2024 Summer Magazine

YOUR SUMMER on the Coromandel Featuring the life, energy and beauty of the people, places and events in the stunning Coromandel Peninsula

Your weekly local community newspaper

2023/2024 COMPLIMENTARY COPY

From the Editor

I greet every one of you and welcome you to a relaxing Summer experience with this magazine, ‘Your Summer’. The last season of Summer brought havoc, disappointment and storm damage from which the recovery is long and still continuing. But the Coromandel Peninsula is waiting to embrace you with relaxation, adventure, excellent hospitality and a sense of belonging.

I have been here 18 months in this role of Editor and owner of The Informer newspaper and also our magazine production. My husband, Stan, joined me here in March of 2023, after caring for our son and his family for ten months in Australia addressing our boy’s serious medical matters.

Thank you for the friendliness we have experienced and the welcomed assistance to find our way. We could not have done it without that.

We love Whitianga and the Coromandel and we are committed to its future and enabling a strong economy and prosperous Iife for its people.

My thinking is that the basis of all real growth, both personal and as a community, that undergirds social and commercial activity as well as financial gain, is the quality of relationships. All adults and children need quality relationships.

I was reminded of this a few years ago, when I was leaving one community to go to another. A new job awaited, but it was emotionally hard leaving - lots of goodbyes. A knock on the door and two friends, a mother and her young son stood there, looking expectant.

“We have a gift for you,” said Nathan, the young boy, his face gleaming. “It’s a present from us.” He pointed excitedly to his Mum.

Open it, Pauline,” he said. It was rather large but very light, and I began unwrapping the layer of well sticky-taped gift paper.

Finally, deep inside was a small ceramic elephant.

It was in soft grey colours and delicate. I placed it in my hands with a big “Thank you.”

Nathan looked at me quizzically, as if I should be saying more.

“It’s beautiful,” I added, and I meant it. “But the puzzled look continued until he asked, “Do you know why I gave you the elephant?”

I thought for a moment and then the ‘penny dropped.’

“Yes, Nathan, how thoughtful of you; elephants never forget, and you will not forget me.”

Nathan was tearful now and burst out,” No Pauline! That’s not the reason. I gave you the elephant because I don’t want you to forget me. Don’t forget us!”

It’s many years ago now. We kept in touch for quite a few of those years, but the communication has faded. But I have never forgotten the parable of the elephant and that dear little boy who is now a grown man. In everything, to value people and their contribution no matter how different, in my understanding, is the building block of our shared future. New Zealand has only one future - a shared one.

From our team – Stan, Ella, Emma, Ange and Stephen – have a great summer on the Coromandel. Enjoy all the activities, the food, the sunshine, the beauty. There might be queues sometimes, or you might have to wait longer to be served. Find a way of showing you are glad to be here. Tell others about the magazine and don’t forget to pick up your weekly copy of The Informer.

Regards, Pauline Stewart

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CONTENTS features

4 OUT AND ABOUT LOCAL 32 EATING

50 ART

62 THE PEOPLE TRAVEL AROUND 78 THE COROMANDEL

The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine is published by The Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga and printed

by Webstar, Auckland.

Enquiries - phone (07) 866 2090 or email info@theinformer.co.nz. © 2023. All rights reserved.

Contributors - Pauline Stewart, Stan Stewart, Avon Hansford, Cath Ward, Jonathan Kline, Perry Cornish, Trevor Ammundsen, Pam Ferla, Chloe Skeggs, Alastair Brickell, Michelle Rhodes, Joan Grey, David Frew, Andrew Noakes, Bill Beard, and Suzanne Hansen.

Editorial assistance: Stephen Holmes and Dorothy Preece.

Sales and Advertising - Ella Kington and Emma Gaunt.

Design and layout by Ella Kington with images by Flea Witters and design support from Ange Gregory of Firefly Graphic Design Limited www.theinformer.co.nz.

88 STAY WITH US 90

LIVING ON THE COROMANDEL

SUSTAINABLE 100 LIVING TRADES AND 104 SERVICES FACILITIES 110 DIRECTORY

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FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY 4

The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

A great ride

BY PAULINE STEWART

Three internationals, one local...for leukaemia

They rode from Bluff to Cape Reinga. They left on Valentine’s with finding the worthwhile cause. One day, as part of my Day, 14 February, 2023. Their journey of preparation and regular medical check-up in preparation for the ride, blood planning began with Fintan Rooney (pictured second from tests revealed that I had leukaemia. So due to that we set left in Whitianga). Fintan is Irish. One only needs to hear him out to raise $10,000 for the Leukaemia and Blood Cancer say a few words to establish that. From his Irish beginnings, he New Zealand, and we did. We asked Fintan did he consider has lived in Canada and Australia cancelling the ride. and came to New Zealand in 1987.

“This leukaemia is a watch and wait For the last three years, Fintan experience. There are things to be very has been Security Manager of the careful of - if I suffer excessive bleeding or Hahei Beach Resort. Fintan loves get too fatigued. I’m not so young either; his job and thinks he lives in a place on 20 February, I was 69 but then, I am not that looks and feels like paradise. so old either.” Fintan smiles. “This was the On the left is Kevin Brown, who longest ride I have done - 2,600kms. I did not is also Irish, but lives in London.

Caption: The intrepid cyclists - From L to R: Kevin Brown, Fintan consider cancelling or postponing the ride.”

Rooney, Tracy and Rob Butcher and absent, Michelle Watson Fintan says,” I grew up with him There was another person who was going ( the North island rider) in a little village. We actually lost to cycle this ride – Fintan’s friend Angus, from touch for about 35 years but connected at my brother’s place Hamilton. He was organising the North Island and Fintan was in London. We both cycled a lot and we both said, ’Maybe we looking after preparations for the South Island. “One day I got should organise something.’” That led to a Munich to Rome a phone call from Angus, says Fintan. “He got straight to the bike ride on which we met Tracy and Rob Butcher (pictured point. “I have some bad news, he said; I have to have a triple third from left and far right) from England.” The other rider, bypass.”

Michelle Watson, from Australia, joined them for the North Fintan pauses. “What Angus’ call and my leukaemia Island ride. Fintan says, “We all connected very easily. We are confirmed for all of us is that life is uncertain. I started thinking experienced riders and we love it. Our schedule was roughly about the distance of 2,600kms; My God, that’s a long way’. I 100kms a day, some days 120 and others, less. had to make the decision to not let that thinking take over With this ride, as with others, we looked for a good cause the bike ride.” That’s how I want to live.”Fintan thanks Tineli we could support and get others to support. I was tasked Performance Bike Wear for their involvement.

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Sailing the

Windborne

BY AVON HANSFORD FOREWORD PAULINE STEWART

The Windborne, with her masts standing high and attentive above the jetty at the Whitianga Wharf, is a very reassuring presence during the summers in Mercury Bay. This sailing boat, owned by Avon Hansford, is a symbol of a less frantic pace of life; of enjoying the ocean and the freedom of the wind without being confined ashore. She was built as a racing yacht in England and will be 96 years old this summer season.

It all started 25 years ago when Avon decided to take a plunge into a lifelong passion.

“I had nearly worn myself out as a fisherman and had come ashore to start a chandlery shop at the same time as the Marina in Whitianga was being built. I found it soul-destroying being a retailer with the seasonal nature of the town. Going back to work on the sea on an old wooden schooner was a ‘no-brainer,’ a dream come true. I had been raised on yachts, and sailing was my number one love. I have also had an affinity for woodworking and boatbuilding, and Windborne was a perfect canvas for my passion. And of course, I wouldn’t have to bait a hook.”

Windborne's Seafaring Adventures

BY AVON HANSFORD Nothing beats sitting up on the yardarm and feeling the wind heel the yacht. I love the simplicity of it. The way everything works, the sound of creaking timber, and the smell of the Stockholm tar mixed with oakum and linseed putty.

Keeping it simple and as self-sustaining as possible is my driving goal. We Miheala in her happy place. catch our own freshwater and make our own power with a

windmill and solar panels. We have a woodstove for cooking and heating the water. We catch fish and bake our own bread; we even have a herb garden, but somehow, I don’t think we will ever have an orchard or chickens.

Sailing on Windborne offers an extraordinary experience; it's a journey that combines the picturesque Coromandel coastal scenery with the old school charm of classic sailing.

Some locals now regard Windborne as part of the scenery and celebrate their family's highlights, engagements, birthdays, weddings, and passings, etc. It is particularly heartwarming to be involved with the pleasant memories of holidays at the beach and watching our guests leave with salty grins and sunkissed skin.

A Labour of Love, Maintenance: The work involved in maintaining an old wooden boat is crazy: hours and unpaid hours of endless work. You gotta love it or you’ll go bald. Over and above the usual needs of an old wooden classic, Windborne has been rammed 4 times now, mostly while alongside wharves. The resulting repair work has been taxing, costly, and time-consuming. Just last winter (2022), the mainmast snapped in half while we were replacing the standing rigging. I had to scarf a new section onto the old mast using spar-grade Oregon. The old stays were replaced using traditional methods, including pouring molten ‘magnolia metal’ into the spurdle cones to secure the ends and then using lanyards through turned deadeyes for tensioning.

Mihaela says: It was a hell of a job last year; we were constantly under time pressure, exhausted, and borderline a nervous wreck. Thanks to our friend Peter McVicker, Avon’s sons Louis and Julian who came up to Whangārei to give us a hand, we managed to get her ready just in time for the bloody last summer we never had!

I enjoyed the work; it was different from everything else I had done before. And it was extremely satisfying when every single piece found its home again. It’s like a puzzle - one step at a time, and you don’t wanna lose that last piece. Haha.

Captain Avon.

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Now, as Mihaela and I consider the future, we ponder the possibility of new adventures. ‘Windborne has been a faithful companion, but neither of us is getting any younger, and there's so much more to explore. We're toying with the idea of taking her south, perhaps Stewart Island, to explore New Zealand's hidden treasures instead of heading north to the tropics.

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A glimpse of the prehistoric world

BY ROBERT SIMMONS

The Heaven and Earth mineral, crystal and jewellery gallery in Tairua is all about stones. The big 220 square metre space is filled to the brim with thousands of raw and polished stones, gems, crystals, jewellery and fossils - every kind of treasure that comes from the Earth. In fact, there are even some treasures from beyond the Earth, including nickel-iron and stony meteorites, Tibetan and Libyan tektites, and Moldavite, the gemstone from the stars.

The owners, Robert Simmons and Kathy Helen Warner, started their company in the U.S.A. in 1986, the day after they were married. Since moving to New Zealand in 2012, they have continued running their U.S. business from home, and in 2016 they opened their shop in Tairua. From the first day, Kiwis and overseas tourists have flocked to the shop. For this issue, we asked Robert to write a bit about some of the popular fossils in the store.

"Our most popular fossils are orthocerus, ammonites, trilobites, dinosaur teeth, shark teeth and coprolite,” Robert tells us. “The orthocerus was an ancient squid-like creature that lived around 350 million years ago. It had a segmented body and could be as much as a metre long. It had the ability to inflate or deflate its air sacs so that it could move up and down to different depths in the ocean to search for food or avoid predators.

"Ammonites were ancient snail-shaped creatures that lived from 150 to 350 million years ago. They ranged from smaller than a fingernail to the size of a small automobile. Some ammonite fossils have iridescent opalized surfaces that reflect a rainbow of colours.

"Trilobites were among the most successful of all early animals, existing in oceans for almost 270 million years, with over 22,000 species having been described. They lived from about 250 to 520 million years ago. They were arachnids, related to horseshoe crabs and spiders. The last of the trilobites finally disappeared in the mass extinction at the end of the Permian Age, about 251.9 million years ago.

"The fossilized shark teeth in our shop come primarily from Morocco and are about 150 million years old. They mostly come from the extinct shark species otodus obliquus, an

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ancestor of the great white shark. Sharks have existed for over 450 million years. Our most prized and amazing shark teeth are from the megalodon, the largest species of shark that ever lived. Some megalodon teeth are as long as seven inches (18cm). The largest we have for sale at Heaven and Earth is about 13 centimetres. Megalodon teeth are usually found by river divers in North Carolina, U.S.A. "The dinosaur teeth we have at Heaven and Earth are from a reptilian ‘sea monster’ called the mosasaur. Mosasaurs were the dominant ocean predators for about twenty million years, from 66 to 86 million years ago. They grew to be as large as seventeen metres long, and the largest of them could have easily eaten an adult human in one bite! All of the mosasaurs died out in the great extinction event caused by an asteroid collision with the Earth about 66 million years ago. That event, called the K-Pg event, killed off about 75 percent of all the species living on Earth at that time. It ended the dinosaur era and made way for the evolution of mammals and, eventually, human beings.

"Coprolite is fossilized dinosaur poo, and perhaps for that reason, it is a favourite fossil of children. The pieces we have in the shop are believed to be from ancient sea turtles. My wife laughs at me for saying this, but I don't think they smell very good!

"In addition to the fossils I've mentioned so far, we have fossilized sand dollars, clam shells, fish, petrified wood, and even whale ears. We have also offer printed information cards about most of the species, which we give away for free. And my wife Kathy has created some great fossil kits for kids, which offer ten different fossils for $35.

"I spend most of my time working with crystals and gemstones, and I like to write and talk with people about their spiritual properties. But the ten year-old-kid inside me just loves fossils, and it's fun for us to bring them into our shop, and to share tales of ancient life with our customers."

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Exploring the Hidden Gem

Pahi Coastal Walk: Where Nature Meets Hospitality Nestled at the pristine tip of New Zealand's Coromandel Peninsula, the Pahi Coastal Walk beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts to experience an unforgettable three-day, two-night journey through private farmland. This remarkable coastal trek offers a rare opportunity to savour some of New Zealand's most breathtaking coastal views while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Pahi Station, a working farm owned by the Ward family for six generations.

The story behind the Pahi Coastal Walk is one of determination and a desire to share the splendours of this remote sheep and beef farm with the world. Cath Ward, with her unwavering passion for the outdoors, convinced her husband, Zander Ward, to expand and diversify their family business. The result: an extraordinary walking experience that seamlessly blends sustainability, hospitality and the beauty of the New Zealand landscape.

Pahi Station, covering the stunning Port Jackson and Fletcher Bay, has been under the Ward family's stewardship since the 1930s. It was here, in October 2022, that the Pahi Coastal Walk welcomed its first guests. Cath and Zander Ward's commitment to sustainable and environmentally conscious practices is evident in every aspect of this venture.

The adventure begins in the charming town of Colville where guests gather to embark on a scenic journey along the coastal road to Port Jackson. Here they are welcomed by the warm embrace of the Pahi team and a delectable morning tea to kick-start their coastal odyssey. The first day's walk, covering up to 10 kilometres, offers a taste of the awe-inspiring landscapes that await.

Accommodation for the two night’s of the walk is nothing short of exceptional. Two meticulously renovated farmhouses, each offering six bedrooms and sleeping up to 12 guests provide a cozy retreat. The fully-catered experience is attractive for those looking for a few days ‘off'. Delightful home-cooked meals and baked treats await travellers at the end of each day's journey showcasing the Pahi team's culinary prowess.

One of the hallmarks of the Pahi Coastal Walk experience is the convenience it offers. Guests need only carry their lunch and water, as the Pahi team takes care of transporting gear, ensuring an unburdened and liberating experience on the track. No need to bring food or snacks; it’s all provided to you as part of the experience.

The second day of the adventure emerges as the crown jewel, offering panoramic views from high vantage points and access to three distinct beaches. While the journey can span an impressive 19 kilometres, shorter options are available for those seeking a more leisurely pace.

For the final leg of the journey, there is an enticing option to e-bike the 26 kilometres back to Colville, where the adventure began. This coastal ride is a favourite among many, affording travellers the opportunity to soak in the coastal beauty while giving their walking legs a well-deserved rest.

The Pahi Coastal Walk operates from October to May, with brief closures during Christmas and Easter. Such is the allure of this unique experience that its inaugural season nearly sold out, and the second season promises to follow suit.

For those seeking an escape into the heart of New Zealand's

CATH WARD - PAHI COASTAL WALK

IMAGES BY FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY natural wonders and warm hospitality, the Pahi Coastal Walk offers an invitation to embark on an unforgettable journey. To make bookings or inquiries, visit their website at www.pahicoastalwalk.co.nz.

Don't miss the opportunity to uncover the hidden gem of the Coromandel Peninsula and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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year birthday for the Banana Boat

For thirty long summers, Banana Boat rides from Buffalo Beach and along Buffalo Beach, have been synonymous with summer and fun for thousands of Mercury Bay holiday makers of all ages and for the owners, Kali and Steve Young.

Q: Why a Banana Boat Business?

Kali and I and used to travel a lot in Southeast Asia. We would go every year. We would always come back with knickknacks and a few exotic items we could sell in the markets. This would provide the surplus we needed to travel the next year.

It’s a good way to meet people and we saw all of Southeast Asia. One year, it was the best part of Summer, and we realised that here we were in Whitianga, sitting under an umbrella selling things. We needed to be out doing something that fitted with the outdoors and the beach.

At the same time, there were these cheap fares going to Fiji; it was called a piggyback fare so Kali’s Mum took Ali, our oldest daughter. She was about seven. When they returned, the report was that Ali had spent eight hours a day on this Banana Boat. Meanwhile, within New Zealand, they were trying to promote anything new that would promote tourism.

We thought the idea of a Banana Boat business sounded interesting. We checked out all over New Zealand as to

BY PAULINE STEWART

where would be the best place – safety, different rides, great destinations, ease of access from the beach, good weather and a reasonable summer window. Believe it or not, the best place happened to be Mercury Bay, right where we were living. The sheltered nature and beauty of this big bay were big factors in our decision. So, we came back to Mercury Bay and set up the Banana Boat Business.

We tried it out on all our friends, first of all. We learned what speed we could do without breaking bones and hurting muscles. How to turn; how to cruise. We had to create a ride for every age group. We invented all these different rides. We created a variety, for 80 plus years of age right down to wee children and pregnant Mums. That was our point of difference.

In other places there was just the fast thrill ride.

Q: What has made you stay in this business for thirty years?

It’s a very long time for any outdoor business!

“I would say because we love giving fun and good times to the average kiwi family. The joy of the expression on the kids’ faces especially kids coming from the city. We have always kept our costs low. You can afford to go on the Banana Boat three or four times on your holiday."

Q: How would you describe your relationship with Whitianga and Mercury Bay? "As business people and tourism operators, Kali and I have made a lot of friends here. This is our home, our children’s home and a home for our grandchildren. In the end, I am a farmer. I care about this land and the people. After you travel overseas and come back to the Coromandel, you realise you live in the middle of a natural and world-class treasure. Things like a few damaged roads and the closure of Cathedral Cove for walking are disappointing but we can still drop people off at the beach there and let them have a look around. The beach is still very pretty and people can stay away from the stairs where it is broken.”

Q: How would you as the owner, describe the experience of having a ride on the Banana Boat?

“It is great fun depending on which ride and it depends on whether you want to fall off.”

Ashlee comments - She is Steve’s 13 year old granddaughter.

“The Hell bender is the one I like. It’s my favourite ride out of all of them.” Steve smiles;“There’s a real skill to it when can wear them out and get them to fall off.”

I want people to go to our facebook ‘Banana Boat Whitianga’ and they will see, not just our details but get a glimpse into the spectacular Mercury Bay. They’ll love it!”

Steve and Granddaughter Ashlee

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Luxury Day Spa and Dining The Lost Spring enlarging its future

BY PAULINE STEWART A CONVERSATION WITH ALAN HOPPING

In terms of the future, Alan Hopping of The Lost Spring is not short on ideas. They come streaming out. Making them a reality is not a smooth journey and it is costly. But the ideas have power and when a reality, will bring fulfilment and pride to Mercury Bay. Plans are to host 100,000 visitors a year.

This might seem like a big number, but before Covid, The Lost Spring was attracting 60,000 a year and growing by 12,000 each year. “We can return to our pre covid numbers and come back stronger but the best is to level out the visitor numbers to be consistent and provide an even flow for most of the year. We are passionate about our point of difference. The ambience is Pacifica and the experience of Spa and Dining must be luxurious for all our guests.”

