RAGLAN Chronicle 1

Whaingaroa news for you weekly

14th January 2010 - Issue #228Proudly brought to you by

Raglan CHRONICLE

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2 RAGLAN Chronicle

dining guide

Contact: Administrator Jan Mitchell ph 825 5122

A warmwelcome

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RAGLAN UNION CHURCH3 Stewart Street

Sunday Service* 10am - 11am* Communion every 4th Sunday* Kids Club: Mondays 3pm-4.30pm

Opportunity Shop Saturday in the Hall

9am - 11.30am

CHURCH OFFICE Ph: 825 - 8276

SUNDAY SERVICES10am Raglan Area School

7pm Te Uku Church

Pastor Roger Peartph 07 825 5199

www.surfside.co.nz

Raglan Ink Ltd home of the Raglan ChronicleOffice Open Mon - Fri 9am - 4.00pm, Wainui Rd, Raglan

Ph: (07) 825-7076 Fax: (07) 825-7078 Post: P.O. Box 234, Raglan Email: raglan.chronicle@xtra.co.nz

Advertising & Articles The advertising and editorial content deadline will be Monday at 12pm week of issue.DISCLAIMER

Opinions and views expressed in the Raglan Chronicle do not necessarily represent those held by the Editors or Publishers. Every care will be taken in the preparation and placement of submitted material but the Editors/Publishers shall not be liable for errors or omissions or subsequent effects due to the same. It is the submitters responsibility to ensure material is not libelous or defamatory. The Editors/Publishers reserve the right to abridge, alter or decline any material submitted to the Raglan Chronicle to meet the constraints of space and/or maintain a reasonable standard of language and decorum.

CoverNew Years Eve Fireworks display at Te Kopua Domain

Image courtesy of: Stuart Mackenzie

letter

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Aloha Market Place - Sushi Takeaway. 5 Bow Street..................................................... 825 7440

Burger Shack Organic. Takeaway. 35 Bow St................................................................825 8117

Costas Licensed Pizzeria. Dine in, Takeaway & Delivery. 2 Bow Street.......................... 825 0976

Te Kopua Camp Store. Takeaway.Te Kopua Domain......................................................825 8761

Harbour View Hotel. Dine in & Takeaway. 14 Bow Street..............................................825 8010

Marlin Cafe & Grill. Dine in. On the Wharf.................................................................. 825 0010

Nannies Takeaways. 35 Bow Street............................................................................. 825 8842

Orca Restaurant and Bar. Dine in & Takeaway. 2 Wallis St...........................................825 6543

Raglan West Store. Takeaways.45 Wainui Rd...............................................................825 8293

The Shack. Dine in or Takeaway. 19 Bow Street...........................................................825 0027

The Raglan Club. Dine in or Takeaway. 22-24 Bow Street............................................ 825 8278

Zaragoza . Restaurant. Cafe. Dine in & Takeaway. 23 Bow St.......................................825 0205

Should you wish to aquire any images from this weeks Chronicle - please contact us on 825 7076 or

email your request to info@raglanchronicle.co.nz

RAGLAN TRUSTHOSPITAL

27 - 29 Manukau Road Ph. 07 825 8306 Fax: 07 825 8855 Email: raglantrust@xtra.co.nz

Caring for the ones you love

1st, 3rd and 5th Saturdays in Raglan

2nd and 4th Saturdays in Te MataFurther information: Raglan 825 8135

Parish Priest Fr Anselm Aherne: Frankton 847 56 88

Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Parish

Mass from Christmas till the end of Januarywill be in the Raglan church

on Saturday evenings at 5 pm.

Visitors are very welcome.

Further information: Phone 825 8135

Fr Anselm Aherne: Frankton 847 5688

Dear EditorRaglan What a Great Place To Live! I have been lucky

enough to be invloved in some great community events, causes and fundraisers in Raglan where the generosity and spirit of this community has been hugely demonstrated. None of these prepared me for the wonderful and overwhelming atmosphere of the Community Christmas dinner at the Raglan Town Hall.

Whatever was anyone’s expectation I feel it would have been surpassed in every aspect. An enthusiastic stream of people were greeted and seated at tastefully and beautifully dressed Christmas tables set for the buffet awaiting. Backpackers miles from home, foreign families newly settled in Raglan and a hearty mix of locals, young families, Raglan elderley, couples and singles all filled the room, a buzz with Christmas joy. Entertainers Dave Maybee and local musicians together with Daves local amateur choir were joined by those seated for dinner in hearty carol singing.

Tables took their turn for the buffet which was an outstanding and ample presentation of delicious meats, seafood, vegetables, salads and home baked breads followed by a beautiful dessert selection. Chocolate lovers could eat their hearts out with healthy fresh fruit salads, trifles and Christmas cakes also a plenty. Little helpers were serving a festive punch, with a punch, a glass of wine or grape juice to enjoy throughout the dinner. And a SANTA or two managed to find their way to the Town Hall with small well selected gifts for all! The atmosphere of the Hall was festive and joyful and my daughers (bless their helpful little hearts) and I couldn’t have enjoyed Christmas day better.

To all the many local business people and ordinary Raglan folk behind the scenes, donating goods, food and time beforehand and on the day you ROCK! Colin Chung and his team of helpers prepared a feast fit for Kings and Dave Maybee and others provided entertainment throughout the day. As I roamed from table to table it was heart warming to see and hear what a good time was being had. As I understand, over 120 people were enjoying themselves. Organised and brought together by Raglan local Sue Oliver from a simple idea to have a Christmas dinner for the community, All Welcome, it couldnt have been more of a success.. The day was about Good Food and Good Company, and both of these were plentiful.Lorraine von Huben, Raglan..........more letters on page 9

RAGLAN Chronicle 3

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Less than a year on from the devastating fire which razed Raglan’s historic wharf precinct, a swanky new hotel of sorts has appeared at the wharf.

