Whats on 2013 14 for issuu

what’s on

coromandel peninsula

The Peninsula Post guide to what’s happening summer 2013-2014 whitianga coromandel town northern coromandel peninsula

Our friendly staff are pleased to offer:

WIDE RANGE OF LOCAL CRAFT BEER & WINES PLUS PREMIUM WINE, SPIRITS & BEER OPEN 7 DAYS

S L A E D L UNREAY WEEK! EVER

Call, email or come in to see us to talk about what we can do for you.

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

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 0274 809 767 Mercury Bay 0274 931 379 Tairua/Pauanui 0274 762 651 Whangamata 07 865 8600 or 021 594 563 Thames 027 480 9767 Noise & Dog Control 868 0200 24 hours

contents Whitianga - Mercury Bay

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Activities

7

The Lost Spring - five years on

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Beaches within easy reach

10

Eating out & entertainment

15

Rainy day activities

19

Health & beauty

20

Great Mercury Island

24

Art

22

Kuaotunu, Coromandel town & north

26

House & garden

31

Real estate 32 Calendar of events

34, 42, 47

Transport 35 Retail

36

Church services

39

A great day out

38

Put on your walking shoes

40

Weddings

43

Services

44

Cover image: Orca experience at Cathedral Cove taken by Rae Mitchell of the Hahei Explorer

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What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Enjoy the magic of the Coromandel Peninsula...

Each year The Coromandel Peninsula Post produces this What’s On guide for visitors to the northeastern Coromandel Peninsula - and we welcome you to this place we are so happy to call home.

Just lately we’ve been reminded just how fantastic it can be with pods of orca engaging with many of our local tourist boats and, thanks to the wonders of technology like Facebook, some fantastic images are being beamed around the world. Some people may worry about seeing images of orca so close to boats but our local operators are rigorous about obeying the rules and in all these cases, the orca have approached them.

We note also the wonderful gesture of Sir Michael Fay and David Richwhite, the owners of Great Mercury Island, who in partnership with the Department of Conservation have committed to making the island pest free and eventually allowing full public access to most of the island. Read more about this on page 24 of this magazine.

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 Peninsula Post.

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.whangamata.co.nz Thank you to Lisa Peehikuru 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 admin@peninsulapost.co.nz

www.peninsulapost.co.nz 4

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

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What’s On - Summer 2013-14

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 2013-14

activities

there’s so much to do!

Mercury Bay Museum Across from Whitianga Wharf Ph 866 0730

Open 7 days 10am to 4pm Experience Mercury Bay History! Captain Cook, HMS Buffalo, Gifts, Books & Souvenirs

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What’s On - Summer 2013-14

The Lost Spring - five years on

This month, December 2013, it is five years since The Lost Spring opened its gates to the public. Since then it’s hosted thousands of visitors from all over New Zealand and the world and their comments make it clear what they think. The words “fabulous” and “fantastic” are writ large and often.

The Lost Spring believes in giving back to the wider community, having donated over $50,000 to charities, schools and local events.

Owner Alan Hopping is hands on, partly from necessity and partly because that’s the sort of guy he is. His mantra, borrowed from his American son-in-law, is that everything is “as it should be”.

During the week, he’s cleaning and refurbishing areas in need of attention; at the weekend he puts on his uniform and charms his visitors, telling them the story and making sure they’re getting “an experience beyond expectation”.

He has always been very clear about his vision for The Lost Spring, wanting to bring a little bit of childhood magic back into the lives of adults. This is not a place for children though youngsters 14 years and over, under the supervision of adults, are welcome.

A good team of loyal staff has enabled the business to maintain constant growth during the recession with new development for the future already in the pipeline.

The Lost Spring experience is unique in New Zealand in that it’s designed for pure decadence and to bring

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magic back into the adult world.

The harmonic balance of the Day Spa, nestled above the spring and surrounded by bush and birdsong, is the perfect backdrop for a leisurely lunch delivered to you on the deck.

Or perhaps you would prefer a summer swim in refreshing 36 degree water in our sculpted shaded pools.

Cocktails or nibbles can be brought to you at the water’s edge.

Rekindle your romance with your partner with a couples treatment of your choice or bring a friend and enjoy a girls’ day out with a foot pamper, a facial or a full body massage; with time to sip your wine and share a delicious platter.

Wander along tree-shaded pathways that have been constructed to simulate a lava flow and which are set with jewel-like gemstones. An extinct volcano towers above the tree-line.

Alan, a former dairy farmer who sold up and invested in a Whitianga camping ground in 1980, had been fascinated by the thermal possibilities of the Coromandel Peninsula for years.

“I used to listen to the stories that were told by old-timers about Whitianga’s healing hot spring in the Taputapuatea Stream and it seemed a shame that the town had lost what could be a fantastic therapeutic attraction. And, of course, we’re just down the road from Hot Water Beach,” he says.

He believed there was geothermal water to be discovered in the area. In 1987 four drill holes were sunk deep

beneath the volcanic layers under the town on the land then occupied by the Buffalo Beach Tourist Resort, the Hopping’s family business.

After a number of well failures, in April 2006, a 667-metre deep well sprang to life, producing thousands of litres of hot spring water an hour at 50 degrees Celsius. Recent investigations

by GNS Science have dated the water at not less than 16,000 years old.

Alan sold part of his camping ground to fund the development of his geothermal wonderland and set about turning a flat featureless piece of land with a few trees into this magical setting. Set in 1.4 hectares, The Lost Spring represents Coromandel in microcosm and the attention to detail that has been lavished on every part of this place is mind-blowing.