We are making it through this difficult time of broken roads and the damage caused to our region as a result of the storms.

It was a blow to the confidence and economy of this region.

Now we are focussed on getting everything ready for the summer weather and to give our visitors a great welcoming, relaxing luxury experience of the day spa and dining at The Lost Spring.

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The Lost Spring has three projects in tandem and the first one and closest one to completion is The Luxury Day Spa and Lounge. This has several components all coming together at the one time.

• A separate reception area specifically for Spa clientele which will ease the pressure on the current space. It will enable visitors to enjoy their welcome and to browse the Pure Fiji product range in the new reception.

• The New Luxury Day Spa and Lounge with its clam-shaped pool will have access by lift and be a complete luxury experience.

• Art Gallery - Pacifica Theme. This has been in the planning for a long time. It’s on the way. The gallery will be a vertical construction with an enlarged dining area over and above the current Function Centre. A feature of the Art Gallery which Alan is very enthusiastic about will be a suspended ’74 Corvette flying through a blue orb towards a starry infinity.

“We will refer to it as ‘Our space car’,” muses Alan.

We are here for 100 years and our preparations for the future to expand and keep offering that best New Zealand holiday pampering are in place.

As I often say, “We are standing on the shoulders of those who have gone before us. - I want to build it better than before.”

FORTY-FIVE years of Movies

BY PAULINE STEWART

Mercury Twin Cinemas - a special movie experience

At Mercury Twin Cinemas you can relax and enjoy the latest movie while sipping a beer, a glass of wine or a coffee.

Sometimes, the latest movie you have chosen to see has not yet shown in Auckland.

The cinema complex is situated in Lee Street in Whitianga, with plenty of free parking just across the road. Owners, Matt and Anne Maree MacDougall, are proud to be running the independent, family-owned business which they purchased in 2021.

The twin cinemas have giant screens plus Dolby Stereo sound, air-conditioning and the comfort and spaciousness of modern seating and convenient receptacles for the loads of delicious candy bars, choc-top ice creams, various size cartons of freshly popped popcorn, and cold drinks you might decide to consume as part of your movie watching. The business has a licence to sell beer, wine and coffee is also available, plus there’s a great atmosphere which seems to totally complete the movie going experience.

There is a touch of nostalgia when you notice the curtains in front of the screen. They are plush and add to the cosy atmosphere.

At Mercury Twin Cinemas you don’t have to pay big city prices. Make sure you check out their current selection of movies on their website.

The cinema complex is open just about every day through Spring and Summer.

A Little Mercury Bay Cinema History

To build a dedicated cinema was a gamble for a town the size of Whitianga, and it wasn’t just one, but two cinemas.

This was the initiative and planning of Fred Gapes and Barry Chapman. They and their families had been involved with screening movies for many years in the Whitianga Town Hall and had suggested the inclusion of a dedicated cinema as part of a planned shopping complex plus motel being built in Lee Street, Whitianga. The developers Marion and Lou Siiking had said Yes to their idea.

Fred and Barry believed that their years of holiday and weekend movie screening experience in Whitianga had proved that not only were the movies enormously popular with the surging holiday numbers, but Mercury Bay and district residents also loved the big screen, and the region was destined to keep growing. On 18 December, 2002, Mercury Bay Twin Cinemas opened with the screening of Lord Of The Rings – Two Towers. It was a great day.

By 2012, with the rapid advances in screening technology, the cinema industry said goodbye to 35 mm projector equipment and adapted to digital projectors. This was a great expense but made for an improved viewing experience, smoother operation of ticket and candy and food bar sales and the significant difference was better access to new ‘day and date’ (simultaneous) international releases.

Mercury Bay Twin Cinemas is a 21-year success story, preceded by an earlier 24 years of screenings in Whitianga Town Hall. It’s the only cinema on the Coromandel Peninsula and you will be enjoying a top-class movie experience with all the comforts and facilities of a grand city - but in a beach paradise!

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Still we rise

MERCURY BAY BOATING CLUB - COMPILED BY JONATHAN KLINE AND SIMON RAWLINSON The two cyclones, Hale and Gabrielle, arrived within two weeks of each other, early in 2023. The first obliterated the foreshore in front of the Mercury Bay Boating Club and left it teetering on the edge of the sea. The approach of the second forced members and supporters to pick up the club and move it out of harm’s way. It was only through passionate and selfless community support, generous donations from both local and international sailors, and a committed insurance company that the club was saved.

Simon Rawlinson is the new Commodore of the Mercury Bay Boating Club. A Commodore is appointed every three years and Simon follows Jonathan is this role. He was Commodore before Jonathan’s three-year term so he is no stranger to the role. “Our major focus will be getting the Boating Club literally back on the ground in a safe location. Reinstatement is a top priority. There are plenty of people on that ground ready to work and to enable this to happen. A lot depends on Heritage New Zealand as we are looking at a site for location that is partially an archeological site.”

Simon started as an adult sailor. He didn’t grow up sailing as many associated with the Boating Club did. “It started for me with my potential boss taking me on a job interview and that involved going sailing. I guess he wanted to see if I could manage stress or be flexible. Anyway, I caught the sailing bug and I got the job.” The priority in programmes will be the youth sailing; good training, lots of experiences on the ocean for them and keeping the community involved. The club is planning on hiring a coach this coming season for the youth sailors.

As they navigate the challenges towards reinstatement, the Mercury Bay Boating Club is committed to providing an array of summer sailing. For this coming season, which runs from October to the end of March, the Mercury Bay Boating Club will be sponsoring an array of events and activities. The keeler fleet will be competing in both weekend offshore and bay racing as well as their signature Wednesday night racing.

Any visiting sailors are encouraged to drop an email to the club(committee.mbbc@gmail.com) to receive our 2023/24 calendar or head to our website to find the calendar there (https://www.sporty.co.nz/mercurybayboating/CALENDAR-1/ Racing). If you are visiting Whitianga on your yacht over Christmas, be sure to join us for our New Year’s Day Race, which is a round-the-Bay event, suitable for keelers and larger dinghies and catamarans capable of reaching the far corners of Mercury Bay. All boats can check in on the day from 11.30am on VHF 77 for the NOON start.

The Junior Sailing coaches will be running a series of training sessions and centreboard regattas designed for young sailors from aged 9 to 99. We coach young sailors in Optimists and Fusions and also host monthly centreboard Saturday or Sunday fun races, suitable for a range of popular dinghies including Lasers, Microns, Fusions, Green Fleet Optimist and more. For more information about our courses or to be added to our mailing list, please drop us an email (mercurybayyouthsailing@gmail.com) or visit our Facebook page, Mercury Bay Youth Sailing.

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fortnightly Wednesdays and many weekends throughout the summer months. For the fifth year in a row, MBBC will be hosting the “Double Trouble” Regatta, a 2-day catamaran event for Tornados, A-Class, and Hobie Cats. This year’s running will be on 2-3 December 2023. This adrenaline-filled event attracts catamarans from many regions in the country.

In 950 A.D., the Polynesian navigator Kupe sailed to our waters aboard his double-hulled canoe, the Matahorua. Four hundred years later, Tama te-Kapua, navigated his waka Te Arawa, near our shores. Four centuries after the Te Arawa, Captain James Cook, aboard his bark Endeavour, dropped anchor here. And a mere 220 years after that, in July of 1987, the Mercury Bay Boating Club, challenged for, and briefly held, the America’s Cup, sporting’s oldest trophy. When you sail in Mercury Bay (Te Whitianga o Kupe), you sail in the wake of some of the greatest Pacific sailors and explorers.

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Cooks Beach Carnival

We’re back - bigger and better than ever! The Whenuakite School kids are so excited to host the Cooks Beach Carnival 2024. After several years of cancellations because of global pandemics and cyclones, we can’t wait for you to join us on Thursday, 4th January at the Cooks Beach Reserve on Banks Street.

This family fun day out is sure to be a summer highlight for all ages, with over 100 stalls, a wonderful selection of food trucks, games and rides – not to mention the stunning beach right beside the reserve. There is something for everyone. This year we’re thrilled to have a giant 100m slide, a teacup ride, demonstrations from the Cooks Beach Volunteer Fire Brigade, and of course the one and only Richardson’s Real Estate Daisy Dung Drop. Daisy Dung Drop tickets always sell out very quickly, so if you haven’t already got yours – be sure to snap one up as soon as you arrive for your chance to win $1,000. The continual shuttle service running from Ferry Landing to the carnival makes planning your day in Cooks Beach super smooth and easy no matter where you are on the Coromandel Peninsula.

This Whenuakite School fundraising event is the largest fundraiser for the children of our small country school.

Our kids, families, staff, and tight-knit community are so thankful for the support from you. See you there!

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A Taste of Matarangi

Mark your calendars for Saturday 6th April 2024, and get ready to be swept away by the flavors of the Coromandel at the ninth A Taste of Matarangi festival.

This beach side festival attracts over 2000 people each year to enjoy a day of live music with a great range of beverages and delicious food – the perfect combination for a stunning day with family and friends.

Bring the whole family down to the Village Green reserve on the 6th April.

Every moment at the festival is special, featuring an array of extraordinary talent, delicious food, classy beverage choices, family fun activities and the perfect opportunity to soak up the atmosphere and soulful tunes with your friends and family.

A Taste of Matarangi likes to give back to the community by charitable donations and for 2024 the festival will once again be supporting Te Rerenga School and Kuaotunu Search and Rescue. Both groups offer great volunteer support at the event and provide valuable services to our wider community. Save the date and book your accommodation for a fun day out.

To purchase tickets and find out more about the festival go to our website www.atasteofmatarangi.co.nz

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Upcoming Events ON THE COROMANDEL

NOV DEC

STEAMPUNK THE THAMES -GOLD RUSH Thu 09 Nov 2023 - Sun 12 Nov 2023

THE EXTRAVAGANZA FAIR • Tue 26 Dec - Thu 28 Dec 2023 Whitianga, Buffalo Beach Reserve • Sun 31st Dec - Mon 1st & 2nd Jan 2024 Waihi beach community field, Beach road • Tues 4th - Sat 6th Jan 2024 Whangamata, Williamson Park, Ocean Road WHANGAMATA SUMMER FESTIVAL TWILIGHT MARKET Wed 27 Dec 2023, Whangamatā

JAN

KELTIC FAIR Tue 02 Jan 2024, Coromandel town COOKS BEACH SUMMER GALA Thu 04 Jan 2024, Cooks Beach HAHEI MARKET DAY Fri 05 Jan 2024, Hahei

FEB MAR APR

MERCURY BAY ART ESCAPE Sat 2nd -3rd & 09th -10th March 2023 Matarangi to Hikuai REPCO BEACH HOP Wed 20 Mar 2024 - Sun 24 Mar 2024 Whangamata A TASTE OF MATARANGI Sat 06 Apr 2024, Matarangi

MARKET GRAHAMSTOWN MARKETS THAMES Held every Saturday morning from 8am at the top end of Pollen Street.

TAIRUA MARKET

WHANGAMATA SUMMER FESTIVAL ANNUAL MARKET DAY Thu 28 Dec 2023, Whangamatā

First Saturday of every month from 9am to 1pm.

Tairua Hall

MERCURY BAY EMERGENCY SERVICES SUMMER FESTIVAL Sat 30 Dec 2023, Whitianga

Every Sunday 9am-1pm at the Council car park.

PAUANUI / TAIRUA NEW YEARS EVE FIREWORKS DISPLAY Sun 31 Dec 2023

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WHANGAMATĀ SUNDAY MARKET WHITIANGA MARKETS

Saturdays from 9am – to 1pm at Soldiers Memorial Whitianga

COROGLEN MARKETS

Every Sunday 9am-1pm Labour weekend until Easter, Coroglen Hall

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High touch before hi-tech

BY PAULINE STEWART

That’s how Louise describes her beauty salon, Coastal Sanctuary.

She came to New Zealand from the UK in 1991 with her then husband, after spending two years in Micronesia. The first years were busy with their first child, then twins. Louise says, “I was a nurse, but I had always wanted to run my own business and I had always been interested in the Beauty Industry.’ She found an accessible course that enabled her to study and not be away from her children for too long. “There are so many reasons not to follow your dream when you have young children, but I put the blinkers on and focussed.” That was the same for Gemma Minor, Louise’s colleague, who has been with Coastal Sanctuary for many years. “I ended up taking my youngest daughter with me to the beauty college every day. It was the only way.”

Once qualified, Louise rented a room from Evolve Hairdressing salon, but it wasn’t long before she knew she needed more space. “I moved my business to the current location in 2001, says Louise. “We are not the biggest of salons, but we do offer a very good level of treatment and service. It has been slightly quieter in terms of appointments this winter, but we went through the global financial crisis in 2008 so I know what to expect in a recession; I have seen the good times and the bad times, including the current situation with broken highways. You just have to adapt and believe that you are providing skilled and meaningful services, looking after clients' wellbeing and be confident that they will keep coming back.”

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Being recognised: We are one of nine salons in the country that have been awarded Premium Partner status by Sothys. It is great being recognised.

This means that we have achieved excellence in the way we represent their brand, the treatments that we offer, training Gemma (L) and Louise (R) with Sothys Premium Partner award that we complete, and the positive feedback we receive.”

There have been a lot of technology changes in the beauty industry over the last 20 years – hi-tech cosmeceutical products, IPL, dermal needling, Botox and Fillers (to name a few) have all become popular and easily accessible. “We offer some of these services and have a visiting doctor who provides these for our clients,” says Louise. “Botox for example, is a great tool and can help people look a little less tired.

However, we have made a conscious choice not to go down that road as our central focus. Coastal Sanctuary is a high touch, not high-tech, salon. My skin care philosophy is that you can have a few wrinkles, and everyone has some, but you can still have glowing healthy-looking skin. Respecting and restoring the skin's barrier function is central to our beliefs. We have been in business for a good number of years and have developed long term relationships with clients. It's a privilege helping them through the aging process and achieving their skin care goals.”

Louise and Gemma work interchangeably, both very experienced and qualified across the wide spectrum of beauty treatments. “It has to be more than just the ‘battle of the brows’ A lot of services that we provide are quite visual like brows and nails, but the skin care aspect requires commitment from the client at home,” says Louise. We do have a quick fix society and things that make you look great quickly are attractive and appealing. It’s a temporary effect and good skin care will build lifelong habits and healthy glowing skin. Diet and supplements , treating the skin from within, also plays a crucial part in great skin care and we can advise on that too. Some women are never going to be satisfied with how they look. Women always want more, so realistic goals are important.

At Coastal Sanctuary, we want people to feel good when they leave as well as look great.

Louise Wilson It’s a rare day that I wake up and don’t want to go to work. This is an easy place to be. We have amazing clients who make us want to be here. At work I’m organised and I know exactly what I am doing.

People are generally grateful and satisfied. This is my happy place.”

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The Glass House - an emporium like no other

BY STAN STEWART Prominent on Albert Street in Whitianga, The Glass House Emporium stands as vibrant and inviting landmark. A distinctive orange façade draws attention even from afar, making it a destination of choice for both locals and visitors alike.

Whitianga, known for its stunning beaches and coastal charm, can sometimes throw surprises with unpredictable weather patterns; but fear not, for The Glasshouse Emporium is the perfect sanctuary in all conditions. If the rain decides to pour, you can seek solace in its welcoming embrace.

When the winds whip up a frenzy, The Glass House offers a peaceful haven. If the temperatures deter you from diving into the water, the Glass House will warmly welcome you within its walls. Even when the sea rages and boating plans are dashed, a calming respite can be found within The Glass House. And if the day is just right for a leisurely beach stroll, remember not to let the sun’s rays turn you into a crisp – take a leisurely stroll to The Glass House instead.

Kev Marceau, the proprietor and manager of this haven, sets the tone with his relaxed family approach. There’s no pressure here, just genuine service and a warm welcome. It’s a tradition that has endured since the Glasshouse inception.

But how did The Glass House Emporium get its name you may ask? It all started in 1984 with Keith and Heather Gilbert.

Heather, a skilled glass blower, used to entertain the public with mesmerising demonstrations at the rear of the shop.

Meanwhile, Keith sourced hardware and haberdashery items from various Auckland suppliers and auction houses, especially after the 1987 share market crash. The quickly made a name for itself as the place to buy that rare something or to snatch a bargain or two.

Fast forward to today and Kev and his helpful and knowledgeable team have worked very hard to maintain the original tradition of the Emporium. Visiting The Glass House Emporium is an integral part of the Whitianga experience.

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Wander through the store's aisles and you’ll feel the irresistible pull of impulse buying. The Glass House Emporium boasts a rich collection of wool, haberdashery and craft materials. Crafters and creators will find their haven here with quality products that match or surpass those found in the cities, all at affordable prices. Hardware and plumbing supplies cater to the DIY enthusiast, while gardeners can revel in a variety of tools, weed mats, windbreak material and seeds. You can buy a length of rope or chain cut to your exact needs, maybe bag up some nails or screws to your requirements. It’s all there!

Fishermen and fisherwomen aren’t forgotten either. There’s an awesome range of fishing tackle, anchors, nets and more. And if it’s not enough, there are everyday kitchen items as well as toys and stationery for the kids.

Yet beyond the merchandise, The Glass House’s heart lies in its owner Kev and his hardworking team. Their genuine interest in people shines through from your very first encounter. This compassionate spirit coupled with the store’s inviting atmosphere has allowed The Glass House Emporium to navigate through the challenges brought on by pandemics, extreme weather, broken roads and recessions.

Kev’s dedication extends beyond his store’s walls. In his 21 years of owning The Glass House, he is a steadfast supporter of the Westpac Helicopter, recognising its crucial role in making life feasible on the Coromandel Peninsula, and also our local area school, early childhood centres, sports clubs and of course the kids' fishing contests. So whether you seek refuge from the elements, a shopping adventure or a genuine connection with a caring community member, The Glass House Emporium on Albert Street, Whitianga beckons with open arms – a testament to the enduring spirit of a place where people and purpose come together.

Kev Marceau

Jodie and Rouge Beauty

BY PAULINE STEWART

Rouge Beauty NZ is Jodie Elizabeth Russell Jodie is a make-up and hairstyling artist - her work and her business, focussed very much on weddings and photo shoots, are well-known throughout the Coromandel Peninsula.

Jodie has been working at her art since she was a young teenager. “I knew very early in my teens that make-up and hair - creating beauty and highlighting natural beauty, were what I wanted to do. I left Mercury Bay Area School (MBAS) and chased my dreams of becoming a leading New Zealand Makeup artist /Hair Stylist.”

Jodie then trained at Samala Robinson Academy, New Zealand’s leading Make Up Academy, which Jodie found very inspiring. “Make-up is not about cover-up; it is about beauty and facial features looking beautiful and healthy. It is about the person feeling stress free and confident that they are looking their absolute best when you have finished working with them.” That’s what Jodie does. Jodie was fortunate enough to then receive her hairdressing training at a French salon in Ponsonby. “I was very lucky to have such meticulous trainers who passed their extensive beauty knowledge on to me and opened my world of Jodie Elizabeth Russell endless opportunities within the beauty industry”.

For some time, Jodie was the make-up tutor for the Gateway

Programme at MBAS in Whitianga.

She has worked on Miss Universe New Zealand, Fashion Week New Zealand, and multiple images of her work with brides and bridal parties have been published in top New Zealand bridal magazines.

“This is what I have always wanted to do,” says Jodie. She has succeeded in her goal, but she is not stopping there.

The best makeup artistry and hairstyling are her top priority.

Jodie Russell and Savannah Mountney (on page 70 - Porche) are sisters.

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Local

Eating

FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY 32 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

Flavour of the Coromandel

BY PERRY CORNISH Sea salt has played a crucial role in cooking for centuries, deeply woven into the culinary traditions of various cultures around the world. Its history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of its use found in civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. Over the centuries, sea salt has proven to be not only a delicious seasoning but also a healthier and more sustainable alternative to traditional table salt.

