what’s on
coromandel peninsula
The Peninsula Post guide to what’s happening summer 2012-2013 whitianga coromandel town northern coromandel peninsula
Joan Gaskell Dr Whitianga Open 7am to 9pm until 27 January 2013 Fuel on site
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS Emergency Services 111 Doctors Whitianga 07 866 5911 or 07 866 4621 Coromandel 07 866 8500 Tairua 07 864 8737 Pauanui 07 864 8404 Whangamata 07 865 8032 Thames 07 868 9444 Vets Whitianga 07 866 5314 Coromandel 07 866 8556 Tairua 07 864 9009 Whangamata 07 865 8109 Information Centres Whitianga 07 866 5555 Coromandel 07 866 8598 Tairua 07 864 7575 Pauanui 07 864 7101 Thames 07 868 7284 Whangamata 07 865 8340 Harbourmasters Coromandel 07 866 8146 or 0274 809 767 Mercury Bay 07 866 5304 or 0274 931 379 Tairua/Pauanui 07 864 8846 or 0274 762 651 Whangamata 07 865 8600 or 021 594 563 Thames 07 868 6864 or 027 480 9767 Noise & Dog Control 868 0200 24 hours
contents Whitianga - Mercury Bay
6
Activities
7
Beaches within easy reach
8
Eating out & entertainment
15
Health & beauty
20
Rainy day activities
20
Art
22
Kuaotunu, Coromandel town & north
24
Building & landscaping
30
Church services
32
Real estate
32
Calendar of events
33, 42
Accommodation
35
Transport
35
Put on your walking shoes
36
A great day out
38
Retail
40
Gig guide
41
Weddings
43
Services
44
What’s On Summer Quiz
46
Cover image: Big Sandy Bay, Port Charles
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Enjoy the magic of the Coromandel Peninsula... Each year The Coromandel Peninsula Post (formerly The Bay Beacon) produces this What’s On guide for visitors to the northeastern Coromandel Peninsula and we welcome you to our place. Each year we re-run some of our favourite stories from the Peninsula Post. This year our friend over the hill in Coromandel town Barry Brickell from Driving Creek Railway came up with a great idea for the Coromandel wharf. And the Coromandel Silver Band Museum got a new home. We farewelled a group of kiwi who have gone to live on Motutapu Island in the Hauraki Gulf. Our artist friend from Otama Michael Smither has come up with a great scheme to control coastal erosion. He and a group of Mercury Bay Area School students and weaver Lizzy Leckie have collaborated to produce flax skirts for a trial on Buffalo Beach. The magic of the Coromandel goes on year after year for those of us privileged to be able to live and work in this paradise at the end of the universe. You can keep in touch with what’s going on because The Coromandel Peninsula Post is online and you can read our publication every week at www.peninsulapost.co.nz. We’re also on Facebook and we’d love to welcome you to our page. Please have an enjoyable holiday on the Coromandel and come back and visit us soon.
Sue Collins Publisher
Useful links
www.thecoromandel.com www.whitianga.co.nz www.coromandeltown.co.nz www.tairua.org.nz www.pauanuionline.co.nz www.thamesinfo.co.nz www.whangamatainfo.co.nz Thank you to Lisa Peehikuru and Jacqui Ackland who worked so hard on the production of What’s On this year. The Coromandel Peninsula Post and What’s On published by The Bay Beacon Ltd 18 Coghill Street, Whitianga. Phone 07 866 0001 or fax 07 866 0110 admin@peninsulapost.co.nz
www.peninsulapost.co.nz 4
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
121A Cook Drive
Whitianga Ph 07 866 0456
Relax and unwind... leave the world behind... Crystal clear water from 667 meters EHORZ WKH HDUWK·V surface.
Revitalize www.thelostspring.co.nz
your body and mind in the Day Spa
A unique thermal hotwater and Day Spa experience. 5
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
whitianga Te Whitianga-a-Kupe is the original place name of the town, meaning Kupe’s crossing place. It is one of the few places in New Zealand to commemorate Kupe. Following his visit in about 950 AD, many of Kupe’s tribe settled here so Whitianga can lay claim to over 1000 years of continuous occupation. The original European settlement was situated on the opposite side of the river from approximately 1836 to 1881. The past industries included boat building, kauri milling, flax milling, gold mining and gum digging. For many years, it was a leading timber port, with sailing ships from Norway, Sweden, France, Italy and Great Britain coming to load timber. Overseas vessels of 2000 tons, with a draught of 18” and carrying with their deck loads over a million feet of timber worked the harbour entrance. The larger ships were towed into the port from near Centre Island. Over a period of sixty years, it is estimated over 500 million feet of kauri timber was exported from the Whitianga district. The first kauri gum was exported in 1844. It reached its peak in 1899 when over 11,000 tons of gum was exported at an average of $120 per ton. Today Whitianga depends on fishing, farming and tourism for its prosperity.
Mercury Bay
The people of Hei commemorated their leader in a few place names, one being the bay at the head of which he had settled Te Whanganui o Hei (the Great Bay of Hei). This large sheltered bay was later renamed by Captain James Cook when he came here in November 1769 to observe the Transit of Mercury. Cook was accompanied by Charles Green, the Royal Society expedition astronomer, who died on the homeward journey in 1771. From Cook’s journal - “my reasons for putting in here were the hopes of discerning a good harbour, and the desire I had of being in some convenient place to observe the Transit of Mercury, which happens on the 9th instant and will be wholly visible here if the day is clear between 5 and 6 o’clock”. Cook also named the Whitianga Harbour “River of Mangroves” and this area is still referred to as the River. The sighting of the Transit of Mercury is commemorated on Cooks Beach by a cairn of Coromandel granite which tells the story: “In this bay was anchored 5 Nov. 1769 H.M.S. Endeavour, Lieutenant James Cook RN, Commander. He observed the transit of Mercury and named this bay.”
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
activities
there’s so much to do!
Home to the Coromandel’s finest wines
OPEN 7 DAYS * Phone: 07 866 4066 761A Purangi Road, Cooks Beach * Please visit website for opening hours.
Ideal lunch location with magnificent views over Mercury Bay
www.mercur ybayestate.co.n z
Mercury Bay Museum Across from Whitianga Wharf Ph 866 0730
Open 7 days 10am to 4pm
Non-local adults $7.50 Locals, Seniors & Students $5 Children 50c* Family $15 *Special rates for schools Experience Mercury Bay History! Captain Cook, HMS Buffalo, Gifts, Books & Souvenirs
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Beaches within easy reach Buffalo Beach
Front Beach & Flaxmill Bay
Named after the ship that was wrecked while transporting kauri spars in 1840. This beach offers excellent surfcast fishing at either end and safe swimming.
Sheltered north-facing beaches provide great swimming and rock exploring.
Wharekaho Bay (Simpsons Beach) The old Pohutukawa trees described by Captain Cook still stand today.
Kuaotunu (pictured) Once a thriving gold mining town, Kuaotunu has a great beach for swimming and fishing.
Matarangi A residential resort type development offering 4.5km of beautiful beach and safe swimming.
Otama, Opito & Matapaua Bay These are approached by the Black Jack Road, beautiful white sandy beaches offer good swimming & surfcasting.
Whangapoua A good surf beach with large harbour. Take an easy 30 minute walk to the attractive New Chums Bay (Wainototo Bay).
Shakespeare Cliff & Lonely Bay Named for the profile of the rocks, resembling the face of the bard. Lookout from the top to take in outstanding views of the Mercury Bay. There is a walking track to Lonely Bay.
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Cooks Beach This is the landing place for Captain James Cook and his viewing point for the Transit of Mercury. Picturesque Purangi River is where he took on fresh water and oysters in 1769.
Hahei Very beautiful beach on the edge of the marine reserve. Drive to the lookout at the far end of the beach. The carpark is the start of the Cathedral Cove Bay walk, approximately 45 minutes down and one hour up.
Cathedral Cove One of the jewels of our crown. A visit to Mercury Bay is not complete until you have driven to Hahei, onto the Lookout and then walked to Cathedral Cove. It features a spectacular natural cave accessible at most tides. Te Hoho Rock stands alone in the middle of the beach.
Hot Water Beach Hot springs surface at the low tide mark. Best time to dig your own hot pool is within two hours either side of low tide. Take a spade, dig a hole and adjust the temperature for your bath!
