THE COROMANDEL
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012 Page 1 11 October 2012 Number 237
Peninsula Post
ISSN 2230-6498 PRINT ISSN 2230-6501 ONLINE
covering the top half of the Coromandel Peninsula
a weekly independent publication
Milly joins the gang to help with Buffalo Beach dune planting
Ten-year-old Millicent Henry, known as Baby Attenborough in her family because of her avid interest in the environment, was in her element helping her grandmother, Mercury Bay Community Board chairperson Alison Henry, in a mass dune restoration planting at Buffalo Beach in Whitianga on Saturday. More than 60 people turned up to help plant more than 5000 native dune plants as part of Thames-Coromandel District and Waikato Regional Councils’ efforts to manage coastal erosion.
Island population of Coromandel brown kiwi to be established by Shenagh Gleeson Coromandel brown kiwi are being transferred to Motutapu Island in the Hauraki Gulf in the hope of establishing a backstop population for the threatened bird. The transfer is being organised by BNZ Save the Kiwi Trust in cooperation with the Department of Conservation. Details of the release are being kept under wraps until it occurs later this month but it’s been confirmed the birds will come from Project Kiwi, which operates on the Kuaotunu Peninsula, north
of Whitianga. Department of Conservation Auckland conservancy programme manager Phil Brown says the transfer is part of a long-term desire to get an island population of Coromandel brown kiwi. “It’s an insurance population in case a disease outbreak wipes out the kiwi population on the Coromandel,” he says. Coromandel kiwi are a distinct species that’s been isolated on the peninsula for some 30,000 years. Like all kiwi groups its survival is under threat but dedicated work by DOC and a dozen community kiwi care groups has resulted in
the highest survival rate for kiwi chicks on the mainland. While most brown kiwi populations are declining rapidly in the wild, Coromandel birds are increasing in number and there are now more than 1000. Community groups carry out vital predator control over more than 50,000 hectares of private and public conservation land. The BNZ trust first approached Whenuakite Kiwi Care about providing some birds for the Motutapu transfer. Chairperson Arthur Hinds says although the group has a policy of not handling its
birds in any way, members were very supportive of the idea as it will create a backstop for protection of the species. “I like to think we’ll never have to face something happening to our birds but a backstop would be sensible,” he says. DOC rangers visited Whenuakite last month but were unable to find kiwi, despite calls being heard in the area in which they looked. Attention then switched to Project Kiwi, which is the only kiwi conservation group on the peninsula to participate in egg removal. Through Operation Nest
Egg, kiwis’ eggs are removed and sent to Rainbow Springs in Rotorua for incubation. Chicks are returned when they’re big enough to stand a chance against predators. It’s not known how many birds will be sent to Motutapu Island. Project Kiwi project manager Paula Williams says she can’t comment as the operation is under the control of the BNZ trust. Mr Brown says the idea of putting the kiwi on the island has grown since the island became pest-free. “It’s given us an island of size.” Motutapu achieved pest free status in August 2010. The Motutapu Restoration Trust website says the island
has suitable habitat for many threatened and/or endangered native species. A number of fauna have already been transferred to the island, including the shore plover, takahe, saddleback, whitehead and koura. The website says six to eight Coromandel brown kiwi are likely be released initially, with a total of around 40 over a four-five year period. The idea is to source birds from all over the peninsula to allow mixing of their genes and the production of a genetically robust Coromandel brown kiwi to return to the peninsula in the future.
36,000 trees & 12 years later, Cliff bids farewell to Kauri 2000 - page 3
Page 2
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012
The team
Phone 867 1001 mercury-twin@xtra.co.nz www.nzcinema.co.nz www.flicks.co.nz
Whitianga Social Services
Diary of A Wimpy Kid 3: Dog Days
It's essential to manage budgeters across the country enjoy coming on a regular and is represented in almost basis. your everyday money Money Week was New Zealand’s first week about helping Kiwis learn about everyday money and highlighted the real need for improved financial literacy. Your ‘everyday money’ is your household money - the money you need to pay the bills, feed your family and pay your rent. It’s essential to learn how to manage this money, but it’s not always taught in schools. Budgeting services provide free budgeting advice to individuals and families and we play our part in educating clients. Our budget advisers can teach clients how to identify the options and make sensible financial decisions. But often we get a client too late and they have fallen into a significant financial hole. The New Zealand Federation of Family Budgeting Services saw more than 40,000 clients last year. It has 700
every community. NZFFBS OSCAR Holiday Programme is a network of community - This program has once budgeting services, offering again been a success with free, confidential, non- numbers at capacity for judgmental budgeting the younger children. They advice. have made kites, been to If you would like to talk the beach, baked cakes and to one of our volunteer slices, played mini golf at budget advisors phone for Birdwood Springs, made an appointment time on 866 soap, played tennis and 4476. lots of other activities. International Day of With the Christmas school the Older Person - Social holidays fast approaching Services celebrated this the facilitators will soon be day with its members of putting together the program the Friday Club last week for December and January. and each member was This is our most popular given a small gift. Official holiday program so make celebrations are held in town sure you book early to avoid bi-annually so watch out for disappointment. Bookings next year’s event. will open in early December. Friday Club - This low- Remember we are Work key gathering is held every & Income approved so Friday at Social Services you could be eligible for a from 9.30am for people subsidy. over the age of 55. They “In this life the old believe play scrabble and cards and everything, the middle-aged enjoy morning tea and lunch suspect everything and the young together. New members are know everything.” always welcome so come Have a great week along and see if you would The team at Social Services
Dredging for Sugarloaf Wharf access Dredging is being carried out at Sugarloaf Wharf, Te Kouma, to allow ferry and charter boat operators to come in closer at low tide. Operators are using the wharf following the closure of nearby Hannafords Jetty for repairs. Thames-Coromandel District Council project manager Francois Pienaar says that with dredging starting it will be easier and safer for charter boat operators to tie up. But
the council is still asking operators to still bring along their own protective fenders. Congestion is also an issue at the wharf, which is used mainly by commercial mussel fishers. Recreational boaties are being asked to use other boat ramps along the coast. "We are asking everyone using the Sugarloaf to be patient with each other over the coming weeks and months," Mr Pienaar says. Council staff have set up a
KAURI 2000 Visiting our forests? Help prevent kauri dieback ● clean your gear before and after visiting kauri forests, clean your shoes, tyres and equipment ● use disinfectant stations where provided ● always stay on the tracks and off kauri roots For more info visit www.kauridieback.co.nz
Plant a kauri .... recreate a forest
www.kauri2000.co.nz
Peninsula Post 12
meeting with barge operators and management of Sugarloaf Wharf to discuss ways to safely manage the increase in usage. A Hannafords Jetty user's group meeting is also planned for next Wednesday to talk about the options and schedule for repairing the structure. A CoromandelColville Community Board meeting will be held directly after that to endorse a decision.
(PG)
Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted (PG)
Your Sister’s Sister (M)
Fri 7.30pm, Fri & Sat 11.10am, & Sat 5.15pm, Sun 1.10pm, Sun 1.10pm 5.15pm, Wed 11am
Hotel Transylvania
Hope Springs (M)
Fri 5.20pm, Sat 5pm, Sun 5.15pm, Wed 11am & 5.15pm
Fri 3.10pm, Sat 7.15pm, Next Thu 7.30pm
Magic Mike (R16) Next Thu 7.30pm
HURRY - LAST DAYS
Hysteria (M)
Sun 3.10pm, Wed 5.15pm
Sat 7.15pm
(PG)
Fri 1pm & 5pm, Sat 11am & 3pm, Sun 1.10pm
Step Up 4: Miami Heat (PG)
FINAL SESSIONS!