The origins of sea salt can be traced to the Mediterranean region, where the evaporation of seawater in shallow pools or through the natural sun-drying process produced salt crystals.

not only enhance the taste of the salt but also offer potential health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health and better nerve function.

Sea salt is also considered more flavoursome than table salt due to its distinctive taste and texture. Its larger, coarser crystals add a pleasant crunch and enhance the flavours of dishes. The unique characteristics of sea salt vary depending on its origin, as different regions yield distinct mineral profiles, colours, and tastes, reflecting the local marine environment.

Another significant advantage of sea salt is its sustainability.

The Egyptians are believed to have been among the first to harvest sea salt around 2,700 BC, using it both as a seasoning and for preserving food, particularly meat and fish.

In ancient Greece, sea salt was a valuable commodity, often used in religious ceremonies and in the Roman Empire as payment to soldiers. The word ‘salary’ comes from the Greek sal=salt. The Greek city of Salona, now known as Split in Croatia, gained its name from the vast salt pans that were established there by the Romans. These pans would become a significant source of salt production during the Roman Empire’s expansion, with salt being vital for preserving food during long military campaigns.

Throughout the Middle Ages, salt was highly valued in Europe, and its trade routes were critical for economic growth.

The pursuit of salt led to the development of salt mines and coastal salt pans in countries like France, Italy, and Spain. The French region of Brittany, for instance, became renowned for its salt marshes, which have been an important salt production area since ancient times.

In terms of its benefits for human consumption, sea salt is often preferred over table salt for several reasons. First and foremost, sea salt is less processed than table salt, retaining more natural minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which contribute to overall health. These minerals

Traditional table or rock salt is often obtained from large-scale mines, which can cause significant environmental impacts. On the other hand, harvesting sea salt relies on natural processes like evaporation, which have a lower ecological footprint.

Furthermore, the practices of sustainable sea salt production, such as careful management of salt pans and coastal ecosystems, help maintain the delicate balance of marine environments.

The history of sea salt in cooking is deeply intertwined with the cultural and economic development of various civilizations, particularly in Europe. From its ancient origins in Egypt and Greece to its importance during the Roman Empire, sea salt has been cherished for its unique flavours and preservative properties. In contemporary times, its health benefits, distinct taste, and sustainable production methods have cemented sea salt’s position as a preferred choice for chefs and home cooks worldwide. Embracing the rich history of sea salt allows us to savour its unique qualities while appreciating its significance in the culinary world. In the Coromandel we have our own distinct sea salt produced by the Opito Bay Salt Company. This sea salt is fast gaining a reputation as Aotearoa New Zealand’s premiere sustainably farmed sea salt with a texture and flavour unique to its Coromandel origin.

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Macadamia orchard near Cathedral Cove – A delight to the senses A warm welcome from owners Jillian and Doug Johnston awaits visitors to Cathedral Cove Macadamias.

Beginnings - In the 1980’s, Doug used to visit his brother in-law on the East Cape and he had a macadamia orchard.

It was through helping out his brother-in-law, that Doug’s interest in macadamias was sparked. This started his search for a macadamia orchard which, in 2016, led Jillian and Doug to purchase and farm their own totally organic macadamia orchard. The 1000 organic macadamia nut tree orchard, is just outside Hahei and was first established in the 1980’s on 6.7 hectares. It is now a very well-established property, larger in area, which also encompasses a wide variety of native and subtropical trees in a parklike setting. Absolutely no chemicals are used in the orchard. Nor do they have a cat. The benefit of being cat-free is, as visitors will notice, the birds thrive.

It is the New Zealand native and fruit trees that are perfect for the birds as are the stunning macadamia blossoms. The macadamia trees give off a distinctive, very pleasant aroma which adds to the specialness of the orchard. The farm does not lack animal life. Two delightful goats, Rudy and Willow, enjoy pats (tethered - they secretly think they are dogs) and the chickens continue to battle it out for who is head of the roost. The 'artist in residence' - Doug - takes joy in creating orchard sculptures. You never know what you will find round the next corner. Visitors are welcome to wander round the orchard on a self-guided tour, but Jill and Doug are more than happy to show you a macadamia tree and give an insight into how the orchard works.

The orchard has its own hive which is cared for by a local beekeeper. Having an abundance of bees helps the trees to grow faster and fruit earlier.

The macadamia nuts are hand-picked in the winter months, with nets being laid on the ground and the nuts raked off the trees. The green outer husk is removed before the nuts are put into drying bins, with the final drying stage being carried out in a heat and humiditycontrolled room. Once the nuts are dry (below two per cent moisture content), they are cracked and put through a colour-sorting machine. This machine distinguishes the cream colour of the nut kernel from the brown of the shell and sorts the nuts into different bins.

In addition, every nut is still hand-sorted for size and quality.

Then, the nuts are made into different products in the onsite commercial kitchen. Visitors can enjoy sampling the raw and roasted nuts, along with the macadamia crumb mixes, when visiting the orchard shop.

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BY STAN STEWART

Macadamia butter is a firm favourite along with the brittle biscuit, made by using the nut in a toffee mix.

The Johnston’s macadamias are Certified Organic. What this means is that as well as in the growing process, at no point in the sorting or final packaging, are chemicals used. Doug likes to stress this fact. He says, “Going organic is no walk in the park.

It is hard work,” he says.

The on-site shop is a specially adapted caravan which is packed with Jill’s macadamia products and booklets with macadamia ideas. This summer, adjacent to the caravan, there will be a large deck with seating and shade, making it an ideal place to picnic or just rest a while.

Summer Open Hours - 10am to 3pm Friday to Monday (closed Tuesday to Thursday).

CONTACT: Cathedral Cove Macadamias - Jillian and Doug Johnston, Cathedral Cove Macadamias, 335 Lees Road, Hahei, RD 1, Whitianga 3591. Phone +64 7 867 1221.

Macadamia Facts

Macadamias are the only edible nut that is native to Australia. They went from Australia to the world.

Macadamias are the most valuable nut in the world.

Jillian and Doug Johnston’s orchard may be the most southerly of any Macadamia Orchard anywhere.

Macadamia nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals, fibre, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Their potential benefits include weight loss, improved gut health, and protection against diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and heart disease. Macadamias are extremely versatile, more than just a healthy snack. But beware they can be toxic for dogs.

Macadamia nuts are tough. Unlike opening a peanut or a pistachio, it takes some serious muscle to extract the edible nut from its shell: 300 pounds of pressure per square inch to be exact, making it the hardest nut in the world to crack!

Roasted Summer Vegetables w/ Opito Bay Rosemary Sea Salt and Balsamic Dressing INGREDIENTS Assorted vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions) Olive oil Balsamic Dressing (Recommend local Castle Rock Balsamic dressing) Fresh basil leaves 2 tsp Opito Bay Rosemary sea salt

METHOD Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and add the Opito Bay Rosemary sea salt, toss to coat the vegetables evenly. Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Tear some fresh basil leaves over the roasted vegetables and finish with a pinch of Opito Bay Rosemary sea salt. The sea salt complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables and adds a delightful crunch.

Herb Crusted Grilled Fish

w/ Opito Bay Kelp Sea Salt

INGREDIENTS 4 fish fillets (such as salmon, gurnard or snapper) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary) ½ cup bread crumbs 2 cloves garlic, minced Zest of 1 lemon Olive oil 1 tsp Opito Bay Coromandel Kelp sea salt METHOD Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the vegetables into bitesized pieces and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and add the Opito Bay Rosemary sea salt, toss to coat the vegetables evenly. Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Tear some fresh basil leaves over the roasted vegetables and finish with a pinch of Opito Bay Rosemary sea salt. The sea salt complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables and adds a delightful crunch.

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BY PAULINE STEWART

Coro Club

Your destination cafe

The Coro Club has become a popular spot as a destination café. Just a short drive out to it at the Whitianga Airfield, there is always a buzz around the place, plenty of parking outside the door and friendly service from the team. There is also something for everyone there – great coffee, an excellent menu, tasty ready-to-go options in the cabinet, a wide selection of sweet treats (don’t get us started on the mouth-watering options on donut days!) and often a plane or helicopter to watch. It is no surprise that people from all around Mercury Bay come to visit the Coro Club on a regular basis.

Niklas Brandt (Nik) has been the Head Chef and Manager of the Coro Club since June 2022 when he and his friends / business partners took over the café. During this time he has used his creativity to do amazing things with the menu and give it a distinctive Swedish twist. One dish which has become very popular is Swedish Toast Skagen (a traditional Swedish dish).

Niklas came to New Zealand from Sweden in 2018 after working as a chef at six different restaurants (becoming a Head Chef by 24) and then on super yachts around the Mediterranean. He originally came to visit a friend in Hot Water Beach and planned to travel and see New Zealand.

“I was only going to stay a couple of months, but it was too good. I was having such a great time. Then I got a job at Blue Ginger, which for me was a sign to stay, and at Blue Ginger I met my partner, Ainsley. I have travelled around New Zealand now, but this is the place for me,” adds Nik. When the opportunity came up to manage the Coro Club, 36 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

he had not managed a café before, but his experience was extensive so Nik decided he was up for the challenge. His main concern at that time, was catering for the taste palettes of those who love that traditional Kiwi style baking. He need not have worried. He bakes just about everything on offer at the Coro Club and can’t remember when he wasn’t baking.

“My first memory was peeling potatoes with my Grandma.

She gave me a knife, not a peeler, and I felt good about that, as if I was really part of the cooking team.”

Nik sees the Coro Club setting as ideal and, after a difficult summer last year, is looking forward to the summer ahead.

This year the team are looking to create a funky lounge or garden atmosphere for people to relax in. “With the new liquor licence, we may stay open a little bit longer. There is potential for some evenings too if we get that good summer.

“We also have an event space called ‘Main Hangar’ where we host weddings, birthdays, dinner parties and we are hosting the Mercury Bay Aero Club’s 75th anniversary this Labour Weekend. Main Hangar is a blank canvas which you can decorate to create whatever atmosphere you are looking for.

There is so much potential and is a beautiful spot especially at night,” says Nik enthusiastically.

Niklas is keen for everyone to know that the Coro Club is not an airport club where you have to join or pay membership.

“Everyone is welcome here. Our focus is to continue to make the Coro Club a must-visit destination for all residents in Mercury Bay as well as visitors and travellers,” says Niklas. “This is your destination café.”

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Marina Bay Eatery & Bar

BY PAULINE STEWART

Marina Bay Eatery near Whitianga’s estuary on the corner of The Esplanade and Blacksmith Lane, is a very attractive and popular restaurant and bar.

Immediately popular since it opened last year - great position, great food and a cosy atmostphere. Sara Fordham has not long been the the chef at Marina Bay. She was previously at Flock in Tairua and has brought with her two amazing gifts to the Marina Bay cuisine and dining experience.

The first is Asian fusion – exquisite tasting dishes of Asian food with that kiwi element which makes the taste intensely different but slightly familiar. It just leaves you wanting more.

The second is the sharing of the dishes. This has always been easy for traditionally European diners who look for their own serving. However, the menu encourages you to share and try a selection of dishes. This way of eating is now catching on very fast, and Sara understands this very well, making sure that there is enough for real sharing wth her sumptuous servings. This Avi (left) with Sara (right)

means many dishes can grace your table and the price per dish is nowhere near that of a full main course.

The experience is also so much better – conversation comes easy when you are sharing food but not in the buffet sense of lining up and serving yourself.

That is for different scenarios. The Marina Bay Restaurant and Bar has personal and attentive table service - fine dining at an affordable price.

Avi, the owner, is very gracious and very proud to have Sara as chef. Come and experience Asian fusion - and the desserts are just universally delicious.

Extra Treats:

• When you arrive, take note of the Chef’s Special Board as there will be some extra food delights to the current menu for that day.

• Also, for Seniors, Thursday and Friday lunch, Marina Bay offers a 10% Gold Card discount.

Opening Hours: • Marina Bay Lunch Thursday to Sunday – 12.00 onwards.

• Marina Bay Dinner (every night) Monday to Sunday, 5.00pm till late. Call for Reservations.

07 867 1710

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Waka Kai – doing things the old way a contemporary solution

BY STAN STEWART

Kerry Stanley, is the owner of New World Whitianga. He is personally committed to helping the community and does in a myriad of ways with any number of local and regional events. This extends to services provided by his New World Supermarket.

Four years ago, Kerry introduced ‘Gold Card Tuesdays’. This scheme gives 5% discount to all Gold Card customers who shop on Tuesdays. This discount offer is not unique to his store.

However, it is most helpful to all Gold Card shoppers in the Mercury Bay area who take up the offer, be they locals, or visitors and holiday makers from elsewhere in New Zealand.

Now for something completely different! Waka Kai! Kerry introduced the ‘Waka Kai’ four years ago. Background: The fabulous Coromandel Peninsula is made up of many bays and inlets – all of them dazzling in their beauty. For years intrepid individuals have made their homes on some of the most beautiful and most isolated locations. At the best of times road access to some of these isolated communities can be tricky but when things turn pear shape the access difficulties multiply.

Waka Kai is a grocery delivery service by water - got it!

Your groceries are delivered by boat to a

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beach near you. Neat hey! During Covid, Waka Kai was a life saver for many small communities on the Coromandel.

The weather in recent times have created a perfect storm of difficulties for people living in these regions. Cyclones and foul weather have washed out roads and brought down enormous slips making road access extremely problematic. The settlers in these fabulous but isolated spots are resourceful but they still needed some groceries. Waka Kai - food stuffs and supplies delivered by boat was the best (and only) solution and it came to the rescue. The residents were very grateful. “We are resilient,” a resident of Kennedy Bay said. “We wouldn’t have starved as we look after each other in these times, but those extra items made life so much better, and it is so encouraging to know people are thinking of us in this isolated area. Also, how cool is it, that you go to the jetty or down to the beach to collect your groceries?”

Here is how it works. Residents place their orders using New World’s online shopping website www.newworld/whitianga. co.nz and indicate they will need delivery via boat. The Waka Kai boat delivery’s 7 days a week over these summer dates from the 16th Dec 2023 to the 4th Feb 2024 to a beach near you, Whangapoua, Matarangi, Opito Bay, Cooks Beach, Hahei, Tairua and Pauanui. So check them out online to see when Waka Kai will be calling at your local beach this summer.

Waka Kai works. Thank you to Kerry and his team at New World Whitianga.This New World service from Whitianga is unique to New Zealand.

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COROMANDEL

Strolling Around the Pubs of the Bay There always comes a time when you are on holiday when you feel like you need something else. Your arms are aching from reeling in fish; you cannot afford more boat fuel and the kids are at the beach, so you don’t want to go there. What to do to entertain yourselves for a day?

Might I suggest that a stroll around the licenced public houses in Mercury Bay might be a great way to enjoy yet another sunny day. You will learn about local history; meet local characters; see some scenery you would have missed if you ignored this offer; and enjoy some great hospitality. Read on and I will give you an outline of what you should anticipate.

The tour needs to be paced correctly which means it should start at the iconic Smitty's Sports Bar situated in the middle of Whitianga on Albert Street. Smitty's is one of the locals’ favourite haunts, opening at 11am all year round making it a logical starting point for you. Smitty's has a great feature which is a raised porch out the front where you can comfortably sip a brunch tipple, watch sport on a couple of TVs and keep an eye on your good lady. Why is this important? Well, as it is only 11am your lady has probably decided to go shopping rather than stop off at Smitty's, but from the porch you can keep an eye on her as she goes in and out of local shops and

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if she starts carrying too many bags out you can use modern technology to quickly put a block on her account.

If you are feeling lucky Smitties provides TAB services and Pokies to help you support our local charities. You won’t be able to settle in too long however as your embarrassed wife will be over shortly to complain about her card not working and that will be an opportune time for you to set off down Blacksmith Lane to Whitianga’s most historic hotel, simply known by the locals as The Pub. Its only a short stroll to

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

PUB CRAWLS The Pub (The Whitianga Hotel) which also opens at 11am. The Pub is a grand old building which oozes history and serves several old relics. When you get there grab a refreshing ale and wander around the bar admiring the display of historic photos.

These photos are one of the aspects of this establishment that should be admired, displaying images of the original Hotel, Brewery and other shots of the town and Wharf area. One of the old photos is an advertisement for the original Blacksmith Ale brewed on the lane.

Today The Pub is the only pub in Whitianga specialising in DB products, so the tap beer offerings may be of interest to those from the more southern parts of our country. The other thing that marks The Pub as different is live music which they intend to have on daily through December and January. The live music is mainly on in the evenings but will occasionally be on during an afternoon if this can be arranged. It will still be too late for this tour though as your next stop opens at twelve and is probably a good lunch stop.

Leaving The Pub, it is a short stroll along the Esplanade to Grace O’Malleys, fondly known as The Irish and another favourite of the locals. Gracie’s looks more historic than it is, much like its jovial landlord Peter Jones, who can usually be found supervising things from a comfortable spot. Peter has owned Gracie’s for about seven years and has built it up to be a top spot year around, but never more so than on a sunny day where the huge deck out front offers a great spot to sup on your first pint of Guinness for the day and enjoy one of New Zealand’s great pub views over the estuary.

Gracie’s offers a pretty good pub menu with lots of variety and, being the town’s only Irish Pub, also provides you with Guinness and Kilkenny on tap along with a range of other ales.

If it is a bit hot for you on the deck there are three bars offering some shade, the main bar, the Alley Bar along the side which is partially open to the sunshine and the more private Blarney Bar at the back.

You cannot rest at Gracie’s too long however as there are four establishments on the Darkside to visit that will require some driving. If your whole group wishes to be sociable I recommend you organise to be escorted through the Darkside

by Whiti City Cabs.

Phil at Whiti City Cabs will be only too pleased to pick your group up from the Ferry Landing at Cooks Beach and escort you around the other establishments, dropping you back at the spot of your choice in Whitianga. Moving on, it is a leisurely yet quick walk from Gracie’s to the Wharf followed by the short Ferry trip to the Darkside where Phil will be waiting to greet you.

The first stop will be The Vessel which is basically an outdoor summer pub, just right for a leisurely afternoon. The thing I really like about The Vessel is their Great Table which seats about 14 people, just right for your group if you have enough friends to fill Phil’s van. This will be followed by a stop at The Pour House in Hahei. This is a craft brewery so you will have the opportunity to sample some beers brewed on site at this family-owned establishment. They will also serve a good meal if you are still peckish and have a garden bar which is most pleasant on a sunny day.

The third stop on this part of the tour is at the edge of the Darkside, some would call it a twilight zone, the small village of Whenuakite. The approach to this establishment feels a bit odd, running along a dusty track off the main road but at the end of the track you are pleasantly surprised to find a great, and quite lovely, bar which also has camping and cabin accommodation. So if Phil’s driving has made you feel queasy you can always stay the night and hitch home in the morning.

This is the Hot Water Brewery, a family-owned craft brewery which offers you sampling of various beers and some wines which you will need to taste for yourselves. As is the norm in Mercury Bay you can also get something tasty to eat while you enjoy the ambience and their fine ales with the sun beating on your back.

Leaving the Hot Water Brewery your group heads north in the direction of Whitianga, stopping at the iconic and historic Coroglen Tavern. The Coro has been running for over 75 years and has been a favourite for travellers and locals for all those years. It serves a range of Lion ales, wines and so on and serves some great food, just right for a late afternoon snack. There is a great sun-drenched garden bar to enjoy and if you are young enough, and allowed out at night, a huge area out the back for the concerts that they have every summer, being part of the Beach Band Tour circuit.

Older folk, such as I, tend to like the main bar of the Coro with its historic displays and memorabilia. If Luke is on duty, you can discuss pig hunting with him as Luke is also the President of the local Pig Hunting Club, and of course the Coro is their club rooms. There is plenty of signs of hunting success to be admired on the walls of the tavern.

All good days must come to an end however, so it is back into Phil’s van for a fifteen-minute drive back to town, maybe a small nap on the way. I am sure you will have enjoyed the day, much more relaxing than yet another day fishing.