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
MERCURY BAY
Summer Activities Kids’ Art Competition 17 December 2012 – 11 January 2013
Entry fee $7 - 3 age categories: 7yrs & under, 8-11yrs, 12-15yrs Theme: Animals - farm animals, sea animals or maybe an animal that you just think looks cool. Use different types of materials on your canvases (shell, feathers, sand) - and your imagination. Collect your canvas & entry form from Dive Zone Whitianga, Blacksmith Lane and return them by 11 January 2013. Entries will be displayed there. Prizegiving at Events HQ (by Dive Zone), 12 Jan, 2pm
Discover your inner camper... If you haven’t met your inner camper yet, chances are they’re relaxing at, or exploring one of over 200 DOC campsites. Inner campers can be a bit picky, so DOC caters to a range of campers and camping styles; from lush forest settings, to sandy beaches and shimmering lakes. Camp in scenic surroundings on the Coromandel from as little as $10 per adult per night. So what you are waiting for? Find the camper within!
www.doc.govt.nz/camping Published by Hauraki Area Office PO Box 343 Thames November 2012
Proudly sponsored by
Scavenger Hunt 29 December 2012, 12pm – 4pm
$10 per team (up to four) - great prizes to be won Pick up your list of items you need to collect from Richardsons Real Estate, Albert Street. You need to find as many items in as little time as possible, all “loot” to be handed into Richardsons Real Estate for marking by 4pm. Winners will be announced at Prizegiving at Events HQ (beside Dive Zone) at 5pm Winning Team Best Driftwood Sculpture Spot Prizes Proudly sponsored by
windsurfing & kayak hire - lessons for beginners
Family Sports Day 30 December 2012, 10am – 12pm Buffalo Beach Reserve
$2 entry per person - great family fun for all ages & great prizes Running races, Egg and Spoon races Sack races The popular Tug o War Family relay – with a twist (family = 2 adults & 1 child under 14yrs)
ph 866 0677 or 021 239 2107
INFINITY CHARTERS
Proudly sponsored by
Sand Sculpture 3 January 2013, 9am - 11am Buffalo Beach, Albert Street end
$5 per family/team No rules or regulations on this one – use anything you like except heavy machinery. A great family or team event,guaranteed to be a lot of fun! Prizes for 1st and 2nd and spot prizes. A picture of each team & their creation will be taken before prize giving
Fishing Diving Sightseeing Ph 07 866 5936 Mob 0274 864 126 ZI Whitianga Marina
WHITIANGA SUMMER WELLBEING
FAIR
28 Dec 2012 to 6 Jan 2013 Whitianga Town Hall 10am-5pm, FREE entry Lots of eco-friendly stalls Natural therapies Health checks & advice Free daily talks program Live entertainment
Proudly sponsored by
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Kuaotunu ocean swimmers achieve ambitious swim to Great Mercury Island
Nicole Cosandey and Dan Asquith celebrate their successful swim to Great Mercury Island.
by Sharyn Morcom Two Kuaotunu ocean swimmers met a long-time ambition to swim 6km to Great Mercury Island earlier than planned this week thanks to a friend’s good eye for the weather. Dan Asquith and Nicole Cosandey set off at 8.30 Monday morning from Kauwera Point north of Opito heading for Momona Bay on the south side of the island. Both swimmers completed the feat faster than they had expected with Dan finishing in one hour 50 minutes and Nicole in two hours 45 minutes. Dan says they may have delayed doing the swim if support boat skipper Toby Morcom hadn’t put the pressure on when he spotted a break in the weather which would provide ideal conditions. “I had hoped to get a bit more training in but Toby said the weather looked good,” he says. The decision to go was made quickly and the conditions on the day were perfect with no current and very few other boats around. “It was like swimming in a pool,” Dan says. He and Nicole are both members of Kuaotunu Open Water Swimmers and the Great Mercury Island swim has been a
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target since they formed the group 18 months ago. “Living here it seemed like a natural goal,” Dan says. They originally thought the stretch was between eight and ten km and physiologically that was a big step, he says. Another mental hurdle was the thought of sharks as Nicole had spotted several while kayaking across the stretch of water the week before. However once they were in the water the pair felt comforted by the presence of the support kayaks manned by Phil Nielsen and Hartmut Luther and the safety boats skippered by Toby and Tom Riddle. Nicole says she was pleasantly surprised with how she managed the swim. “I felt really good, I was a bit worried I might panic but I was really calm and relaxed. I just kept my pace and focused on Phil in the kayak.” Dan now has his sights set on a 12 km swim from Kuaotunu to Great Mercury and he and Nicole hope other swimmers will join them.
The Peninsula Post - April 19 2012
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
CONCESSIONS
10 rides $120
The
ULTIMATE WATER RUSH
BEST VALUE FUN IN WHITIANGA
at The Esplanade beach Boxing Day until end of school holidays. No bookings required.
$15
Cooks Beach
from
$35 Cathedral Cove trips
Cathedral Cove
9-10.30am bookings required
$15
Phone Kali or Steve HELLBENDER $10 on 07 866 5617 and $10 leave a message or see us on the beach
SCENIC RIDE
Check us out on www. THRILL THRILL RIDE RIDE whitianga.co.nz\banana boat KIDDIES CRUISE
NEW YEAR RACE
MERCURY BAY GAME FISHING CLUB
1 January 2013 MERCURY BAY BOATING CLUB issues a warm invitation to all sailors to join our traditional New Year event This is a low key enjoyable event, designed to start the New Year in a relaxed manner
TOURNAMENT DATES 2012-13 Kids
Sun
30 Dec
Valley Toyota Top Ten Trolling
Sat/Sun
5/6 Jan
Ladies & Ladies Blue
Sat/Sun (Ann Wknd)
26/27 Jan
Bonze Skins**
Thurs/Fri/Sat
7/8/9/ Feb
Classic
Sat/Sun/Mon
16 - 18 Feb
AFTER EVENT BBQ AND REFRESHMENTS 4pm
Mercury Bay Open
Sat - Sat
16 - 23 Feb
Nationals
Sat - Sat
16 – 23 Feb
ITM**
Thurs/Fri/Sat/Sun
28 Feb 1/2/3 Mar
Prospective new members welcome Phone 866 5749 or 021 0286 6060
Trailer Boat
Thur/Fri/Sat
7/8/9 Mar
Alto **
Fri/Sat
15/16 Mar
Junior
Sat/Sun
23/24 Mar
Kids
Easter Sat
30 Mar
Snapper
Sat
1 June
START TIME: On the line, 11am - 1100hrs. ENTRIES: will be accepted by the control tower on channel 77 up to 15 minutes before start time. Skippers’ briefing at the clubhouse 9.30am on the day of event. Entry is free.
** These are sponsored Tournaments hosted by MBGFC NB: Placemakers Tournament will be held in Whitianga on Fri/Sat 22/23 March
12 The Esplanade, Whitianga Phone 07 866 4121 Email mbgfc@xtra.co.nz www.gamebase.co.nz
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
FREE OFF-ROAD CYCLE AREA
Fun area for all the family with bush walks, kauri walks, toilets, drinking fountain, BBQ & car parking
Developed by Whitianga Bike Club who have produced a park map with trail information and a guide for other rides in the Mercury Bay area. Both available at The Bike Man, Coghill St or the i-Site.
BMX Track & Mountain New Dirt Track Bike Trails Lets you get air if you want to
Pump Track
10km of single track An open riding in bush area with hills, Grades 1-7 jumps and bridges No motorised bikes permitted
Skill Zone
Where you ride beams, planks, seesaw and ramps beside the carpark
Moewai Rd is beside the airport at the SH25 crossroads, 2 km from town - Donations welcomed
PAINTBALL & FUN PARK - WHITIANGA
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13 Lee St Whitianga Phone 07 867 1001
THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY Now Screening
WRECK IT RALPH Starts 21 Dec
PARENTAL GUIDANCE Starts 26 Dec
LIFE OF PI Starts 1 Jan
QUARTET Starts 26 Dec
RISE OF THE GUARDIANS Starts 1 Jan
mercury-twin@xtra.co.nz or visit us at www.nzcinema.co.nz Screening daily - except Christmas Day.
copy to come
Open 7 days - 10am till dusk or later by request
101 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga. Tel: 07 866 0064 birdwoodsprings@xtra.co.nz www.birdwoodsprings.co.nz
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Sunset Cruises $85pp* (3hr) Scenic Sail $85pp* (3hr) Depart Whitianga Wharf *direct booking
021 0727 983
www.nzspirit.co.nz 14
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
eating out & entertainment
there’s no need to cook!