The Bourne Legacy (M)
Fri 11am & 3pm, Sat 1pm & 3.10pm, Sun 3.10pm
Total Recall (M) Fri 7pm
SUPER WEDNESDAYS ADULTS $10 ALL SESSIONS
THE COROMANDEL
Peninsula Post covering the top half of the Coromandel Peninsula
a weekly independent publication
Publisher Sue Collins sue@peninsulapost.co.nz Editor Shenagh Gleeson news@peninsulapost.co.nz Sales Lisa Peehikuru sales@peninsulapost.co.nz Office Jacqui Ackland admin@peninsulapost.co.nz
www.peninsulapost.co.nz Phone 866 0001 Fax 866 0110 18 Coghill Street PO Box 248 Whitianga
Hot Water Beach Low Tides OCT
Friday Would you Saturday like to sponsor Sunday the Hot Water Monday Beach low tide information? Tuesday Wednesday Ph 866 0001 for more info Thursday
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
10:31 11:27 00:01 00:54 01:45 02:36 03:26
23:07 12:22 13:16 14:08 15:00 15:32
a cat makes a house your home...
Whitianga daily weather information - October Day & Date
Temp °C High
Temp °C Low
Rain mm
Wind Kph
Wednesday 3
21 – 4.30 pm
10 – 1.00 am
nil
38 - 4.00 pm
Thursday 4
19 – 4.30 pm
11 – 7.00 am
1.8 mm
35 – 12.00 pm
Friday 5
20 – 2.30 pm
7 – 6.30 am
nil
35 – 2.30 pm
Saturday 6
20 – 1.00 pm
10 – 12.00 am
9.4 mm
43 – 10.00 pm
Sunday 7
18 – 3.30 pm
9 – 4.00 am
nil
38 - 7.00 am
Monday 8
19 – 4.30 pm
6 – 4.00 am
2.6 mm
16 – 1.00 pm
Tuesday 9
22 – 1.30 pm
13 – 7.30 am
5.6 mm
24 – 1.30 pm
INFORMATION RECORDED AT 1940 309 ROAD
Sponsorship opportunity - would you like to sponsor the weather info? Call Sue on 866 0001 for more information
This message is sponsored by Cosy Cat Cottage, your cat’s home away from home when you’re on holiday. Phone 866 4488
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012 Page 3
The Coromandel no longer Kauri 2000 founder Cliff Heraud: it's been a dream has excessive rates label come true - more than we could have believed When Cliff Heraud founded says chief executive “Cliff set out to recreate Kauri 2000, patron Dame The average residential rate in the Thames-Coromandel District is now four per cent above the national average, compared to 14 per cent two years ago. Chief executive David Hammond says the drop comes after two years of rate reductions created by internal cost savings, restructuring, budget reviews and a hard look at spending in the Ten Year Plan. "TCDC is now only 4% or $92 above the national average. It was 14% above, so we're making considerable progress, although the job's not done yet. "Our job will now get a lot tougher to reduce rates, but
so will our resolve to provide excellent services and assets for a cost which matches our district's ability to pay.” Rates have dropped by 5.9% over two years, 0.9% in 2011 and 5% in 2012. "This means that the Coromandel can no longer be labelled with having excessive rates, which ratepayers were constantly telling me when I first arrived in the district,” Mr Hammond says. However reducing rates is not the goal in itself and the council is building a dependable and consistent cost structure that new and existing businesses and residents of the Coromandel can rely on, he says.
Correction Two World War 11 anti-aircraft guns being placed outside Mercury Bay Returned and Services Association did not come from the decommissioned Manawanui, as we reported last week. Discussions about this were held but the guns in fact came from the Navy Museum. It’s not known which ship they’re from.
Cath Tizard told him he had a tiger by the tail. Twelve years later, Mr Heraud says it’s time to let the tiger go. Aged 89, he’s stepping down from the Kauri 2000 Trust, although he plans to keep up with their activities and still has ideas about what he’d like to see done. In August 2009 Mr Heraud and a small band of supporters planted their first kauri in the Kaueranga Valley, with the goal of planting 2000 trees as a millennium project. Since then the trust has planted about 36,000 kauri on 36 sites on the Coromandel Peninsula. Mr Heraud says he’s very pleased with progress. “I’m very happy and satisfied with the results. It’s been a dream come true – more than we could have believed.” He counts himself very fortunate to have had such good people supporting him and for the trust to have been accepted so quickly by the Department of Conservation. A memorandum of understanding between the
two organisations underpins their ongoing working relationship. Mr Heraud is proud of all the trust’s plantings but highlights Matarangi, where the largest kauri forest in New Zealand is being grown. “It’s going to be a marvellous place – a wonderful achievement.” His greatest joy is seeing the trees grow and making an impact, he says.
He has great confidence in the team who lead the trust and hopes they keep on planting as long as there’s land available. For the future, he would like to help develop the trust’s education programme and has some ideas about that. Trust chairperson Vivienne McLean says it’s hard to put into words what Mr Heraud has achieved.
mercury bay medical centre Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 8.45am to 5.00pm Evening Clinic Monday and Wednesday 5.30pm to 7.00pm Weekend Clinics Saturday 9.00am to 11.00am 5.00pm to 6.00pm Sunday 10.00am to 11.00am 5.00pm to 6.00pm On call at all other times IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY PLEASE DIAL 111
the kauri forests of the Coromandel, so future generations might regain a sense of what our peninsula once looked like. As a result, we now have thousands of trees in the ground - manmade forests that one day will soar high and re-cloak the land.” The outcomes of Kauri 2000, however, go beyond this, she says. People young and old are inspired and connected with the bush and there’s employment and work experience opportunities for local people. Ms McLean also paid tribute to the work of long-time trustee Cherry Ladd, who is also stepping down. Ms Ladd has been with the trust since it began in 1999. Initially she was a branch manager in the Chelmsford area, west of Tairua, and in March 2002 she became a trustee. She will continue organising plantings by Tairua School classes at Sailors Grave (Te Karo Bay) Reserve and looking after many hundreds of kauri in the Chelmsford area.
New Model of Care goes live today Thursday 11 October We have made changes to improve the quality of care to you, our patient to take advantage of new technology to future proof services. All existing services will continue but we are adding new ways of consulting, by phone or secure email. Along with all the other change we will be welcoming to our team Dr Emma Stanley. Emma and her family are looking forward to making Whitianga their home. Appointments to see Emma will be available from 16 October. 87 Albert Street Whitianga 07 866 5911 24 hour accident medical care to our enrolled patients and visitors
Page 4
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012
art space
with Shenagh Gleeson
Michael Angelo Burke carver Twelve years ago Michael Angelo Burke’s life took a new direction, setting him on a path of creative discovery. Of Ngati Kahungunu and Te Arawa descent, he decided to try his hand at Maori carving. He was watching master carver Tony Kapua at Ohinemutu, in Rotorua, when Tony asked him if he’d like to try. He picked up a chisel and began work. Tony told him he had a natural talent and ‘don’t ever put your tools down’. Michael went on to work at marae in Hawkes Bay for several months. Since then he’s developed his own, unique style of carving, which will go on show in Coromandel town tomorrow. An exhibition of 35-40 works will run at Hauraki House until October 28. Michael adopted his middle name after becoming
Carver/painter Michael Angelo Burke with some of his work.
seriously ill and “seeing an angel”. He has learning difficulties but since taking up carving he’s completed a Diploma in Art and Creativity with Honours at the Learning Connexion in Wellington. The hands-on nature of the
course suited him and his work flourished. It combines the disciplines of drawing, carving and painting. Taking inspiration largely from nature, he draws an image onto weatherboard and then carves and paints it.
“Many of my artworks are inspired by specific trees in the garden. For many years I was a gardener, so birds and bees, flowers and trees are my natural elements to carve and paint.” He says he doesn’t plan his work, which just happens, flowing out of his experiences and his spiritual beliefs. He loves colour and likes to work on a big scale. Many pieces are free-standing, sometimes multi-sided. Most reflect the green, subtropical Coromandel bush and its wildlife, while some come from a holiday in Arizona and reflect its arid and stark landforms. Michael is excited about his first exhibition and says it will be a wonderful experience to see it come together.