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COROMANDEL

Pubs Out Coromandel Way As your holiday progresses and you are looking for something else to do, the teenagers are sick of the beach and, as they have run out of their money, are sticking close to you; it may become time to ring Phil at Whiti City Cabs and organise a day that can be enjoyed by all. What I would recommend is a tour to Coromandel Town, dropping the teenagers off at places to amuse them while giving the grownups the ability to stroll along the Coromandel main street and enjoy the ambience at three historic and very enjoyable public houses.

The visit to Coromandel is best done as a loop, going out on the famed 309 Road and returning on the main one. Best to go out on the 309 as Phil drives slower on the way out so the journey through rugged bushland will be more enjoyable.

There is plenty to see, stands of Kauri, bush clad swimming holes, marauding mobs of pigs and eventually a great attraction called The Waterworks. This is a great spot to drop off the teenagers who can spend a couple of hours enjoying themselves while the adults enjoy the peace and quiet of the small trip into Coromandel.

Phil will drop you off at the Top Pub, allowing your stroll to be down-hill, before making his way back to the Waterworks to pick up the teenagers. He will take them from there to Driving

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BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

Creek in Coromandel where they can enjoy zipline tours through the bush and a train ride up the mountain. Once they have finished, they can enjoy the walk down to town to find the family members that funded their day. Should keep them out of your hair for a few hours.

The main street of Coromandel, Kapanga Road, slopes gradually uphill from the coast meaning The Top Pub (aka Coromandel Hotel), being located further away is also the highest. It is a great old pub and a favourite of the locals, whose grandmothers seem to be first in to grab the table by the fire on winter days. It is a pub for all seasons though with a well sized and private garden bar which is just perfect for summer. The furniture and general ambience are just great and you instantly feel comfortable when walking into the bar.

Its an easy bar to settle in to, even making cocktails for you if the bar isn’t too busy. Other than that there is the normal range of refreshments and some generous bar meals. They work hard on making you something to eat that is affordable with different specials available on different days. Always a good visit.

A pleasant stroll down the street to the town centre will bring you to your next Pub, the historic Star and Garter located

PUB CRAWLS by the round about in the middle of town. The Star and Garter looks great, being well renovated some years ago and really looking like a gold town pub. Comfortable lounge furniture at the front allows you to view the passers-by in comfort and enables the passers-by to view you. There are three main areas for patrons including a nice sunny garden bar at the back and a lounge bar in the middle.

The Star and Garter is tied up with the neighbouring Pepper Tree Restaurant so one of the benefits you gain is ordering and receiving restaurant prepared and cooked meals and enjoying them in the ambience of the bar. Staff can be seen scurrying between the two businesses delivering steaming plates of goodness and returning with the dishes. A very good arrangement really and you are sure to enjoy a lunch there.

The final bar of the day’s excursion is the Admirals Arms. The Admiral is a grand looking hotel with an upstairs restaurant and bars downstairs.

Unfortunately, when we visited, they had no chef so the only food we were offered were pies, not the level of food that the building promised from the outside. The staff were friendly though and the pub was comfortable enough, offering views towards the harbour from some seats. We couldn’t stay long during our visit however as the kids had found us and Phil was revving the engine of the van. It was time to go.

A good day would be enjoyed by all, the only thing left being the scenic trip home along the northern part of New Zealand’s greatest coastal drive, knackered teenagers sleeping in the back of the van while the grown ups belt out the chorus of “the wheels on the bus….”. A great way to end a great day.

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New cafe ‘a dream come true’ for owners

BY PAM FERLA

You could say the new Ferry Landing Cafe and Day Bar is a dream come true for restaurateurs Nigel and Michelle Fenton-Lee. It certainly is in the right place to offer the best setting and service.

There is the fun of a ferry ride across Whitianga’s stunning harbour, and a short walk on the other side to this new venue, which opened on September 15.

Chef Nigel says the offerings at Ferry Landing Cafe will be the same popular selection as at The Old Mill Cafe in Tairua.

“We will have seasonal produce baked daily, with breakfast and lunch options available all day.”

Michelle offers a warm welcome to customers.

“It’s a beautiful area and we’ve always dreamed of opening

a cafe around here. We were excited when we identified that there’s now a gap, we can fill by opening at Ferry Landing.”

Nigel has an extensive experience internationally and in New Zealand and loves creating cuisine to delight the palate. He says his work in top hotels worldwide has given him invaluable experience.

Michelle enjoys meeting people, getting feedback from customers, and ensuring the cafe offers the cuisine they enjoy.

The couple have already put Tairua’s Old Mill Cafe on the map as a favourite venue in the lovely setting beside Tairua’s harbour and marina.

Michelle says the venues will be open seven days between the two sister locations.

The hours at Ferry Landing Cafe are 8.30am – 6pm from Friday to Sunday, with pizzas available from 3pm – 6pm.

Hours will be 8.30am – 2.30pm on Monday and Tuesday.

Summer hours at Tairua’s Old Mill Cafe are Wednesday to Sunday, 8.30am – 2.30pm.

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eather-Proof hitianga

Don't be bullied by the weather There's lots to do in Mercury Bay when the sun doesn't shine or if it shines too much - ouch!

The Lost Spring The Lost Spring, 121 A Cook Drive, Whitianga.

07 866 0456 A miracle location. Drive into the South Seas.

Hot Springs, massage, restaurant. Some people have called in for a coffee and stayed the whole day (more on page 16) The Mercury Bay Museum 1a The Esplanade, Whitianga. 07 866 0730 Whitianga, Mercury Bay is a place of great significance in New Zealand history. 800 years after Kupe landed at Te-Whanganuia-Hei, (Mercury Bay), Captain Cook visited Mercury Bay for 12 days. This area has such amazing history. As well as being a place of origins, it is also a place of beginnings of trade and industry, of conflicts and shipwrecks. For these reasons and many others, a visit to this excellent museum will be an intriguing and significant stop-off for any visitor to Whitianga.

Mercury Twin Cinemas 1 Lee St, Whitianga. 07 867 1001 This is a modern twin cinema with all facilities including popcorn. Screenings commence at 10.30 am. Screening recent releases – same day as released in Auckland. Admission much less than city prices. Large free parking space opposite the Twin Cinemas.

Wild Wood Mini Golf 101 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga. O7 866 0064 Imaginative, shady tropical setting. Gift shop selling educational toys and puzzles. Remember, it does not open on days of persistent rain.

Two amazing large miscellaneous stores – just right for browsing.

The Glass House 25 Albert Street, Whitianga. 07 866 4817 Look for the bright orange building in the Main Street and read about it page 32 Pinkies 1B Lee St, Whitianga. 07 866 0100 Look for the bright pink building.

Everything you have ever needed and forgot you wanted is in one of these two stores. Visit them with an open mind and view their products. See if you don’t find something you have always wanted and forgotten about.

Exotic Shops The Cave and Grapefruit Gully, Bali, Thailand and beyond, plus amazing kiwi home crafts wait for you in these two intriguing gift shops – Sarongs, wraps,

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BY STAN STEWART

leggings, carvings, jewelry, novelties, ornaments and more.

Both are in Monk Street and they will catch your attention. The nooks crannies of these shops are made for don’t hurry.

and browsing, so Sacred Garden This peaceful shop is worth a few visits. Donna Butterworth and Pippi Pieterse have a very different kind of shop because you can buy many different and beautiful things, yet none of them could be termed a homeware or material addition to your life.

Everything is to be used or worn for a health or spiritual purpose. There is an atmosphere of reverence for life in this shop, tucked away in the half arcade next to the Westpac Bank in Albert Street, Whitianga.

“We offer products that help facilitate healing and growth.

People also want to talk about what’s not right in their spirit or body. It’s not surface conversation”, says Donna Soap Plus A menu of beautiful aromas. Lisa Peehikuru makes natural handmade soaps using quality oils blended with pure essential oils for a luxurious soap to leave the skin soft and beautifully conditioned. You can find ‘Soap Plus’ tucked next to Earth Store, at 63 Albert Street. Some of these soaps are wrapped in natural materials such as merino and alpaca to create felted soap wrappings – a very successful and cool product.

Lisa runs kids’ workshops on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the school holidays, when kids try to make their designer soap, such as a unicorn, spider, dinosaur or farm animal.

Soap Plus - 027 212 4999 And for something completely different Whitianga Bike Park and picnic area Two kilometres from town centre - Moewai Road. Enough shelter when it rains. Outdoor fun for all ages - a fun, scenic, shady destination. Bikes for hire, picnic area and delightful walks. Sheltered - Great for cool days or for days when it’s too hot for the beach. Go to page 14.

Op Shops There are five of them: Great gear – a bargain hunter's delight.

Pubs/Hotels Three of them each with their own character. See Trevor Ammundsen’s Pub Crawl. Go to Page 42.

Need directions?

The Whitianga iSite – centrally located in Albert St – friendly staff and volunteers, free maps and fun suggestions.

WHY I LOVE LIVING HERE

Kieren (left) I like Smitty's and delivering the papers with Merv.

Merv (Right) This is a good place to live and it's full of great people.

Mary Afew years after my husband had passed, I decided to start a new chapter in my life in Whitianga. I had been here many times as my father was born here.

I have made some amazing friends and have heaps of fun. Its an exciting and awesome town to live.

Jess and Luciana I grew up here, its always been my home. I love how close to nature you feel being anywhere on the Coromandel and the choice of so many amazing beaches.

Nicola We came to Whitianga over 40 years ago - firstly the town gave us a business and a great place to bring up our children, it has given us many years of friendships and a sense of belonging to a community which hopefully we can now give back to in kind.

A special place in our hearts.

Paul I come from the Philippines. This country has welcomed my hard work and provided a means for me to, step by step, build a better life for my family. I hope one day to be a permanent resident and truly belong here.

Julie Ngati Hei and member of SeniorNet This is my home. My whanau is here. After a very bad accident, it took me years to walk and be whole again; thanks to this community.

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FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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THIS IS FLEA

Felicity Jean Photography Flea is the cover photographer for ‘Your Summer’ magazine. She has also provided alot of the images you see throughout the magazine. She is a remarkable woman with many achievements under her belt. There is never a shortage of things to photograph on the Coromandel Peninsula and Flea is the photographer for many key events and weddings. We are proud that she has assisted us with photography for this special ‘Your Summer’ magazine.

Flea’s story Flea was born in Gisborne and was three when she moved up to Kuaotunu on the Coromandel with her family.

"Yes, we moved into the Blue Fridge Valley up in the bush.

That's what we called it, because we had an old blue fridge as our letterbox at the top of the driveway. There were eight families sharing the valley land. As a kid growing up, I was embarrassed. My mother enjoyed gardening in the nude and baked wholemeal bread at a time when all I wanted was white bread and cordial. That's what the other kids had at school, but Mum would only give us freshly squeezed orange juice or lemon and honey to drink. Mum also loved music and would organise concerts in the Kuaotunu Hall together with other local musicians.”

Flea's Mum was committed to all things natural and organic when it was not in vogue at all. At age 12, Flea moved to Japan for three years with her Mum, sister Erica and Stepfather, Maurice. "Our life went from a longdrop toilet and living in the bush in Kuaotunu, to city life in Tokyo, Japan.”

Maurice taught at an English Language School in Shinjuku. Burnette (Flea's Mum) worked part -time teaching English. She also sang in a couple of the local bars. Flea and Erica attended a public Japanese school near their home in Kokubunji and became fluent in Japanese.

Flea and her family moved back to New Zealand and Maurice started Coromandel Outdoor Language Centre in Robinson Road, Whitianga. He had made some great contacts with travel agencies from their time in Japan and had a dream of creating a school with a focus on "learning by doing' rather

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THIS IS FLEA cont... than just reading textbooks. The school offered English tuition in in the mornings and activity-based lessons in the afternoon. A majority of the students would book their English course including 'homestay' accommodation and stayed with families in Whitianga. Burnette helped run the business too. Sadly, she died of leukaemia, aged 44, after a five-year battle.

Flea enjoyed her high school years at Mercury Bay Area School and went off to Waikato University to study for a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Japanese. She then spent three years in Queenstown as a tour guide for Japanese tourists followed by an Auckland based role in sales and marketing for Fullers Bay of Islands.

It was after this, when Flea became a ‘Kiwi Experience’ tour driver, that she started getting into photography. "For 12 years I drove a 50-seater coach around this amazing country.

I was in beautiful places surrounded by colourful people from all around the world and I became passionate about capturing these epic experiences and places on camera." With

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the help of mentor, Uncle Brodie who worked for Canon NZ, Flea invested in great camera gear and over time, improved her photography skills. "Kiwi Experience started buying my photos".

Big decisions come at 40; at least that was the case for Flea.

"I decided, I can't be a bus driver forever. At 42, I came home to Kūaotunu and started my photography business, but still supplementing my income driving the occasional tour for Kiwi Experience."

It was the right decision. Flea is now very settled in the Blue Fridge Valley living with her partner Tim and enjoying a wide variety of photography work. She is kept busy in the summer months shooting weddings, family portraits, event and commercial photography. In the quieter months, she loves taking on different photography projects. In the winter of 2022, she took photos for 'Treasured Chests' a calendar, raising awareness and funding for breast cancer. Twelve local artists were invited to create 'breast art' on twelve brave models who were then photographed by Flea.

She also published a photographic book five years ago, 'A Colourful Community' which captured the spirit of the local people in Kuaotunu, Otama, Opito, Matarangi and Whangapoua, scenic and artistic communities north and east of Whitianga. www.fleaphotos.co.nz • www.felicityjeanphotography.co.nz

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Barbara von Seida Barbara has always been attracted by artists like Emil Nolde, J. M. W. Turner, Salvador Dali, Pierre Bonnard and Henri Matisse, with their exuberant, colourful images of landscapes and flowers which are emotionally charged.

She considers herself lucky to have endless inspiration abundantly available right outside her window – an everchanging canvas displaying nature's rich palette all year round.

Like all landscape painters who have their eyes on the dynamic activities in the skies, Barbara wants to also incorporate these aspects into her art.

Painting in series to a theme and creating what is stored in her, she aims to relive and recreate her emotional response, so much more than merely recording a visual perception.

To set the scene, simplification is foremost on Barbara’s mind.

When arranging the composition, she draws a very limited preliminary charcoal sketch on board, eliminating fussy and small distracting details.

By using large, flat (up to 15cms) brushes, with only a few broad, energetic and rhythmical marks, this prevents her from creating a highly detailed, busy image - an image that would lose its intended message.

Arranging an overall convincing colour scheme that establishes the desired mood is also very important. She retains flexibility by working in a loose, free and experimental way and is prepared to risk losing a painting at any stage which she considers is not convincing.

Translucent layers of atmospheric clouds are difficult to

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paint in acrylics. It is predominantly an opaque medium, and in the 25 plus years Barbara has been painting with acrylics, she still struggles to manage the limitations of this medium. Her way of treating acrylics has been very much influenced by her lifelong association with watercolours, and still considers herself to be a watercolour painter. It is an on-going battle!

She does however value the freedom to experiment and use all the possibilities of layering, adding and over painting that watercolour does not allow her to do.

By painting a similar scene in series and varying the colour combinations, her aim is to achieve with only a minimum of strokes the essence of that feeling which evoked the desire in her to paint that scene.

Man-made objects and people do not feature in Barbara's work. To Barbara, it is the www.youtube.com/ untouched, unspoilt nature watch?v=fhRhEZoSmcw or use a QR Code that is so appealing. reader on your mobile!

Barbara is a key participant in the “Open Studios” Coromandel Arts Tour, which is on every October.

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TARA KING

Tara King’s home is very much a full height mirror of her love of design with a flow and harmony of texture, colour and context.

Tara is a local Interior Designer and a designer of indooroutdoor flow for homes on the Coromandel Peninsula both new builds and renovations. She is passionate about her work, vivacious and warm in her manner, and her love of design extends to her own immaculate clothing and style. In every way, she exudes a love for her work.

“My home is also my office and my landscape – this is where I can display & showcase examples of products, structure, colours, textures and outdoor possibilities for my clients, “says Tara.” It’s important for me to be able to source products locally where I can. My home continues to evolve for that reason and as a passionate Interior Designer, I strive to create unique and individual spaces for my clients.

We asked Tara what is the process, when she meets with client on their project?

“When clients initially meet with me to sit down and look at the whole building process, they can often feel anxious and a little overwhelmed with the process. They are about to select all the products for their entire build, which can be extremely daunting. A client many have images and will provide a brief

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on what they are wanting to achieve for their project, which is extremely beneficial. This is a costly exercise, especially within the current climate and their home and the outcome is incredibly important to me. I’m there to make the consultation firstly enjoyable, reassuring my clients and at the same time providing guidance throughout the consultation. I encourage them to try different options, to create a different colour scheme, especially if it’s between their holiday home here on the Peninsula and their permanent residence.

Tara’s Tips: • I have an emotional attraction to colour, therefore incorporating this accessible design tool will instantly enhance and harmonise any design scheme. The surrounding walls, flooring and window treatments often consist of a neutral and organic palette, making it easy to inject a few ascent colours.

• Home Automation, along with motorised Window Treatments (i.e. blinds) is a large part of my business. Mostly battery powered & easily added to existing pre-build homes and is more affordable than clients realise.

What gives me the greatest pleasure is when people walk out of my consulting rooms beaming with the excitement of their new build or renovation project.

Every single space has the potential to be beautiful. Regardless of shape or size and with my expertise and passion for design I aim to create something special for my clients.

WHITIANGA ART GROUP SUMMER EXHIBITION 2023/2024 A highlight on the Summer Calendar in Mercury Bay is the annual Whitianga Art Group Summer Exhibition.

The event features a collection of new works by local artists displayed in the historic Art Centre and Gallery building at 23 School Road, Whitianga.

Guest artist Michael Harrison will open the exhibition on Friday, 14 December 2023 with a wine and cheese evening starting at 6.00pm.This popular event runs through the Christmas /New Year holiday period until Sunday, 15 January.

Our new start date is an excellent opportunity to purchase Christmas gifts by local artists.

Each year a painting is donated by one of the Art Group members for the summer raffle. The 2024 painting donated by local artist Jenny Cotterell is a work titled ‘Sea World Fantasy’.

Jenny has created a diptych of two acrylic paintings depicting a fantasy world of dolphins and stingrays.

Art Group President Raewyn Williams says, “I am as always, extremely impressed with our members’ passion and commitment to produce quality paintings for our Summer Exhibition. Visit the Art Centre and you will discover unique art works full of vibrancy and emotion. Be in early to purchase that perfect piece of art to take home as a reminder of your summer visit to Whitianga.”

See advert page 60 .

Michael Harrison.

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A cup of tea and a catch up with Emma Evangeline Gustafson So when did you first start to paint, Emma?

Ever since I can remember, art was always what I gravitated towards.

Painting particularly became my obsession through high school and it’s something that runs in the family. My abilities were passed down from my grandmother Evangeline, onto my mother Ali, then down onto me. So, it’s always felt really natural and intuitive.

I knew I wanted a career in the arts, so I decided to study design in Wellington, as I felt design was more practical than fine arts. However, after graduating amidst the lockdowns, I came out struggling to find full time design work… so I just kept painting.

One of the pieces I created over the lockdowns was inspired by a famous magpie I had met on holiday, just prior to the first lockdown.

The painting I did of her led me to illustrate “The Story of Swoop” written by Matt Owens. The book was published by Scholastic and hit number one on the NZ Children’s best seller list last year. With that came opportunities to illustrate more NZ based stories. I love illustration and really look forward to working on my own stories.

Your talent seems to be very flexible; Yes I’m lucky it is.

I know you work on a range of subjects, do you have a favourite subject or style?

Landscapes are my main passion, I’m really inspired by my surroundings in Coromandel. I love exploring the peninsula and painting those special spots I find off the beaten track, particularly in the bush. Connection with nature is so important. I like to try and create soothing healing images that I hope viewers might find therapeutic.

Do you paint from life or from photographs?