“One of the benefits of having taken so long developing The Lost Spring is that it looks like it’s been here forever,” Alan says.

An old schoolhouse, built around 1865, was renovated to house The Café, the reception area and luxurious changing rooms and bathrooms. The Pavilion, an outdoor covered area, has been added to cater for hen parties and functions. The Day Spa was built in one of the gables of the old schoolhouse and features a sundeck overlooking the lagoon with a magical view over The Lost Spring.

See our advertisement on page 5 of this magazine. www.thelostspring.co.nz

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

MERCURY BAY

Summer Activities Kids’ Art Competition 16 December 2013 – 12 January 2014

Entry fee $7 - 3 age categories: 7yrs & under, 8-11yrs, 12-15yrs Theme: On or Under the Sea Artists are encouraged to use different types of materials on their canvases (shell, feathers, sand) - and let their imagination run away with them. Collect your canvas & entry form from Dive Zone Whitianga, Blacksmith Lane and return them by 11 January 2014. Entries will be displayed there. Judging/Prizegiving: Saturday 12 January, 2pm Proudly sponsored by

Scavenger Hunt 28 December 2013, 12pm – 4pm

$10 per team (up to four) - great prizes to be won Pick up your list of items you need to collect from Mercury Bay Events, Blacksmith Lane. You need to find as many items in as little time as possible, all “loot” to be handed back to Mercury Bay Events for marking. Winners will be announced at Prizegiving at 5pm at Events HQ (beside Dive Zone) Winning Team Best Driftwood Sculpture Spot Prizes Proudly sponsored by

Family Sports Day 30 December 2013, 10am – 12pm Buffalo Beach Reserve

$2 entry per person - great family fun for all ages & great prizes Family relay – with a twist (family = 2 adults & 1 child under 14yrs) Running races, Egg and Spoon races Sack racesThe popular Tug o War Proudly sponsored by

Sand Sculpture

3 January 2014, 2pm - 4pm Buffalo Beach Reserve, 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, 2nd and 3rd and spot prize giveaways.

A picture of each team & their creation will be taken before prize giving Proudly sponsored by

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What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Beaches within easy reach Buffalo Beach

Shakespeare Cliff & Lonely 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.

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.

Wharekaho Bay (Simpsons Beach) The old Pohutukawa trees described by Captain Cook still stand today.

Kuaotunu 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 (pictured), 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).

Front Beach & Flaxmill Bay Sheltered north-facing beaches provide great swimming and rock exploring.

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!

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CONCESSIONS

10 rides $120

The

ULTIMATE WATER RUSH

at The Esplanade beach Boxing Day until end of school holidays.

No bookings required.

$15

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

1 January 2014 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

BEST VALUE FUN IN WHITIANGA

Cooks Beach

NEW YEAR RACE

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.

AFTER EVENT BBQ AND REFRESHMENTS 4pm Prospective new members welcome Phone 866 5749 or 021 0286 6060

Check us out on www.

THRILL THRILL RIDE RIDE whitianga.co.nz\banana boat KIDDIES CRUISE

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What’s On - Summer 2013-14

MERCURY BAY GAME FISHING CLUB TOURNAMENT DATES 2013-14

stocking AquaLung, Beuchat and TUSA gear

russ cochrane & wendy helms 48 hahei beach road, hahei phone: 07 866 3955 mobile: 027 271 3187 ccdive@hahei.co.nz

NZ Free Phone: 0800 223 483

Kids

Sun

29 Dec

Valley Toyota Top Ten Tuna Tournament

Sat/Sun

4/5 Jan

Ladies & Ladies Blue

Sat/Sun (Ann Wknd)

25/26 Jan

Bonze Skins**

Thurs/Fri/Sat

6/7/8 Feb

Classic

Sat/Sun/Mon

15 - 17 Feb

Tristram Marine Mercury Bay Open Tournament

Sat - Sat

15 - 22 Feb

Nationals

Sat - Sat

15 – 22 Feb

ITM**

Thurs/Fri/Sat/Sun

27 Feb - 2 Mar

Trailer Boat

Thur/Fri/Sat

6/7/8 Mar

Alto **

Fri/Sat

21/22 Mar

Junior

Sat/Sun

12/13 Apr

Kids

Easter Sat

19 Apr

Snapper

Sat

31 May

** These are sponsored Tournaments hosted by MBGFC NB: Placemakers Tournament will be held in Whitianga on Fri/Sat 14/15 March

12 The Esplanade, Whitianga Phone 07 866 4121 Email mbgfc@xtra.co.nz www.gamebase.co.nz

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 12

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

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 Lee St Whitianga Phone 07 867 1001

COROGLEN FARMERS MARKET

INFINITY CHARTERS

Open Every Sunday FROZEN Starts 26 Dec

PHILOMENA Starts 26 Dec

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS Starts 1 Jan

JACK RYAN: SHADOW RECRUIT Starts 16 Jan

mercury-twin@xtra.co.nz or visit us at www.nzcinema.co.nz Screening daily - except Christmas Day.

Rain or Shine 9.30am - 1pm GUMTOWN HALL, SH 25 COROGLEN Enquiries Kevin or Fiona 866 3315

Fishing Diving Sightseeing

Ph 07 866 5936 Mob 0274 864 126 ZI Whitianga Marina infinitycharters@gmail.com

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a whole lot of fun by the beach! food games rides stalls music 9am to 3pm

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eftpos on site

All proceeds to Mercury Bay Areaa School

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

eating out & entertainment

there’s no need to cook!