Monthly messy church hands-on fun for kids One of the Sunday services at St Andrews by the Sea has turned into a pretty messy affair. Rev Mary Petersen and Amanda Roche have started Messy Church to cater for younger people, from toddlers through to teenagers. Ms Roche says going along to regular church services can be difficult for children these days. Messy Church is based on
the idea that children learn better hands-on and having fun. It follows on from the annual Day Camp run in Mercury Bay. The event runs from 4.30pm6.30pm on the first Sunday of the month, with a range of creative activities, from arts and crafts, to dancing and singing. There’s a short moral story and then dinner. Up to 60 children have attended the event.
Rev Mary Petersen and Amanda Roche are leading a different kind of church. Photo by Karen Moffatt-McLeod.
FRESH FRUIT & VEGE Mercury Bay
PRODUCE SUPPLIES
Ta k ea wa y s GUIDE
9
In Owen St off Campbell St
Ph: 07 866 2699 THIS WEEK’S GREAT BUYS
Floors
ICEBERG
Carpets - from $55plm Vinyls - from $39plm Tiles - great specials in store Wood Planking
LETTUCE 1.90
$
Each
TELE
Windows
CUCUMBERS
Uniflex Blinds - Venetians, Sunfilters, Blackouts, Verticals - 20% off in Oct/Nov 2012 Drapes - fabric from $10plm
2.50
$
Each
NEW SEASON
FORE GET YOUR JOBS BOOKED BEointed! CHRISTMAS - don’t be disapp Great friendly service
ASPARAGUS
2.50
$
Per Bunch
NZ ROSE
APPLES 68a Albert St Whitianga Open 6 days Ph 07 866 2836 www.fagans.co.nz Shopping locally is important for environmental sustainability as well as economic sustainability.
SHOP LOCAL
1.99
$
Per Kg
RIVERMILL
BREAD
2.00 Per Loaf
$
6
subs with
Albert Street, Whitianga
grams ofor less fat
terrific takeaways
sushi fresh daily hot wok & dim sum coffee lala fresh doughnuts on fridays phone 07 867 1777 1/10 blacksmith lane whitianga takeaway menus at www.blueginger.co.nz
Food, Fun & Dining Out
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012 Page 5
BLONDE BAR & RESTAURANT Phone 866 4566
$
$
8 The Esplanade, Whitianga
Stone Grill DINNER DEAL
18
Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed nights Beef, Chicken or Snapper with veges & gourmet potatoes
5
WOODSTOCKS Just ask!!
Everyday drink specials Gaming machines Sky Sport
Lunch 12 - 2.30 Dinner from 5pm - 7 days
31 Albert Street Whitianga
Real food for real people Good value for money - roast meals from $14.50 Good food Good service Coromandel's home of the traditional kiwi roast - dine in or take away
The Carvery, 41 Albert Street, Whitianga Phone 866 4750
Ph 866 5249
LICENCED RESTAURANT
One main, rice DINE IN FREE ON and naan ! AY HD RT Minimum 2 person party BI YOUR 13/1 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga Ph 867 1983 Open 7 Days from 5pm Dine in or Takeaway
Not just your friendly local cafe ask about our catering service! Whatever the event, Paula and Lawrence’s fab menu options can help make it a day to remember.
iday isis frfriday day! oughnut day! ddoughnut
come & get 'em glazed, custard filled doughnuts yum!
OPEN DAILY FOR don't miss out!
catering - kitchen - providores catering for all occasions sushi fresh daily hot wok & dim sum coffee lala fresh juices nutritious smoothies phone 07 867 1777 1/10 blacksmith lane whitianga takeaway menus at www.blueginger.co.nz
breakfast brunch lunch morning & afternoon tea
5 Albert Street Whitianga Ph 866 0323
Sunday - Thursday open 10am to 4pm Friday & Saturday open from 10am Happy Hour Fridays & Saturdays 4-6 pm Dinner bookings essential
Closed Mondays during Oct
Fascination with sharks leads to holiday treat
Park and reserves cuts in four of the five wards
The Paua Festival is now the
KIWI SPRING FESTIVAL Sunday 21 October from 11am Entertainment by Waylon McPherson, The Kosky’s, Acorn, & a DJ in the evening. Interested in having a stall? Let us know.
1299 Port Charles Rd, Port Charles Ph 07 866 6614 www.kiwiretreat.co.nz
Sebastian Ross (above) is fascinated by sharks and was rapt to see some at Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium in Auckland during the holidays. But the eight-year-old Whitianga boy’s visit was more than just a holiday treat. He’s one of 10 young people chosen by the aquarium to be Young Explorers for a year. Sebastian won his place with his entry in a competition which asked children between the ages of 6 and 12 to explain why it’s important to conserve New Zealand’s sea life and to submit a drawing of their favourite sea creature. In his entry Sebastian said: “I want to save the ocean because when I grow up I want to be a marine biologist and save sharks. “There are lots of good reasons to save the ocean but for me the most important reason is to save the sharks. I have loved sharks all my life… If there are no more sharks when I grow up and I cannot share sharks with my children it will be very sad.” He drew several sharks and also made a video, impressing Kelly Tarlton staff with his shark knowledge. As a Young Explorer, he and his family will have VIP access to the aquarium and he’ll take part in a programme of monthly events, likely to include watching a shark cage dive. He’ll have the chance to learn about marine life and conservation by meeting the staff who deal with the animals on a daily basis. Next year he’ll also be taking his whole class at Mercury Bay Area School to the aquarium.
$
10 ENTRY
Labour Weekend, Sat 20 Oct, 7.30pm
Tickets on sale at Mercury Bay Club and The Stunned Mullet SPECIAL LICENCE APPLIES
Funding for parks and reserves facilities around the Coromandel Peninsula has been cut in four of the five wards. We recently reported that funding in Mercury Bay’s parks and reserves renewals budget for 2012-2013 had been slashed from $200,000 to $20,000. The budget covers things like new and replacement furniture, facilities like barbecues and play equipment and possibly new planting. Figures supplied by Thames-Coromandel District Council show cuts in Whangamata ($200,000 to $13,898), TairuaPaunaui ($100,000 to $39,504) and Thames ($50,000 to $13,000). In Coromandel-Colville it has increased from $13,000 to $20,000. Funding for public toilet renewals is unchanged at $168,000 and for litter bins at $23,000. Cemetery funding has increased from $1000 to $13,175.