Both…I love working outside when I get the chance, but I primarily have to work from photographs, to get the level of detail I want to achieve. I also enjoy incorporating hidden elements into my work and detailed landscapes lend themselves to that.

What do you think the future holds for you?

At the moment I’m continuing to create work guided by my spirituality and love of nature. I have originals, limited-edition prints and cards on my website. I also offer commissions and am hoping to get back into teaching classes for kids and adults over summer.

Eventually I'd love to exhibit my work in Auckland or Wellington.

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BY MICHELLE RHODES

International goldsmith and sky sculptor

BY PAULINE STEWART

Hans-Leo Peters was still a student when he won the Diamonds International Award in New York at the age of 29. It is one of the most prestigious Goldsmith awards in the world. The press of the day called this award the ‘Oscar’ for jewellery awards.

It was a year after he won the award, that Hans-Leo finally received his qualification as a goldsmith artist. He became the first goldsmith artist in Germany to be self-employed. “That is what I had planned to do earlier but one cannot, until you are defined as ‘artist’. Jewellery has always been in my thinking. I am the person who makes the jewellery and I work in gold.” Hans-Leo was to become the first goldsmith artist of the Diamonds National Academy.

Coming from Germany to New Zealand to live, took many years. “Every time I searched in the newspaper or online, for a dream holiday house, New Zealand always came up. I carried this dream or plan since I was 25 years old. At first, Hans-Leo and his wife flew to New Zealand every summer, alternating between countries.

“I made my exhibitions in New Zealand and Germany,” says Hans-Leo. "Eventually, the New Zealand Government gave me residency as an artist, and we made our decision for one country only - New Zealand!"

Hans-Leo is now an online Goldsmith and sculptor. His studio/workshop is in Whitianga, but he sells his jewellery and sculpted pieces online across the world. As a goldsmith, He is the most awarded artist in the world - his pieces are breathtaking – delicate or bold - they shimmer; - rings, pendants brooches; some brooches are also pendents; a blend of gold, and gemstones - unique!

Hans-Leo is also internationally famous for his sky sculptures.

These are outdoor pieces up to ten metres high and are remarkable feats in design, physics and craftsmanship using

metals, particularly polished stainless steel spheres. He works on a scale of 1 to 10, the basic element being one metre. A sculpture that will be ten metres high in its final form, is one metre in Hans-Leos model (see image left).

Hans-Leo's inspiration and motivation is to create meaningful lasting symbols for significant historic, cultural or social milestones. They are designed to stand in open community spaces or in the foyer of civic buildings to inspire and connect people to points of national celebration.

Hans-Leo has created a ‘Sky Sculpture for the Stars’. It is the Southern Hemisphere Pleiades star cluster known as Matariki. Its reappearance in the southern sky after a brief period of being below the horizon, is now marked by a national holiday in New Zealand. “I am dreaming that that should be made for our country,” he says. “This sky sculpture will be ten metres and the discs representing the spherical stars will glisten and move in alignment. It will say welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand, as long ago this land welcomed Kupe.

Hans-Leo believes that if people see this and feel this, it will go into their hearts.

By sharing the image of the Matariki sculpture, it is hoped the Matariki sculpture might be sponsored to become its full ten metre height and proudly stand in a city or community square, or at the entrance to an observatory. How fortunate we are to have Hans living among us in the Coromandel Peninsula.

In 1971, there was a book published about Hans-Leo, his work and achievements as a goldsmith. The author titled it, ‘In every piece is love.’ “My wife passed away in 2008; she was the face behind my work. Love is the source of the inspiration.”

Hans-Leo smiles, “This is the way I do it and how I create. It has never changed.” Art@golden-art.com; www.golden-art.com www.sky-sculptures.com

The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024 59

International and National Success for Local Portrait Photographer 2023 has been a rewarding year for local Whitianga photographer, Karen Moffatt-McLeod (APSNZ) of Karen McLeod Photography Ltd. Specialising in portrait Karen Moffat-McLeod photography, particularly creative portraits, Karen enters many National and International Photographic Salons through the Photographic Society of New Zealand and the Photographic Society of America, both of which she is a member.

“Gaining ‘Acceptance’ level is an honour in itself, with generally only 28-30% of entries being accepted as the standards are extremely high,” says Sandy Karen. With over 100 acceptances of her work so far this year, she has also achieved a number of Honourable Mentions, Honours and Merit Awards. The icing on the cake recently was being awarded four international medals, a Bronze, a Silver and two Golds and nationally taking out the top awards in the Portrait Digital section with ‘The Fisherman’ and Portrait - Print section with ‘Matariki Wahine’ of the North Island Regional Salon (pictured).

On Saturday, 8 July, the North Shore Salon streamed its’ live

BY PAULINE STEWART

judging of the top scoring images. The North Shore Salon is regarded as being one of the most prestigious and a salon that has among the highest standards in New Zealand. Five judges, score and then discuss each image, debating the skill and any flaws, then re-score after discussion. I knew ‘Matariki Wahine’ had scored very highly but was ecstatic to wake to an email the following morning with my results. I had won GOLD in the ‘Open Colour’ with her, along with an Honours for ‘Siren’, plus two Highly Commended awards in the Open Monochrome and People categories. I re-checked the email a number of times and checked their website to make sure I was reading it correctly.”

‘Matariki Wahine’ was captured at the end of June 2021, and entered her first competition mid-July, hence the name. “I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to photograph Danii wearing the Kakahu that her grandmother, Sandy Gaskell made. Both the model and the kakahu are absolutely stunning and I wanted to do them the justice they deserved.”

Karen was also awarded her Bronze level of honours from the Photographic Society of America – BPSA. In September Karen was informed that she had won the PSNZ Trophy for best portrait at the 2023 Sony PSNZ National Exhibition with her portrait ‘Young at Heart’, and image taken of her father a few weeks after the death of her mother in May. ‘It was a very emotional morning receiving that news, and it means so much to me that I could collaborate with my dad on this’.

So it continues to be a great year photography wise!

Captions - Above: Portrait - Print section with ‘Matariki Wahine’ of the North Island Regional Salon. Model- Danii Gaskell, Whitianga.

Below: 'Young at Heart' which has been awarded the PSNZ Trophy for best Portrait at the Sony PSNZ National Exhibition

60 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

MEGA CROSSWORD

© Lovatts Puzzles

To go into the draw to win a $200 voucher for one of the cafés, restaurants or bars advertising in this magazine, you need to complete this crossword and let us have your entry, with your name, telephone number and town/city of residence, no later than 5:00pm on Friday, 29 March 2024. Entries can be posted or hand delivered to our offices at 14 Monk St, Whitianga 3510, Whitianga, or scanned and emailed to us at info@theinformer.co.nz. Only one entry per person will be allowed. All correct entries will go into the draw to win the prize package. We will not be engaging in any discussion once the winner has been announced. We will announce the winner in The Informer of Wednesday, 10 April 2024 and the solution to the crossword will be posted on our website, www.theinformer.co.nz, also on that day. Good luck and have fun!

Name:..................................................................................................................... Phone:..........................................................

Town/city of residence:.....................................................................................................

The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024 61

FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY 62 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024 63

A Great-Grandad, a Dad, a World War II Hero

BY JOAN GREY

I never met my great-grandfather, Arnot Stewart. He died well before I was born.

Arnot was an Air Force pilot in World War II. His plane was shot down over France in 1943, and he was captured by the Germans and imprisoned at the notorious Stalag Luft III POW camp until liberation in 1945.

Arnot didn’t talk to his children about his war experience in any detail. “Men who fought in the war didn’t need to talk about it,” he would tell them. The story of his crash and capture was sealed in history when he died in 1983.

That was until my grandmother and Whitianga resident, Wendy Walls, discovered some old black-and-white snapshots of Arnot’s crash site, which allowed her to reopen and explain a chapter of her father’s life that he’d never discussed.

March 1943 Flight Lieutenant Arnot Stewart was only 21 years old when he found himself in England at the controls of a Halifax bomber for the 408 Squadron. This role led him to carry out numerous missions over Germany.

One night, on 11 March 1943, Arnot’s plane was shot down by a German Messerschmitt.

His plane crashed into a farmhouse near the French town of Sommevoire. All seven-aircrew managed to evacuate by

"One of them presented me with a box of distress rockets from the bomber, which he had found at the crash site and kept in his house for 64 years."

parachute, but only four escaped German capture.

Arnot was taken as a prisoner of war and sent to Stalag Luft III, where he aided in The Great Escape, In 1943 76 prisoners 64 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

escaped from Stalag Luft III through the tunnel built under the gymnastic vaulting horse. The "Wooden" horse sat in the exercise yard in front of the Germans.

Arnot would perform gymnastics over the vaulting horse, taking away attention and disguising the tunnel other POWs were digging below. My great grandfather was a prisoner at this very same ‘Prisoner of War’ camp. Many kiwis know the story the ‘Wooden Horse’ and the Great Escape, but I had no idea that my grandfather had been right there.

March 2007 My grandmother Wendy was planning a holiday in France and hoped she could visit the area where her dad’s plane crashed all those years ago.

“All Dad told us was that he flew bombers. His plane was shot down by the Germans and crashed in France. Being the pilot, he was last to parachute out and injured his ankle on landing.

“In Dad’s war documents, I found a reference to a place called Sommevoire and photos taken in 1943 of the crash site. To this day, I still do not know how my father came to be in possession of these photos.”

The Search Using Google Maps, ground-breaking technology at that time, Wendy located Sommevoire as a small village in the Champagne district of France. She searched the internet and emailed Sommevoire steelworks, rest homes, farms, and every Sommevoire business she could find.

“It was several weeks later that I received an email from a French farmer named Laurent. I was stunned by his reply.” Laurent wrote, “In my village, an airplane crashed into a farmhouse on the 11th of March 1943, coming back from a mission in Stuttgart. Perhaps it was your father's airplane? If you come to visit our area in June, it would be a great pleasure for my wife and me to receive you at home. Many thanks for what your father and other brave soldiers did to free our country from Nazis.”

June 2007 Two months later, Wendy and her husband, my grandfather Joe, travelled to Sommevoire in France to meet Laurent.

“I was taken to the crash site, a farmhouse in Rozieres just outside Sommevoire, where I was greeted by a large group, including the mayor, older members of the village who had witnessed the fiery crash first-hand, and younger members who recalled their parents’ tales of the event.”

“One of them presented me with a box of distress rockets from the bomber, which he had found at the crash site and kept in his house for 64 years. He was 16 years old at the time. Upon learning that a plane had fallen, he hopped on his

bicycle to go see the crash site ahead of the Germans arriving.”

“The original farmhouse owner had been asleep, when the plane missed his bed by metres and destroyed the upstairs corner of his home. The new farm owner was proud to show us the extensive restoration, including the new brick area replacing the hole in the upper story.”

Wendy listened to the villagers’ stories to piece together the puzzle.

“It was amazing they remembered my dad. They described a proud and brave aviator being marched up the farm road to a German vehicle. He hadn’t been able to escape on foot because of his injury.”

Following the site visit, an official ceremony with champagne and speeches was held for Wendy. The local villagers provided home baked food and the mayor gave a speech with Laurent interpreting.

“The commitment shown by these English-speaking nations

to help France escape from this horrible war can but reinforce today the friendship existing between us,” said the mayor.

Wendy was touched that the French villagers hailed her dad a hero and welled up with tears.

July 2019 When I was 12 years old, my parents took me to France, and we detoured to Sommevoire on Bastille Day. When we arrived, we were welcomed onto the centre stage of the village’s national day celebrations.

The townspeople made speeches and offered us gifts, expressing their gratitude for the brave men like my greatgrandfather who had fought so far from home for the freedom of France.

We were taken to the crash site, and the mayor announced they would be installing a plaque with the names of the seven aviators. One day I hope to return and see that plaque.

May 2023 It’s 80 years since the fateful night of the crash. I never met my great-grandfather, but I feel connected.

I’ve walked the same stretch of road he walked in France and will always think of him as a courageous war hero.

Left : Joan Grey (Author) Joan Grey lives in Auckland but is a regular visitor to Whitianga staying with her grandmother, Wendy Walls. She recently had the role of journalist covering the Women’s World Cup for Friends of Football. Joan is 16 and the world’s youngest FIFA accredited journalist.

Middle : Their visit and remembering Wendy's father's bravery became a highglight in the local French newspaper.

Right : Joan Grey with her Grandmother Wendy Walls.

The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024 65

A Significant Journey Whitianga In 1888 John Bateman Harcourt, head of one of Wellington's first families, established a real estate and auctioneering company, Harcourt and Co. Two of his sons, Gordon and Stanton, later joined him and by the early 1900s, Harcourt and Co. had five trading divisions.

That was 125 years ago, it was Harcourts’ commitment then, 'To create clients for life through the finest service'. This is still central and fundamental to our positive attitude and success in the communities of New Zealand today. That journey has been exemplary and significant in New Zealand.

Harcourts now has 807 offices in over 11 countries, providing the full range of real estate services locally and internationally, with 206 offices in New Zealand. The first Harcourts full-colour property magazine, known as the Bluebook, was launched in Christchurch featuring more than 150 local properties listed with the firm.

Coromandel Beaches Realty Ltd have four offices in Whitianga, Tairua, Cooks Beach and Coromandel and work closely with franchisees in Pauanui, Whangamata, Waihi Beach, Waihi, Paeroa and Thames, creating a close partnership with the 10 offices to provide a complete service across the Peninsula. We are very conscious of, and motivated by, the responsibility that Harcourts is a significant stakeholder within the economy of the Peninsula region.

“Our large community has, and is experiencing, some uncertainty with its roading and transport communications, but the cycle of life and the determination to build a future or make new opportunities available in this beautiful part of the world, continues – new homes are being built, other homes becoming available to sell, properties are being sought after. We feel we don’t have enough properties for our buyers. Our teams are ready to look after you. We are offering both physical and virtual open homes of properties. There is a creative solution to every real estate problem. We will do the very best job, planning, creating, and implementing excellence in the property tasks set by our clients.”

Paulette Tainsh - Harcourts, Cooks Beach.

66 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

BY DAVID FREW

“There is not a household who does not think about and rely on land values and housing - what we can afford; what and where will be our home; a dream for the future and a life with some security, The leaders of our Real Estate businesses are therefore very important. We need to keep believing and help people keep believing, that the future has a long reach and it’s worth preparing now for the future you hope for. It is always worth looking after people, making sure the right thing is done.”

Philippa Evans - Harcourts, Tairua.

“In real estate, the ultimate satisfaction comes from the service we provide our clients and customers and what we give back to our communities. Sometimes, our clients are in a difficult situation, we form a partnership in guiding them to make the right decisions. Often with difficult options we aim to alleviate stress with our professional service; after all, we are there to look after people. We provide strength and opportunities with our Training Programme, and enjoy welcoming new people onto the team and growing them in this positive industry.

We achieve more for people when we give more - that’s our personal motto.

Harcourts Coromandel Beaches thrives on being there for you.”

Dayle Candy - Harcourts, Whitianga.

David Frew - Harcourts, Whitianga

• 6,670 Sales Consultants internationally selling Residential, Commercial, Lifestyle and Rural.

• Specializing in Property Management, both residential and commercial rentals.

• Voted the most Trusted Brand in New Zealand for 11 years according to Readers Digest.

• $8,000,000 raised by the Harcourts Foundation in support of over 1220 charities.

Look for the blue book in our offices and in Countdown Whitianga or we can email it to you on-line.

The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024 67

A Christmas tale My friend doesn’t like the Christmas story. He vehemently objects to children participating in Christmas pageants. “It’s ridiculous,” he says. “As they grow, they will realise it’s a madeup, unbelievable story.” I know why he believes this. Using his no-nonsense logic, he reasons those who introduce children to such stories, or worse still, have them act out the story, in the long run, will do them more harm than good.

I love the Christmas story. I am a fan of the children’s Christmas presentations on the subject. I have organized many. My friend has never attended any of them. Friends don’t have to agree on all things. My friend never moves past the virgin birth. I don’t even think about that.

Here’s why I think this 2000-year-old story is joy to the world. This is not a creation myth. It is a story about ‘hope’ for the world; and it is not just to be viewed in the past tense. Its power is that it illuminates the present tense - every present tense - our present tense.

Think of the characters: A pregnant ‘out of wedlock’ teenage girl. This is the ultimate disgrace in many cultures and it used to be in ours.

Shepherds, the lowest rung of society, in the fields sleeping with their flock. This was a world-shaping event, but neither the scholars, nor the pious, nor the ultra-pious had any inkling.

The powerful, the movers and shakers of the day, totally missed it.

What about the setting?

The birth took place, unaided by midwives, in an animal shed.

What’s today’s equivalent? A woman giving birth in in the shell of a bombed building in Sudan, or a Rohingya woman in labour in the jungle in Myanmar?

Who was the first to recognize the importance of the Bethlehem birth?

Wise men yes, but wise men from another country. Their language, their sophisticated culture, quite different from Jewish life and wisdom. Wise men, star gazers, with a completely different culture and religion.

Clearly the children who dress up and perform Christmas pageants don’t understand this. In most cases, neither do their parents, nor the churches who organize these events.

But this story will stay with them for life. Maybe, one day its significance will dawn on them. It has taken years for the significance of the season to dawn on me.

Our society has other dress-up events for children. There is the increasingly popular Halloween with its scary costumes

68 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

BY STAN STEWART

and bags full of sweets. As the years pass, what will the dress ups and experiences of this festival mean to the children who participate in it? What is the ongoing meaning of this event.

What is its enduring message to the participating children.

Getting lots of sweets?

Then there are many children’s events which climax with the arrival of the jolly man dressed in red with a sack. I am not a fan. What message does he have for young hearts apart from ‘more is best’. I will never forget seeing a Santa who had to be rescued from a horde of pushing and shoving children who all wanted more of the candy in his sack.

In 2023 we face an uncertain future. Where can we find help? Where can we find hope? What does the 2000-year-old Christmas story say to us. Here’s a few of my thoughts.

• Help may come from an unexpected source. I have been thinking of Banksy’s painting of the uni-dropout, Steve Jobs, coming out of a ruined city holding an Apple Macintosh computer.

• The way out of, or through, our world dilemmas may not come from prestigious university graduates or hot-shot politicians. The insight we need may come from a person or persons living and working in a Bangladesh slum.

• It’s time to listen to other philosophies and religions. The insights imbedded in them may be vital for our survival.

Happy Christmas to all who read this. Happy Christmas to all the Christmas pageant producers and participants. Missed out on a Christmas pageant? Why not make your own with family and friends. Could be fun! Think about it!

From White House

The Mercury Bay Medical Centre on some nights is ablaze with light. It actually looks like a Light House. Perhaps it is in more way than one.

to Light House

BY PAULINE STEWART On Monday, July 3, 2023 at 6.30am, the new Mercury Bay Medical Centre opened. Thirty-four staff, both part time and full time, provide expert medical service and care from this brand-new Medical Centre at 83 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga.

Lorraine MacAllister, who is one of the Partner, along with Dan and Melanie Asquith, asserts the real advantages in finally having the team of seven doctors on the one site.

“The service we provide is so much more efficient with all the medicos, nursing staff, specialists and administration on one site, and it is so much easier for the patients to visit one centre. The second aspect is that our team has reunited and become so much closer as a team providing what the patients need. Working together in the one facility means we have daily contact and we have recognized that it has increased our effectiveness as a medical team. We are building on the collegial relationships that were not possible shifting between centres. This is a great strength of this Medical Centre.”

For all involved, the opening of the new Medical Centre was a culmination of years of visioning, the working out of many different viewpoints, detailed planning, investing and believing in the outcome. The whole community said, ‘Well done’ in a time of challenge for the Coromandel Peninsula.

Dr Dan Asquith as part of his speech on opening day, stated that, “The Centre has a nickname; it’s The Light House - we have moved from the White House to The Light House.” (A

large White House was one of the previous Medical Centres).

This is just the first stage of this development. Leigh Hopper and his team at Waterways have plans for Stage Two and Stage Three on the table.

