07) 867 1361 or (0274) 958 033.

2003 MERCEDES C180, Kompressor Sports, immaculate, $9,899, 149,300km, serviced regularly, 2 owners. Ph: 866 0422

TO LET

CHURCH SERVICESANGLICAN SERVICES

St. Peter the Fisherman Dundas Street, Whitianga Sunday Service:

9:30am ALL WELCOME

Enquiries Ph 869 5577www.anglicanchurchwhitianga.co.nz

ST ANDREWS BY THE SEAPresbyterian/

MethodistCommunity

Church (opposite the

Z Service Station, Whitianga) Sunday

Worship 9:30am Come, join the

family of God!www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz

MOTORHOME FOR SALE

BOAT FOR SALE

12 Toyota RAV4, auto, 4WD, 2.4l, red, 19,900 BBQ connection $75,00008 Mitsubishi Fuso 4 Berth Motorhome, 3.9lt turbo 07 Suzuki Swift Glxh, NZ new, 5 spd, 57kms $9,900

diesel, 190kms, 5 spd, self-contained, solar panel, 06 Nissan Pulsar Q, H/B, 1.8, 5spd, t/bar, alloys $6,900 05 Toyota Corolla S/W, 1.8, Auto, 47,000kms $10,900

19 Campbell Street, Whitianga www.coastalautos.co.nz




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Good performance by Mercury Bay equestrian teams

On Wednesday last week three Mercury Bay equestrian teams participated in the Thames Valley show jumping competition in Thames. The riders and their horses performed exceptionally well with Kelly Evanson placing third overall on points in Ring 1 and the Ring 1 team coming second overall.In the individual events, the team members achieved as follows - 50cm - Olivia Brown-Douglas 4th and Sage Mayo 8th.60cm - Kelly Evanson 2nd and Sage Mayo 6th.70cm - Kelly Evanson 4th, Olivia Brown-Douglas 5th and Sage Mayo 6th. 80cm - Renee Hazelton 8th and Baylee Wooldridge 10th.90cm - Renee Hazelton 8th and Baylee Wooldridge 10th. 1m - Baylee Wooldridge 9th.Tip and Out - Alana Howat 4th (Ring 1 team) and Amelia Lockhart and Renee Hazelton 2nd equal (Ring 2 team).Pictured are the team members, from left to right - Amelia Lockhart and Miss Bubbles, Renee Hazelton and Wildfire Warrior, Baylee Wooldridge and Cooper, Hannah Trebes and River, Jazlyn Sloane and DJ, Sage Mayo and Mystic River, Olivia Brown-Douglas and Brydie, Alana Howat and Beauty and Kelly Evanson and Cha-Cha. Photo by Shannon Gregory.

According to Stuart Arnold, chief fire officer of the Matarangi Volunteer Rural Fire Force, their annual fishing competition that was held on Easter Saturday was the best yet. The competition is the fire force’s biggest fundraiser every year.“We had 54 boats participating this year. We also had 18 kids fishing from the wharf. More than 150 people attended the the fish auction after the competition and they were keen to bid. On top of that, our raffle - a two stroke five horse power Mercury engine, inflatable life jackets, a cooler bag, a few litres of oil, a safety pack and a cutting board, all sponsored by Mercury Marine - was very well supported.“All the prizes we handed out at the prize-giving were sponsored. The competition would never be such a success without the support we get from the Mercury Bay business community and business owners from further afield who have a connection with Matarangi.“Overall we’re very pleased with how the competition went this year.” Pictured is Stuart with Kate Rogerson, the winner of the kids’ competition.

Matarangi Fire Force fishing competition the best yet




Local Weekend Events in Mercury Bay, Whitianga, Tairua, Pauanui

News & Politics

Transcript of Local Weekend Events in Mercury Bay, Whitianga, Tairua, Pauanui