Brewery & Brasserie OPEN 11 am - late 7 DAYS ALL SUMMER

for awesome craft beer delicious brunches + dinners Courtesy pick up available 5 days for dinner bookings from ferry/beaches 1043 State Highway 25, Whenuakite, RD1 Whitianga 07 866 3830 www.hotwaterbrewingco.com 500m south of Hot Water Beach Rd turn-off on SH25 located inside Seabreeze Holiday Park. Open to the public.

Locally owned & operated Alan & Helen Anderson

Mob 021 044 1151

helen.alan.anderson@gmail.com

Bookings preferable Phone 07 866 4828 9 The Esplanade Whitianga

Open 7 days 9am to late

❀Coffee ❀Breakfast ❀Brunch ❀Lunch ❀Dinner

12.5km from Coromandel Town and 300m from the Whangapoa turnoff

PHONE 866 4542

Celcius coffee

Packed lunches available by order and ask about our catering service!

5 Albert Street Whitianga Ph 866 0323 At the beach end of the main street (by the Four Square)

www.jandalscafe.co.nz

A family restaurant in a great location Open 7 days, 11am to late

(except NY Eve - closing 3pm)

SH25 TE RERENGA Opp Te Rerenga School

Sample Paula’s famous lemon tarts, caramello brownie, and gingerbread jandals - plus other fabulous cakes and slices, all baked on the premises There’s an all-day blackboard menu with something for everyone and fresh daily sushi, panini, filled bagels, pies, scones & muffins

Colenso

THE ICE-CREAM TEAM Available for all your Events, Birthday Parties, Weddings

Open 7 days from 7.30am for breakfast brunch lunch morning & afternoon tea ALL YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAY TREATS

TAKEAWAYS Friday & Saturday nights 4pm to 8pm ❀Fish & chips ❀Burgers

Chutney & relish for sale

www.castlerockcafe.co.nz

CAFE l SHOP l ORCHARD

The perfect any time treat morning or afternoon tea or a leisurely lunch...

Gift vouchers available Award-winning Colenso is one of the Coromandel Peninsula’s favourite cafés

SH25, WHENUAKITE PH 866 3725

www.colensocafe.co.nz 15

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Buildings & places of historic interest in Mercury Bay Tripot

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.

HMS Buffalo

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.

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.

Undenominational Church, Albert St

Now St Andrews by the Sea. Built in the 1890s this church has been used by all worshippers.

Stone Store

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.

Mercury Bay Hospital

Lovers Rock

Whitianga Wharf

Stone Steps

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.

The first wharf was built in 1882, and the present wharf constructed in 1991.

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.

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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, a local slaughterman, who built the first wharf. Lovers Rock was cleared of all vegetation and became a popular area for courting couples.

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.

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

& Juice Bar

INSANELY GOOD COFFEE

Scoop Ice Creams Waffle Cones Real Fruit Ice Creams Smoothies Fresh Juices Milkshakes/ Thickshakes A range of Sundaes WINNER 14 NZ COFFEE AWARDS We do the best Ice Creams & Cold Drinks this side of the Coromandel!

23d Albert Street Whitianga

Ph 07 869 5953

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

try us

WWW.COFFEELALA.COM OR EMAIL COFFEE@COFFEELALA.COM PHONE 07 866 5373

Snapper Jacks

Fresh fish & takeaways Dine in or takeaway Summer hours 10am to 9pm

PHONE ORDERS 07 866 5482 Corner of Albert & Monk Streets

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What’s On - Summer 2013-14

THE BEST PRICES ON THE COROMANDEL!

Whitianga Liquor

BLACKBULL LIQUOR

27 Albert Street (Next to The Glasshouse) PH 866 5842

WHITIANGA STORE

Cnr Blacksmith Lane & Victoria Street (Next to Whitianga Hotel) PH 866 2067

THAMES STORE 202 Sealy Street Ph 868 9997

ALL OPEN 7 DAYS 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

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What’s On 13-14

(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

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Where to go and what to do on a wet day Art

Museums

Check out Mint Gallery, Whitianga Art Group (which has summer and easter exhibitions), Bread & Butter Gallery - and Moko at Hot Water Beach.

Find out all you want to know about our area rich in history. Mercury Bay Museum is situated across the road from the Whitianga wharf. A section on the history of fishing in the area opened last year.

The Coromandel Musuem in Rings Road is also well worth a visit.

Information Centre Pop into the Whitianga and Coromande Information Centres for some suggestions for wet weather activities.

Pamper Yourself

While away your day at one of our many eating out establishments.

Holidays are designed for rest and relaxation.

There are a number of practitioners available in Whitianga offering massage, reiki, aromatherapy, beauty therapy etc. Turn the page for details.

Libraries

Hot Pools

Eating Out in Mercury Bay

Become a member at the Mercury Bay library, located at the rear of Soldiers Memorial Park next to the Information Centre. If you’re in Coromandel town, check out the library in the main street.

Mercury Twin Cinemas Check the movie guide outside the cinema to see what’s coming up.

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. See the story on page 8.

Classic Car Museum Open daily December - Janaury, 10am to 5pm.

Adults $5, children $2. Moewai Rd, turn right off the main road just past the Whitianga airport.

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What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Lady of the House Beauty

health and beauty

it’s time to treat yourself!

Threading Waxing Brazilians Tinting Facials Manicures Eyelash Extensions Gel Nails Gift Vouchers

Shalini

Whitianga & Te Aroha 027 740 5881

www.ladyofthehouse.co.nz

Quality time for you – Come and Bliss Out, De-stress!