The Partners who lead the Centre’s operations are very pleased for the doors to be open, especially for the busy summer approaching. It was all done on time, and so many residents have already made use of the Mercury Bay Medical Centre. It is so modern and streamlined, with many different consultation rooms. Everything is airy and clean and open. The town of Whitianga and the surrounding Mercury Bay will grow into this Centre and in ways we cannot yet see, this Centre will be the reason people live longer and stay forever in Whitianga.

Some non -medical matters requiring attention from local authorities: Residents of Cooks Beach and those crossing to Whitianga on the ferry, while very affirming of the Medical Centre, have expressed concern that it is not so accessible as the previous two Medical Centres have been. They fully understand the need for the new and more serviceable up-to-date facility, but the distance from the ferry is not easy walking for older citizens, and there isn’t a shuttle service or minibus.

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Savannah – on the Porsche team

BY PAULINE STEWART

Savannah is fifth generation from the Coromandel Peninsula.

She is the youngest of seven. She has six siblings, four older sisters and two older brothers. These days Savannah is a mechanic for Porsche and loving it.

“I think I have always had an interest in cars,” says Savannah.

“I liked to watch my older brother Arran work on his old Ford Falcons, Ford Cortinas and Ford Escorts. I liked cars. I didn’t really have anyone in my family to teach me, but I knew I wanted to learn. The ‘love’ for mechanics naturally followed.”

Savannah left school once she had her NCEA Level 2. She then completed an automotive engineering certificate through Unitec, replacing what would have been her Year 13.

By the time her friends had finished school, Savannah was in the

70 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

industry and had already started her apprenticeship.

“Initially the idea was to learn enough to do all the car basics on my own and not have to ask a boy to do it for me. But I quickly realised how much I enjoyed it,” says Savannah.

“I was given the opportunity through Unitec to apply for an apprenticeship with Continental Cars Porsche, I didn’t get it at first. They were however, willing to offer me work experience which I grabbed hold of. I am now a qualified Porsche technician.

"The opportunities with a company like Porsche is endless.

At 19, I was asked to fill in as a Service Advisor. Over the one and half years of doing this role, I learnt such a lot, especially the detail of how the service department works and the importance of every role for the department to run smoothly.

During this time period, my apprenticeship was put on hold.

I was, however, still able to work on cars, learning a different skill every day. I worked weekends as part of the pit crew during the Pirelli Porsche series racing season. To get the experience was fantastic. I am very fortunate the course I am doing involves travelling to the other side of the world. So far, I have had the opportunity to attend required training twice in Germany, to learn from the very best."

Savannah has just completed her fourth season of running

with the championships, winning Porsche 997 and 996 GT3 Cup Cars with LG Motorsport.

Growing up with Savannah - Older sister Jodie comments.

“Savannah was, and always has been, very beautiful! She had a very outgoing, adventurous, thrill-seeker, fun and bubbly personality. It was noticed early on that she had a drive and determination about her in all aspects of her life. Savannah actually surprised us all by wanting to be a mechanic, she was so beautiful and has the loveliest dainty hands and long fingers.

She was always raiding her older sisters wardrobes for high heels and hand bags as a seven year old. She loved pretty things. She even did some modelling for local photographers.

"If you were thinking of who would become a mechanic, Savannah would be your last choice. As I say that, I do remember she liked to play with the little matchbox cars. Yeah!

They were pink and purple ones.

As she got into teenage years, she started loving cars, especially when she could drive one herself!”

A predominantly male world - “I have learnt respect isn’t given, it’s earned. Yes, sexism is still very much present as I’m sure it would be in most trades. I am hopeful that we can work towards normalising women in these fields - seeing more woman in these roles. I am not good at advice but I

would say to other young women, 'go for it'. Follow those interests you have. You never know where it might lead you.

Don’t let anyone hold you back, including yourself.

"Our worst enemy is self-doubt. There have been countless times I’ve initially thought I couldn’t do something, then proceeded to prove myself wrong.

"There isn’t only one way to do something; there are many, and you just need to find the one that works for you and your abilities. I am grateful for our team at Continental cars as they’ve always been very supportive in helping me learn and grow my career.”

The future - “I think about the future all the time - about that next step. Currently my focus is completing the Porsche Classic Technician certification.

It is an incredible opportunity to learn and grow my knowledge on Porsche classic vehicles.

“The Coromandel Peninsula is a beautiful place to grow up and I’m so grateful to be able to call it home. My childhood was filled with outside adventures. I visit often as one of my family and friends live in the Whitianga and Coromandel area.”

Savannah’s closing thoughts for other young men and women, “Leave your home town to discover yourself and what opportunities are out there. You can always come back. When you come back, you will be able to give back more.”

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The young couple who found Guthrie Bowron Whitianga

BY PAULINE STEWART

Julian and Rachael Lee came to live in Mercury Bay in 2007.

An acquaintance they had met on a visit to Matarangi had said to them, “If you like Matarangi, have a look at Whitianga.”

They did, and after quite a few twists and turns the result was the purchase of a Guthrie Bowron store, then situated in Blacksmith Lane.

To the locals, Julian and Rachael were the ‘young Asian couple’ who looked as if they were straight out of school.

“Wow! We had never done retail and we had never employed anyone, we had never owned a business” says Rachael. Their new business had three part-time staff plus Rachael and Julian.

Fast forward to 2023, and 16 years on, Julian and Rachael are at the helm of their Guthrie Bowron store being the highest performing, largest GB store in the country. They have a team of specialists in Paint, Wallpaper, Flooring including tiles and curtains and blinds. Julian also established a separate business in 2016, Outdoors Covered, selling patio roof systems and exterior blinds and awnings. After one year as the owners, Julian and Rachael and their team won their first national award and have continued winning awards annually. They currently employ 16 people and engage about six contractors.

The journey Julian gained a fine arts degree from Auckland University and then spent two years in graphics and print design before he began to look around for something more hands-on and creative. He took on a building apprenticeship and became a qualified carpenter. Rachael’s study was in architecture. For eight years, she worked for a mixture of high-volume architect firms. This meant long days, constant pressure and a high expectation to perform with little relief. “I am very thorough and a perfectionist but also a workaholic. “My right hand got in trouble - I couldn’t close it, roll the mouse or hold a pen and had to stop working.

I thought it was occupational overuse syndrome from CAD drawing but now I realise the negative company environment was a likely trigger”. At the time, Julian was building their home in Titirangi and not being one to sit around, Rachael donned a toolbelt and became the hammer-hand. “After a few months helping Julian, I got my mojo and hand function back,” says Rachael.

In 2005, building in this area was booming and our initial plan was to become a design and build team. That plan was not to be, given the impact architectural work had on my hand. However, owning and running a retail decorating business was a real possibility.

“When we started, we introduced ourselves to the team and were straight with them that we valued their experience - please show us the ropes. We listened to the staff and to the tradies, asking what they wanted from us. We listened to other

72 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

franchise owners and were like sponges, excited and driven to not do it half-pie”.

Julian laughs “In the beginning, the plan was that this was going to be Rachael’s business to run, and I would help her get the business off the ground for six months, then go back to building.” That didn’t really happen. When we came it was more like a hardware store, mostly paint and tiles. We had lot of general awareness and brand recognition to build. We learnt about measuring and laying flooring by asking local floor layers to show us. It helped that we understood construction and reading plans.

The new store Those first five years were during the 2008 global financial crisis, and it was really hard slog. Construction trades people were leaving Whitianga for the Australian mines. Those years were spent learning the industry, instigating systems, building relationships, forming a strong team, gaining a reputation and then the growth came.

The last big change came in 2017 when we moved from the Blacksmith Lane store to new premises on Joan Gaskell Drive.

This was a new build, purpose built. “The developers provided the shell,” says Jules, “and a few offices, toilets and kitchen, but we designed the layout of the space and refit of all the store walls and displays working in the evenings and on weekends, to save costs. With this space, we now have an on-site warehouse with a cutting floor and a professional, functional and beautiful showroom.”

What matters: Jules and Rachael are proud that they have turned this GB into an award-winning store but more than that; they are proud of their team. Their team are like their family.

“We have had to learn how to become leaders, about management and building solid relationships. The bigger we have grown; we have had to let go and trust our people.

Our flooring, curtains and paint teams have the capability and responsibility to make things run.

They take ownership and Jody, our store manager, and I, provide team support and overall management. We look for the right person who fits and then train in the skills.”

“I have always remembered that negative experience from Auckland and never want our employees to feel that way. We can have a beautiful showroom, quality suppliers, and great tradespeople, but without the right people on your side, it can easily fall down.”

This couple are passionate and intentional in: - making the shop a part of the community; growing a reputation based on

quality of product and service; having a team that breathes the right culture and supports each other; building trust and confidence in their relationship with customers.

Initiating community projects and supporting causes and events has been the natural thing to do for the Guthrie Bowron team. The annual Christmas Gifting by Giving tree project started 9 years ago. People love to take a tag off the tree on which is written what one child or household needs; they go and buy a gift fitting that need and place it around the tree. A week before Christmas, many, many gifts are ready for delivery.

This project brings out the best in people and provides families with things they need in the spirit of love.

Other sponsored projects are the Whitianga Bike Park, Mercury Bay Art Escape, The Whitianga Marathon, Skate School, College productions, sports clubs and many volunteer organisations/events. “When people come and talk to us about their project or need, we try and work out practical ways we can help.” Julian volunteers as an officer with the Whitianga Fire Service or sometimes you’ll find him helping maintain tracks in the bike park.

Flexibility in unprecedented times Still young in business, Julian and Rachael have seen their share of challenges but they remain, ‘glass is always half full’ people. “We focus on what is controllable which is obviously not recessions, Covid and broken roads,” says Rachael. “The ability to be decisive, empathetic, think outside the square - to be able to pivot and do things differently is crucial.” An example: - “Kimberley Leckie is one of our drapery consultants.

She is Coromandel town born and raised, is very good at her job and loves it. However, daily travel for two years to work in Whitianga took its toll. The way to support longevity of a

Above: The Guthrie Bowron team - Back: Allan Nicholson, Ange Price, Georgia Teklenburg, Andrew Mullins, Emily Johnston, Ginny Walker. Front: Pam Tarrant-Hoskins, Debbie MacDonald, Karmen Hoar, Rachael Lee, Julian Lee, Jody Costello, Lesley Yeoman. Missing: Jessie Mort-Begley, Kimberley Leckie, Steve Barclay.

Right: Kimberley Leckie.

valued person in this case was, “Why don’t we put a van on the road with samples? Kimberley, you can work from the Coromandel side.” Kimberley is now set up with her van, consulting Coromandel, Whangapoua, Matarangi through to Opito and she comes over once a week, connecting with the store in Whitianga.

“This flexibility is a daily essential for both of us and part of our business resilience toolbox,” says Rachael.

“We will portray to our best ability, that small town Whitianga can produce product and service equivalent to the cities and that Mercury Bay is a great place to come for community life. We believe it, because that’s what we did.”

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Untapped potential for services FROM GRANT BACON - BARRIER AIR

The Summer is looking to be drier and warmer and more stable. There is a confidence that there will not be repeat of the summer of early 2023. This means Barrier Air will be busy with flights in and out of Whitianga.

Grant Bacon, Chief Executive officer of Barrier Air says “We are very committed to being here. Even on a quiet day, we are still moving a good number of people in and out of Whitianga. But we need consistency to make the service more frequent. If we got an all-weather runway, we would confidently add more flights and services. The services we could provide to the Mercury Bay area untapped.” When Barrier Air made the business decision to add Whitianga to its routes, it was a decision that took investment in aircraft as well as the GPS equipment needed for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) flying to make sure that their flights could land in the more inclement weather in the Mercury Bay. Although no aircraft can land in all conditions with instrumentation, they can still land without the visibility dependencies of VFR. However, instrumentation has not been Barrier’s main issue with the Whitianga service. The showstopper is the lack of an all-weather runway which is stifling the opportunities with the airline - the passengers, freight movers and the faithful shuttle service (Whiti City Cabs) which still must navigate the vulnerable and often unreliable roads when the planes cannot land.

According to Grant Bacon, regarding the heavy rainfall and extended inclement weather, Barrier Air had virtually no

74 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

cancellations on their Great Barrier Island, Tauranga and Kaitaia services which all have sealed runways, and all had experienced virtually the same very wet and stormy conditions as Mercury Bay. Mayor of Thames Coromandel District Council, Len Salt, said, “Sealing the runway does make a lot of sense from a number of perspectives, for emergency connectivity, in the event of a natural disaster that cuts off Whitianga and surrounds long term, to business opportunities that would come out of increased numbers of visitors arriving by air.

Evan Wheeler, Aero Club President says that the Aero Club is committed to driving such a project from their end, but the feasibility study alone will $90-100K, a project not manageable on their own for the 160-member club. He adds that the Aero Club would seal at least one runway tomorrow if they could, but it comes down to funding.

Progress Achieved: Grant Bacon adds that the Mercury Bay Aero Club have done a fantastic job cultivating and re-seeding one side of the runway which has improved things greatly. “The club have now re-seeded the second runway, and that runway can be used in a few months. Hopper’s drainage development work at the side of the airstrip has been extremely beneficial.”

Meanwhile, the Mercury Bay community is investigating a number of options to fund the feasibility study and make the runway a reality in the near term. Whatever the result of the study, there is the need for the government to spend the money to create the kind of all-weather runway needed in Whitianga.

Two Regional New home Gold Medal Awards, Regional Environmental and Sustainable Excellence Award, Regional Smart Home Award, Two national Top 100 home awards When the registered Master Builders House of the Year Regional Winners were announced in August 2023 in Auckland, Richard and Hannah Warwick, owners of HAMR Home, Whitianga, and their building team and clients, were stars of the night. Their company, HAMR Home, won four awards. The judging region is huge - Auckland, Northland and Coromandel.

“This was our tenth year entering House of the Year and we feel really proud that every year we have entered, we have had a consistent ‘Gold’ standard for our homes, no matter what the budget is,” says Richard. Hannah and I are very focused on providing the best experience possible for our customers.

Our building crews, led by Dan and Mac, right through to our subcontractors and suppliers make this possible. We have won Gold for the two categories we entered.”

Resene New Homes $2m to $4m category - Gold Award and top 100 - This 512sqm beauty on Cook Drive is built and designed with an eye on future climate and weather conditions.

Judges comments referred to the fact that the home has sustainability front-of-mind. The electronic features are well thought through to make life easy for the homeowners giving them the ability to control almost everything in the house, from anywhere, with a mobile phone.

Carters New Homes $1 million -$1.5 million - Gold Award and top 100 - This three-bedroom, two-bathroom home is situated on the south-east side of the Whitianga Waterways. This contemporary build is clad in materials that tie into the natural

setting: plaster and cedar and an asphalt shingle roof.

“To win the Gold medals for our builds is amazing, but to get the Smart Home Award and the Environmental Award is an extra achievement and it’s awesome.”

HAMR Home has also made it through to the top 100 houses in New Zealand. “That’s not a given just because you win an award for your region,” says Richard. “You are compared with all the other award winners nationally. Now the whole 100 houses will get rejudged for the national awards.

Two judges go right round the whole country to look at the homes. They will come to Whitianga to judge the two winning homes on 4 October (2023). Not many companies have two homes in the national judging.

In talking about his construction methods Richard says, “It can’t be just rush, rush, rush and pump it out. Sure you must make a profit, but we have to walk away feeling proud of what we have done. I need to stand by our houses for ten years as a licensed Building Practitioner and Master Builder. We research a lot before we come up with any design,” says Richard. “We use New Zealand companies as much as possible and we also use all local contractors and suppliers where possible. When we specify a product, we check on the stock and buy in advance to secure that stock.

As to the future: “I’m really proud of our team and what we have achieved,” says Richard. “The team puts up with me being fussy, but they are fussy as well. We feel inspired to keep up our standard in high quality work. It is very rewarding for our staff and our clients. The sense that we are doing some of the best work in the country; that’s such a good feeling.”

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Terrific Tairua Tairua History Trail

You can learn about the long and fascinating history of Tairua while enjoying a pleasant walk around the town, thanks to Tairua History Trail.

The settlement’s timber industry is included in the 24 plaques on this trail, which was created by Tairua Heritage Society. Motorists crossing Tairua’s one-lane Pepe Bridge may be unaware that it was first erected in 1911 by six men over a period of six weeks! The bridge was widened in 1926 and the present reinforced concrete bridge was built in 1943.

The trail also features the colourful history of the Sir George Grey hotel, which was licensed from 1890. An important historical find was a small Polynesian fish-lure that is dated to be one of the oldest artefacts ever found in New Zealand.

Other sites featured on the history trail include a cinema, a dairy factory, a cow-shed that was later turned into a crafts shop and the old cemetery when people were buried from the late 1860’s. Pop in to Tairua Information Centre for a map of the trail. This includes precious photos of Tairua’s past.

BY PAM FERLA

heron, has been known to grace the area in the past (and it was witnessed raiding a nearby resident’s goldfish pond!)

The site of Tairua’s original hotel was by the estuary on Pepe Road, near the canopy of a pohutukawa that presents a stunning show of blooms around Christmas time and also offers dappled shade. Historical records show this hotel was licensed from 1890 and was known as the Sir George Grey Hotel from 1892.

Those enjoying this lovely area include wedding couples and it is not uncommon to spot them and their guests enjoying the relaxed setting as they say their vows. Pepe Estuary is also a popular spot for locals to swim or simply wallow, chat and cool down in the warmer months.

Rock enthusiasts have been known to find pieces of kauri gum at low tide following storms.

Tairua community hall constructed in 1932, seen here in 1961.

Sculptures Pepe Estuary, a gem of Tairua A place for families to swim, kayak, picnic and relax, with easy parking and cafes nearby.

Motorised vessels are prohibited in this area, which is a big safety factor for families. Manager of Tairua Information and Services Centre, Eve Roper, says the estuary is a firm favourite with families that have young children. “That’s because it’s a safe haven for them to play in shallow water in view of their parents.”

Older children love the opportunity to skim along the expanse of water on their boards. Pepe Estuary is also a popular area with kayakers, who may venture westward up the river after exploring the estuary. Small row boats are another opportunity for fun in the estuary. A couple of barbecue tables on Pepe Reserve are handy for family gatherings.

The shoreline is access to the Pepe Loop Walk, a peaceful circular walk of about 1.5 kilometres past Pacific Harbour Villas and skirting Tairua’s popular golf course. This flat walk offers a different view of Tairua and the opportunity to spot birds such as herons, banded rails and fern birds, and maybe hear the distinctive boom of a bittern. A magnificent kotutu, white 76 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

Pepe Reserve is enhanced with sculptures by Judith Elliot, which depict stylised nikau forms inspired by, and reflective of, the beautiful natural bush environment on the Coromandel Peninsula. They can also be seen as sail forms representing the importance of the ocean and seafaring to the community.

Installed in 2009, the sculptures are made from high fired stoneware clay and stainless steel, with Tairua Steelcraft helping with the construction of the stainless steel ‘sails’.

After a pleasant afternoon by the Pepe, it is only a stone's throw to nearby cafes, with Ocean Beach, Tairua Marina and the distinctive shape of volcanic Mount Paku adding to the charms of this unique holiday spot named two tides Tairua.

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PAHI COASTAL TRAIL FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY 78 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

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Air Show over Buffalo Beach for 75th Birthday

BY BILL BEARD • FOREWORD BY SUZANNE HANSEN

Yak formation team from Pauanui.

MBAC member David Cranna's Extra ZK-XLA

The Mercury Bay Aero Club Inc. was formally established on 1 October 1948, and the Club (MBAC) will celebrate the event in style for the whole community, on Whitianga’s Buffalo Beach, Labour Weekend of 20-23 October 2023.