Page 6
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012
25 years for
SPRAY TANNING SPECIAL
Full body $50 $40
Legs or upper body $20 Offer ends 31 Oct 2012
COASTAL SANCTUARY HAIR, SKIN AND BODY THERAPY
14 Victoria Street Whitianga
Phone 866 2679
LUSH Photography Weddings Portraits Occasions
Jodi Hill
Phone +64 21 141 1719 Email jodiatlush@hotmail.co.nz Web www.lushphotographynz.co.nz
COROGLEN FARMERS MARKET
So you reckon kiwis can fly? REGISTER NOW
OPENING AGAIN
BIRDMAN COMPETITION
Sunday 21 October Rain or shine New start time 9.30am - 1pm Every Sunday Local seasonal veges, fruit, herbs, honey, cheeses, olive oil, homemade jams, chutneys, pickles, pesto, bread, free range eggs, seedlings, home baking, organic skin products & massage. Enjoy a coffee and choose from plenty of ready-to-eat hot snacks. and now including ~ CRAFT BY THE RIVER ~ original, handmade artworks by talented local artists/craftpeople & quality vintage items - no imported goods
GUMTOWN HALL, SH25, COROGLEN Enquiries Kevin or Fiona 07 866 3315
Entry forms and rules from Whitianga Plumbing & Drainage or Whitianga i-Site
Get together with your friends, work colleagues or community organisation to design and build your best flying apparatus Sunday 21 October Whitianga Waterways, from 12.30pm GREAT CASH PRIZES TO BE WON & BATHTUB RACING TO ENJOY Prize giving - Campbell's Steak'n'Ale, 4pm
A fundraiser for Whitianga Coastguard & Hot Water Beach Surf Lifesaving
THE PENINSULA POST - SIMPLY THE BEST FOR LOCAL NEWS AND ADVERTISING
VET TALK
OCTOBER 2012
Poisoning in dogs & cats After 30+ years of being a vet I’m still amazed at what animals will have a go at eating. Sometimes this turns out to have dire consequences for the animal involved. Our homes contain many possible poisons for pets and properly storing and locking up hazardous items is the first step to preventing poisonings. Sometimes poisonings mimic other diseases in their symptoms, so only with thorough history taking, examination and testing can a diagnosis be made. Here briefly are the most common poisonings we see in our practice: Rodenticides (rat and mouse poisons) These are made to entice animals so must be laid with care and stored away carefully. They cause major bleeding problems and death. Molluscicides (slug and snail baits) These are highly toxic and lethal. They cause tremors, seizures, vomiting, coma and death. The only safe slug bait on the market is called Quash
Colourful quilts filled Whitianga the Coromandel Peninsula attend Mercury Bay Quilters’ chairperso lots of support from local peopl The Mercury Bay group celebrat Today there are about 25 quilter year-old Val White to 11-year-old Members meet on the first and th Community Resource Centre. M and there are annual trips to craf Judy says the women enjoy the s “We feed off each other’s ideas. E are good with design, some with The group has made 175 quilts Women’s Hospital in Auckland Hospital. Above: Mercury Bay Quilters: ( Margaret Henry, Judy Connell; Rashleigh, Debbie Farrell, Leon Enid Hogg, Shirley Taylor; fron Cutfield, Heather Stephenson; f
which is iron based and nontoxic to dogs and cats. Possum baits Most are similar to rodenticides plus there are others such as cholecalciferol (super high doses of Vitamin D), cyanide, phosphorus and 1080. All are lethal. Alphachloralose (for bird pests and mice) It causes a drop in body temperature and death from hypothermia. Human medicines These may be given with good intentions or by accident. Dogs with their powerful jaws can chew through any childproof plastic bottle. Most accidental poisonings come from dogs raiding purses and bags; ibuprofen, diclofenac, antidepressants, diet pills and paracetamol for instance are all toxic to them. Never administer human medicines without veterinary advice, eg paracetamol will kill a cat. Human foods Some foods we enjoy can be very toxic to cats and dogs. Chocolate – contains theobromine and caffeine
which cats and dogs cannot tolerate. Toxicity depends on the size of the animal, the quantity eaten and the darkness of the chocolate. One square of milk chocolate is dangerous for a chihuahua but you may see no effect on a Labrador. But a 250gm bar of baking chocolate would severely poison a 35kg dog. Theobromine and caffeine will cause a racing heart, tremors, arrhythmias, seizures and even death. Fat – every Christmas we see dogs in acute pain from pancreatitis caused by owners giving them the unwanted ham fat and the ham bone that everyone is sick of by New Year. Sudden high dietary fat will cause this life
threatening condition that requires hospitalisation. Raisins, grapes & currants These can cause vomiting and collapse from acute kidney failure. Coffee grounds & tea bags - These contain caffeine and dogs getting into rubbish bags can become very ill. Similarly the ingestion of cigarette butts (tobacco) from rubbish bags can cause very unpleasant nicotine poisoning. They can be covered with food scraps making them very appealing to a dog. Rottern fish and shellfish - These can contain a neurotoxin that causes seizures and hallucinations. Such yummy morsels can be found on the beach or in the rubbish bin at home. Nuts, seeds and others Macadamia nuts, walnuts, onions, onion stock, avocado seeds, apple seeds, apricot seeds, green tomatoes, potato peelings and mouldy food can all cause misery to your pet. Illicit drugs Marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, P, mushrooms and alcohol can all have unpleasant and unpredictable effects on animals. Don’t do it. Alcohol can be found in fermenting food and things like rum-
soaked fruit cake etc. Antifreeze This can spill onto the driveway under the car. The bright green/yellow liquid will attract them and it tastes sweet but one swallow can be lethal and is a slow death over several days. Household cleaners Bleaches, detergents and disinfectants can be toxic or corrosive especially as both dogs and cats love to lick wet surfaces. Lawn & garden herbicides, pesticides and fertilisers They are all toxic. Plants Many plants are toxic if chewed on. If you need to know, ring us or simply google it. Don’t let pups and kitten play with houseplants eg lilies are highly toxic to cats. Heavy metals Zinc, copper and lead are poisonous. Chewing old lino (lead), licking batteries (never a healthy pastime) and chewing old boards coated in lead paint should not be encouraged. If renovating a house and sanding down old paint make sure the dog or cat are not lying in the dust. Overdosing prescribed veterinary products For example, non steroidals,
insulin and flea and tick treatments. Make sure only one person in the household does the dosing, so it is never doubled up. Never put dog flea treatments on cats (overdose). Cats are a lot more susceptible to topical treatments because of their habit of washing their coats and each other. The older cheaper flea treatments still widely available are more toxic than the new generation ones we sell at the clinic. This is by no means an exhaustive list of substances poisonous to pets; that would fill a text book. Also you may feel you have seen your dog or cat eat some of these things, especially the food items and they never seem to be affected. Poisoning is all a matter of degree with some of these things; as I said earlier; the size of the animal and the amount eaten. Dogs in particular when they find something they like will gorge on it and eat the lot, not break a piece off and enjoy it like we might. This applies particularly when they break into a rubbish bag or knock something over and it spills. Ring us on 07 866 5314 if you need advice or suspect a poisoning. Greg Stanaway
Peninsula Veterinary Services 23 Albert Street, Whitianga Phone 866 5314
Your complete animal health professionals
Dr Martin Naus BVSC Dr Greg Stanaway BVSC
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012 Page 7
r Mercury Bay Quilters
a Town Hall on Sunday, with about 80 quilters from around ding their annual get-together. on Judy Connell says the event was a huge success, attracting le who dropped in to have a look. ted their 25th anniversary at the event. rs, with a hard core of about a dozen. Ages range from 91d Rebeka Harvey. hird Monday and second and fourth Saturday at the Whitianga Many guest tutors have shared their expertise over the years ft shows. social interaction and the feedback they get on their work. Everybody is different, everybody has their own style. Some h colour, some with technique.” s over the past two years for the neonatal unit at National and in the past has also sent quilts to Starship Children’s
(left-right) back row Margaret Brown, Sue Webb, ; third row Pat Ritchie, Monica Spangenberg, Marlene na Bonkovich; second row Isabel Lloyd, Susie Munro, nt row Margaret Malcolm, Thelma Crawford, Zoe front Rebeka Harvey.
Revised District Plan for public release next week Residents and ratepayers in Thames-Coromandel District will get their first look at the revised District Plan next week. The district council has approved the draft plan for public release next Wednesday. The plan, which governs land use in the district, hasn’t been updated since its adoption in 1998. When it was first notified in March 1997, it attracted more than 5000 submissions from 1600 people. After decisions on the submissions were released in 1998, there were 51 appeals to the Environment Court and it took 12 years to settle them all and for the plan to become fully operative. The council says the new draft plan is about balancing heritage, cultural and community expectations
New master for Lodge Malcolm Cooper is the new master of Lodge Whitianga. Mr Cooper was installed at a Lodge meeting this month. The ceremony was conducted by District Grand Master Kerry Doherty and was attended by Masons from near and far. The Masonic Choir performed, singing five items.
THIS SCHOOL HOLIDAYS THINK LOCAL SHOP LOCAL HAVE FUN LOCAL
Grapefruit Gully Monk Street, Whitianga 866 5711
Home
Gift Fun
School holiday tip: have some free fun on the beach - organise games or a sandcastle competition
To advertise with us phone Lisa or Sue on 866 0001 or email sales@peninsulapost.co.nz
Our next issue is 18 October 2012
SHOP THINK. SHOP. BUY LOCAL
LOCAL
KEEP OUR TOWN GROWING
NOW AT
EX-RENTALS - BUY TWO AND GET ONE FREE 65 Albert St Whitianga Ph 866 4686
with economic and business development. Some of the topics raised in the draft include heritage, coastal landscapes, rezoning of land, mining, contaminated land and engagement with tangata whenua. Public meetings are being set up to encourage people to participate in the plan process in: Whitianga, TCDC office, November 22 4-6pm; Coromandel, TCDC office November 26 4-6pm; Colville Hall January 17 11am-2pm. Consultation on the draft plan runs until the end of January. The next step is public notification of the proposed district plan, scheduled for June next year. Formal submissions and hearings follow, with final decisions scheduled for November 2014.