But nine months on from the big blaze the wharf’s still depressingly bare, and it was more a case of it giving berth than birth to the new venture last week when a large crowd gathered at dawn to watch the launching of Raglan’s own “floating hotel”.

Raglan couple Charlie Young and Erin Rogers - who in three months have taken their idea of a 15-metre “floatel” to fruition – see the venture as the beginning of bringing new life back to a wharf precinct which had been earning a reputation as a visitor destination in itself.

Ironically, says Charlie, the fire and the arrival of their giant catamaran both happened about the same time of the morning. But while “one thing passed away, another has been born”.

Charlie was on edge in the early hours of last Thursday as the Wahinemoe or “sleeping lady” – named after the one-time American couple’s Sleeping Lady Lodgings at Whale Bay – arrived by transporter from Tauranga where it was built by Mt Maunganui boatbuilder ‘Alloy Leisure Cats’.

The convoy of vehicles included two from Transpower, says Charlie, which turned power off and dropped lines to accommodate the three-deck boat’s height.

But all went according to plan as the twin-hulled pontoon-style vessel – with a shallow draught to access some of the harbours’ “hidden secrets” – was lifted by crane from the transporter to the boat cradle beside the wharf, from where

it was floated a few hours later on the incoming tide.

Meantime more than 20 people took part in the blessing of the boat by local kaumatua Sean Ellison, and the obligatory bottle of champagne was banged across the bow by Erin as she christened her the Wahinemoe.

Local artist Krishna Smith had designed the logo and developed a uniquely treated metal application for the boat’s nameplate.

Charlie told the crowd at the launch the Wahinemoe would provide a place to tell the story of the history and ecology of Whaingaroa Harbour as Raglan welcomed tourists to town.

Longtime resident and academic Angeline Greensill – daughter of the late Maori activist Eva Rickard – was among those on board during the boat’s first impromptu trip that morning, pointing out historic pa sites along the harbour shoreline.

The Wahinemoe is a “hybrid of a few things”, explains Charlie, operating as both a charter and a hotel. It can cater for up to 70 people on a two-hour evening cruise with barbecue and drinks.

The group would then be returned to the wharf giving up to 12 overnight guests an exclusive anchorage with full use of the floatel’s private amenities including a fireplace, an outside spa bath, large barbecue and a state-of-the-art TV and sound system.

“Waking up at sunrise watching the morning light cascading over Mt Pirongia and Mt Karioi will be a priceless experience,” says Erin.

“We think the harbour has been unheralded to date,” adds Charlie.

Overnight hire, including the cruise, starts at $499 per couple and $150 for each extra person. The boat has five crew members including two captains – the most senior of them Ian Hardie who’s been operating a small harbour cruise boat of his own for several years now.

The Wahinemoe cruised the harbour on its first group booking last Saturday night and welcomed its first floatel guests overnight on Monday. From Tuesday it was to be operating its regular evening cruises. Edith Symes

Raglan ‘floatel’ brings new life to wharf precinct

Owner Charlie Young, Angela Greensill and kaumatua Sean Ellison.

Raglan’s community involved in the launch of Wahinemoe last Thursday morning

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Barriers blocking Ken Brown’s way while tramping don’t stop him in his tracks, even if he is blind.

Ken climbs hills – mountains in fact – traverses steep gullies and embankments, crosses streams and even tackles the odd cave during his weekly dose of the great outdoors with Raglan Ramblers.

There are practical challenges and “limitations” to adjust to when you haven’t got sight, he admits, but that’s life. “Any barriers and I find a way over or under or around them.”

Ken, 59, and blind since the age of 14 months, says it’s the challenge of new things that inspire him – whether it’s tramping or life in general.

He came from Auckland to Raglan with his wife Julia two years ago and the couple got involved with Raglan Ramblers soon after, though had really only tackled a few tramps in the Waitakeres previously.

And even then, Ken admits, “if it (the walk) got too challenging we’d flag it”.

But he’s hardly missed a trip with the Ramblers, the first walking club he’s belonged to. He usually has Julia by his side, guiding him, and makes good use of his tramping stick to gauge for himself the terrain –the drops and widths of tracks, for instance. “It is a challenge not being able to see, but my senses are on full alert as to where I plant my feet.”

And his body, he reckons, works overtime to compensate for the lack of vision. “It’s taxing at the time but afterwards I feel great.”

Ken says he really enjoys being part of Raglan community, and joining the Ramblers has given him the chance to get to know locals like club stalwart John Lawson who now often takes over “guiding” him when the going gets tough.

John, he says, is strong enough to support him over difficult terrain and Ken trusts him implicitly. “I need a sure-footed companion.”

Ken counts the tramp across farmland to the back of Bridal Veil Falls as one of the highlights of his many Ramblers’ trips. There were so

4 RAGLAN Chronicle

Dr Oliver Russell Dr Gill Brady Dr Marcia Mitchley 10 Bankart Street, Raglan

Ken on one of his many tramps

Ken descending to underground cave

Nothing’s insurmountable for blind tramper

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many stones to negotiate, he remembers, it was like walking on marbles rolling underfoot and “really quite challenging”. The group lunched together at the falls before climbing the many steps back up to the roadway from where visitors access the spot.