Three feature events 1. A Jubilee Sea Food Dinner on Saturday evening, 21 October in the Aero Club’s Main Hangar/Function centre at the Airport. (Limited spaces) 2. Air Show. On Sunday morning between 10.00am1200pm an Air Show over Mercury Bay (off Buffalo Beach) will be staged, which will be free to the public. This will be professionally organized by New Zealand Warbirds under their NZ CAA approvals, utilizing airspace some 200M-500M off the beach. The show will feature the NZ Warbirds Roaring Forty’s

80 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

Skydivers

Harvards and NZ’s Red Stars ‘nine ship’ formation aerobatic team and displays by several other Warbird, vintage and MBAC members aircraft which will follow the format of the NZ Warbirds Open Day displays at Ardmore.

Organiser leading the 75th celebration project, Bill Beard, says that they have a few more quality acts coming on board including the WW2 P51 Mustang and P40 Kittyhawk. In his words, “We will have an excellent show for everyone.”

3. Open Day. The Buffalo Beach Display will be followed by an Aero Club “Open Day” at the airfield from 1200 – 4.00pm where all participating airshow aircraft will be on static display, and many will be available for joy rides. “We are expecting a good crowd at the airfield continued on page 82... in the afternoon,” says Bill.

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Air Show over Buffalo Beach for 75th Birthday cont.. ...continued from page 82

“We are hoping to also have on display, all our Club Members aircraft numbering in the order of 65+ aircraft.

With the urban sprawl of residential housing around and adjacent to the aerodrome, the Aero Club is unable to meet NZ CAA safe clearance requirements to stage public air displays over the Airfield and be able to collect admission fees to cover costs. This prompted the Buffalo Beach public Chipmunk from NZWB open day display, with the support of Thames Coromandel District Council and Mercury Bay Business Association the organising team are hard at work sourcing sponsorship funding from local businesses, to make this a spectacular and unique event to attract holiday homeowners and visitors and get Whitianga buzzing for the long holiday weekend. As the Summer Magazine goes to print, the work for sponsoring continues.

Bill Beard says they are needing to raise $25-30,000.00 to fund the positioning of display aircraft from around the country to Whitianga and display flying.

Mercury Bay Aero Club Inc. Bill Beard Mobile. 021 864 141 IMAGES BY GAVIN CONROY

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50

years of Bayleys

Bayleys is a great New Zealand success story that is nationally recognised.

Four years ago, brothers John and David Bayley were inducted into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame after 46 years as partners with Bayley Corporation Limited.

This story began when John Bayley returned home to New Zealand from working in the mines and drilling rigs in Australia and established Bayleys Real Estate with his father, Graham, and Mother, Pam in 1973, using the family home in Pakuranga as their first registered office. It was a small beginning- a three-person company consisting of Graham, John, and Pam - That was fifty years ago. Second son, David, joined the family business the following year.

In 2023, Bayleys remains proudly and wholly New Zealand, owned and operated, Karl Davis, Chris Bayley and Shaun Paterson. and stands tall as a market leader in a competitive industry.

There are now over 2,200 employed across the country in more than 100 offices.

The recent expansion and changes for Bayleys

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BY PAULINE STEWART

on the Coromandel Peninsula is a part of that success story.

Just last year, Mary Walker, owner of Bayleys Thames and Bayleys Whitianga, handed over the reins to Bayley family member, Chris Bayley, real estate professional, Shaun Paterson and Bayleys Coromandel shareholder, Karl Davis. Chris Bayley says, “Mary did an outstanding job building and cementing the Bayleys brand throughout the Coromandel. Whitianga has become one of the agency’s most successful provincial locations and we are building on that across the Coromandel.”.

Just this year, Bayleys succeeded in opening Bayleys Whangamata and Bayleys Tairua - making it office No. 100 and 101 in New Zealand. There are now four offices across the peninsula with 45 Bayleys staff serving the community.

These three are quite the team, bringing together an enormous amount and range of combined experience and quality of reputation across the entire sector of real estate.

Chris Bayley is the younger brother of Bayleys founder, John Bayley. He has been working in the family business since the 1980s – establishing the company’s South Auckland office, selling real estate, and managing various commercial property teams at the company’s head office as a well as travelling in Asia and Australia promoting New Zealand property and cementing relations with the vast number of offshore clients Bayleys has built up over the last 40 years.

Now Chris is finally working in Mercury Bay. “As a family we have

been holidaying on the Coromandel for nearly 25 years. We were always keen to make a permanent move to Whitianga. It was nice to be able to leave Auckland but be close enough to travel back occasionally. I have been in this business for 45 years. I have never known anything else; it’s my second nature. But now I am working harder than I was before and I got more fishing done when I was working in Auckland. How did that happen?” Chris laughs, “I love it here, its home. We are a team. It’s a people game. We have a great sense of community. Bayleys is a part of that and committed to growing that.”

Shaun Paterson has returned to his hometown. After graduating with a Bachelor of Property from Auckland University, he joined Bayleys in 2004 and enjoyed five years as a Commercial and Industrial broker working on a broad variety of sales and leasing projects. Then in 2011, Shaun relocated to the United Kingdom to take up a role with Cushman & Wakefield, one of the world’s largest commercial real estate companies, and at that time, Bayleys global alliance partner. In 2019 he joined the UK LLP becoming one of the firm's youngest Equity Partners.

Shaun's heart always belonged where he grew up, and in 2021, he returned home to Whitianga with his wife Laura and daughter Amélie as a Director of Bayleys Coromandel. Shaun’s dad, Garry Paterson was one of the first staff when the Whitianga office opened in 1999. He shows me a document with his dad’s handwriting from June of that year, when he sold a property in Jackman Avenue, Whitianga. The first deal done by Bayleys after opening says Shaun.

Karl Davis knows country property. Since joining the industry in 2005, Karl has been a consistent top 5% achiever of Bayleys agents nationwide and is one of Bayleys top rural agents. His affinity with country land comes from growing up on a farm on the Hauraki Plains and that affinity has served his clients well. Karl

was just awarded the number 1 rural real estate salesperson in New Zealand by the REINZ, for the second year running.

“We are very invested in the Coromandel,” says Shaun of their team. “We have got a strong local connection and we are expanding despite the recent weather and infrastructure challenges on the Peninsula. Bayleys are here for the long term.

Relationships matter to us. Service matters to us. Results matter to us. Our business model is founded on trust, reliability, discretion and the desire to transcend our clients’ expectations at every stage of the real estate process.”

Chris adds, “We have a great team out in the field and excellent office staff. We are proud to sponsor a number of Peninsula- wide projects and community causes. It’s a pleasure to help make them a success. Bayleys’ people share the genuine family values that the business was founded on in the 1970s. It started with Pam, Graham, and John Bayley in 1973, and it still lives on today.

“We are just getting started,” says Shaun, and we’re proud to help drive a business which enjoys all the benefits of being a local, family-owned franchise within a New Zealand, family-owned brand!”

The Whitianga Bayleys team.

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Sir Keith Park - He saved the world

"He never failed at any task he was given" Chief of Air Staff Sir Stephen Dalton, 2010 Sir Keith Park is a New Zealander, born in Thames.

Keith Park saved the WORLD from Nazi domination. “If any one man won the Battle of Britain, he did. I do not believe it is realised how much that one man, with his leadership, his calm judgement and his skill, did to save not only our country but the world. “Lord Tedder, Chief of the Royal Air Force, 1947 In early September 1940 Britons steeled themselves for the German invasion that now seemed imminent. As Royal Air Force (RAF) Fighter Command found itself on the verge of defeat, Air Vice-Marshal Keith Park had to contend with a distracting disagreement over tactics.

Faced with multiple raids and little time to deploy his units, he had scrambled single squadrons to make interceptions. Their success depended on rapidly reaching the optimum altitude to attack the oncoming Luftwaffe bombers or to defend themselves from escorting fighters. This approach helped Park's No. 11 Group break up or disrupt many of the raids before they reached their targets.

Unbelievably, after this victory high ranking jealousies led to him being demoted.

However, later he was sent to Malta to take charge of the RAF in that location. Previous to his arrival Malta was the most bombed location in the war. Within weeks of his arrival Park’s tactics reversed the German subjugation of Malta. Forces based in Malta once again controlled the sea lanes to North Africa. In doing this Park’s forces cut Rommel’s fuel supply line for his tanks in North Africa. Park’s leadership and tactics with his fighter squadrons contributed greatly to the Allied victory in North Africa.

In February 1945 Park assumed command of the Allied air forces in South-East Asia Command. Once again he immediately improved the morale and effectiveness of the units under his command. His unit supplied stores and on a previously unprecedented scale, to the British 14th Army advancing through the jungles of Burma.

Never has such an outstanding New Zealand leader been overlooked by so many and known by so few. Sir Keith Park was a man of unparalleled strategic and tactical genius, and with foresight 86 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

BY STAN STEWART

in aviation. Keith Park had no taste for politics in the middle of a crisis, and as mentioned above it cost him his job.

What Winston Churchill later called ‘. . . jealousy and cliques…’ led to Park being discredited and demoted. Despite this unjust treatment after he had assured the Battle of Britain

victory, Park went on to deliver others in Malta and in Asia.

In our hi-tech world there is much we can learn today from Sir Keith Park. For instance in his understanding of systems and the use of systems. In the hierarchical and bureaucracy-riddled 1940’s Park anticipated the value of blending multiple information sources shared across multiple locations (networks!) to make best use of the shared sense experience of everyone in the system, and of those whose lives depended on it. Using the analogue resources of the day Park created an interactive and open-loop physical network linking thousands of people in hundreds of locations without pause.

Data, decisions and results were continuously exchanged for 24 hours in real time—and in minutes. The system, and Park’s use of it, saved Britain.

And of enormous value to our contemporary world is Park’s example of leadership. Park viewed personal failure as a failure of leadership, not failure by those who provided the data for this network or for those who had to make decisions based on it. He would not allow anyone to see themselves negatively-or to be so treated by those who preferred criticism to engagement. Park’s contempt was reserved for those who thought that humiliation and rote learning brought results.

Park’s leadership principles are evergreen. In our age of digital networks we believe they can motivate young New Zealanders to work out what leadership means for them, and how to best exercise it to deliver their aspirations for our country.

Park influenced modern civil aviation which led to the creation of Auckland International Airport in it’s present location. He was an environmentalist whose advocacy saved the Hauraki Gulf from pollution. His humanity and sensitivity changed the lives of underprivileged children, and to those afflicted with blindness and epilepsy. For the above and for many other reasons we want to remember Keith Park forever.

Look up this video clip for highlights of Sir Keith Park’s leadership qualities, expressed through the whole of his life: https://youtube.com/watch?v=bsHQuhLg1KE&feature=share In his book “The Most Dangerous Enemy” Stephen Bungay said: “What Park achieved in the Battle of Britain is in itself enough to place him amongst the great commanders of history. But his performance in 1940 was not a one-off.

In 1942 in Malta, Park took the offensive and turned Kesselring’s defeat into a rout. After that, he directed the air operations that enabled Slim to expel the Japanese from Burma.

He was adept at offence as he was at defence, and, like Wellington, he never lost a battle.’ He is without rival, the greatest fighter commander in the short history of air warfare”.

Geoff Furkert, President, Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield Inc, and Chair of the Thames Battle of Britain Commemorations has been invited to Malta mid-September to participate in two memorial events to recognise all RAF who served in Malta in World War 2. He will have the opportunity to speak about ACM Sir Keith Park and lay a wreath in his honour.

This is not only a fantastic personal honour for Geoff, but a great boost for the Sir Keith Park Memorial Project at the Thames Airfield.

"It is poignant that people on the other side of the world acknowledge and honour Sir Keith for his inspirational leadership and role model qualities when so little is done for him in his home country.” Says Geoff.

NOW: The Response, A Project: Look Skywards Memorial Park The aim of the ‘Look Skywards’ memorial is to capture Sir Keith Park’s memory and to commend his evergreen principles to Kiwis young and old, our contemporaries and those yet to come.

Looking Skywards Success with Stage One - Already in place: The Thames Project: The Sir Keith Park Memorial at the Thames Airport already has a replica, of a full- size replica of Park’s personalised Hurricane Fighter. It is an eye-catching memorial. ‘Look Skywards’ fundraising began in October 2019 on the initiative and support of members of the Thames Lions Club – Michael and Christine Kemp – Battle of Britain survivors. The Hurricane replica costing UK £39,000 was erected in Thames for the Battle of Britain Commemorations on 13 September 2020. A total of NZ $220,000 was raised - approximately one third from the Kemp family, a third from Thames and regional donors, and the balance by way of goods and services from national and local businesses. The project was initiated, executed and delivered – including fund raising - in ten months from a standing start.

Still to come: Stage Two - An inspiring statue of Sir Keith Our Ask: We are inviting you to contribute to the $335,000 needed to complete Stage Two of the Sir Keith Park tribute Look Skywards.

Stage Two: A life-sized 2.3 metre bronze statue of Park in his flying uniform will be mounted on a plinth under the Hurricane, with landscaping, lighting, permanent placards featuring Sir Keith’s achievements, and a wall for donor recognition plaques.

In our age of digital networks we believe that Sir Keith Park can motivate young New Zealanders to work out what leadership means for them, and how to best exercise it to deliver their aspirations for our country.

History does, after all, have something to offer them.

The Tribute - and Our Ask; We are inviting you to contribute to the $335,000 needed to complete Stage Two of the Sir Keith Park tribute ‘Look Skywards’. See below for details.

Donations

The vehicle for Look Skywards is Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield Inc., which has charitable status Bank Account Name: Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield Inc. Bank Account Number: 38-9022-0151185 – 00 Charitable Registration: CC60152 Contact: - Geoff Furkert FEngNZ President, Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield Inc. Chairman, Thames Battle of Britain Commemorations E: geoff.furkert@xtra.co.nz M: 021 833 044

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STAY ON THE COROMANDEL

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TOP NOTCH CATHEDRAL COVE at Hot Water Beach

BY PAULINE STEWART

BY PAULINE STEWART

Hospitality Awards for Excellence ensure businesses nationwide are recognised for their commitment to the hospitality industry. The awards in Auckland earlier this year saw the Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park awarded with the best mid-scale Accommodation Award for 2023.

Sheree and Grant Webster are the proud owner/operators with Tim Bright as their proud Marketing Manager.

The category won, recognises excellence in Mid-Scale accommodation (3-4 Stars). “The judges were looking for an accommodation offer that delivers an exceptional experience for their guests, exceeding their expectations,” says Tim. This is not the first time that Sheree and Grant have won an award. The Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park is a multiaward winning destination. It was established by Grant and Sheree in 2008. They purchased a plant nursery that was up for sale and began the huge job of creating a beautiful holiday park with nine levels of accommodation options to suit any holiday maker Tim (Marketing Manager) and Sheree with a vast array of (co-owner) proudly with the Award on site at facilities, events and the Holiday Park amenities found nowhere else on the Coromandel Peninsula.

It was a very quiet year since the devastating cyclones of January and the close of the Cathedral Cove from 9 February.

Sheree and Grant both expressed their frustration at the lack of communication from local authorities about the Cathedral Cove track. However, they are focussing on what they can offer and the many other attractions they can promote. Hot Water Beach is in their front yard. This team will give all domestic and international guests superb accommodation and a very wonderful holiday, whatever time of year. https://www.hotwaterbeachtop10.co.nz/about Ph: 07 866 3116 ext 3

Cathedral Cove was donated by Vaughan and Dawn Harsant to the people of New Zealand so that all could enjoy its unspoilt beauty and that it would never be subdivided or built on.”

Vaughan was the unofficial Mayor of Hahei with his leading the building of the village and the way he led local planning. He knew Cathedral Cove as the jewel in the Hahei crown.

It is the jewel in the Coromandel Peninsula’s crown and one of the jewels in New Zealand’s crown.

How did this gift come about? How does someone own something like Cathedral Cove? In short, no one does own the actual structure of the Cathedral shaped, white ignimbrite rock, but the 88 acres along the beach front and surrounding hills were purchased by Vaughan’s father in 1915 from Robert Wigmore who had purchased it in the 1870s. The land had been abandoned and unoccupied since 1818 when Ngapuhi came and almost wiped out the Ngati Hei people. They called Cathedral Cove Te Whanganui-A-Hei (The Great Bay of Hei) The few who were left fled to other parts of Mercury Bay. They were descendants of Hei Te Arawa.

The donating of Cathedral Cove in 1969 was a victory for Vaughan and his family. He had to persuade the government to accept the gift of 88 acres of coastland as recreation reserve.

Today we know that reserve as Cathedral Cove. It was a gift to the people of New Zealand from someone who believed nature’s treasures should be shared in perpetuity.

But for this Summer, though the jewel still shines, it can be admired and enjoyed only from the water or from the beach, not close up and personal. The track is closed due to the last section - the stairs leading down to the beach - having collapsed combined with a rockfall on 9 February. As far as DoC is concerned, they do not have any timeline or stated plan to reinstate those stairs, referring to their concern of many slips, threats of slips, and the likelihood of serious injury from rock falls. Their message is, “We strongly encourage you NOT to walk the track.” The same goes for the beach. It cannot be made an offence; however, their warning is clear.

According to the Harsant family legend, it took some effort to convince officialdom to accept the gift and that people would walk over the hill from Hahei to Cathedral Cove. Over 200,00 people every year have been proving the Harsant point by making the short tramp to the beach accessing one of Coromandel’s outstanding features, but this year it will be a rather deserted carpark and track. Local businesses are devastated and who can blame them? There is so much more to see in that area apart from Cathedral Cove. Check Out the Macadamia Orchard at Hahei and the Hot Water Beach Top Ten Holiday Park in this magazine.

We hope visitors and locals alike will take advantage of the many boat charter operations, even a Banana Boat ride to see the jewel to which the wider community looks forward to having access returned.

Portions of the history contained in this editorial were from an article by Roy Burke, titled, “Hahei ‘Mayor’ gave Crown its jewel that appeared in The Bay Beacon some time after 2007.

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Living

FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY 90 The Mercury Bay Informer Summer Magazine 2023/2024

del an m

he Coro t n o

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Life is simple

JUST ADD

WATER

For retirement in such a destination, Marlin Waters offers just that that at Whitianga Waterways. Designed for active retirees, this enclave provides residents with access to their own private beach, a boat ramp, and a one-of-a-kind floating clubhouse.

The last waterfront villas are currently available, and the message is clear: "just add water" to your retirement dreams.

While the community faces economic challenges during the SH25 road rebuild, Whitianga Waterways has stood steadfast in its commitment to the area's growth. Director and Shareholder, Leigh Hopper, understands the importance of private company initiatives and investments in bolstering the community's resilience. Hopper states, "Our commitment is unwavering, and our goal is to enhance the potential of this unique destination. The environment and amenities speak volumes, and we are dedicated to supporting those who wish to call this place home in pursuit of a better lifestyle."

This clever messaging from Whitianga Waterways lives in the full sense of the word, a place where the essence of living on the water comes to life. Whitianga Waterways has perfected the art of waterfront living, and it's not just a dream; it's a reality for hundreds of property owners who have embraced this idyllic coastal haven. In the pursuit of a fulfilling lifestyle, we often find ourselves juggling various tasks and responsibilities. But when it comes to ensuring that every aspect of your physical environment contributes to your enjoyment, there's no better choice than residing in the stunning Coromandel haven that is Whitianga Waterways.

Whitianga Waterways offers a destination that's truly hard to rival. Nestled within the heart of Whitianga, this canal development boasts a diverse range of sections, from waterfront properties to non-waterfront ones. The meticulously planned project ensures that the essence of the lifestyle is maximised in every element. Residents are never far from a waterways beach, a serene park reserve, or a convenient boat ramp.

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In July of this year, Whitianga Waterways proudly unveiled a purpose-built medical facility, now home to the local doctors of Mercury Bay Medical. Additionally, two new buildings are nearing completion, one will welcome kiwi retail favourite Hunting and Fishing to Whitianga, and Dockside, offering a one-of-a-kind café experience accessible by foot, car or boat.

The future promises even more exciting developments for this area, so stay tuned for updates by visiting their website at www.whitiangawaterways.co.nz.