Consult The Professionals
Albert Street Whitianga www.exquisiteboutique.co.nz
MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC - A GIFT FOR THE SOUL Just arrived at The Cave - Korg digital pianos, Vox amps & Greg Bennett ukes! Music Lessons @ $25 - Drums, Guitar, Bass, Keys, Harmonica, Percussion & Vocal Instrument repairs - PA hire - Wedding & party entertainment, solo, duo or full bands, all styles, 30 years experience!
THE CAVE 866 2574 or Rob a/h 866 2275
Computers & Laptops! REPAIR ● VIRUS REMOVAL ● SALES ● SERVICE ● SUPPORT
Great Prices! New & Used!
● Tablets ● Laptops ● New and Used Computers
● a local working for locals for 12 years ● home & business visits available
866 5220
18 Coghill Street (upstairs) tom.jacobs@clear.net.nz
School holiday tip: take the kids fishing - there's nothing like catching your own dinner
Page 8
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012
Illegally parked cars will be ticketed in main street Bylaw officers will soon recommence issuing tickets to cars parked illegally in Whitianga's main street with random patrols throughout the spring and summer. Senior compliance officer Steve Hart says this mean anyone parked on Albert St in a disabled car park without the correct permit or parking in breach of parking bylaws will receive a fine of between $40 and $200, depending on the offence. The council’s compliance team has taken over responsibility from the New Zealand Transport Agency for enforcing the parking bylaws in the Whitianga central business district. The council has a zero tolerance for anyone using disabled car parks without a permit and compliance officers will instantly issue $150 fines for these offences, Mr Hart says. It's expected that at the
Mercury Bay Community Board meeting this month, sign off will also be given for bylaws staff to enforce time zone limits in the area on a seasonal basis. A particular focus will be illegal parking around the Whitianga Wharf, including the 10-minute parking zone, he says. This area is needed to provide short-term parking for wharf users. The time limit in Albert St will also be enforced. “We have received numerous complaints from Albert St business owners about cars being parked outside their shops for hours at a time," Mr Hart says. "There's actually a two-hour limit and with Whitianga getting busier over the summer months, we will be enforcing those time limits." There is ample long-term parking in Lee St and in Taylors Mistake Reserve, he says.
Watchdog meeting
The first of a series meetings organised by Mercury Bay Watchdog will be held at the Coroglen Community Hall next Wednesday. The anti-mining group will present information about the mineral prospecting permit granted in January to Newmont Waihi Gold’s American parent company Newmont Corporation. The permit covers 222.5 sq km from the top of the Tairua hill to Te Rerenga, and includes a significant amount of private land. Mercury Bay Watchdog wants to provide people with accessible information about the processes for granting these permits, landowner rights and responsibilities and some of the concerns the group has about mineral extraction activities in Mercury Bay. The meeting on October 17 is at 3.15pm.
Sport MINI BIKING
INDOOR BOWLS
Three MBAS students to race school MB 9 hole built bikes in Minibike Grand Prix Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club held their last
club championship for the season last Thursday night with 10 mixed pairs (1 male, 1 female) competing for the Edie Chaney Cup. After four games of very competitive play, the winners of the cup for 2012 were Brian and Dot Codyre with 7 points and 22 ends. The runners-up were Bernie and Monika Spangenberg with 7 points and 19 ends. The club’s closing night is Thursday, October 25.
GOLF
MB results 9 Hole
Three Mercury Bay Area School students will race their school-built minibikes in the National New Zealand Secondary Schools Minibike Grand Prix next week. Jared Scarrott, Jacob Sanders and Callum Gillett will join more than 250 minibike and sidecar racers from 25 schools at Manfeild Park racing circuit in Feilding. As part of their studies, the Year 12 mechanical engineering students have to build and race their bikes,
which are less than knee high but have a top speed of 60kmh. Students get a kit that delivers wheels, an engine and brakes and then go from there to create their own bikes. They learn MIG welding, lathe turning and drill press processes. They also have to pass a theory component. Engineering and technology teacher Chris Cawley, says the boys’ enthusiasm has been amazing. “The students really get into it. They’ll work
FAMILY DAY OUT Sunday 21 October, Labour Weekend Whitianga Bike Park, Moewai Road 12 noon to 4pm 12 noon Billy Tea with lamingtons $2 pp BBQ sausages with trimmings $2 each Canned soft drinks available $2 each 12.30pm Bike Activities on BMX, Track and Jump area – organised by Sport Waikato Target Golf – $1 for 1 ball or $2 for 3 balls, $50 Prize for Hole in One 1 pm Guided Walks – Kauri Track
MAIN EVENT 3pm
TREASURE HUNT 5 to 12 year olds – maximum number 200 - $2 per child Prizes 1st $100 4 Runners Up $25 195 prizes of $1 value
150 tickets available from Social Services, Mercury Bay Area School and The Bike Man - 50 tickets available on day of event. Tickets will be available from 15 October. Note!! While the Treasure Hunt is in progress, a Lolly Scramble will be held for the under 5s.
THIS EVENT IS A FUN DAY FOR ALL THE FAMILY BECOME A SUPPORTER OF THE BIKE PARK
Mercury Bay Area School student Jacob Sanders prepares his minibike for racing at Manfeild.
on the bike in their lunch break or after school.” Mr Cawley will take the boys to Feilding and is looking forward to seeing how they go. The minibike grand prix was founded by Feilding High School in 1997 and has since grown in popularity. Last year MBAS student Joby Bainbridge won the race.
classifieds classifieds under $50 ELECTRIC vac blower, goes well, free to collect. Ph 869 5459. FRIDGE freezer, Kelvinator, small, good condition $50. Ph 866 2265. $50 & UNDER RULES: Ads are free. Private advertisers only. Items must be priced. No pets, plants or livestock. No more than 3 items of $50 or less per ad. No more than 15 words per ad (ads will be edited at our discretion). 1 ad per person or household.
situations vacant CASUAL mystery shoppers needed in the Coromandel area. Get paid to shop - apply online www.mslogistics.co.nz.
Nine ladies turned up to play Gross Nett & Putting competitions last week. Results: Division 1: Gross Joan Wedge 1; Division 2: Gross Margret Coysh 2; Division 2: Nett Jean Hancock; Putting: Pat Skinner.
Women
Ladies played second week Stroke Play and LGU last week. Results: Division One: Sue Donovan 1, Debbie Holmes 2; Division Two: Robyn Evans 2, Ann Blair 2, Maria Duxfield 3; Two: Janice Bell; Nearest the pin on 4: Katrina Hill, Nearest the pin on 10: Sheree Henderson, LGU Trophy: Sue Donovan.
Men
Mid week results for October 3: Bryan Warwick 39, Craig Hill 37, Bruce Bell 36, Osman Emer 36, Mick Henderson 35, Graham Eccles 35, Shane Pullin 34, Geoff Lowe 34, Lee Hall 34; Twos: Craig Hill, Gary Wheeler Saturday, October 6: Kelly Barson 37, Andrew Fleming 36, Wayne Malcolm 36, Jay Lash 35, Steve Tull 34, Stuart King 33, Craig Hill 33; Twos: Kelly Barson, Craig Hill, Wayne Malcolm, Steve Tull; Long drive, junior: Muzz Bennett; NAGA Muzz Bennett.