Ken says that without sight, being close to running water or the sea is particularly refreshing.

Another couple of tramping highlights have been climbs both up Mt Te Aroha to the TV tower, via the gravel road rather than the track which was too difficult for Ken, and up Mt Karioi but not quite to the top because it got too slippery for him.

Ken wants to give Karioi another go, choosing a time when the track’s drier, and he also hopes to climb to the summit of Mt Pirongia, which is higher and more difficult again than Karioi. “But I will have to take my time.”

Meanwhile Ken’s got a different challenge ahead of him for the New Year. With a degree in theology and missionary work in Botswana behind him, he and Julia have – as of Christmas Day – started a church in Taipari Avenue’s Gospel Chapel which until now has not been used for services.

It’s a stone’s throw from their home where they’ve been running Raglan Christian Fellowship.

Although not officially ordained, Ken is the church leader or pastor and feels it’s one way he can “serve the community” that’s become part of his life.

Edith Symes

Near the summit of Mt Te Aroha

RAGLAN Chronicle 5

New campsites have sprung up about town as a bursting-at-the-seams Raglan and the town’s council-owned Kopua Holiday Park struggle to cope this summer with hordes of New Zealanders opting for the traditional Kiwi camping holiday.

With the 300-site town camp regularly chock-a-block over the Christmas-New Year break there’s been a steady stream of campers heading on to Maori land alongside Ocean Beach, Karioi Lodge at Whale Bay or a town backpackers which has also opened up its grounds.

At Ocean Beach, an amenities block previously used for music festivals has recently been refurbished to serve holidaymakers pitching tents or parking up vans in paddocks off Riria Kereopa Memorial Drive.

The trend was begun unofficially a few years back to allow descendants of that land to camp there over summer, says organiser Mana Forbes. But now the campsite has been opened up to all and sundry and visitors unable to find sites elsewhere are being

directed to the land, which is just a stone’s throw from Ocean Beach.

Others meanwhile have headed eight kilometres out to Whale Bay’s Karioi Lodge, which this summer has for the first time opened up four tent and nine campervan sites in response to the growing demand, says owner Charlie Young.

Back on the main drag into town, Te Whare Farm Backpackers has also been able to accommodate overflow campers on the flat lawn around its lodgings.

Te Whare owner Libby Daniels – who has years of experience in the backpacker industry – is convinced more Kiwis are travelling locally this year.

Libby reckons she’s had at times this summer up to 80 percent Kiwis staying, including families, which she believes is a reflection of the economic downturn. “It’s quite a noticeable shift,” she says.

Information Centre manager Anthea Jackson has also noticed many more Kiwis coming to town for short stays of three to four days. She says that’s quite a change on last year, which saw longer stays from more overseas visitors.

Raglan, she says, has been discovered by our own people – particularly Aucklanders, many who have never holidayed so close to home before. It’s good for the town, she adds, as these people will be the ones that return.

Meantime both Kopua Holiday Park – which can take up to 1000 campers – reports business booming as usual but showing signs early this week of slowing down a tad. It’s a similar story at Solscape eco retreat overlooking Manu Bay, which accommodates up to 80 backpackers and campers, including at its unique tipi retreat in the bush.

Both establishments say they’ve seen no troubles at all this year, with happy family campers the order of the day.

“A nice mellow atmosphere,” is how Kopua Holiday Park manager Rob Clark describes this summer holiday season – his ninth at the council-owned camp.

Meantime Raglan police, whose numbers have been bolstered by a couple of extras from Huntly and Hamilton during the past few weeks, say that despite some big crowds in town there’s been no trouble to speak of.

In fact one of the ring-ins, Constable Craig Hedges, joked to the Chronicle this week he’d almost got to go back to Huntly for “some real work”.

Out at Ngarunui, Raglan Surf Life Saving Club’s been kept busy with 600-plus typically on the beach each day, says club president Anne Snowden. Rips have been appearing “out of nowhere” an hour before and after low tide and need to be watched, she adds.

Festivities during the Christmas/New Year holiday break included the ever-popular New Year’s Eve parade, which despite some grumblings about confusion over its start time drew an enthusiastic and bumper crowd into town.

Then at midnight the sky was aglow as hundreds gathered at the Bow Street jetty and lined the Kopua footbridge to watch and cheer a 10-minute fireworks display to see in the new year. The display, coordinated from the beach at Kopua Domain, was funded by Wel Networks and Raglan Cultural Events Trust.

Edith Symes

Waikato District Council is cracking down on dogs downtown and across at Kopua Domain this summer after complaints up to 100 a day have been on the loose and posing a health hazard to Raglan holidaymakers.

Maori warden John Bishop was fuming over the Christmas/New Year’s break both at the numbers of dogs “running around” the Kopua area and at the council’s lack of response.

“It’s unbelievable – they (the council) ignore us,” he told the Chronicle. “These dogs are doing their business in the sand and it’s so unhealthy because kids are then coming and playing there.”

But late last week the council announced it was “reinforcing” its ban on dogs in the central business area and the Kopua Domain by increasing signage and putting animal control officers on duty throughout the holiday period.

General manager regulatory Nath Pritchard said many of the dogs brought into the banned areas were owned by visitors.

He said it was unfortunate some irresponsible dog owners had prompted the tighten-up, but pointed out people could still exercise dogs in many parts of Raglan including off the lead at Ngarunui and Ocean beaches.

“We just ask that they (dog owners) are responsible,” he added.

Under the council’s dog bylaw, dog owners can be fined $300 for having their animal either on or off the lead downtown or at the domain.