Open 7 days from 7.30am for breakfast brunch lunch morning & afternoon tea
ENJOY HOLIDAY TREATS Fresh Fish
There’s an all-day blackboard menu with something for everyone. Sample Paula’s already famous lemon tarts and gingerbread jandals - and other fabulous cakes and slices, all baked on the premises
Great Chips
Fresh daily - sushi , filled ficelles, filled bagels, pies, scones & muffins
Best Burgers
Celcius coffee
Milk Shakes Tip Top Ice-cream and more... Captain Cook Road, Cooks Beach Ph 866 2475 Open 7 evenings during the summer school holidays
Not just your friendly local cafe ask about our catering service!
5 Albert Street Whitianga Ph 866 0323 At the beach end of the main street (by the Four Square) OPEN Mon-Sat 11.30am 2.30pm 5pm till late Sunday 5pm till late 3/33 Albert Street
Genuine Thai Cuisine Fully licenced BYO - wine only Eat in or takeaway
all the fabulous tastes of asia 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
(above Fagan’s)
Whitianga Phone 869 5919 for reservations
Open 7 days 8am to 9pm
(except NY Eve - closing 4pm)
❀Coffee ❀Breakfast ❀Brunch ❀Lunch
SH25 TE RERENGA Opp Te Rerenga School 12.5km from Coromandel Town and 300m from the Whangapoa turnoff
PHONE 866 4542
TAKEAWAYS Friday & Saturday nights 4pm to 8pm ❀Fish & chips ❀Burgers
Chutney, relish & fruit wine for sale
www.castlerockwinery.co.nz 15
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
THE ICE-CREAM TEAM Available for all your Events, Birthday Parties, Weddings Locally owned & operated Alan & Helen Anderson
Mob 021 044 1151
helen.alan.anderson@gmail.com
Open from 12 noon daily
Happy Hour 4-6 every day $5 basic beers $6.50 house wines Great meals at great prices Huge sunny garden bar
COURTESY COACH 021 037 4161 16
10 Campbell St Whitianga 07 866 2238
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Colenso MUSIC CLEARANCE $4.99 PLUS A GREAT RANGE OF NEW & EX RENTAL DVDS FROM $4.99 C it at CIVIC
IN STORE
28th DEC
C it at CIVIC
IN STORE
17th JAN
C it at CIVIC
IN STORE
23rd JAN
C it at CIVIC
IN STORE
24th JAN
Major range of DVD & Blu Ray rentals Casual members welcome
CAFE l SHOP l ORCHARD
The perfect any time treat morning or afternoon tea or a leisurely lunch... Gift vouchers available Colenso Cafe won top regional honours in Cafe Magazine's 2012 Best Cafe Awards
SH25, WHENUAKITE PH 866 3725
XBox 360 - PS3 - Wii etc C it at Civic - Your DVD specialist
65 Albert St Whitianga Ph 866 4686
www.colensocafe.co.nz
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
& Juice Bar
Scoop Ice Creams Waffle Cones Real Fruit Ice Creams Smoothies Fresh Juices Milkshakes/ Thickshakes A range of Sundaes We do the best Ice Creams & Cold Drinks this side of the Coromandel! 23d Albert Street Whitianga
Ph 07 869 5953
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Buildings & places of historic interest in Mercury Bay Tripot
Whitianga Wharf
The tripot or blubber pot was brought from Mercury Island by the Lions club after whalers in 1885 unsuccessfully tried to net whales passing between Mercury Island and the mainland. The pot now sits on the reserve on Buffalo Beach, just past the old hospital and was previously used for boiling whale blubber to extract precious oils.
The first wharf was built in 1882, and the present wharf constructed in 1991.
HMS Buffalo
Stone Store
Next to the tripot is the memorial plaque to the ship that lies beneath the waters of the harbour. In July 1840 under the command of Captain James Wood the vessel was anchored off Cooks Beach when a sudden storm blew up and the vessel was destroyed and drifted to where it lies today. Two of the crew drowned. The Buffalo made three voyages to New Zealand altogether to load Kauri spars to take to England.
Mercury Bay Hospital This was established in 1898 as a six roomed building. Much fund raising was done by the community in the early days to ensure the hospital’s future. This was then subsidised by the Government, until it came under the management of the Thames Hospital Board in 1939. This facility was used by the Whitianga Community Services Trust until recently and the new Continuing Care Unit was built next to it.
Whitianga Information Centre Originally the ladies rest rooms, opened in August 1949, it was subsequently used by the public health nurse who did Plunket work in the district. In 1990, the TCDC leased the building to the Mercury Bay Business Association who transformed it into the Information Centre.
Museum Built as a dairy factory in 1934 on the Esplanade opposite the wharf. In 1977 the Whitianga Lions Club undertook to raise the money to buy the building as the local museum.
Undenominational Church Now St Andrews by the Sea. Built in the 1890s this church has been used by all worshippers. Located on Albert Street opposite the Shell shop. This stone building beside the boat ramp on Trelease Point in Robinson Road was established in the early 1870s. It was used as a dairy for farm produce and the milk was put to set on wooden shelves along the walls of the store.
Lovers Rock This rock on Robinson Road was once an outpost of the Te Ana Pa directly across the water from this point. Years ago it was the site of a massacre revenge when six hundred people were slaughtered for maltreatment of Hongi Hiki’s niece. A cave-like storeroom at the base of the rock on the eastern side was hollowed out by Mr Trelease who built the first wharf and was a local slaughterman. Lovers Rock was cleared of all vegetation and became a popular area for courting couples to frequent.
Stone Steps These steps at Ferry Landing were built in 1837 by a timber merchant owning a trading post and ship building yard. This was the first stone wharf in Australasia.
Houses Have a look in Hannans Road, once called Scandal Alley. Some of the old design of wooden houses remain, erected in the 1880s by Mr Hannan for employees of the Mercury Bay Timber Company. Built entirely of wood - chimney, guttering, water barrels, roofs - for £10 each, when shiftworkers at the mill were earning 30 to 35 shillings a week. Rented to the workers for 1/6d a week.
Soldiers Memorial Park The memorial Cenotaph was erected in 1919 to the fallen in the 1914 -18 war, and the RSA building and sound shell were later built there which provided the community with concerts through the summer months.
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
MASSAGE THAT HEALS
Deep tissue Acupuncture Bowen therapy Herbal compresses Hot towel foot wraps Health consultations Chinese herbs Karakia
Contact Libby, therapist of 18 years (Nat dip Acupuncture/ Nat dip Chinese herbs) Ph (07) 866 2155 or 022 076 0129 4b Campbell Street, Whitianga (behind Evolve)
Where to go and what to do on a wet day Art
Museum
Check out Mint Gallery, Whitianga Art Group, Bread & Butter Gallery - and Moko at Hot Water beach.
Find out all you want to know about our area rich in history. Situated across the road from the Whitianga wharf. A new section on the history of fishing in the area opened this year. The Coromandel Musuem in Rings Road is also well worth a visit.
Bone Carving Try your hand at bone carving. We have two studios in town, Bay Carving and The Bone Studio and Gallery. The Information Centre has stocks of their brochures.
Eating Out in Mercury Bay While away your day at one of our many eating out establishments.
Library Become a member at the Mercury Bay library, located at the rear of Soldiers Memorial Park next to the Information Centre.
Mercury Twin Cinemas Check the movie guide outside the cinema to see what’s coming up.
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Pamper Yourself Holidays are designed for rest and relaxation. There are a number of practitioners available in Whitianga offering massage, reiki, aromatherapy, beauty therapy etc.
Hot Pools You’ll be wet anyway, so why not try The Lost Spring luxury hot pools and spa. No children under 14. Check the website www.thelostspring. co.nz for more details.
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
health and beauty
it’s time to treat yourself!
Lady of the House Beauty Threading (from $10) Waxing (from $10) Brazilians (from $40) Tinting (from $15) Facials (from $39) Shalini Manicures (from $15) Whitianga Eyelash Extensions (from $45) & Te Aroha Gel Nails (from $29) 027 740 5881 Gift Vouchers www.ladyofthehouse.co.nz
COASTAL SANCTUARY HAIR, SKIN AND BODY THERAPY
SPRAY TANNING SPECIAL
Full body $50 $40 Legs or upper body $20
Manicures Shellac Pedicures Facials Waxing Massage Make-Up Weddings Gift Vouchers Electrolysis Body Treatments EyeLash Tinting EyeBrow Shaping St Tropez Tanning EyeLash Extensions
Phone 866 2679 for appointments 14 Victoria Street Whitianga www.coastalsanctuary.com 21
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
art
so many talented people!
MOKO ARTSPACE!