• Relaxation and Remedial Massage • Reflexology/Foot Massage • Reiki sessions and classes

60 for 1 hr massage

$

$80 for 1.5hrs, $90 for 2 hours Special: book 2 x 1 hr massages, pay $100 Call: Sherryll Gates on 867 1382 or 027 280 3414 Over 25 yrs experience in healing therapies 2 Miro Place, Whitianga (3rd house down on left) See more information on website: www.myhealingroom.co.nz

HAIR DRESSING : : BEAUTY THERAPY : : APPEARANCE MEDICINE: POWER PLATE : : WEDDINGS : : MAKE-UP : : LASH ARTISTE CNR ALBERT & LEE ST, WHITIANGA PH 07 866 0588 WWW.ENVYHAIRANDBEAUTY.CO.NZ ENVYHAIR2@GMAIL.COM

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What’s On - Summer 2013-14

COASTAL SANCTUARY St Tropez Spray Tanning Special

HAIR, SKIN AND BODY THERAPY

Apricot and Peach Limited Edition Summer Facial

Full body $40 Legs or upper body $20

Hydrating, Oxygenating, Brightening $80

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

MASSAGE THAT HEALS        

Specializing in

●Relaxation ●Wellbeing ●Injury recovery

Treatments



Deep tissue Acupuncture Bowen therapy Herbal compresses Hot towel foot wraps Health consultations Chinese herbs Cupping Karakia

1 Hour

1.5 hrs $90

Sports Injuries Manipulation Neck/Back Pain Massage Therapy Dry Needling Work Injuries Womens Health

$70

2 hrs $110

Contact Libby, therapist of 20 years (Nat dip Acupuncture/ Nat dip Chinese herbs

21 Coghill Street Whitianga

Ph (07) 866 2155 or 022 076 0129

869 5244

4b Campbell St, Whitianga (opp police station behind Evolve)

Claire Wills

BHSc Physiotherapy MPNZ

Joel Van Doorn

BHSc Physio, PGC (Chin Acup) MPNZ

21

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

art

so many talented people!

Otama artist Michael Smither at work in his studio.

Image from The Life of Mi, a photo essay by Sue Collins

Summer Exhibitions featuring

Gian McGregor and Claire Elliott 22

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Up Coming EXHIBITIONS

Nov 30th – Dec 29th 2013 - ‘CARSON 2013’ Steve Carson (painting) Duncan Shearer (ceramics) Charade Honey (ceramics) Verena Tagmann (multimedia) Nici Greulich (weaving)

‘Over Mercury Bay’ - Jan 3rd - 23rd 2014 Ginney Deavoll (painting) Airdrie Hamilton (painting)

‘Impressions’

Jan 25th - Feb 26th 2014 Erica Lyons (multimedia) Donna Hansby(felt) Elizabeth Carter (painting)

Bread & Butter Gallery 26 Albert St, Whitianga Ph: (07) 8664927 www.breadandbutter.co.nz

23

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Mercury Bay boaties getting b Mercury Bay boating and fishing organisations are right behind a campaign to eradicate animal pests from Great Mercury Island.

Owners Sir Michael Fay and David Richwhite are joining forces with the Department of Conservation in a $1.5 million project to remove rats and cats from the island.

Sir Michael spoke to an audience of about 100 people at the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club on Friday night and asked for their support.

President John Neighbours says the club is very supportive and is encouraging members to play their part in conservation of the island.

Mercury Bay Boating Club treasurer Al Gould says his members are very enthusiastic. “It's a

Great Mercury Island.

24

marvellou very gener Members they're be part of the monitor a and weeds DOC proj Corson is the suppo is essentia success.

Mr Corson below righ the projec it's the mo he's worke with the d got this po fringe and walking al and turn o lizards.”

Surveys of found a su

Easter cliffs of Great Mercury Island (photo P

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

behind project to make Great Mercury Is pest-free

us concept and a rous proposition.” are very pleased eing invited to be e project by helping and identify pests s, he says. ject manager Peter delighted with ort which he says al to the project's

n (pictured left and ht) started work on ct last year and says ost exciting one ed on in his 20 years department. “You've ohutukawa coastal d you can have kids long the beaches over a log and find

f the island have urprising amount

Peter Corson).

of biodiversity, with rare tiny snails and other invertebrates and threatened plants. And when the rats and cats are removed the bird life will explode, he says.

There have never been possums or mustelids, like stoats and weasels, on the island but there are kiore and ship rats and feral cats.

In June next year stock will be removed from the island to allow for two applications of the poison, brodifacoum. It should wipe out the rats and those cats which eat poisoned rats. Two hunters will spend six months targeting the rest of the cat population.

Boaties will be asked to stay off the island for a total of about two weeks, during the applications of the poison.

After about three months

stock will be taken back to the island and will continue to graze about 30 per cent of it, as part of an agreement with Ngati Hei to keep historical sites clear of vegetation.

Sir Michael said on Friday night that it's the arrival of Ngati Hei's ancestors on the island that make it unique.

Archaeologists from Auckland University are working to pin down the exact role the island played in the early peopling of New Zealand.

A large pine forest on the island will largely be left alone to provide shelter for the native plant forest growing up underneath. Sir Michael says it's remarkable the amount of natural regeneration occurring on the island but extensive planting is also being done.

Mr Corson says the project has four aims: to reduce the threat to the other pest-free islands in the Mercury Group; to restore species and natural processes on Great Mercury; to restore threatened species; and to act as a showcase where people can appreciate a pest-free island.

A big risk in the project is the introduction of mice into a predator-free environment.

The mice population could explode and prove extremely difficult to eradicate.

Boaties are being asked to ensure they don't accidentally carry mice onto their boats in gear and provisions and to install traps or poison stations on their boats.

Surveys of the island have found a surprising amount of biodiversity.