Edith Symes

Campers everywhere as Kiwis keep it simple

It’s more than 30 years ago now that longtime man-about-town Wayne Morris last compered a Miss Raglan show, but it won’t be just like old times at all when he acts as master of ceremonies at next month’s Miss Raglan and Mr Muscle contests to be held as part of this year’s Classic Car & Rock ‘n’ Roll Festival.

Because even if Wayne hasn’t changed all that much over the decades, the nature and look of the contest certainly has.

The search is now on for entrants for the twin contests, and co-ordinator Margot Gillard emphasises it’s not about physique or beauty but rather “attitude”.

Swimsuits and speedos won’t get so much as a look in, she says, because contestants will be flouncing and strutting their stuff in the style of The Fonz and TV’s Happy Days to tie in with the nostalgic rock ‘n’ roll theme of the day.

“It’ll be a bit of fun,” adds Margot. “Hopefully we’ll get some very brave entrants to put on a good performance.”

Crowd appeal and stage presence in the rock ‘n’ roll themed outfits are what the all-local panel of judges will be looking for, says Margot.

Not only does the event encourage local entries but there’ll also be a Raglan flavour to the “silverware” with the prize-

winning satin sashes for the girls designed and sewn by Mariella Mullholland – who recently won a nationwide design contest run by Scintilla Design – and handcrafted trophies for the boys put together by a local “mystery” Raglan classic car fan and collector.

Competition categories cater for all ages, from junior s (under 12) to teens (13-17yrs) and those aspiring Miss Raglans and Mr Muscles 18 and over.

Entries must be completed and received within the fortnight, by January 28, to ensure contestants are allocated or have a designated sponsor. Entry for the competition – to be held outside Bow Street Motors from 11am on Sunday

February 13, the day of the car show – is free and local businesses will sponsor the entrants in all categories.

Entry forms can be picked up at the Ray White office in Bow Street.

Meantime kids at the Classic Car street festival will also be entertained with an award-winning roadshow from The Funky Monkeys, who’ll be performing from 10am in the town hall the same day. They’ll get 45 minutes of funky entertainment followed by some serious autograph-signing and CD give-aways.

The Funky Monkeys’ guest appearance at the event is a Plunket initiative aimed at raising the profile of its volunteer services, says Raglan Plunket president Linda Cole. “There’s so much more to Plunket than bringing babies (to the clinic) to be weighed.”

And this particular Waikato roadshow – featuring seven new Funky Monkey songs – focuses especially on carseat and road safety, says Linda who is “appalled” at the number of unrestrained children still to be seen in cars.

Funds raised at the town’s fourth annual Classic Car & Rock ‘n’ Roll Festival will again go to Raglan Plunket and Raglan Surf Life Saving Club.

Edith Symes

Wayne’s world goes full circle but whole new look to contest

Council finally does business on dogs

Wayne Morris will compere Miss Raglan & Mr Muscle on the day

“it’s not about physique or beauty but rather

“attitude”

New Year’s resolution or not, Napier shearer John Kirkpatrick made a profound statement of his intentions for 2011 when he won his first New Zealand Lambshearing Championship at the Western Shears in Raglan last Saturday.

It was one of the few major titles the 40-year-old hadn’t won, gave him an unbeaten record in three competitions this season, and wasn’t good news for southern

shearers who this week will try to break his domination of the Northern Southland Community Shears title in Lumsden and the National Crossbred Lambs Championship at the Winton A and P Show, a Friday-Saturday double he’ll be out to win for a fourth time.

“With the World championships in New Zealand next year, everyone will be going for it,” he said.

Runner-up at Raglan last year he finally claimed the title on Saturday by turning the tables on 2008 World teams champion partner Paul Avery, whose training over the last nine months has been directed at his multi-sports debut in the Coast to Coast next month.

New World champion Cam Ferguson, the youngest in the five-man final was third, just two days before a bid to break a World record of 736 lambs in eight hours at Moketenui, King Country, on Monday[jan 10].

There was disaster for shearing icon David Fagan who shore the last five sheep missing the bottom tooth of his second comb, and having to settle for fourth overall.

Nephew James Fagan was first to finish – his 14min 39sec for 20 lambs beating Kirkpatrick by 13 seconds – but suffered heavily in judging and was placed fifth.

There was still some silverware for the family to take back to Te Kuiti, with David Fagan’s son, Jack, winning the intermediate final, his biggest win to date and despite being last to finish his four-lamb final. His better quality enabled him to win from runner-up Damon Macdonald, of Coroglen, and Irish shearer Robert Davidson, who won the race but also lost the advantage in the judging pens.

The superior quality of Gisborne shearer Wi Ngarangione claimed him the senior final over 12 lambs, at the scene of one of his few defeats in the intermediate grade last season. He also won despite being last to finish. The Northland region scooped the best of the minor money, with Tipene Te Whata, of Tautoro in the Far North second, and Bevan uy, of Kaeo, third.

David Fagan ended the visit to Raglan in style when he won the Te Mata Club Speedshear on Saturday night, with a $2000 prize for the fastest lamb, shorn in 18.24sec. Masterton-based Dannevirke shearer Paerata Abraham was second in 18.54sec, and Te Kuiti’s Digger Balme third in 19.22sec.

Masterton teenager Matene Mason, who was fourth in the 12-lamb senior championships final earlier in the day, won the Senior speedshear, having made the 10-man final only after judge’s upheld his appeal against disqualification in the preliminary round..For results at www.shearingsports.co.nz Doug Laing

6 RAGLAN Chronicle

Sue Oliver couldn’t have asked for more. Her community Christmas in Raglan Town Hall turned out exactly as she’d hoped, and was – she says – an “absolute feast” for the 150 or so who turned out.