Matarangi Ladies Invitation Day – Pairs Competition, October 2: Anne McDonald and Carol Smith 79 1, Carol Smith and Stu Arnold 69 . Men’s Net Medal Results. October 3: Stu Arnold 71 1, Tony Cotton 71 2, Trevan Smith 72 3. Saturday Scramble Stableford Competition, October 6: Barry Tichmarsh 32 1, Keith Law 29 2.
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012 Page 9
classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds classifieds for sale A Great Starter Computer: HP Pavilion Windows XP, 160Gg hard drive, 1Gb ram, 15" LCD monitor $325 Call The Patient Tutor 866 5220. FIREWOOD 3 cubic metres dry clean split Pine $200 delivered to Whitianga. Phone Chris 021 240 9909. TI-TREE firewood $100m3. Ph 866 3589. FP chest deep freeze vol 276 $150. FP fridge freezer $200. 2 La-z-boy chairs, dark blue $100 each. 3-seater couch, brown $50. Stihl SE61 versatile wet vaccum $150. Phone 866 3804.
to let
health & beauty Sandy Cotman
HELP, HELP, HELP
Permanent rentals urgently required NOW. Tenants: Rental list changing constantly, call into office. Holiday rentals available. 7 The Esplanade, by the wharf or phone Geraldine Welford 866 0098 or 021 672 748 geraldine.welford@bayleys.co.nz Licensed under the REAA 2008
PROPERTIES NEEDED NOW No Hidden Fees No Set Up Costs Professional Honest Service TALK TO US NOW! Karyn Hunter 07 866 4981 or 027 555 6063
NZ Registered Midwife Childbirth Educator
• Home birth specialist • Personalised ante-natal and post-natal care FREE ANTE-NATAL CLASS
Phone 866 5344 NATUROPATH, Herbalist, Bowen, Massage. Health 2000, Whitianga - Ph 866 5899. Leanne Halliwell, Kuaotunu Ph 0274 588 626. OSTEOPATH Gabriel Bedford, Whitianga, Mondays. For appointments ph 07 868 5205.
work wanted
35 year's experience can do anything - big or small
plants for sale NATIVE PLANTS Revegetation Grade PB2s, from $1.50 min purchase 30 Ph 866 3123
W.A.N.T. Native Trees & Edibles Citrus and Fruit Trees
Big selection of native trees, all sizes Incredible edible range Non natives as well Fruit trees - this season's available now PO EFT S now available
WANTED! Quality homes for quality tenants. Long term & holiday Free rental appraisals Landlords & tenants, for all your rental requirements: Call KRISSIE BRAND Licensed Property Manager with 11 years local experience 07 866 5824 or 027 273 4420
wanted POPTOP caravan, Lite Weight, CI Munro or Angler. Tidy up okay. Ph 027 280 1737.
TREE SERVICE
•Dismantling •Felling •Pruning •Debris removal •Fully insured •Free quotes Ph Jeremy Haszard 866 0118
3-BEDROOM house, long term, family with 2 kids, no pets. From 1 December. Ph Nick 021 666 350. RESPONSIBLE, retired couple of modest means looking for quiet, caravan site to rent, long term, with power & water, pref close to beach. Ph 06 752 7853, or email ronstratford@gmail.com
public notices
garage sales
CAR BOOT SALE Labour weekend Saturday 20 Oct, 8am MB Club carpark
$5 car space only Enquiries to Jenny 027 2928 226 132 BUFFALO Beach Road Sat 13 October 2012, 10 am.
cat motel KRISTIN’S BOARDING CATTERY Vet nurse, warm, clean, secure, outdoor run. Ph 866 4724
LITT, Norm. Passed peacefully after a long illness on 9 October 2012. Norman, loved partner of Lucy Horne, father of Tara, Michael, Daniel, Tracey, Jessica (deceased). Join us for a celebration of his life, Friday 12 October, 1pm at the farm, 3226 State Highway, Whitianga. Communications to Tara 021 247 7936.
WORSHIP SERVICES
and Kids Friendly Bible Session
St Andrew’s By the Sea Community Church Albert Street Whitianga 9:30 am every Sunday Minister: Rev Mary Petersen ST PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH
Campbell Street Sunday Mass 8.30am (With Children's Liturgy)
Wednesday Mass/Liturgy 12.05pm
Tairua Mass Sunday 10.30am
HAVE YOU TRIED BOWLS? OUTDOOR
MERCURY BAY BOWLING CLUB are holding a day for you to try it Sunday 14 October 10am - 3pm
9am-5pm
500m up Waitaia Rd, Kuaotunu
death notice
Mercury Bay Co-operating Parish
public notices
Thursday to Sunday
869 5910
DRESSMAKING, Ph Sue 0274 970 353. ELECTRICIAN, registered. Steve Garmey, 7 Puriri Place, Tuateawa. Phone 866 7669 or 021 0244 0002. SANDBLASTING. Phone Phillip 866 5298.
10am sunday crossroad centre cnr joan gaskell drive & cook drive
more classified ads page 8
Open
or by phone appointment
ALL WELCOME
Enquiries Ph 869 5577
Phone Wayne 021 111 0130
wanted to rent
Absolute town centre, upstairs, sunny outlook over main street. 110sqm or less, good rate. Ph 866 4493 or 027 442 4279
Dundas Street, Whitianga Sunday Services: 9.30am 3rd Sunday of the month: All Age Service
BUILDER
PAPERWORK got you buried? Let me help you with your accounts!! Phone Sonja J - 866 4438
OFFICE SPACE
ANGLICAN SERVICES St. Peter the Fisherman
Bach or house need a tidy up?
education
Licensed Property Manager REAA 2008
church notices
3-BEDROOM house, newly decorated, Coroglen, references required, $250pw. Phone 867 1002. COOK Drive, tidy 2brm stand alone unit, garage/ramps, long term, $230pw. Avail 23/10/12 ph 0274 529 541. COROGLEN 3-bedroom Lockwood plus 12m x 12m shed with 3 phase power. $300 per wk. Would consider renting separately. Ph 866 5682. FLAT, 1 double bedroom, semi furnished, quiet Robinson Rd location, suit professional couple/person, clean & tidy, available immediately. Phone or txt 027 555 7566. STORAGE sheds, Phone 866 5147, mob 0274 722 070. WHITIANGA, 3 bedroom house, garage, full section, central, long term tenant. $275pw. Ph 866 3767.
So come and try it - bowls provided MERCURY BAY AREA SCHOOL Term 3 School Holidays 2012 1 October – 14 October 2012 Our school office will be open from Wednesday 10 October 2012 - from 8am to 4.15pm Uniform Shop (Safety & Apparel) Open 8am to 5pm. Located at Unit 2/20 Joan Gaskell Drive New Enrolments: The Deputy Principals will be available on Thursday and Friday over the holiday period. For appointments please contact the school office 866 5916. Thursday, 11 October MBAS School gymnasium at 7pm An invitation to come along and listen to engaging guest speaker – Nathan Mikaere-Wallis of X Factor Education on the topic of brain development. This is recommended to all our parents and children (upwards of 10 years) School opens for Term Four on Monday 15 October 2012 at 8.45am Have a Safe and Happy Holiday John Wright (Principal) contact 021 383 865
MERCURY BAY LIBRARY HOURS Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9am - 5pm Wed 9.30am - 5pm Sat 9am - 12pm SEEKING STALLHOLDERS for the new ~Craft by the River ~ addition to the Coroglen Farmers Market Items for sale will be original, handmade by local artists & craftsmen. Also quality vintage items nothing imported. Please phone Kevin or Fiona 866 3315 for a booking
Summer Membership only $299 (conditions apply)
www.mercurybaygolf.co.nz
WHITIANGA TOY LIBRARY
Isabella Street (off Coghill St) Open every Friday 9am – 12pm New members Welcome ~Toys for Hire ~ THE CHURCH OP SHOP Behind St Andrews by the Sea Church, Owen St Thurs/Fri/Sat, 9am - 12.30pm
thank you I wish to thank my family and friends, the Cancer Society, Continuing Care and doctors for the wonderful support I have had since Keith Harrison became ill. Love to all of you... Doreen Davies
Page 10
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012
E-waste scheme off to slow start A new electronic waste recycling scheme got off to a slow start in Whitianga on Saturday but organisers hope changes can be made to make it easier to use. Waste is picked up from the Whitianga Rubbish Transfer Station and taken to an e-waste depot at Coromandel town’s transfer station. Arrangements were made for people to drop off waste in Whitianga on the first Saturday morning of every month but consultant project manager Guy Macindoe says he’s working on provision for people to be able to drop stuff off any time the station is open. Coromandel Independent Living Trust recently established the e-waste depot on a year’s trial basis, sub-contracting to ThamesCoromandel District Council contractor Smart Environmental Ltd. Charges for disposal range from $6-$25, with two people employed parttime to dismantle some
Dennis Price, from Hahei, drops off e-waste to CILT’s recycling project manager Guy Macindoe at Whitianga Transfer Station on Saturday.