The Peninsula Post - November 21 2013 25

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

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. Just over the hill are the gorgeous Otama Beach and Opito Bay.

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.

26

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

W.A.N.T.

Waitaia Advanced Native Trees

Also Citrus & Fruit Trees, Non-natives, Chook Manure & Compost/Potting Mix

OPEN THURS - SUN 9AM - 5PM 10

9 59 or by appointment Ph 86

500m up Waitaia Rd, Kuaotunu

27

What’s On - Summer 2013-14 From December onwards Open 10am – 7 days a week Happy Hour Friday & Saturday 4pm – 6pm There’s something here for everyone

Coromandel wines & beers, coffee, cakes, milkshakes and a variety of food available from Tangiaro Cafe, Bar and Restaurant Check emails (Wifi), read a book or lounge on our spacious deck and 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 on-site.

Gift vouchers available

Experience the understated opulence of our unique fully self contained 1 or 2 bedroom bush lodges.

Our a la carte restaurant, cafe and bar offers great food, quality local wines and beer and the opportunity to mingle with other guests.

1299 Port Charles Rd, Port Charles Ph 07 866 6614 www.kiwiretreat.co.nz

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 Office 07 866 8803 susan@accommodationcoromandel.co.nz www.accommodationcoromandel.co.nz

28

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Coromandel Museum

841 Rings Road, Coromandel

Ph 866 8039

Open daily from 20 December 2013 to Easter 2014 1pm - 4pm Adults $5 Children under 16 Free

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

29

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

30

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

house and garden

everything you need for your pride & joy

crown reduction ● tree felling ● thinning ● stump removal consultancy ● difficult removals ● waste recycling hedge & shrub maintenance

Tricky Trees

Tel: 021 240 9909

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL ARBORISTS

FULLY INSURED

MERCURY BAY GARDEN CENTRE & LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES 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 GATEWAY GLASS WHITIANGA

FOR ALL YOUR WINDSCREENS, GLASS & ALUMINIUM JOINERY REQUIREMENTS

SPECIALISTS IN: Joinery Maintenance Glass Repairs Auto Glass Repairs Splashbacks Insect Screens Glass Showers Great friendly service, focused on securing your property promptly – 24 hr emergency call-out service.

GATEWAY GLASS & ALUMINIUM 65 Cook Drive, Whitianga P: 07 867 1772 F: 07 867 1248 E: whitianga@gatewayglass.co.nz

31

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Nationwide Housemovers Ltd Kitchens Vanities Wardrobes Entertainment units Timber joinery Windows Doors Stairs Free measure & quote - peninsula wide 7 days by appointment

Albert Street, Thames Phone 07 868 6323

pj.kitchens@yahoo.co.nz www.peninsulajoinery.co.nz

C & A Decorators Ltd Painting & decorating Wallpapering Spray painting Free quotes Andrew Mobile 021 727 032

Over 30 years experience

    

Free quotes and expert advice Lift and shift all types of buildings Houselifting and supporting Repiling Releveling

Over 27 years experience on the move!

Ph 09 298 2195 Mob 021 950 575 Email: nationwidehousemovers@vodafone.co.nz Web: www.nationwidehousemovers.co.nz

real estate

when you’want a place of your own!

Polyurethane & Oil Coating Timber & Cork Flooring

Covering the Coromandel Peninsula

phone Christopher 021 046 7169 mercurybayfloorsanders@yahoo.co.nz 32

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

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

33

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

What’s On calendar of events 2013-14 16 Dec – 12 Jan

Mercury Bay Summer of Fun. Kids Art competition – pick up your canvas & entry form from Dive Zone Whitianga, Blacksmith Lane. Art displayed at Events HQ Blacksmith Lane, 12 Jan

21 Dec

Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm Santa Parade, Matarangi, 11am, Matarangi Drive

22 Dec

Coroglen Farmers Market at Coroglen Hall, every Sunday rain or shine 9.30am – 1pm Market & Gala Day, 9am-1pm outside the Matarangi shopping area

26 Dec

Family Bowls Tournament, 3-6pm at the Dunes, Matarangi

26 Dec - 11 Jan

Bike Safety Competition, Matarangi

27 Dec

The Great Frisbee Throw Off 10am @ the Village Green, Matarangi Whangamata Summer Festival Annual Craft Market, Whangamata

28 Dec

Mercury Bay Summer of Fun. Scavenger Hunt – pick up your list of items to collect from MB Events, Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm Fire Station Open Day, Matarangi, 11am-1pm to view the engines & operations of the Fire Force. Hot chips for sale. Decorated Tractor & Quad Bike Competition, 2-3pm assembly @ the Matarangi Village Green.

Parade to the Fire Station for 4pm prizegiving Whangamata Summer Festival Annual Craft Market, Whangamata

28 Dec – 6 Jan

Whitianga Health & Wellbeing Fair. A fantastic free 10 day health & wellbeing fair with lots of stalls, onsite natural therapies, free daily talks, art, music & organic foods

29 Dec

Kids fishing Tournament at Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Matarangi Market & Gala Day, 9am - 1pm The Great Treasure Hunt, Matarangi, 9.30am meet @ the Fire Station to get your treasure hunt map & clues. $2 entry Coroglen Farmers Market at Coroglen Hall, every Sunday rain or shine 9.30am – 1pm

30 Dec

Mercury Bay Summer of Fun. Family Sports Day – Buffalo Beach Reserve. $2 entry per person, great family fun for all ages Children’s Disco @ The Fire Station, Matarangi.