A big range of locals lent a hand with the extended family dinner, which was aimed at those who might otherwise be alone on Christmas Day. Caterer and chef Colin Chung and his wife Rhonda were in the kitchen, musos Dave Maybee and Peter Skandera were on entertainment and a horde of volunteers helped in any way they could, from bringing desserts and preparing vegetables to picking up a teatowel.

“Because so many contributed it wasn’t a big hardship to anyone,” says Sue. And she says there’ll be no choice but to repeat the whole thing next Christmas because “everybody’s talking about it already”.

A large Christmas tree was donated along with turkeys, hams, a whole lamb

and seafood, says Sue. And everybody got a Christmas gift, she adds, after “we put the word out there (in the CBD) for people to buy a $5 present”.

Tables, says Sue, were expertly set by local Fran Currie with fine linen supplied by small Hamilton company A Bit Of A Do, which has indicated it will be happy to help out again.

The turnout represented a total cross-section of the community, says Sue – people who, for whatever reason, found themselves alone on Christmas Day.

Even a few backpackers from overseas who’d been enjoying a quiet drink downtown in contravention of the liquor ban, she says, found their way to the merriment courtesy of Raglan policeman “Deano”.

They were welcomed and got more than the few sausages they’d planned on for Christmas dinner, says Sue.

Edith Symes

Community Christmas a cracker

Western Shears on form

John Kirkpatrick, of Napier, adds his first national lambshearing title at Raglan

Local Willie Goodwin in action. Willie went on to secure 3rd place

Te Mata Speed Shear

Saturday night’s Te Mata Speed Shear was indeed speedy this year, as the competitors were racing two at a time which increased the intensity. This was a first for the annual event, with the shearers waiting for the ‘Ready set go!’ and the sheep waiting for it to all be over.

The dual competitors meant that the event moved along at a good pace, and the kids got to see more of the action.

The overall top three locals to place in the competition were: 1st place - Darryl Trolove, 2nd place - Clint Jowsey, and 3rd place - Willie Goodwin.

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WSL5034A_local press_Auckland.indd 1 23/12/10 9:47:52 AM

New Years Eve Parade

Images courtesy of: Stuart Mackenzie, Linda Holmes, and Jack Williamson

Daniel Kereopa blitzed his opponents in the Starboard Stand Up Paddleboard Division scoring 17.25 points out of a possible 20 at Piha beach on Sunday.

Kereopa, riding a small 8.0ft board, made easy work of the waves completing some radical turns using his paddle to it’s maximum capability. The Whangamata duo of Lynden Kennings and Ryan Cowling placed second and third respectively, neither able to surf with the sharpness of Kereopa, Kennings finishing with a score of 13.5 and Cowling 11.0. Gisborne surfer Sean Hovell finished the final in fourth place scoring 8.70.

The Starboard Stand Up Paddleboard King of the Waves Race was highly entertaining with over 20 entrants navigating the course through the waves at the south end of Piha. After two laps it was Daniel Kereopa who took out the win over fellow Raglan surfer Arnie Armstrong. Sean Hovell (Gis) placed third in the race.

Northland surfer Viv Treacy once again claimed the Over 50 Men’s longboard division kicking off the season in perfect fashion. Treacy scored 12.25 to win the final over 2010 Hyundai Pro Longboard Tour Champion, Raglan’s Michael Thomson on 11.0. Auckland’s David Storck finished in third place ahead of Grant Cochrane (Chch) in fourth. Surfing NZ

Hyundai Pro Longboard Tour Image courtersy of PhotoCPL

Daniel Kereopa competing on the day

Bar crossings are the highest risk activity boaties in the Waikato will come across.

“On a per boatie basis, bar crossings result in the highest number of accidents in the Waikato region.” said Environment Waikato’s compliance and education manager Rob Dragten.

In early December 2010, a vessel was swamped and capsized as it was crossing the Raglan Bar. The occupants were both thrown into the water, but luckily they were wearing lifejackets and the accident was seen by another vessel that managed to rescue them.

The vessel, however became a navigation hazard on the bar and had to be recovered by Raglan Volunteer Coastguard. This incident was believed to be caused by failure of the boat transom.

“Boaties can significantly lower the danger to themselves and others on board by following some basic safety tips, and not attempting crossings if they are in doubt.” said Mr Dragten.Important safety tips to follow when crossing bars include:

• Talk to locals, and check the weather, tide and bar conditions.

• Ensure adequate stability of vessel.• Secure all moveable objects.• Wear lifejackets.• Contact the local Coastguard or Maritime Radio

immediately before, and after, crossing the bar in both directions.

• When going out, approach the bar at moderate speed, ideally at high water, and not when the tide is going out.

• When returning, cross when the tide is coming in.To keep boaties more informed of bar conditions

Environment Waikato harbourmasters in conjunction with Coastguard have an advisory service. The advisory, broadcast over the Coastguard radio in their station notices, indicates whether the bar is:Level 1: normal – free navigationLevel 2: marginal – navigate with cautionLevel 3: not recommended – navigation is likely to be hazardous.

Harbourmasters also advise users of bar status by placing public signs at the harbourmaster’s office, appropriate boat ramps and/or wharves.

8 RAGLAN Chronicle

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CorrectionThe Chronicle ran a feature on Raglan local Emma Galloway’s blog the

week before Christmas, issue 227, which is attracting world wide attention for it’s wheat and gluten free ideas. The Chronicle apologises for printing her web address incorrectly.