OPEN 10AM – 5PM | 7 DAYS HOT WATER BEACH | 07 866 3367
www.moko.co.nz 25 Albert Street Whitianga (Seaward end of town) 07 866 4927
❚Fine Art ❚Photography ❚Prints ❚Jewellery ❚Pottery ❚Ceramics ❚Tableware ❚Glassware ❚Woodwork ❚Weaving ❚Greenstone ❚Whalebone
Unique Art Works of Quality - 70+ New Zealand artists
online store - www.breadandbutter.co.nz 22
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Lucy Horne Gallery & Studio OIL & WATERCOLOUR PAINTINGS
3226 State Highway 25, opposite Wade Road, Whitianga Phone 0274 978 306 for opening times and appointments
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
kuaotunu, coromandel & north Kuaotunu Kuaotunu is a favourite weekend destination all year round for locals. It has a small but thriving local market well worth a visit and thanks to Luke’s Kitchen and the revitalised Kuaotunu Store, there are some great food options available. The beach is gorgeous with a reef that keeps the surfers and fishermen happy, great fossicking (look for sea glass and tiny pieces of amethyst), safe swimming and a little stream for the kids to play in.
Coromandel town Coromandel town is a great place to visit whether you’re a day tripper from Auckland or staying for a holiday. Wander the charming main street with its heritage buildings and enjoy some quirky shopping. There are some terrific cafes - and the excellent Driving Creek Railway and Pottery. Close to town visit Long Bay and Wyuna Bay. Head north for Shelley Beach, Oamaru Bay, Golden Bay and Waitete Bay. Check out Big Sandy Bay and Stony Bay at Port Charles or Waikawau Bay, Tuateawa and Kennedys Bay on the east coast. Take SH25 and have a look at Whangapoua and New Chums Beaches on the eastern side.
Head north and around Travelling up and over the hill from Coromandel town to Papa Aroha reveals splendid scenery of islands and blue seas. Next is Colville, formerly known as Cabbage Bay and named by Captain James Cook who insisted that his crew and officers eat the leaves of the native cabbage tree to guard against scurvy. At the top western tip, Port Jackson (Poihakene) is a long spacious beach which is popular for camping and fishing. It was once a bustling timber port. Fletcher Bay situated at the north-east tip of the peninsula, where Captain Fletcher built a fine house, is rich with legends of shipwrecks and mariners tales, and gold and gum digging. The proud Moehau Range (Sleeping Wind) watches over the tip of the Peninsula as the road winds along the shoreline. Cape Colville, 58km north of Coromandel and named by Captain Cook after a Rear Admiral Colville in the British Navy, looks out on the Watchman, and Little and Great Barrier Islands. Little Barrier Island is mountainous, rising steeply out of the sea and is densely forested with pohutukawas, rata, kauri and tawa trees. The island is also a bird sanctuary with the only access by launch or amphibian aircraft, with landing by permit only. Little Barrier was once the home of the Ngati-wai Maoris as can be seen in food pits, a burial ground and the fortification terraces. Captain Cook named both Great and Little Barrier Island due to the effective barrier that the two islands make across the Hauraki Gulf. Cross the range to Waikawau Bay and Port Charles or Kennedy Bay where great teams of horses hauled their coaches and carts up the steep inclines to the summit where a convenient hotel could be found.
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Kuaotunu Mine Tour
Go underground through old gold mines, marvel at workings from the 1890s Gold Rush, see glow worms, cave weta, bird & animal life, entertaining & informative local guides 2 hour walking tour, $10 per person Departs every Tuesday & Thursday @ 11am Meet at Waitaia Road, Kuaotunu, (400m RHS), good footwear necessary, suitable for children
Waitaia Rd Farm, KUAOTUNU Alan Bosselmann & Rebecca Simpson
* 07 869 5334 * 021 0296 3359 * waitaia40@gmail.com
LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET
Saturdays 9am - 1pm, 64 Albert St, Whitianga 2pm - 5pm, Kuaotunu Village Wednesdays (Summer Holidays) 2pm - 5pm, Kuaotunu Village Free Range Pork, Olive Oil, Organic Vegetables, Citrus, Jams & Preserves, Honey, Free Range Eggs
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Coromandel Glass Established 1996
Complete Glass & Glazing Service Including
GLASS REPAIR Available throughout holidays Matarangi/Kuaotunu Whangapoua/Coro town
Ph 866 8869
2330 Tiki Rd, Coromandel
Mob 027 661 0190
GREAT BANDS! FEATURING:
UP TO 300 TRADE STALLS & FOOD STALLS
Only $2 Entry!
to benefit Coromandel Area School
KIDS RIDES HELICOPTER FLIGHTS 26
2 JAN 2013 9AM-4PM COROMANDEL
COROMANDEL AREA SCHOOL GROUNDS www.kelticfair.co.nz
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
SH25 (Manaia Rd) & Cnr 309 Rd, Coromandel 3581 P. 07 866 7245 E. info@musselkitchen.co.nz www.musselkitchen.co.nz
From 26 December Open 10am onwards – 7 days a week Happy Hour Friday & Saturday 5pm – 7pm There’s something here for everyone
Coromandel wines & beers, cakes and milkshakes from the coffee bar on the deck and a variety of food from Tangiaro Cafe, Bar and Restaurant Check emails (Wifi), read a book or just watch the tuis and kereru while our friendly staff look after you Book in for a massage and spa with our on-site massage therapist Jan at www.relaxcoro.co.nz Reconnective Healing with Toni available onsite.
Gift vouchers available Experience the understated opulence of our unique fully selfcatered 1 or 2 bedroom bush lodges. Our a la carte restaurant, cafe and bar offers fine dining, quality local wines and the opportunity to mingle with other guests.
1299 Port Charles Rd, Port Charles Ph 07 866 6614 www.kiwiretreat.co.nz
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Barry Brickell proposes a railway and pedestrian extension for Coromandel wharf Railway and pedestrian access to an expanded Coromandel Wharf is being proposed by tourist operator Barry Brickell. Mr Brickell founded and developed Driving Creek Railway & Potteries, one of the most successful tourist attractions on the Coromandel Peninsula. He says he’s been advocating extension of the wharf, in a manner that’s environmentally and economically feasible, for years. Thames-Coromandel District Council is investigating making the wharf suitable for use by ferry services and large boats, following major structural problems with Hannaford’s Jetty in Te Kouma Harbour. Proponents of the development of Coromandel as a heritage town also believe better wharf access closer to the town would be of great benefit. Mr Brickell says Coromandel Harbour is the potential gateway for trade and tourism for the future. “Any other form of access, such as road and air, have limited potential.”
Tourism operator and railway-builder Barry Brickell sketches his idea for extending Coromandel Wharf.
Photos by Wailin Elliott
However the harbour has become heavily silted and the wharf can’t be used by bigger vehicles at all tides. Dredging has been shown not to work and the answer is a wharf extension, he says. He’s proposing a railway and pedestrian extension on timber piles and decking. This would require half the room of providing access and turnaround space for vehicles, including buses and trucks, he says.
A reversible railcar could be used to transport passengers and a self-propelled wagon could transport freight. The railway and walkway option would be much cheaper than providing vehicle access and the rail travel would be an attraction in itself, he says. If it proved viable, the railway could be extended into Coromandel town, where a heritage-style depot could be built.
Mr Brickell says he hopes his concept is taken seriously. “Money spent now is money saved in the future as tourism is bound to continue as a revenue source for all parties, well into the future.” TCDC’s Coromandel area manager Greg Hampton says an initial study into the feasibility of developing the wharf as an all-tide access facility is likely to start next month and take four to five months.