2-12yrs: 4.30-6.30pm, gold coin donation, refreshments available

Big Dig at Matarangi on the beach in front of the Village Green, register 10.30am. Entry $2

30 Dec – 3 Jan

Prana New Year Festival Whangamata. A unique boutique festival for about 1000 attendees. It is smokefree and has a low tolerance for alcohol abuse

31 Dec

Matarangi Fire Station annual collection from 3pm

1 Jan

New Year Race Mercury Bay Boating Club invites all sailors to join in the traditional new Year event, starting time 11am Opera in the Park, New Years Day, free concert, 7.30pm – 10pm, Williamson Reserve, Ocean Rd, Whangamata

1 – 4 Jan

Gypsy Fair Original, Whangamata Area School, 9am – 5pm

2 Jan

Keltic Fair Coromandel. One of New Zealand’s most successful fairs and the highlight on the Coromandel holiday season Annual Fishing Competition Matarangi from 6am.

Weigh in 2pm. Prizegiving 4pm @ the Fire Station

3 Jan

Mercury Bay Summer of Fun. Sand sculpture competition at Buffalo Beach Reserve, Albert Street end. $5 per family/team Big Beach Day Out & Sandcastle Competition, Matarangi Village Green, 12.30pm Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm Pauanui Market Day. A fantastic way to spend the day with entertainment or the kids, great food and coffee and over 100 different stalls NZ Tri Series, Whangamata. A seven race series across New Zealand, 6am – 4pm Island View Reserve

4 Jan

The Rings to Matarangi swim 9am start. Alternative weather day Sun 5 Jan. Entry forms (essential) to be filled in @ www.hiltonbrownswimming.co.nz Cardboard Cup 3.30pm @ the Matarangi Boat Ramp. Have your boat ready to race. Entry forms @ Richardson’s office Cooks Beach Summer Gala. Over 100 stalls, games, rides, food, music, white elephant and the daisy dung drop Whitianga Art Group opening night 7pm. An exhitibion of New Work with guest artist Val Tubman Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm Interislander Summer Festival Thames Races.

Experience the iconic InterIslander Summer Festival Thames Races set in the gateway to the Coromandel Thundercat Racing, Whangamata. A high adrenalin, high action sport with explosive wave jumping and tight competitive surf racing in a tunnel hulled inflatable boat

Please turn to page 42 & 47 for more events 34

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

transport

getting you where you need to go!

Daily flights from WHITIANGA to AUCKLAND $150 each way GREAT BARRIER ISLAND (Claris) $150 each way TAURANGA $190 each way

Scenic flights $50 per person (min 2) Charters available on request

35

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

retail

relax and enjoy the shopping!

Cooks Beach Store

WHITIANGA'S ORIGINAL VARIETY STORE

Your general store for all your grocery needs LPG Ice Bait Cold drinks Milk Bread Plus a great selection of lollies and ice cream Great Friendly Service Phone 866 5278

Fax 866 5283

Grapefruit Gully Your 1 Stop Gift Shop

Gifts

Home

OPEN 7 DAYS

25 Albert Street, Whitianga

Toys Giftware Haberdashery Kitchenware Gardening Hardware Fishing

16 Coghill St, Whitianga Phone 866 0745 Email: thebikeman@xtra.co.nz

Fun

13 Monk Street, Whitianga Ph 866 5711

BIKES TRIKES SCOOTERS PART S ACCESSORIES Health 2000 Whitianga

4 Coghill Street Whitianga Phone 07 866 5899 whitihealth2000@xtra.co.nz wwww.health2000.co.nz 36

We service and repair all makes and models

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Jandy’s

Ph 866 4028

for fashionable women New summer fashion, bright fresh colour in store. With 25 top fashion labels, we can dress you for any occasion, from formal to casual. And there’s the latest fashion jeans and new season swimwear.

Gorgeous Summer Stock Shop Hours: Mon - Fri 9.30am - 5pm Sat 10am - 3pm /or later Sun 10am - 2pm/

Lay-by & vouchers available

Our helpful and friendly staff will make you look good and feel great

59 Albert St, Whitianga

●Appliance Sales & Service Agents ●Deliveries & Installs ●Competitive Pricing

PENINSULA WHITIANGA Phone 07 866 5207 Grant 027 512 1500 www.bettaelectrical.co.nz Email whitianga@bettaelectrical.co.nz Shop 5, 41 Albert Street, WHITIANGA

ELECTROLUX - WESTINGHOUSE - LG - PANNASONIC - F&P

THE BRANDS YOU WANT FROM THE PEOPLE YOU TRUST

AGENTS FOR

think lighting, think... www.lightingdirect.co.nz

HOUSELOT DISCOUNTS

FREE CONSULTATIONS

PANASONIC - MITSUBISHI - BOSCH - SIMPSON - HAIER

LG - PANASONIC - MITSUBISHI - BOSCH - SIMPSON - F&P - HAIER

For the best look in town

11 Monk St Whitianga 07 866 4411

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 7.30am to 8pm daily through December & January

37

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

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 coffee or a Kuaotunu Killer icecream or indulge in one of Luke’s delicious pizzas - 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. Check our activities section starting on page 7.

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What’s On - Summer 2013-14

Community Carols & Church Services 2013-14 Everyone is welcome to all of these Community Carols Whitianga Friday 20 December, 7.30pm outside at Soldiers Memorial behind the Information Centre All ages welcome. Bring a candle and something to sit on.

Cooks Beach Hall Sunday 22 December 7.30pm.