The correct address is www.mydarlinglemonthyme.blogspot.comBe sure to check it out to learn more about Emma and her recipes,

vege gardens and coping with food allergies

Boat naming reminderBoat owners are reminded that their vessels need to display a name.

The boat naming rule came in to force in July 2010.A survey at the recent Waikato Boat Show indicated that only 49 per

cent of respondents had a name on their vessel.Power-driven vessels four metres or larger and non-powered vessels six

metres or larger are required to display a name or identifying mark such as a radio call sign, Coastguard membership number or trailer registration. The vessel’s brand, model or make is not adequate identification.

Smaller vessels must have emergency contact details and/or the owner’s name or contact details, clearly visible on or in the vessel. These details could be written directly onto the vessel with a waterproof marker, onto waterproof tape, or on a laminated card attached to the vessel.

“Anyone who gets out on the Waikato region’s harbours, rivers, lakes and coastal waters needs to be familiar with this rule and others in the navigation safety bylaw,” said Environment Waikato compliance and education manager Rob Dragten.

“The bylaw is about ensuring the safety of water users, so it’s important that people know and follow the bylaw rules.”

Information on vessel identification requirements is available on Environment Waikato’s website www.ew.govt.nz/boatname.Boat owners could face a $200 fine if their vessels aren’t identifiable.

Building consents no longer required for certain work

Waikato District Council would like to remind residents that with the recent changes to the Building Act 2004, it is no longer necessary to obtain a building consent for certain building work.

“With effect from 23 December 2010, building consents are no longer required for minor plumbing work, maintenance type work which includes replacing cladding material which is considered like for like, or replacing exterior doors and windows which are considered like for like and don’t interfere with the structural elements of the building,” Waikato District Council, General Manager Regulatory, Nath Pritchard said.

“Minor interior alterations that don’t interfere with the structural elements of the building are also exempt, which means you are now able to remove an interior wall, or move an interior door without requiring a building consent,” he said.

Council advises residents to refer to the Department of Building and Housing’s website www.dbh.govt.nz to view Schedule 1 of the Building Act which outlines the building work exempt from the requirement to obtain a building consent.

If you still have questions about when building consents are not required please contact Council’s Building Inspection Team on 0800 492 452.

Public feedback sought on community outcomesDuring January – March 2011 Waikato District Council will hold public

workshops throughout the Waikato district to obtain feedback on its revised community outcomes.

Community outcomes (Accessible, Sustainable, Thriving, Healthy and Safe Waikato) form the basis of everything that Council does.

Waikato District Council, Chief Executive, Gavin Ion, said Council wants to find out from the community which outcomes are liked or not, and whether other aspects should be included.

“Back in 2004 and 2005, the community identified their vision for the Waikato district. Nine community outcomes were developed based on themes identified as the most important to the community.

“Council is now reviewing the outcomes. We’ve removed the ones that are outside Council’s role, and included some elements of Franklin District Council’s outcomes, to assist with integrating the new part of the district.

“We encourage you to participate in these public workshops as it’s important you have your say, as the new community outcomes once adopted will feed into the Long Term Plan (LTP) 2012-2022 process,” he said.

The workshops will be informal and approximately 30 minutes long. A workshop will be held in Raglan on Tuesday 25 January at 7.30pm

in the Blacksand Café, 17 Bow Street. Waikato district residents will also receive a community outcomes

questionnaire in the February issue of Council’s ‘Link’ newsletter. Feedback on the community outcomes must be received by Friday 18

March 2011.

In briefWhat a wonderful way to round out the ‘Old Year’...to play Lawn Bowls.

On December 31st we had 28 players in attendance for our annual New Year Eve’s Day tournament, with heaps of fun and comradeship, tons of laughter and relaxation. Holiday makers from as far away as Wellington joined us in the lovely sunshine. Teams were selected randomly and we played Triples, (although some teams had four players). The winners on the day were Sue Russell, with A & P Dunstan from Hamilton. 2nd were Jim Boggiss, Ian Barnard, Joan D (Hamilton) and Stacey (Wellington).

We started off the New Year with having our Greens ‘open to the General Public’ for Christmas Holiday Bowls. This time round the week was rather quieter than usual, but those who took part had a wonderful fun time. Thanks to those club members who made themselves available to oversee each day’s activities.

Saturday 8th January saw us play for the McDonald Pairs Cup. This cup was always for the competition between the Leads & Twos, and the Skips and Threes played their own competition. Because there is no longer any ‘Gradings’ within the sport of lawn bowls the McDonald Family members agreed that we could change it to being played as ‘Pairs in Sets’. After three games two teams had three wins, Bill Bond with Murray Eddy, and Eileen Stephens with Donald Waite. Cards were ‘cut’ and the skip with the highest card became the winner of the cup, this being Bill Bond’s team. 3rd and 4th place were also equal and so had to ‘cut the cards’ again, with Maureen Wahanga and Sue Russell having a higher card than Denny Robertson and Rangi Sundvick. Congratulations to you all. Certainly is a different game, but still FUN.

Grants ‘Corner to Corner ‘Bowls: Week Four was won by Baz Walsh and Week Five was won by Blue Stephens. Many thanks to Terry Green and Blue Stephens for donating their prizes towards our last Tournament.

Our next round of ‘Corner to Corner’ bowls is due to start on Thursday Jan 27th at 5.45pm. Come and have a go ...tis different but still heaps of fun!