The Peninsula Post - October 18 2012
Unique silver band exhibition finds new home at mines museum Eight years after an exhibition on the Coromandel Silver Band was put together, it’s almost ready to open for full public viewing. The band operated from 1876 until 1996, with a couple of breaks during World Wars 1 and 11, and played a big part in life in Coromandel town and surrounding districts. In 2004, its history was recorded in the Coromandel Silver Band Museum, which opened in a room above the town’s fire service museum. However the band museum wasn’t allowed to advertise or operate as a public museum because of limited access. People visited by appointment but in 2008 it was decided to incorporate the collection into the School of Mines Museum so more people could see it. The collection is now housed Coralie Davies shows off the display of band figures and instruments with its mural in a new building at the mines backdrop. museum. The Peninsula Post - August 2 2012
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
New Book Release
Visit www.coromandelflavour.co.nz or order from Deb on 021-169-7190 RRP$45
70 Tiki Rd, Coromandel Township (next to BP)
Ph 0800 327 668
Coromandel Museum
841 Rings Road, Coromandel
Gourmet Seafood including Smoked Salmon Smoked Fish Smoked Mussels Smoked Eel Platters & Condiments
You catch it - we'll fillet and/or smoke it! Open 7 days 9am to 5pm www.corosmoke.co.nz
Ph 866 8039
Open weekends to 23 Dec 1pm - 4pm 27 Dec to end Feb open daily from 1pm - 4pm then phone for opening hrs Adults $3 Children 50 cents
COROMANDEL ACCOMMODATION SOLUTIONS & COROMANDEL APARTMENTS 265 Kapanga Road, Coromandel Long Term Rentals, Casual Rentals, Holiday Accommodation & Full Property Management services available Key cutting available on site Susan Lysaght - Property Manager, mob 0274 361 729 Ben Lysaght - Assistant, mob 021 075 0662 office 07 866 8803 www.accommodationcoromandel.co.nz casltd1@xtra.co.nz
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
building and landscaping
everything you need for home & garden
MERCURY BAY GARDEN CENTRE & LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES COVERING THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA Phone: 07 866 5544 71a Cook Drive, Whitianga www.hoylandcontracting.co.nz
Palms Natives Subtropicals Bark Mulch, Limechip Riverstone Shell Compost Garden Mix Potting Mix Sleepers & much more
We offer obligation-free quotes
ALL YOU NEED FOR YOUR GARDEN 229 South Highway Whitianga 07 866 2412 mbgardencentre@hotmail.com
W.A.N.T. Native Nursery
Also Citrus & Fruit Trees, Incredible Edibles, Chook Manure & Compost/Potting Mix Stone Sculptures by Chris Charteris 5-28 January
Open Thurs - Sun 9am-5pm
IDEAL BUILDINGS WHITIANGA 71a Cook Drive, Whitianga
or by appointment Ph 869 5910
Phone: 07 866 5544 Fax: 07 866 2544 www.hoylandcontracting.co.nz 500m up Waitaia Rd, Kuaotunu
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
BH110
Kit home $79,266 A1 Built $167,737
The price we say is what you pay. No surprises. Costs INCLUDE GST. Costs EXCLUDE siteworks, services to site, council charges, freight of materials to site. For a detailed list of materials and inclusions/exclusions, please visit
www.A1homes.co.nz/content/whats-included
Annette Anderson 027 387 0326 Showhome: 17 Tauranga Road, Waihi
Tony Smith Director
Have you experienced the silent treatment from Al yet? Try the new Super Smooth Sliders from Worthys of Whitianga.
WORTHY WINDOWS & DOORS 28-30 Campbell St Whitianga Ph: 07 866 5749 Fax: 07 866 4862 Email: sales@worthy.co.nz Web: www.worthy.co.nz
0800 A1homes 214663
www.A1homes.co.nz 31
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Community Carols & Church Services 2012-13 Community Carols Crossroad Encounter Fellowship, Whitianga Thursday 20 December Sausage Sizzle 6pm, Carols 6.30pm Cooks Beach Hall Sunday 23 December 7.30pm. Hahei Community Hall Monday 24 December 7-8pm Kuaotunu Hall Monday 24 December 7.30pm
real estate
when you’re looking for a place of your own!
Mercury Bay Church Services Anglican St Peter the Fisherman, Dundas St, Whitianga Sunday 23 December 9.30am Carol Service with 7 Lessons & Communion Monday 24 December 10pm Christmas Eve Carols & Communion Tuesday 25 December 9.30am Christmas Day Celebration Communion Sunday Services 9.30am Every Sunday Hahei Community Centre Tuesday 25 December 10am Christmas Day Communion All welcome - for further details, phone 869 5577. Baptist 112 Cook Drive, Whitianga Sunday 23 December 10am Christmas Service Every Sunday 10am Service and children’s programme Mercury Bay Co-operating Parish St Andrew’s by the Sea, Albert Street, Whitianga Sunday 23 December 9.30am Family Worship Tuesday 25 December 9.30am Christmas Day Family Celebration Services Every Sunday 9.30am Roman Catholic St Patrick’s Church, Campbell Street, Whitianga Monday 24 December 11.30pm Christmas Eve Carols & Midnight Mass Tuesday 25 December 8.30am Christmas Day Mass Sunday 30 December and 6 January 8.30am Mass Cooks Beach Hall Monday 24 December 6pm Christmas Eve Vigil Mass Saturday 29 December and 5 January 6pm Mass Crossroad Encounter Fellowship Crossroad Encounter Fellowship Centre, cnr Cook Drive & Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga Services every Sunday 10am
Coromandel Coromandel Elim Church 745 Rings Rd, Coromandel Sunday Services start 10am For further details, phone 866 8268
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HELP – HELP – HELP URGENTLY REQUIRED LONG TERM RENTALS & HOLIDAY LETS Tenants - my rental list is changing constantly Phone, email or call into the office 7 The Esplanade, by the wharf Casual, holiday lets also required & available
Geraldine Welford 021 672 748 or 866 0098 geraldine.welford@bayleys.co.nz
MH Realty Ltd, Bayleys Licensed under the REA Act 2008
HOUSE FOR SALE
17 Emmerdale Drive, Hahei
Large family home with panoramic sea views. 4 bedroom, 3 bathrooms, 2 car garage phone 07 866 3901 or 027 290 8170 www.trademe.co.nz/property CWZ439
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
What’s On calendar of events 2012-13 17 Dec-12 Jan
Kid’s Art Competition - collect your canvas & entry form from Dive Zone Whitianga. Art displayed at Events HQ Blacksmith Lane, 12 Jan
4 Jan
Whangamata Summer Festival. 4 nights of free entertainment plus 5 days of kid’s activities and annual Craft Market
Cooks Beach Summer Gala, 9am-3pm. Over 100 stalls, games, rides, food, music & daisy dung drop The Rings to Matarangi Swim 11am MEG, Waikawau Bay Wetland & Estuary Walk, 10am, Waimanu Rd at north end Matarangi Big Beach Day Out & Sandcastle Competition 2pm MEG, Starlight Cinema, 7.30pm, Woolshed, Waikawau Bay Interislander Summer Festival Thames races Tairua School Wine & Food Festival, 10am-5pm. Live music, kids entertainment, quality food & wine MEG Kiwi Night Adventure, 7.30pm, Port Charles Fire Station
28 Dec
5 Jan
27 Dec
Big Dig at Matarangi Beach opposite the Village Green 11am. Entry $2 Tug of War at Matarangi Beach 1pm The Great Frisbee Throw Off at The Village Green, Matarangi 3pm
27 Dec-4 Jan
Matarangi Fire Station Open Day 11am
28 Dec-6 Jan
Kids Fishing Competition 10am-12pm, Matarangi Boat Ramp
Whitianga Summer Fair 2013, 10am-5pm. Summer celebration with stalls, music, on-site therapies, daily free talks and demonstrations
5-6 Jan
29 Dec
5-28 Jan
29 Dec-2 Jan
6 Jan
Scavenger Hunt - pick up your list of items to collect from Richardsons Real Estate, Albert St, 12pm Primal Getaway, Cooks Beach
30 Dec
Kids Fishing Tournament at Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Family Sports Day - great family fun for all ages. Buffalo Beach Reserve, 10am – 2pm. $2 entry Mercury Bay Summer Festival, 9am-4pm, Taylors Mistake. Arts & craft stalls, fun games & activities for the whole family The Great Treasure Hunt, Matarangi Beach 10am Matarangi Market & Gala Day 9am-1pm
1 Jan
New Year Race Mercury Bay Boating Club invites all sailors to join in the traditional New Year event, starting time 11am
2 Jan
Keltic Fair, Coromandel Area School. Family fun day with Celtic entertainment, crafts and food stalls 9am-4pm, $2 entry Matarangi Annual Fishing Competition 6am
3 Jan
Sand Sculpture - a great family or team event, guaranteed to be a lot of fun! Buffalo Beach, Albert St end, 9am – 11am Whitianga Art Group opening night 7pm. An Exhibition of New Work with guest artist Airdrie Hamilton Pauanui Market Day, Kennedy Park. Entertainment for kids, great food & coffee & over 100 different stalls MEG, Sit & Conserve, 7.30pm, Stony Bay Campground Whangamata Tri Series, Williamson Park, 8am – 1pm Cardboard Cup, Matarangi Boat Ramp 12-1pm
Top Ten Trolling Tournament Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Exhibition of Stone Sculptures by Chris Charteris at Waitaia Nursery, Kuaotunu MEG, Nocturnal Walk, 8.30pm, Waikawau Bay DoC Camp Office Matarangi Market Day 9am at Matarangi Shops
7 Jan
Hahei Market, 9am-3pm, Kotare Domain, Hahei. Huge variety of stalls What’s in a stream MEG, 10am, Big Sandy Bay southern end, Port Charles
9 Jan
MEG, Upclose Kiwi Encounters, 9am, Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat, Port Charles Supper Room Antiques & Collectables Fair, 10am-5pm, Whitianga Town Hall, free entry. Great selection of items available for sale from professional out of town antique dealers Thames Goldrush Market Day, Pollen Street
10 Jan
MEG, Sit & Conserve, 7.30pm, Little Bay
13 Jan
MEG Kiwi Night Adventure, 7.30pm, Port Charles Fire Station
15 Jan
MEG, Nocturnal Walk, 8.30pm, Waikawau Bay DoC Camp Office
17 Jan
MEG, Sit & Conserve, 7.30pm, Coromandel, Hauraki House
19 Jan
Peninsula Poker Run MEG, Upclose Kiwi Encounters, 9am, Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat, Port Charles GO TO PAGE 42 FOR MORE EVENTS
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Coromandel kiwi delivered to new home on Motutapu
The first five of approximately 40 kiwi arrive by helicopter on Motutapu Island in the Hauraki Gulf (above) to establish a permanent island population of Coromandel brown kiwi. All five were supplied by Project Kiwi Trust; one chick, two juveniles and one adult pair. The event on Tuesday also marked the launch of New Zealand’s new kiwi protection agency – Kiwis for kiwi. Left: DOC’s Andrew Nelson holds the 11 day old Coromandel brown kiwi called Motutapu.