Kuaotunu Hall Tueday 24 December 7.30pm

Mercury Bay Church Services Anglican Church St Peter the Fisherman, Dundas St, Whitianga Sunday 22 December 9.30am, 9 Lessons and Carols followed by morning tea and fellowship Tuesday 24 December 10pm Christmas Eve Carols & Communion Tuesday 25 December 9.30am Christmas Day Celebration Communion Holy Communion (No services at Hahei this year due to the Community Hall being closed for renovations.)

Services at Whitianga every Sunday at 9.30am For further information: phone 869 5577 or 866 5084 www.anglicanchurchwhitianga.org.nz Baptist Church 112 Cook Drive, Whitianga Sunday 22 December 10am Christmas Service Every Sunday 10am Service and children’s programme Mercury Bay Co-operating Parish St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church, Albert Street, Whitianga Tuesday 24 December, 2pm Christmas Communion and afternoon tea Wednesday 25 December, 9.30am Christmas Day Family Service Sunday 29 December and every Sunday in January 9.30 a.m.

Sunday 12 January 11.30am Community Service Kuaotunu Hall and shared lunch For further information ph 869 5356 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz Whitianga Catholic Parish St Patrick’s Church, Campbell Street, Whitianga Tuesday 24 December Midnight Mass with carols starting at 11.30pm Christmas Day 25 December 8.30am Saturdays 28 December and 4 January, 5.30pm Vigil Mass Sundays 29 December, 5 and 12 January, 8.30 a.m.

Cooks Beach Hall Monday 24 December 6pm Christmas Eve Vigil Mass Crossroad Encounter Fellowship Crossroad Encounter Fellowship Centre, cnr Cook Drive & Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga Christmas service 22 December 10am Service every Sunday 10am

39

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

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 2013-14

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.

41

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

What’s On calendar of events 2013-14 4 Jan continued

Tairua School Wine & Food Festival. One of the Coromandel’s biggest one-day summer Festivals takes place in a glorious harbourside setting in Tairua Antique Fair, Pauanui Sports & Rec Club, 10am – 5pm. A large range of antiques, collectables, vintage, retro, furniture, china, jewellery, linen, glass, curios, silver, textiles, etc.

4 – 5 Jan

Top Ten Tuna Tournament Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Whitianga War Birds & Wheels Event. 9am – 5pm at Mercury Bay Aero Club

5 Jan

Coroglen Farmers Market at Coroglen Hall, every Sunday rain or shine 9.30am – 1pm Thundercat Racing, Matarangi. A high adrenalin, high action sport with explosive wave jumping and tight competitive surf racing in a tunnel hulled inflatable boat Market & Gala Day, 9am-1pm outside the Matarangi shopping area Antique Fair, Pauanui Sports & Rec Club, 10am – 5pm, A large range of antiques, collectables, vintage, retro, furniture, china, jewellery, linen, glass, curios, silver, textiles, etc.

6 Jan

Kids Fishing Competition, Matarangi, 9.30-11am @ the Matarangi Boat Ramp

6 -12 Jan

Show Me Shorts Film Festival, The Monkey House Theatre, Whitianga

7 Jan

Hahei Market. This annual market always has a huge variety of stalls Supper Room Antiques and Collectables Fair, 10am – 5pm, Whitianga Town Hall, free entry. Great selection of items available for sales  Bike Decorating Competition, 3pm, Matarangi Shopping Centre

8 Jan

Mercury Bay Seaside Carnival. Buffalo Beach Reserve, Whitianga, 9am – 3pm Supper Room Antiques and Collectables Fair, 10am – 4pm, Whitianga Town Hall, free entry. Great selection of items available for sale

11 Jan

Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm Miss Matarangi Beach Girls 2014 Competition @ the Village Green. Starting @ 4pm. Entry on the day. BBQ sausage sizzle from 4pm Tairua Market plus trash & treasure – Tairua Community Hall, 9am – 1pm. A sprinkling of market stalls as well, community fundraiser for local emergency services and community events

18 Jan

Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm

25 Jan

Concert in the Vines, Cooks Beach. This iconic local concert returns to the Coromandel with favourite local artists, wonderful setting and the music you know and love from 3pm-9pm Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm Summer ArtMart, Tairua Community Hall, 10am – 3pm. Come and admire and vote for the best entries in this summertime art competition

25-26 Jan

Ladies & Ladies Blue Tournaments, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club

1 Feb

Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm

2 Feb, 9 Feb, 16 Feb, 23 Feb

Coroglen Farmers Market at Coroglen Hall, every Sunday rain or shine 9.30am – 1pm

7 Feb

The Rod Stewart Tribute Show, Whangamata Club

8 Feb

Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm

15 Feb

Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm

22 Feb

Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm Colville Connection 72km of MTB ecstacy! 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

27 Feb – 2 Mar

ITM Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club

28 Feb

Mercury Bay Art Escape Open Studio Tour opening night at Hot Waves Cafe, Hot Water Beach Tairua Market at Tairua Community Hall, Tairua, 9am – 1pm

1 Mar

Charity Trail Bike Ride, Landcorp Farms - Purangi Rd, sign in from 8.30am, ride from 9.30am - 3pm.

Single loop 35km track on rolling farmland and stunning views. Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm

12 Jan, 19 Jan, 26 Jan

Coroglen Farmers Market at Coroglen Hall, every Sunday rain or shine 9.30am – 1pm

42

Please turn to page 34 & 47 for more events

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

weddings

such a great place to get married!

LUSH Photography

Wedding Photography on the Coromandel and beyond...

Phone 021 141 1719 Email jodiatlush@hotmail.co.nz Web www.lushphotographynz.co.nz

Catering stunning weddings in timeless settings on the Coromandel for eight years. www.blueginger.co.nz facebook Blue Ginger 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

43

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

15 MONK ST, WHITIANGA PH 07 866 2288 ●Self Service Laundry ●Hot or Cold Washers ●Coin Operated ●Change Machine ●Internet Access ●Service Washes ●Commercial Linen & Mat Hire

services

whatever needs doing!