Our Annual Surf Life Saving Fundraising evening is to be held on Tuesday 18 January 2011. Donated goods for auction can be left at the Bowling Pavilion during this week 10-18th January... Contact Terry 8258089, Eileen 8258323 or John 8258965 for drop off times. This is a very worthy cause so we need everyone’s help for this night. Come and have some fun. $5 per player and non players pay $5 for BBQ.

Make up your own team or just come along and we will sort out teams for you.All proceeds go to the surf life saving clubMeantime... happy bowling ...Eileen Stephens.

Festive lawn bowls 2011

Peter Dunstan performing his ‘Bird Dance’ as he willed his bowl to the jack....it worked each

time, as he was in the winning team.

Bar crossings highest risk for Waikato boaties

RAGLAN Chronicle 9

APPLIANCE SERVICING ARBORIST BUILDERSBUILDERS

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MouldingsFencingCementLandscaping

Free Quotes Delivery Service

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• quality new homes• alterations / fencing/ decks• plan service available

20+ years building in Raglan

PHONE MARK 0274 912 911 A/H 825 0069ROB 027 550 6080 E robthebuilder@xtra.co.nz

OPINION: Believing... by Ian McKissack

Letter.....continued from page 2

Check out the Raglan ClubPh: 825 8288

Raglan Club Entertainment Guide

Phone: 825 8288

Friday 14th January: Kevin Greaves & Guy Cato (Country

& Hypno Show)

Friday 21st January: Superstars Tribute Show

Friday 28th January: Donna Heke

Dear Editor,What a wonderful treat it was to be woken on Christmas day with the news that the Orca

were in the harbour. So off we went to track them down as did many others, it was amazing to watch them feeding and playing in all their usual spots in the harbour…UNTIL… some idiots in a motorized boat (not happy to watch from the side-lines like everyone else) decided that they needed to harass the Orca by speeding straight through them, not once but numerous times, directly over the top of them at times, what a great way to send the Orca hurriedly on their way.

Perhaps a total motorized boat ban ..emergency vessels exempt.. (as is done in some places) is in order when the Orca arrive or very soon this harbour will be classed as a no go area by them, all because of IDIOTS in a fizz boat.

I think it’s fair to say that Raglan locals want to continue seeing the Orca gracing us with their magnificent presence, swimming and feeding unhindered in the safe haven of the Whaingaroa harbour.

Regards, Cynthia Tucker.

As an odd sort of Christmas treat there was a list of past possible UFO sightings, released in December.

None of them seem all that convincing, just unexplained shapes or lights in motion or hovering.

Personally I am sure that that we will never make contact with extra- planetary intelligent life. Maybe there is life somewhere out there but if you really grasp the immensity of space then contact is highly improbable.

One of humanities prevailing obsessions seems to be in believing very improbable stories. It is as if the human story isn’t

interesting enough, though the whole business of real life is actually fascinating and improbable, if you look far enough into it.

Werewolves and vampires seem to be very much in fashion at the moment. Perhaps it is because they represent the primitive animal side of us, just below the surface. I have not been caught up in this fashion though I did have pause for thought recently. After cutting my finger I licked the blood until it stopped flowing. Nice taste I thought…

Once upon a time we had softer fantasies like fairies and angels, and idealised heroes and heroines. But then there were also

giants and goblins, dragons and malevolent sea serpents. Ghosts were the only ones that bothered me, living in dark old houses without electricity during World War 2. Gas lights and flickering candles threw odd shadows that could be anything.

There are other odd beliefs. Just recently, thousands of dead blackbirds fell out of the air in Arkansas. Among the theories advanced were secret government weapon trials (an old favourite of conspiracy theorists), or that the birds had collided with an invisible alien space ship.

Closer to home, the Kopua domain bridge, a reconstructed wharf, these promises

that remain unfulfilled, will we ever see them? And one thing that I know will never happen: Waikato District Council proposing a development in Raglan that does not produce a howl of outrage from some group of concerned citizens. Meeting an alien is much more likely.

10 RAGLAN Chronicle

DRAINAGE / EXCAVATION

CENTRAL DRAINAGE

RAGLAN EXCAVATIONS

ROB POOLTON Ph 825 6828 or 021 957 745for all your excavation needs

including retaining wallsLOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

RAGLAN EXCAVATIONS

ELECTRICIANS/HEATING

ELECTRICIANS/HEATING

ENGINEERING

FLOORING/CARPET

carpet | vinyl | porcelain & ceramic tiles | corkfloor sanding | timber flooring | concrete polishing

ph 825 8777 mob 027 660 9924

9924 showroom 53 Wainui Rd, Raglan

GIBSTOPPERS

Brett SoanesInterior Plasterer / Gib Stopper

021 821 197

ßßskim coating ßßcove ßßsquare stopßßrenovations or new homes

KITCHENS

ROOFING

NEW ROOFS RE ROOFSREPAIRS SPOUTING

Reliable quality serviceLocally owned and operated

PHONE ROSS 021 782 280 07 825 8678

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M o n d a y , M a y 3 1 , 2 0 1 0 9 : 5 1 : 1 1 A M

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PLUMBING

PLUMBING &GAS SERVICES

Premier

DAMON CURSONSCraftsman Plumber & Gasfitter. Reg. DrainlayerNew HousingAlterationsDrainlayingSolar InstallationsGas Appliance ServicingMaintenance

Phone: 07 825 5251Damon: 027 666 1318Matt: 027 493 9502

PO Box 15477,Dinsdale, Hamilon

PROPERTY MAINTENANCEAND IMPROVEMENTS

If you become a regular advertiser...