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The Peninsula Post - October 25 2012
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
transport
we’ll get you where you need to go!
accommodation when you need a place to stay!
TIDAL TOURS
Book at the Information Centre or ph 07 866 0336 www.go-kiwi.co.nz
Shakespeare Cliff Cathedral Cove Hot Water Beach Spades provided
DAILY SHUTTLE TO AUCKLAND CITY & AIRPORT
Your hosts Helena & Craig Stratford
info@mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz www.mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz
MERCURY BAY HOLIDAY PARK Family friendly accommodation and camping in the heart of Whitianga.
Ph 866 5579
COROMANDEL TOP 10
3 minutes from cafes and bush walks. Modern accommodation over looking the the coromandel ranges. Resort like facilities including a heated swimming pool, playground & jumping pillow for the kids.
636 Rings Rd, Coromandel Ph 07 866 8830 Your hosts Sean & Caron www.coromandeltop10.co.nz
TATAHI LODGE - HAHEI BEACH
10 accommodation units within a short walk to the beach, close to local cafes, restaurants and within walking distance of Cathedral Cove.
Your hosts Richard & Debbie
Grange Rd, Hahei Ph 07 866 3992 info@tatahilodge.co.nz
Daily flights from WHITIANGA to AUCKLAND, GREAT BARRIER ISLAND (Claris) & TAURANGA $150 Each Way Scenic flights $50 per person Charters available on request
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Put on your walking shoes Walks Around the Town
Across the River
30 minute walk From the Information Centre head north along Albert Street. Turn right on to the Esplanade to the wharf and watch the activities. Visit our museum opposite the wharf, have a look at the marina. At the Whitianga Marina Hotel, turn into Blacksmiths Lane and return to the Information Centre. 1 hour walk From the Information Centre head north along Albert Street to the end where you will come to the beachfront. Turn left and walk along Buffalo Beach to Mother Browns Creek. If you wish to extend your walk an additional 45 minutes and get your feet wet, carry on to the end of the beach (4km in total). 1 hour and 30 minute walk From the Information Centre head south along Albert Street. See the historic St Andrews by the Sea Church Carry on along the estuary on Robinson Road Past the historic Stone Store And along the Lovers Rock around the water’s edge, return via Hilton Avenue and turn right into Catherine Crescent to admire local gardens, right into Sarah Avenue and return via Robinson Road. This walk is most captivating at sunset.
1 hour and 30 minutes Take the ferry across the river and have a good look at the signboard at Ferry Landing. Keep along the water’s edge on your right and follow the path up to Whitianga Rock and the Maori Pa site. As you come down, keep to your right and go into Back Bay. Walk across Back Bay to the far end, cross the bridge and take the right hand side track over the steep bush track to the road at Front Beach. Turn left to return to the ferry. Turn right for a longer walk to Shakespeare Cliff Lookout and Cooks Beach. 1 hour and 30 minutes Take the Ferry across the river and go up the path on your left, through the Cemetery, and join the road further along. Carry on up the road, and at the bend go down the footpath to Front Beach. At low tide you can follow the beach to your right. At high tide you may have to scramble up onto the road and follow the road to Flaxmill Bay where lots of boats are moored. In the far corner, the cliff path meanders up to Shakespeare Cliff Lookout where you will get great views of the Mercury Bay. You can return via the road to the ferry or carry on down to Lonely Bay (steep) and Cooks Beach. To return from Cooks Beach follow the track on the right hand side of the road back to the ferry.
Cathedral Cove One of the jewels of our crown. A visit to Mercury Bay is not complete until you have driven to Hahei, onto the lookout and walked to Cathedral Cove. Drive 27kms south of Whitianga through Whenuakite and turn left onto Hot Water Beach road. Follow the signposts to Hahei Beach and turn left at the general store on Grange road, following the road up to the carpark and lookout. This is where your walk starts. Take the track to Gemstone Bay - well worth exploring for its interesting rocks. Go downhill through farmland to Mares Leg Cove. At the southern end of this cove a stream falls over the cliff. Te Hoho Rock stands alone in the middle of the beach. Allow 45 minutes down and one hour up for the walk.
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Put on your walking shoes Cool Water & Kauri Trees
New Chums Bay
Spend the day doing the round trip via 309 road to Coromandel Town and return to Whitianga via Kuaotunu with side trips to Whangapoua and Otama. Drive south of Whitianga approximately 6kms and turn onto the valley road called 309. The lower reaches of the valley are farmed but as the road leads further west there is more native bush. Beside the road is the Mahakirau River noted for semi-precious gemstones. Egan Park is a favorite picnicking spot. Over the saddle of the Coromandel Range and continue to the Kauri Grove carpark. A ten minute walk takes you to a magnificent stand of kauris - a very easy walk for all ages. Drive a few minutes more and the road crosses over the Waiau River. The Waiau Falls can be seen from the roadside but another five minute walk allows you to stand under the falls and also swim in a large pool. Just past the Waiau Falls is the Castle Rock tramping track. Fantastic views of the Whangapoua Peninsula and Mercury lslands are a highlight of this track (two hours). If logging operations are in place vehicle access to Castle Rock road and the start of the track may be restricted. Take care on the top, steep section of track. At the end of the 309 Road, turn right to Coromandel Town.
From Coromandel town, head south and turn left onto the Whangapoua road. Travel up and over the range to Te Rerenga giving you the option of staying on SH25 which takes you back to Whitianga via Kuaotunu or detouring left towards Whangapoua for the walk to New Chums Bay. Drive to the end of the beach settlement and park by the picnic area. Walk over the stream and along the rocky foreshore to climb over the headland to this isolated beautiful bay - time about 30 minutes.
A Walk in the Forest The Otama Forest Park Access Walkway Track was created by participants in an Access Scheme. Just before (or after, if you are heading south) Kuaotunu, turn right (or left) onto the Waitaia Road. One kilometre along this road is a sign for the walkway. Parking is limited on this narrow road so pick your spot. This walk crosses farmland.
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
A great day out...
Another great day out...
Over the other side
Over the hills and north
Take a picnic lunch and drive from Whitianga to Hahei and walk to Cathedral Cove for your lunch. Take time out for a swim and snorkel in the clear green seas of the Hahei Marine Reserve, or kayak this spectacular coastline with Cathedral Cove Kayaks. Drive on to Hot Water Beach, if the tide is right (within two hours either side of low tide), dig your own “spa pool” in the sand. Opposite the shop is one of the best places on the Coromandel to buy something special – Moko, owned by artists Sonya Corlett and Simon Buchanan. On the way back to Whitianga, turn left onto SH25 and drive to Colenso Orchard for another real treat - delicious food, tea or coffee – or freshly squeezed orange juice. Browse in Ruth and Andy Pettit’s lovely country garden and crafts shop and visit the delightful donkeys.