OPEN 7 DAYS 8AM TO 9PM

FREE measure & quote Walk-in Wardrobes Reach-in Wardrobes Linen Cupboards & Pantries Laundries & Garages Light Commercial Quality Sliding Doors Closetmaid Ventilated Wire Systems Expansive Solid Shelving Collection

CLEANING SERVICES

Durable, quality, custom-designed wardrobe & storage systems

www.wardrobeworld.co.nz

0800 507 744

279 Link Road, Hahei Phone 07 866 3571 Fax 07 866 3918 Laurie 027 472 5461 Tim 027 237 8679

 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 donovan.contractors.nz@gmail.com

Local & NZ-wide furniture movers

● 7 day service ● Weekly runs to Auckland ● International service available ● Storage available ● No job too big or small ● Free quotes

Phone Josh - Whitianga 07 866 5589 or 027 256 6009 www.nzmoveit.co.nz

44

67

NANNY Computer NEERA Services

Child Care / Tutoring Specialist in Children with Autism

Ph 866 4925 021 776 039 Neera Giri

Qualified Primary Teacher neeragiri@gmail.com

● 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 15 years

18 Coghill Street (upstairs)

What’s On - Summer 2013-14

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

DUTY PLUMBER On call throughout the holiday season

ROSCO 027 444 7667 07 866 3374 JIM 027 948 0436 ecoplumbing@hotmail.co.nz

Maintenance  Repair  Valet  Refit Antifouling  Spray Painting

Mob

027 620 8388

Ph

07 866 4606

 2oo berth, certified clean marina  Pristine, sheltered haul out facility  35 ton travel lift Pamper yourself and your boat in the beautiful Mercury Bay. We are only a short boat ride away.

Discover the best kept secret that is Whitianga Marina.

Professional people to help you every step of the way, and right in town so you can walk everywhere.

Boat repairs  Painting  Electrical Electronics  Mechanical  Engineering Refrigeration  Upholstery/Canvas We can even arrange Rigging and Sailmaking Let us make you feel at home at Whitianga Marina Contact the team: Ph 07 8662456 Fx 07 8665545 Email whitiangamarina@xtra.co.nz Web www.whitiangamarina.co.nz

45

What’s On - Summer 2013-14 Wednesday 25 December Thursday 26 December Friday to Friday, 27 December to 17 January Saturday 18 January Sunday 19 January Monday to Friday, 20 to 24 January Saturday 25 January Sunday 26 January, Monday 27 January Tuesday to Friday, 28 to 31 January Saturday 1 February Sunday 2 February Monday to Wednesday, 3 to 5 February Thursday 6 February Friday 7 February

Clinics 10am-11am, 5pm-6pm Clinics 9am-11am, 5pm-6pm Open 8.45am-5.00pm Clinics 9am-11am, 5pm-6pm Clinics 10am-11am, 5pm-6pm Open 8.45am-5.00pm Clinics 9am-11am, 5pm-6pm Clinics 10am-11am, 5pm-6pm Open 8.45am-5pm Clinics 9am-11am, 5pm-6pm Clinics 10am-11am, 5pm-6pm Open 8.45am-5pm Clinics 10am-11am, 5pm-6pm Return to normal hours with weekend clinics

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

WHITIANGA SELF STORAGE 13 Dakota Drive

07 866 5211 Harold 0274 595 486 Birgit 0272 427 438

Secure storage from $15 per week

46

What’s On calendar of events 2013-14 1-2 Mar

Mercury Bay Art Escape. Annual Coromandel art event held over the first two weekends in March showcasing a diverse group of working artist studios.

2 Mar, 9 Mar, 16 Mar, 23 Mar, 30 Mar

Coroglen Farmers Market at Coroglen Hall, every Sunday rain or shine 9.30am – 1pm

6-8 Mar

Trailer Boat Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club

7-9 Mar

Bodylight Pilates & Yoga Weekend Retreat/ Workshop, Mana Retreat Centre. Body Conditioning and Mind Body Awareness through Yoga, Pilates and Qi gong

8 Mar

Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm

15 Mar

Echo Walking Festival - Whats Sup Whangamata, for all ages, Esplanade Drive, Whangamata

21-22 Mar

Alto Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club

6 Apr, 13 Apr, 20 Apr

Coroglen Farmers Market at Coroglen Hall, every Sunday rain or shine 9.30am – 1pm

12-13 Apr

Junior Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club

19 Apr

Kids Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm Firemen’s Market, Tairua Fire Station

26 Apr

ARC Adventures -The Long Pursuit. 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 12hr, teams of 4 in the 24hr adventure

Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm Bush to Beach Half Marathon, 7km and 11km, Otama Beach Camp, 7am. Stunning sea views and lush native forest are all part of the reward for taking part in this well organised off road running event

15-16 March

31 May

15 March

Classic Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club The Long Pursuit. A real high adrenaline adventure based somewhere on the Coromandel Peninsula open to teams of 2, 3 or 4 in the 8h, teams of 2 or 4 in the 12hr, teams of 4 in the 24hr adventure

15-22 March

Tristram Marine Mercury Bay Open Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club

15 Mar - 6 April

Echo Walking Festival

Snapper Tournament, Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Whitianga Art Craft & Farmers Market at Soldiers Memorial Park, 8.30am – 1pm

28 June

Matariki ki Tairua, The Pepe Reserve, Tairua

Please turn to page 34 & 42 for more events