THIS SPACE

COULD BE

YOURS

Please contact the Raglan Chronicle office if you want to showcase your business: Ph 825 7076 or info@raglanchronicle.co.nz

RAGLAN Chronicle 11

S A L Esummer swimwearshoes & sandals

summer clothing... up to 50% off

FlowersLilypot Florist* Fresh flowers* Silk flowers

* Potted plants021 448 104

2 Wallis Street

Situations VacantPART TIME CLEANING AVAILABLE. Fit and experienced person required. Applications close wed 19th. Phone 825 8268

For hireF L O O R S A N D I N G EQUIPMENT for hire. Ph Raglan Flooring 825 8777.

BOUNCY CASTLE FOR HIRE, entertainment for the kids. Vicki 825 7575.

WantedGARDENER FOR LARGE FLOWER GARDEN, some experience necessary. Contact Barbara 825 8350.

To LetLOVELY HOME AVAILABLE 1 MARCH – 3 double bedrooms, great deck, water views, heat pump/ac, walk to town. $350 pw. Long term pref. 825 7513.

OFFICES/ SHOPGALLERY or CLINICFor lease in Raglan’s CBD. 70sqm approx, located on 1st floor above Raglan Hot Roast Shop. Suit offices,

studio, clinic etc with massive harbor views, large deck & possible accommodation.

Phone property manager on 021 363465

Public noticesCARE AND CRAFT. WE ARE CLOSED FOR THE XMAS BREAK. We commence on the 7 February 2011 at the Union Church Hall ar 9.30am.

For Sale

BEAUTIFUL FAIRY, BALLET dresses, sequined shoes, wands, headbands, really good prices, Spiderman andBatman also available. Phone Vicki to view 8257575.MEXICAN TAKEAWAYS A V A I L A B L E . ENCHILADAS, burritos, nachos, 3 different flavours: chicken, beef and chili bean, all served with Mexican rice, salad and fresh salsa. Raglan West. 825 8293.OPEN HOME SATURDAY 15 JANUARY, 7B East Street. 2pm-5pm. Spacious 3 bedroom property on large section. Newly renovated. A must see!1992 SUBARU LEGACY 1.8L 5 speed manual, 280,000kms, New Wof and reg. Very reliable car. $900 ono. 021 0770550 / 825 7877.

VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

for Raglan Surf

Life Saving Club to get a NEW

IRB - Inflatable Rescue Boat!

They may save the life of you or a loved one

this summer!

CARSCASH PAID FOR

CAR ENGINESTRACTORS

TRUCKSOLD MACHINERYGOING OR NOT

DERELICT & UNWANTED

FREE PICKUP

IT

gig guide

what’s onMON, WED & THURS 10-11AM @ THE OLD GOSPEL HALl, Raglan West Raglan light exercise group. MONDAY 17TH JANUARY – FRIDAY 21 JANUARY 9.00AM – 3.00PM. Kids Holiday Programme with Chris Mitchell + Yann BordierSand castles, Harbour cruise + beach picnic, harbour mural, beach combing sculpture using beach combing treasures, French cooking.$17 for a half day, $29 a day or $140 for the week. NB: $10 additional cost for harbour cruise. (subsidies may be available – please ask). Register at Old School Arts Centre, Stewart St. Info Ph 825 0023 or www.raglanartscentre.co.nz

MON 17 JANUARY @ THE RAGLAN CLUB. 500 cards, 1pm.WED 19 JANUARY R A G L A N RAMBLERS. Te Mata – take lunch for a farmland walk not far from Bridal Veil.WED 19 JANUARY @ BLACKSAND CAFÉ. Knitting Circle from 9.30am. All welcome. Beginners welcome.FOOD FOREST G A R D E N I N G , RAGLAN WEST. 8 – 10am Thursday mornings.THURS 20 JANUARY @ THE RAGLAN CLUB. Euchre. All welcome. 6pm.MONDAY 17 JANUARY (onwards) @ BLACKSANDS, GRAFFITO. Street art from around the world, on show. www.theblueroom.net.

THURSDAY 13 JANUARY @ YOT CLUB. LATIN NIGHT with Careca Selector. Reggae, Cumbia, live percussion from 9pm. FREE.FRIDAY 14 JANUARY @ RAGLAN CLUB. KEVIN GREAVES AND GUY CATO, Country and Hypno show. 8pm til late.FRIDAY 14 JANUARY @ YOT CLUB, DJ B.rex - funk ‘n’ house inc. $5 from 9pm.SATURDAY 15 JANUARY @ YOT CLUB, SOULFIRE. Rock

Jonny Persson, CK Smith, Frances Anderson, Caprice Hammond, R Barnes, Joan Glen, Lydia

Persson & Natalie Wilson.

For your chance to win one of our great giveaways, keep an eye on our ‘Free Stuff’ page

on Raglan’s website

www.raglan.net.nz

classics, Beastie Boys, Sublime. From 9pm.SUNDAY 16 JANUARY @ YOT CLUB YARD, RAGLAN SUNDAY SESSIONS with Jamin-i & Dubsonic FREE from 4pm til 9pm in the yard, then Agent Alvin & Strange Attractor in the club playing Drum & Bass from 9pm.FRIDAY 21 JANUARY 2 RAGLAN CLUB. Superstars Tribute show. 8pm til late.

By Jane Sullivan & Tracey Baird

Raglan Net Competition

Winners!

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING in the Raglan

Chronicle delivers results

If you have a house to rent,

something for sale or a message for the public then give us a call (825 7076) or

email classifieds@

raglanchronicle.co.nz and let us help you get your message

out there!

12 RAGLAN Chronicle