Start the day with a drive from Whitianga across the 309 Road to Coromandel village. En route stop at 309 Honey for a pot of their manuka honey and watch the bees at work behind glass. For sheer fun, stop off at Waiau Waterworks where “whimsical wonders are worked by water” - it’s a must for people of all ages. In Coromandel check out the current exhibition at Hauraki House, view five beautiful open gardens of Coromandel Town, view the craftspeople participating in the craft trail, check out the excellent shopping (our favourites are Tara’s Bead Shop, Weta and the Source) and catch Driving Creek Railway’s train for an informative bush ride full of ceramic surprises. Take the Whangapoua Road back to Whitianga and stop at Castle Rock Winery at Te Rerenga where you’ll find delicious fruit wines, homemade preserves and a cafe. Feeling energetic? Try a round of golf at Matarangi on the 18-hole golf course beside the sea. At Kuaotunu, check out the fantastic local arts and craftspeople and finish the day with great Coffee LaLa from the Blackjack Gallery or a Kuaotunu Killer icecream from Denise and Mark at the shop on the shores of the fabulous beach. In the evening take a star gazing tour at Stargazers B&B and Observatory, enjoy the wonderful southern night sky, bookings essential.
Get out on the water... Seeing it from the sea You’re never far from the sea on the Coromandel Peninsula and getting out on the ocean - or into it - offers you a whole new perspective on the place. The glass bottomed boat is an excellent experience in the right weather plus there are lots of scenic trips, fishing and dive trips available.
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Weaving flax skirts for erosion control trial on beach
Natalya Mehaney, 14, plaits flax alongside Kuaotunu weaver Lizzy Leckie and Otama artist Michael Smither to help with an innovative erosion-control trial at Brophys Beach, Whitianga. As part of the Coastal Erosion Action Plan being developed by Thames-Coromandel District and Waikato Regional Councils, long flax skirts will be installed near rocks bordering Tarapatiki Stream. The flax is intended to trap sand and help it build up naturally in areas where it's been sucked out by the sea. It's the brainchild of Mr Smither, who used driftwood in a similar manner on Fitzroy Beach in New Plymouth in the 1980s. A group of Year 9 and 10 students at Mercury Bay Area School wove the skirts on Monday, under the direction of Ms Leckie.
The Peninsula Post - December 6 2012
THE COROMANDEL
Peninsula Post
ph 07 866 0001 fx 07 866 0110 news@peninsulapost.co.nz sales@peninsulapost.co.nz
5,100 copies every week of the best in www.peninsulapost.co.nz local news & advertising delivered free to your letterbox in the north and east Publisher: Sue Collins Editor: Shenagh Gleeson Sales: Lisa Peehikuru Office : Jacqui Ackland of the Coromandel Peninsula. 39
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
NZ Designer Fashion + Accessories + Gifts Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, twentysevennames, Kowtow, Thrive, Kathryn Wilson, Lennox, Surface Too Deep Deadly Ponies, Lindi Kingi, Penny Foggo, Karen Walker Jewellery and Eyewear, Pacifica Skincare, Durance Fragrances, Hema Organic Oils, French Country, English Leather Satchels, Ravel Children’s wear and Much Much more!! Free customer parking and a garden for relaxing
agnes + annabel Open 7 days from 10.30am 11 Campbell Street, Whitianga Phone 866 2118 www.agnesandannabel.co.nz
retail
relax and enjoy the shopping! We’ve got you covered for your holiday!
Rain or Shine and there’s so much more
Joan Gaskell Dr, Whitianga Phone 07 867 1978 Open 8.30am to 8pm daily
Health 2000 Whitianga
4 Coghill Street Whitianga Phone 07 866 5899 whitihealth2000@xtra.co.nz wwww.health2000.co.nz 40
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
Gig guide 2012-13 Reading - paperbacks, kids & bargain books Magazines Stationery Gifts Greeting cards Computer Ink Cartridges Albert St Whitianga
Local Sales & Repair Agents Deliveries & Installs throughout the Eastern Seaboard PENINSULA Phone 07 866 5207 Grant 027 512 1500 Email whitianga@bettaelectrical.co.nz 29 Albert Street, WHITIANGA
ELECTROLUX - WESTINGHOUSE - LG
PANASONIC - MITSUBISHI - BOSCH
LG - PANASONIC - MITSUBISHI - BOSCH - SIMPSON - F&P - HAIER
THE BRANDS YOU WANT - FROM THE PEOPLE YOU TRUST
16 Coghill St, Whitianga Phone 866 0745 Email: thebikeman@xtra.co.nz
BIKES TRIKES SCOOTERS PARTS ACCESSORIES We service and repair all makes and models
21 Dec The Nukes, Eggsentric Café, Flaxmill Bay 23 Dec Jo Little & Jared Smith NZ Summer Tour, Hot Waves Café, Hot Water Beach 26 Dec Luke Thompson aka Spooky, Whitianga Hotel 27 Dec Dick Johnson & MC Tiki, Whitianga Hotel 28 Dec DJ CXL & TY Gregg Harper (D Form), Whitianga Hotel Soane, Salt Bar & Restaurant, Whitianga Jimmy Barnes and Gin Wigmore, Coroglen Tavern Mojo Rosers feat Kiri Eriwata, Williamson Reserve, Whangamata 29 Dec One One One + DJ CXL, Whitianga Hotel Roache, Williamson Reserve, Whangamata 30 Dec - 3 Jan Prana New Year Festival, Whangamata. 30 – 31 Dec Coromandel Gold, Whitianga. 30 Dec Tui Sound System, Knights of the Dub Table & dDub, Williamson Reserve, Whangamata 31 Dec Riqi Harawira & Kelly Kahukiwa, Whitianga Hotel Aural Trash, Greg Churchill & Angela Fisken, Salt Bar & Restaurant, Whitianga Kicking Mary, Admiral Arms, Coromandel 1 Jan BBQ Secrets – MC Slave, DJ Ned Roy, Ryuzo, Spooky + guests, Whitianga Hotel 2 Jan Vegas Brown, Whitianga Hotel Six60 with David Dallas, Coroglen Tavern 3 Jan The Vinyl Allstars – Ned Roy, Lo Key, Reminise, Luke da Spook + guests, Whitianga Hotel 4 Jan Grant Marshall, Whitianga Hotel 5 Jan Karn Hall, Whitianga Hotel Concert in the Vines, Mercury Bay Estate, Cooks Beach 6 Jan Blues by the Harbour Blues Festival, Admiral Arms, Coromandel 11 Jan Jay Jeffrey, Salt Bar & Restaurant, Whitianga 12 Jan The Lazyboyz Legends of Rock Show, Punters Bar & Grill, Tairua 18 Jan Dick Johnson, Salt Bar & Restaurant, Whitianga 25 Jan Viva La Uke, Eggsentric Café, Flaxmill Bay
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
What’s On calendar of events 2012-13 21 Jan
7- 9 Mar
Fun Concert with Andy Mason, 10.30am – 11.30am, Mercury Bay Library
Trailer Boat Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
22 Jan
9 Mar
MEG Kiwi Night Adventure, 7.30pm, Port Charles Fire Station
26-27 Jan
Ladies & Ladies Blue Tournaments, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
7-9 Feb
Bonze Skins Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
16-17 Feb
Jurassic Arc. A real high adrenaline adventure based somewhere on the Coromandel Peninsula open to teams of 2, 3 or 4 in the 8hr, teams of 2 or 4 in the 12 hr, teams of 4 in the 24hr adventure
16-18 Feb
Colville Connection 72km of MTB ecstasy! If the hills don’t take your breath away the views surely will! This would have to be one of New Zealand’s most stunning mountain bike races
15-16 Mar
Alto Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
16 Mar
Moehau Multisport Race. One of the most spectacular challenges on the multisport calendar
23-24 Mar
Junior Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Leadfoot Festival, 208 Link Rd, Hahei, gates open 7am, racing starts 9am
Classic Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
30 Mar
16- 23 Feb
31 Mar
Kids Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
Mercury Bay Open Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Nationals Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
Hauraki House Easter Art Exhibition, a wide range of local art work on exhibition. Doors open 5pm, open 7 days thereafter. Free entry
28 Feb-3 Mar
Echo Walking Festival
ITM Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
1 Mar
Mercury Bay Art Escape opening night Taste of the Tour at Hot Waves Cafe, Hot Water Beach
2 Mar
Champagne & Pancake Charity Breakfast, raising funds for breast cancer awareness. Book your table at UMU 866 8618
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20 Apr-5 May 27 Apr
Kuaotunu Search & Rescue Bush to Beach Half Marathon
1 Jun
Snapper Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club GO TO PAGE 33 FOR MORE EVENTS
What’s On - Summer 2012-13
weddings
such a great place to get married!