of the equipment. The rest is dismantled in New Zealand and overseas and components are reused as raw materials to manufacture new products. Mr Macindoe says people are starting to use the service in Coromandel town, where it’s been going a bit longer, but huge volumes aren’t expected. In Whitianga a few printers, fax machines, phones and various bits and pieces of e-waste were dropped off. People also arrived with TVs but there was resistance
to the $25 charge for their recycling. Confusion has arisen with the Government’s free TV take-back scheme not taking affect until a region switches to digital TV. That doesn’t happen on the Coromandel Peninsula until December next year. Mr Macindoe says legislative change is needed to build the cost of e-waste disposal into items, with producers then paying for recycling costs. Hiria Tukerangi, from CILT, is taking over as e-Cycle coordinator.
Reported crime in region up slightly Reported crime in Eastern Waikato, including the Coromandel Peninsula, rose by two per cent in the year ending June 30 2012. There were 7496 crimes reported in 2010-2011, compared to 7644 in 20112012. The resolution rate rose from 45.7 per cent to 49.8 per cent. Categories where crime rose were: homicide (1), assault, sexual assault, dangerous or negligent acts, burglary, drugs, weapons, property and environmental damage. Crime dropped in the categories of abduction and harassment, robbery, theft, fraud and public disorder. Area commander Inspector Dana McDonald says he’s impressed to see the rate of increase in crime drop, down from 9.7 per cent in 2010-2011 to two per cent in 2011-2012, but says there is still more work to be done. "While the turn around is pleasing we need to get to the point where crime reduces and with new initiatives on the way we're working to identify the drivers of crime to prevent offending happening." Dishonesty offences, particularly burglaries, continue to be a concern, he says. "Again, burglaries of rural areas are a major pressure point for both residents and police as offenders take advantage of the isolation of rural residents and sometimes their complacency. "The reality is offenders are increasingly mobile where as a lot of property owners still believe they live too far away from towns to be at risk
and leave vehicles unlocked, outbuildings unsecured and valuable items such as tools, equipment and farm medicines in plain view." Mr McDonald says new measures include frontline staff being out on the frontline more, with supporting resources better placed to support them. A new crime reporting line will make it easier for members of the public to report crime, particularly rural residents. A new service for victims of crime is also being introduced after being trialed in Western Waikato. “Police will be spending more time working with
victims to ensure they don't become repeat victims. It's all about making people feel safe so they can be safe." One of the key preventative strategies in the Eastern Waikato is the continuing focus on disrupting the activities of organised crime, particularly those involved in the drugs trade, which drives dishonesty offending such as burglary and receiving, he says. "And that's where the public can really help. If you see or hear something happening notify police either by contacting us directly or through Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.”
Bridge Whitianga Results from Round 4 of Mercury Bay Bridge Club’s Spring Competition played on September 26: North/ South Dave Wilkinson and Anne Knowles 53.47 1, Val and Martin Lewis 51.39 2; East/West Robyn Hogg and Giorgio Allemano 59.72 1, Val Thompson and Norma Loomes 50.00 2. Results from Round 5 of the Spring Competition played on October 3, using Howell system: Alison Tichbon and Bob Schibli 63.89 1, Augusta Canegallo and Giorgio Allemano 62.50 2, Val Dwight and June Wood 54.17 3.
Coromandel
Coromandel Bridge Club played the third round of the championship pairs on October 8. Results were: Jocelyn Ranger and Colin McAnnalley 60.42 1, Judy Bronlund and David Stone, Natalie Taylor and Ischelle Stevenson 56.25 2=.
Hahei
Results of the Cathedral Pairs played on October 2: North-South: June Wood, Chris Rendle 63.19 1; Maureen France, Robyn Hogg 62.85 2; Elizabeth Barr, Annette Cox 53.13 3. East-West; Alva Gibson, Peter France 58.73 1; Doreen Harris, David Wilkinson 55.56 2; Annette Cumings, Raewyn Whitham 53.57 3.
Graham Tucker
October 2012
Whitianga Coastguard Crew still doing radar and GPS training Two and a half months to Christmas, how time flies. Two call-outs this month: on September 11 we had a medical on a fishing boat and transported the patient to the marina; on September 24 we were called out to a runabout with a flat battery at Cuvier Island. It would not be a bad idea if you’re going that far out to carry a jump-start kit. Training is going well, with the crew practising barging. This is when the CRV is tied onto a boat in trouble, which is towed onto their mooring or into their marina berth. We are still doing radar and GPS training. The Scallop Festival went well with thanks to Brent Willcocks for getting it all to happen. Also thanks to Bruce and Michelle Ellwood for organising
the scallops and oysters from Peter Bull at Seafood Products Coromandel. Peter has helped Coastguard on previous Scallop Festivals. Also thanks to all of the crew and partners who worked over the three days. The exterior of our building extension will be completed by the end of this week. Thanks to the volunteers who have helped us with this. Some of the crew will start the exterior painting next week, weather permitting. Whitianga will have a flare
demonstration on October 23, starting at 5pm. This will be open to the general public, with an introduction at the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club. Contact Stu Brown at Longshore Marine 021 0222 5625. Bathtub Racing is on Labour Weekend with racing starting at 11am on Sunday. This time we also have a Birdman Competition starting at 12.30pm on Sunday. Registration forms available from Whitianga i-Site and Whitianga Plumbing & Drainage. Registration has to be in by 12 o'clock Saturday, Labour Weekend. This is a great competition with Coastguard receiving part of the money raised. So see you there. Talk to the boys about maybe building a bathtub yourself. They would be only too pleased to point you in the right direction. Great fun. Safe Boating
Letters to the editor And where is the council’s Audit Committee in all of this? On September 27 you noted that Mercury Bay Community Board chair Henry was dismayed the board’s parks and reserves renewals budget for 2012-2013 was cut from $200,000 to $20,000 without consultation and presumably without the board’s knowledge. Then, on October 5 you indicated that Mercury Bay Community Board reserve accounts were being drawn down to cover a $1 million shortfall in funding for the new sports complex. So the board, given the chair’s September 27 comments, were unaware about these significant adjustments being made to their budgets despite all the hype about "local empowerment". The breakdown of the $1 million is given as $417,800
for construction blowouts and $583,395 when the community board changed its mind about siting the sports complex. True. In 2005/6 the previous council decided to delegate the responsibility of developing the business case for the new sports complex to the MB board. The then chairman (now councillor) McLean promoted moving the complex from Whitianga Waterways to Moewai Rd and the bill for the sports complex plans grew to $583,395. The Waterways agreement was eventually reviewed to accommodate changed circumstances and to address some of its ragged edges. But it was always binding legally, and the board’s spending spree achieved nothing.
As a councillor and board member at the time, I was against this nonsense and moved a notice of motion asking the council to remove the sports complex delegation back to the council. Unfortunately, I could not gather the numbers for this and $583,395 of ratepayers’ money went down the gurgler. Accountability? Eventually one hopes so. And where is the council’s Audit Committee in all of this? When a shortfall of $1 million mysteriously occurs in a council budget, that committee should be over it like a rash, asking pertinent questions and reassessing council processes. Dal Minogue Ferry Landing
...sadness for the humans that still live for greed... The power of a symbol that made someone see red. A simple green spot, that’s all it took. Who would have known that a basic sign would be destroyed within two days of it being erected. My first reaction was sadness for the humans that still live for greed, not realising the richness that our land already provides. Then I felt angry because I had taken the time to find wood (kindly donated), paint the sign, then drive to find a spot to put the sign up. So it was the disrespect, not only to me but towards a cause that one day humanity will be thankful for.