Maree Taylor Marriage Celebrant
07 867 1174 021 042 9127 www.mareetaylor.co.nz
Peninsula Party Hire
Marquee & event hire with everything to make your function a success
Marquees, canopies & silk linings for all occasions & locations Lighting including strobes and fairy & disco lights Flooring Tables & linen Chairs Cutlery Crockery Glassware Patio heaters Portable PA system Chillers Spit roaster Candelabras Vases Catering equipment We cover the Coromandel Peninsula, Thames Valley and Hauraki Plains with a complete service from erection to dismantling. Free delivery in Whitianga
Call us for your free quote & site visit or for an appointment 07 866 5141 or 021 022 13890 Email: info@partyhirewhitianga.co.nz
www.partyhirewhitianga.co.nz
Weddings Portraits Occasions Jodi Hill 021 141 1719
jodiatlush@hotmail.co.nz
LUSH Photography
www.lushphotographynz.co.nz
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
services Maintenance Repair Valet Refit Antifouling Spray Painting
Mob
027 620 8388
279 Link Road, Hahei Phone 07 866 3571 Fax 07 866 3918 Laurie 027 472 5461 Tim 027 237 8679
donovanandsoncontractors@xtra.co.nz
Ph
whatever needs doing!
07 866 4606
Driveways Drain digging Septic tanks Retaining walls Borer for pile work Truck & trailer hire Cart & supply – metal/ sand/fill Please ask us about other services we provide
M PA S C OE & H BOAT REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE
● Fibreglass & Wooden Boat Repairs ● All Marine Painting including Antifouling ● Cleaning & Polishing ● Trailer Boat Repairs ● 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
www.pascoeboatrepairs.co.nz
ACME
FUEL SUPPLIES
Diesel fuel and Castrol products delivered BE A free to the wharf or the farm WINNER! Quick, efficient service Competitive prices Every 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
Computer Services ● REPAIRS ● SALES ● SERVICE ● SUPPORT ● VIRUS REMOVAL
866 5220 021 255 2821 AH 866 4438
The Patient Tutor Tom Jacobs Servicing Mercury Bay area for the past 14 years
18 Coghill Street (upstairs)
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WHITIANGA SELF STORAGE 13 Dakota Drive
07 866 5211 Harold 0274 595 486 Birgit 0272 427 438
Secure storage from $15 per week
What’s On - Summer 2012-13 Saturday 22 December Sunday 23 December Monday 24 December Tuesday 25 December Wednesday 26 December Thurs 27 December to Sun 13 January
Clinics 9am-11am 5pm-6pm Clinics 10am-11am 5pm-6pm Open 8.45am-5pm Short Clinics 10am-11am 5pm-6pm Clinics 9am-11am 5pm-6pm Open 8.45am-5pm
No appointments required Free accident care to all under 6 years Free sexual health care to all under 25 years
mercury bay medical centre 87 albert street whitianga FOR ASSISTANCE DIAL 07 866 5911 DAY OR NIGHT. Our Nurse Triage service will give you the appropriate advice and information. Please note you may experience occasional delays due to high demand. FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 111
24 hour accident medical care to our enrolled patients and visitors
A1 WHITIANGA TOWING lable *Avais locked y for kein cars
The Towing Specialist 07 866 2210
John Hodges 0274 517 952
@Whitianga Tyre and Alignment 83 Albert Street (next to Shell) Ph 07 866 5540 or 0274 999 567 For after hours service 027 336 7044
Great prices & great people!
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What’s On - Summer 2012-13
?????What’s On 2012-13 Summer Quiz????? Below you’ll find 46 questions. Lucky for you nearly all the answers are in this great little magazine What’s On or the Peninsula Post.
1. Who is the editor of the Peninsula Post (spelling is crucial)? 2. What frequency is CFM found on in Hahei? 3. What does Maree Taylor do? 4. What’s the 0800 number for Golddiggers? 5. Who is the publisher of the Peninsula Post? 6. What can you see from Castle Rock? 7. Name two items that Guthrie Bowron sell. 8. What is the main dish at Lukes Kitchen in Kuaotunu? 9. What year did Captain Cook observe the Transit of Mercury? 10. Where is Mercury Bay Estate? 11. Who runs A1 Towing? 12. What is the Maori name for New Chums Bay? 13. In which Whitianga street will you find Dive Zone? 14. Who swam to Great Mercury Island? 15. How many Coromandel brown kiwi went to Motutapu Island this year? 16. In what street is Mint Gallery? 17. What date is the Cooks Beach Summer Gala? 18. Where can you play paintball in Whitianga? 19. Name two of the New Zealand designers clothes stocked by Agnes & Annabel. 20. What movies start on Boxing Day in Whitianga? 21. Who runs Cathedral Cove Dive & Snorkel? 22. Who delivers diesel fuel in Whitianga? 23. Who has come up with a new plan for coastal erosion?
24. Whose lemon tarts are famous in Whitianga? 25. Who is playing at Salt on 11 January? 26. Which cafe won top regional honors in the 2012 cafe awards? 27. Name two items sold by Shellz Ice Cream Palour. 28. Who founded Driving Creek Railway and Potteries? 29. What year were the stone steps at Ferry landing built? 30. Where is the Coromandel Museum? 31. Name two treatments you can get at Coastal Sanctuary. 32. Where is Moko Artspace? 33. Who was Cape Colville named after? 34. Where is the Muriwai Walk? 35. What is the name of the massage therapist at Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat? 36. Who wrote the new book Coromandel Flavour? 37. Name two items sold by Mercury Bay Garden Centre. 38. Where is Back Bay? 39. What day is the Hahei Market? 40. Who are the hosts at Coromandel Top 10? 41. Who would make you a Kuaotunu Killer? 42. Where in Albert Street do you buy your Lotto ticket? 43. What hours is Mercury Bay Medical Centre open on Christmas Eve? 44. How much does it cost to buy a kauri seedling? 45. What’s the phone number for Coromandel Information Centre? 46. From what depth does The Lost Spring get its water?
The quiz competition ends 12 noon on 20 January 2013. Send us your answers by post (PO Box 248 Whitianga) or email (admin@peninsulapost.co.nz) or drop them into our office in Coghill Street. Please include your name and a daytime phone number. All correct entries will be placed in a draw to win either a Sunset Cruise for 4 people on NZ Spirit valued at $340 or a $225 voucher for dinner at Salt. The winners will be announced in The Peninsula Post on Thursday 24 January 2013.
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Save our kauri forests Help stop kauri dieback disease
Kauri ... the ideal gift
www.kauri2000.co.nz
For Christmas, birthdays or to remember someone special... let Kauri 2000 plant a kauri in our specially created forests on the Coromandel. Every recipient receives a Commemorative Certificate inscribed with your message. Seedlings @ $20 includes a Commemorative Certificate Commemorative Plaque to be placed at site @ $10 extra Additional donation towards ongoing maintenance of sites and young kauri
□ □ □
Name/message for certificate and plaque:
Name.......................................................... Address...................................................... ................................................................... To the Secretary, Kauri 2000 Trust, PO Box 174, Whitianga
What’s On 12-13
(no more than 50 characters)
Our kauri need your help. Kauri dieback is killing kauri – young and old – in Auckland and Northland forests. At present there is no cure. Luckily, it hasn’t been found on the Coromandel - yet. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a hunter, a mountain biker or a hiker, a contractor or a multisporter - you need to do your bit to stop it spreading here. Kauri dieback spreads through soil. Every time you go into the bush ALWAYS: Thoroughly scrub clean and dry all footwear, walking poles, bike tyres, machinery – anything that comes in contact with soil – BEFORE AND AFTER every visit Stay on the tracks Keep off kauri roots IMPORTANT: If you have visited kauri forests in Northland, Auckland (especially the Waitakeres) or Great Barrier Island, you are a high risk of bringing kauri dieback here. Don’t use any footwear, poles, mountain bikes etc that you have used in these areas on the Coromandel Peninsula, especially in any native forests. This all sounds tough, but times are tough for our kauri. Help spread the word - keep our Coromandel kauri dieback free: No soil on shoes or gear = no kauri dieback spread For more information about kauri dieback visit www.kauridieback.co.nz
Kauri 2000 is a Charitable Trust founded in 1999 to replant and protect the kauri forests of the Coromandel Peninsula. For more information visit www.kauri2000.co.nz