Lastly I felt great because our beautiful green spot is known for what it stands for, by all. A simple message conveyed by a simple symbol. I believe we are not only blessed to live in such an amazing, energetic place but that we should celebrate the fact that we care about precious earth’s treasures being left just where they
are, for all to live amongst, untouched, protected and enjoyed. Let’s be grateful for our land, and mark my words – we will be [considered] future leaders for being conscious of our actions [and their impact on] our environment. Shannon Duncan Hahei
The Peninsula Post 11 October 2012 Page 11
September weather
Police notebook Sergeant Andrew Morrison says
We have attended a couple of noisy parties over the past week where people have shown no concern for their neighbours and just kept loud music going into the early hours of the morning. This thoughtless behaviour is not acceptable and police will work closely with noise control staff to seize music equipment if noisy people don't consider others. A couple of infringement tickets have been issued this week for people riding unregistered and unwarranted trail/farm bikes around town. Off-road
bikes are not to be driven on the road, which includes footpaths, and tickets will continue to be issued to deter this behaviour.
Arrests
25yr old local woman for breach of the peace, Oct 5
Traffic
Motor vehicle crash, SH25 Kuaotunu, Oct 5. Driver of a car crossed the centre line and crashed into a van travelling in the opposite direction. Moderate/ minor injuries resulted and enquiries continuing. 48yr old Auckland man apprehended driving with excess breath alcohol 878/400, Oct 7.
Occurrences
hours of the morning given Three domestic incidents direct advice, Oct 5. were attended this week. I-phone stolen from a On October 1 a woman was party on Whitby Ave, Oct 6, arguing with her ex-partner subsequently anonymously and she was removed from returned, Oct 7. the address, only to again be removed from the address Owners of a holiday home on October 5 when she on Matarangi Dr reported started to argue with her ex- their property had been burgled, Oct 6. This burglary partner and brother. Also on October 5 a woman was linked to the spate of was arrested outside a burglaries in Matarangi at the Nicholas Ave address after beginning of September. arguing with friends. Burglary of a residential Disorderly behaviour, address on Kenneth Ave. South Highway, Oct 2. TV, fishing gear and food Occupants at a Buffalo stolen, Oct 7. Beach address who had a noisy party into the early
Coromandel town had its wettest September in nine years, while rainfall in Whitianga and Cooks Beach was below normal. In Coromandel town there was 174.50mm, compared to normal of around 100mm. Last highest was in 2010 when 148.50mm was recorded. In Whitianga rainfall was 160mm, compared to normal for September of 169mm. The average daily maximum temperature was 16.2 °C, compared to normal of 16.8 °C and average daily minimum was 8.9 °C (normal 7.7 °C). Highest temperature was 20.6 °C on September 30 and lowest was 0.3 °C on September 13. Sunshine was near normal for September, based on data from nearby locations.
In Cooks Beach there was 138mm of rain, with the highest rainfall, 27.3mm, falling on September 27. Average daily maximum temperature was 17.2°C and average daily minimum was 10°C. Highest temperature was 21.4°C on September 30 and lowest was 1.0°C on September 12. NIWA is forecasting a borderline or weak El Niño for late spring. In the next three months air temperatures are likely to be near average or above average, while sea surface temperatures are expected to be cooler than normal. Soil moisture levels and river flows are expected to be near normal or above normal.
Let the experts take care of it fuel deliveries
floor sanding
plumbing
ACME FUEL SUPPLIES
BE A Diesel fuel and Castrol products delivered WINNER! free to the wharf or the farm Every Quick, efficient service Competitive prices month
Available from Port Charles to Whangamata one lucky
To arrange your delivery phone Peter on 027 297 4299 phone Caren on 07 866 2689
customer will win a $150 diesel voucher
Sanding - Polyurethane Coating Timber & Cork Flooring Crawford Brown cell 021 911 471 home 07 211 9700 crawford.a.brown@gmail.com
cleaning
boat repairs & maintenance
windows
M PA S C OE & H
Carpet Cleaning Upholstery Cleaning Full House Clean Shower Cleaning Flood Restoration Commercial Cleaning
BOAT REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE
● Fibreglass & Wooden Boat Repairs ● All Marine Painting including Antifouling ● Cleaning & Polishing ● Stockists of Marine Paints & Chandlery Mitch Pascoe - 0274 852 046 Phyll Foster - 0274 852 036 1 Dundas St, Whitianga email - info@hmpascoe.co.nz
A/H: 07 866 5866
Contact Jim 0274 872 606 Mercury Bay Commercial Cleaners joinery
Kitchens Timber Joinery Free measure and quote 7 days a week, by appointment We are reqularly in Coromandel PENINSULA JOINERY Albert Street, Thames Phone 07 868 6323 pj.kitchens@yahoo.co.nz
Boat covers Clear drops Full upholstery service & auto trimming
Mercury Bay Canvas & Upholstery
Ph 866 4972 or 027 2277 895
www.pascoeboatrepairs.co.nz
earthmoving
glass
65 Cook Dr, Whitianga Ph 07 867 1772 24Hrs
Need urgent repairs Phone us first for fast & efficient service Anything to do with glass
hard landscaping
couriers
canvas & upholstery
CARAVAN AWNINGS
32 Campbell St PO Box 299, Whitianga Telephone/Fax 07-866 4305 Mobile 027-276 7522
WHITIANGA
Phone 07 867 9151
Building Site & Driveway Preparation Section Clearing/Landscaping Post Hole Boring Trenching Metal & Topsoil Supplies Plate Compactor Hire “WE MAKE THE EARTH MOVE” Covering Whitianga, Coromandel & surrounding areas. Experienced owner/operator Brendan O’Connell Ph 0274 934 212 or A/H 866 0505
►Rock features ►Retaining walls ►Site prep ►Hard landscaping
BOBCAT & TRUCK HIRE
To find out about our great deal for advertisers in this section, email Lisa or Sue on sales@peninsulapost.co.nz or phone us on 866 0001 Our next issue is 18 October 2012
Ph Johnny 021 0223 0777 or 866 3942
Page 12
The Peninsula Post î ˆ 11 October 2012
Your favourite ever pet photo
We got so many great entries this week that we had to choose more than one. Clockwise from top left Debbie Scobie's pic of Pug, Ginger Spice and Stella enjoying a nap in the sun; Sophie Cressey-Hamilton's image of her little deaf cat Mertil along with her siblings Dooey, Marko and Alabama and mother Minx; Sue Webb's photo of Manxie who lives across the road but calls each morning for a saucer of milk, a chat and a spot of bird watching and Diana Morcom's pic of Polly, her 10 year old Tortie cat, who loves to do her Yoga stretching exercises on her bed.
Keep sending us your favourite ever pet photos. Each month our prizewinner will receive an 8 x 12 photo block of their image, thanks to Stephensons Unichem Pharmacy and Fujifilm Image Service.
Email your image to news@peninsulapost.co.nz with your name, address, a daytime phone number and the name of your pet/s. If there are people in the photo please make sure they are named. Remember one entry per photographer per week.
me
FREEVIEW: co in for Local Information for Local Conditions Accredited Installer
HEAT PUMPS
WE INSTALL!!
Accredited Installer for Panasonic, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi, Toshiba GOOD SPECIALS ON HEAT PUMPS IN STORE NOW
we’re not just your favourite retail store! SALES
SERVICE
QUOTATION
INSTALLATION
49 Albert Street, Whitianga Phone 866 5726 sales@100whitianga.co.nz
Locally owned and operated by Ian & Enid
CONDITIONS APPLY