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A Lifeline On The 309

BY CHLOE SKEGGS - AUCKLAND RESCUE HELICOPTER TRUST On the morning of Easter Sunday 2001, Owen Spooner drove an articulated truck down the 309 Road, transporting an 18-tonne load. The 22-kilometre gravel route winds its way atop cliffs and steep banks from Whitianga to Coromandel township.

“Trucks no longer use this road,” says Owen, “But at the time it was the most direct route.” As he turned a left bend, he was “I asked a bystander to call my wife. They rang her and told met suddenly by a car approaching head on and “travelling her I’d gone off the road, but I was fine, so my wife had no idea way too fast”. He was forced to brake abruptly to avoid a how serious it was until the Police showed up at our door.” collision.

Owen recalls being loaded into the ambulance, then he “I stopped for probably four seconds. But then the back blacked out. His next memory is being transferred into the carriage began to slide and because I was on the edge of the helicopter. Although unable to move, he doesn’t remember road, the truck slipped off and rolled down the bank.” feeling pain. What concerned him was how difficult it was to It flipped one and a half times landing on its side. On impact, breathe. the passenger door flung open and threw Owen out of the “That was the scary thing.” In hospital, he was diagnosed cab. He landed just millimetres below the truck on the bank. As with a punctured lung, along with eight broken ribs, fractured he came to, Owen remembers being unable to move. The truck vertebrae, concussion, and a torn knee tendon so bad that could slip further at any moment, crushing him in the process. it pulled the bone with it. Owen has no doubt that being Luckily for him, a bystander who heard the crash came to transported to hospital by helicopter saved his life. see what happened. “I remember him saying, ‘I’m sorry mate Twelve months after the accident, Owen drove the route but I’m going to have to move you.’” The Fire Brigade and St that almost took his life. He has a remarkably pragmatic and John responded first. One of the paramedics happened to be positive outlook.

Owen’s friend.

“Things turned out well for me,” he says. Today, Owen enjoys His injuries were internal so, aside from slipping in and out his retirement with his wife and family. “I was very lucky to of consciousness, he appeared deceptively well to those at survive and also to not sustain any long-term injuries. I’m the scene. forever grateful.”

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The Hot Water Beach Radar Station

– known officially as ‘Unit Two’

ARTICLE BY: STAN STEWART • ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: ‘THE HOT WATER BEACH CONNECTION’ BY GORDON PYE

A secret high-tech defence facility Unlike the first World War, the second World War threatened Australia and New Zealand with military activity. German warships were active in Tasman waters and a number of vessels were sunk. In the 1940’s German ships sank three small ships off the northern coast of the North Island. The HMNZS Puriri, a mine sweeper sweeping the Hauraki Gulf was sunk by a German mine with the loss of five crew men. In 1942 Japanese submarines were spotted off the northern coast of the North Island. The waves of war were beating on the coast of New Zealand.

As part of the defence of the country, the New Zealand government set up a number of radar stations around the country. One of these was established 3km north of Hot Water Beach. As well as the station's far-reaching radar capabilities this location overlooked the shipping lanes from Auckland to Tauranga.

The work of the station was top secret and at its peak it had a live-in staff of up to 100 persons – male and female.

The Radar Station was off-limits for any locals. It was surrounded by a ten foot (2.5metre) barbed wire fence with sentry boxes and a siren alarm. Any person who did wander into the area was promptly seen off the site by an airman in full uniform with fixed bayonet.

The Hot Water Beach Radar Station was so isolated that to compensate, the staff were given additional leave, extra rations and permission to consume a limited amount of alcohol in the barracks. For extra supplies of alcohol, the Radar Station personnel would make their way to the Coroglen Tavern in an old Willies ute which three of the servicemen purchased off the Pye family. However, eventually these three musketeers, full of good will and alcohol, rolled the vehicle into a gully. No one was hurt but it was then the end of the Willy’s ute.

The nearest farm property to the Radar Station was owned

by Gordon Pye and his mother, Jenny. In relation to a funeral, I visited Jenny Pye at the family home on a hill overlooking Hot Water Beach. She told me that when they were battling to establish their farm, they thought of the hot water on the beach as a handicap for their farm and district. The only way they had to move their cattle onto their farm was to move them along the beach at low tide. The hot water burnt the feet of the cattle making them restive and difficult to drive forward.

The idea that the beach could be an international tourist attraction never occurred to anyone.

Jenny who was kindness itself, told me that her home was always open to personnel from the Radar Station. “On their days off, ours was the only house within hiking distance. I made it clear they were always welcome here”.

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Radar Station. “I can recall on many occasions rising at 4.30am for the morning milking only to find the living room floor covered with sleeping male and female bodies which I had to either step around or step over to get to the kitchen. For our hospitality, they always brought food which they had bribed from the Radar Station’s cook.

Helping one and other was the order of the day. For example, the supply of diesel through the war years was of a very low grade which had a devastating effect on the engines which operated the milking machine equipment. The diesel from the Radar Station was first rate. In situations where we were in need of the engines to be serviced, we could always rely on one of the Station’s mechanics to come to our aid."

There was a terrible dearth of entertainment. One outlet was to be found in Whitianga where there were occasional dances and picture shows. The fun-starved service personnel were always keen to participate. The overland route to Whitianga was too expensive for a trip purely for entertainment (mileage was always carefully recorded). The shortest route was via Ferry Landing. “A spice of novelty and adventure attended the water crossing to the township. It was the only commercial ferry operated in New Zealand at that time. It consisted of a man and his oars. The ferryman, Harry Hagin was very specialised at this profession, but more times than not you would have to go to the local hotel to find him for the return journey. At flood and ebb tides, the water runs fiercely in the Whitianga estuary, so it was a strenuous feat for the ferryman to control his boat, overladen with air force folk and the boat had to be piloted to a lightless shore. They were hair-raising excursions across the water.”

In summer the road was dusty, and much dust and exhaust fumes were sucked into the canopied truck. “The neutral grey blue of the Airforce uniform did not show the dust as much as one would expect. But it was a different affair for the Wrens with their dress of dark navy blue. I will never forget the tragic looks on the faces of the girls as they shook the dust from their uniforms”.

As the war was ending in 1945, the Radar Station (known officially as Unit Two) began closing down. The technical equipment was all removed. The buildings were either demolished or sold off. Fred Harsant of Hahei purchased a building which became a residential home. Another building went to Whitianga.

Today, the only reminder that the Radar Station complex ever existed are large concrete blocks scattered across a paddock, which were foundations for some of the station’s large structures. Gordon Pye, now deceased, who is the principle source of this article, has had the site registered as an Archaeological Site, which means that the concrete blocks cannot be moved or buildings erected over them.

Excellence for ELITE “If we can live and work together for ten years, we can do this.”

That was what Toni and Morgan Drew said to each other when they set up their Yacht and Property Management business, ELITE, almost two years ago. “With our skill set and experience of ten years on super yachts, we felt ready,” says Morgan. Thus, their idea for ‘ELITE’ came to be a reality. “We were both in Alaska working together on a super yacht at the time. We wanted to use our experience doing maintenance, inside and out, of super yachts and caring for high-end houses, so we started this, our own business, from scratch. There was no one else doing it in this area,” says Morgan. “There is a seven-star standard and then there is a level of perfection required above that, when it comes to detail. That’s our attitude and we deliver,” says Toni.

When asked about the adjustment from travelling on super yachts to moving into an apartment in Whitianga, both Toni and Morgan smile. “Well, our apartment is not 60 or more metres in length; it doesn’t move on the waves, and it’s not bunk beds. This is a decision we were ready to make. We have created our own timetable and have built something for the both of us.”

“Our priority is to check on the boats of our clients," says Morgan. Berthing fees are only about the area of water the boat takes up, but there is so much more to having a boat

BY PAULINE STEWART

excellently maintained - the running, operating, appearance, all have to be just right. Sometimes, a boat has been sitting there for weeks, even months on end. I have an engineering background, so I can check on things such as pumps and engines. I also have a Captain’s licence to move peoples’ boats, sometimes it can be to Auckland or to Pauanui. We work to give the boat owner, peace of mind. If there is a job that we can’t do ourselves, we outsource and manage it for them.

“We do the same for the high-end homeowners, checking on any number of things to do with the exterior and interior," says Toni. “We do house and boat provisioning. The owners call and let us know what they would like and when, so that on their arrival, everything is ready. That can include housekeeping, lawns and gardening for the whole package. We are busy but we want to build our client base, so getting the word out is important.”

Their branding, their immaculate van and uniforms speak of their daily standard of work. “We have been trusted with multi-million-dollar super yachts. We are trusted with the keys to people’s beautiful and gracious homes. That trust will not be broken,” adds Morgan.

Email: info@elitemgmt.co.nz Morgan 021 025 05777 Toni 021 027 77356

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WHEN STARS FALL

The great Leonid meteor shower of 1833 shown in this old woodcut gave astronomers the first clue as to just what caused these spectacular events. By noting that this shower occurred regularly every 33 years, they were able to match it up with the orbit of Comet Temple-Tuttle. While not all occurrences were as spectacular as the 1833 one, they nevertheless correctly deduced that these were caused by the Earth passing through debris left in the path of this comet on its 33-year journey around the Sun. Sometimes it passed through thick clumps of cometary dust producing spectacular displays, sometimes it didn’t.

British author, John Wyndham famously turned these events into a wonderful and classic science fiction horror story, as the meteors caused all humans who witnessed the display to become blind. On landing, the meteorites themselves turned into humandevouring plant-like aliens. The next morning these then marched across the landscape in search of a grisly meal of blind humans unable to see them approaching or escape.

Here in New Zealand, we might just have a chance to witness a new meteor shower for the first time ever on the night of December 12, 2023. Whilst not as spectacular as the 1833 event nor as dangerous as Wyndham’s one, it should nevertheless be well worth looking out for. This new shower will be caused by Comet 46P/Wirtanen, which passed very close to Jupiter in the 1970’s and 1980’s causing a lot of debris to be dislodged. The Earth will intersect this cloud of dusty material for the first time in December and dark sky sites in New Zealand will be some of the best places in the world to see it. The bright ‘shooting stars’ will be caused by tiny bits of the comet entering the Earth’s atmosphere at speeds of somewhere between 20 to 50 km per second and burning up about 50-70km above our heads.

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BY ALASTAIR BRICKELL

Local astronomers are already gearing up for the unique event and the observatory at Stargazers Astronomy Tours in Kuaotunu is installing a special meteor camera to record the shower. This is part of the Fireballs Aotearoa network of meteor cameras that already has about 20 cameras online capturing images of other meteors every night.

Established by geology Professor, James Scott of Otago University, its aim is to eventually recover fresh pieces of meteors landing in New Zealand for the first time.

Images of the event might also be captured by the recently installed European Space Agency camera located at Opito Bay although On November 12, 1833, this is actually designed more to look for space there was a meteor junk than meteor showers. Both this and the shower so intense that it Stargazers’ camera operate within the area was possible to see up to of the proposed internationally recognised 100,000 meteors crossing ‘Kuaotunu Dark Sky Community’ designed to the sky every hour. At the preserve these uniquely dark skies. time, many thought it was So, cancel any other plans you might have the end of the world, so for the early evening of December 12 and much so that it inspired head outside instead for a look between 9pm this woodcut by Adolf and midnight. Even if the expected shower Vollmy. British author, turns out to be underwhelming (always a John Wyndham famously possibility with notoriously unpredictable turned these events into a meteorite showers) there will still be the classic Sci-Fi horror story Geminid meteor shower to watch on the exact Day of the Triffids - which, same night. Those meteorites are expected to in turn, inspired the be much faster than the Comet 47P/Wirtanen creation of this stamp. ones so there is sure to be some action to watch. No telescope will be necessary, just a dark location away from bright town lights, a good chair or blanket to lie on and a bit of patience. Most importantly everyone can rest assured that they will not go blind and definitely will not be pursued by hordes of voracious Triffids this time.

Alastair and Harriette Brickell own and host STARGAZERS B&B and Observatory.

Nestled in a protected valley in Kuaotunu 16km north of Whitianga on New Zealand’s beautiful Coromandel Peninsula.

STARGAZERS offers an ideal dark sky site to observe the stunning New Zealand southern night sky in all its dark sky glory with a range of optical tools on offer.

STARGAZERS B&B and Observatory is the realisation of a dream held by Alastair and Harriette over the four decades they have lived on this idyllic New Zealand dark sky property where they raised their two sons.

Go to: stargazersbb.com Alastair is a geologist and amateur astronomer, and tireless advocate for estabishing the Kūaotunu peninsula as an official Dark Sky community. He and his team have wide and growing community support for this endeavour.

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SUSTAINABLE LIVING FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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Coromandel Honey

BY PAULINE STEWART

FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY In one of the most pristine locations on Earth, the Coromandel Region of New Zealand, hives are nestled amongst rich sources of native and exotic plants to fuel the bees honey production. The Coromandel bees produce outstanding Manuka and multiflora honey. The Coromandel apiaries have chosen and planted an abundance of native and exotic floras for bees which gives Coromandel Manuka Honey a unique taste compared to other Manuka and multiflora blends.

Coromandel Pure honey is sold in its most natural state. Keeping the honey raw and unpasteurised, the honey is filtered through only mesh strainers and straight into the jar in a hygienic and certified honey kitchens. Samples are taken and tested not only for the manuka concentrations but also to ensure there are no toxins that are harmful to humans.

New Zealand is the country with the

compounds that are measured in the UMF™ rating to our Manuka honey.

Honey isn't a perishable product. As long as it's stored in an air-tight container and isn't Irma - Jacob's Well Honey Ltd (The Bee Keepers Honey) exposed highest dollar value of honey exports in to excess 2021, capping at $327 million US dollars. moisture, it will be safe The high dollar value of honey exports from New Zealand is likely due to the fact to consume that this country is the sole distributor of for decades or more. It's Manuka honey. important to What makes New Zealand Manuka keep honey honey special, is it has over 200 clean, though. compounds that are not found in other types of honey. The medicinal trilogy of leptosperin, dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and methylglyoxal (MGO) are signature 309 Honey - 309 Road, Whitianga

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Coromandel Tree Tour

BY ANDREW NOAKES

New Zealand hosts various iconic tree species that are unique to this place, and the Coromandel Peninsula is home to many of them including extraordinary specimens of Kauri, Pohutukawa and various palms. As you adventure around the peninsula, keep your eyes out for these amazing trees and make a point to stop and spend some time with them, they have a lot to offer.

When visiting trees, please always be respectful as they are old souls that need and deserve care. This is especially important when visiting Kauri which are suffering “dieback,” so always use the wash stations and stay on the marked pathways (dieback occurs through the root system, making walking up to them a hazard).

Note: As access changes with the weather, please always check the track/road is open prior to adventuring out in the Coromandel.

John William Hall Arboretum/Thames With planting dates circa the 1870’s, this Thames highlight (between Currie St and Mt Sea Road) is conceivably New Zealand’s oldest arboretum and features many impressive trees including a hedge of Hall’s Totara.

Kauri once covered the peninsula, and while most have long been farmed, some spectacular specimens still exist including the oldest (possibly 2000 years old) and largest remaining on the peninsula, “Tanenui;” it’s the sixth largest Kauri in the country, though for its protection access to the tree is strictly restricted to “authorised personnel.”

A truly unique and visitable tree is the 1200 year old “Square Kauri” on the Tapu-Coroglen Rd. It’s a short hike up a well maintained track to a viewing platform that allows you direct access to the tree and vistas overlooking the Coromandel Forest Park surrounds.

On the 309 Road, you’ll find the Waiau Kauri Grove (and waterfall for a quick dip on a hot summer day).

A short and well tracked walk about 1km from the waterfall carpark brings you through beautiful native bush, with the sounds of birdsong and water flowing as the backdrop, culminating in a large viewing deck that brings you up into the trees, to enjoy a view from the canopy.

On the West Coast, the Waiomu Kauri Grove Walk is a 2+ hour return walk along and across streams that takes you up through lush bush into a mature stand of Kauri. In Coromandel Town, the “Kauri Block Walk” and “Long Bay Kauri Walk” are leisurely tracks that offer great views of trees and the natural surrounds. All are DOC managed tracks and allow you to bring your dogs on lead, but make sure to wash their feet as well as yours before you venture in.

Pohutukawa trees are dynamically expressive and stunning specimens can be seen throughout the peninsula, including driving through a tunnel of trees along the coastal road north of Thames towards Coromandel Town. There are also countless examples to be seen via the water, so a kayak adventure can bring you to many examples of trees that are particularly stunning when full of their bright red summer flowers.

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Just south of the Tairua bridge (on the main road) a huge Pohutukawa protrudes from under a house on the north side of the road, and a bit further another hangs over the small roadside cemetery. Hahei hosts an impressive specimen in the Wigmore Reserve with a walkway that brings you directly under and into the tree.

Exotic (non-native) trees are also worth highlighting, including two large 120+ year old Holm Oaks on the back side of the Cornes Paddock Reserve in Karangahake. Two notable exotic trees can be found in Hahei: a multi-stemmed 150+ year old Bowwood (a rare species in NZ), and one of NZ’s largest Morton Bay Fig/Australian Banyan trees, both viewable just outside the general store. A historic row of Phoenix Palms, planted by the Mercury Bay Women’s Institute in 1933, can be viewed on the Whitianga waterfront.

3km north of Coromandel Town, two spectacular 150 year old Evergreen Magnolias are living on private land (viewable from Rings Rd on the left); if you’re really lucky, you’ll see these beauties in full bloom.

Above all, enjoy your visits with these notable beings; time with trees is time well spent.

Andrew Noakes, of NZ Arb Consultancy, is a local Qualified Arborist and ISA TRAQ Certified Assessor with over 30 years experience caring for trees in a variety of situations. His column, For the Love of Trees, is a monthly feature in the MB Informer.

(See advert on page 101)

From Paul of

Aeroview

Paul Green’s knowledge of plants and gardening is vast. He offers wonderful advice for summer.

What a season we have had over the past 12 to 15 months, unprecedented rain, lack of sunshine which has affected flowering, fruiting, and generally, the growth of all plants.

Fungal diseases are rife due to the wet humid conditions and slugs and snails have thrived in the moist conditions as well.

Hopefully as the El Nino change moves over the country, we will be blessed with a warmer, drier season ahead but it’s not time to become complacent. My prediction is for that warmer and drier summer, which means more watering, hotter days and plants suffering from stress due to lack of water. Hot drying westerly wind flows will suck the moisture out of new spring growth and of course, there is the ever-present potato psyllid and the newer threat to our fruits, the Guava Moth.

What is the point of even gardening you may ask?

Well, the promise of fresh tree-ripened fruit, digging new potatoes at Christmas time and indeed year-round, and harvesting garden fresh vegetables especially when Broccoli is over $5 a head or Cauli or cabbage over $8 at the supermarket makes it all well worthwhile. The secret is to be aware of the pitfalls and plan well ahead to control the looming problems.

Many plants are quite shallow rooted so using a bark mulch

helps to retain moisture in the soil in dry periods and as the mulch breaks down it builds up the humus content of the soil which aids moisture retention and enables better nutrient distribution to the plant’s roots.

Using Pea straw as a mulch in the vegetable garden does the same thing and there is the added bonus of the pea straw as it breaks down releasing nitrogen back into the soil which in turn produces better green leaf growth and ultimately healthier green, leafy vegetables.

Spring is the best time to feed fruit trees especially citrus, the new flowers will be emerging shortly, and as citrus trees are gross feeders the next year's crop relies on plenty of food, especially potash, which a well-balanced Citrus fertiliser will provide. Feed little and often. Plants such as tomatoes will produce fruit over many months, so they need top dressings regularly.

Enjoy your gardening and remember quality may cost a little more but the extra production is well worth the little extra cost and effort.

Come and visit Aeroview; there is every point to gardening.

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Facilities directory Info Centres

FELICITY JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Medical WHITIANGA X-RAY Address: 18 Coghill Street, Whitianga 3510 Phone: 07 866 5973

MERCURY BAY MEDICAL CENTRE Address: 83 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga Phone: 07 866 5911 TAIRUA MEDICAL CENTRE Address: 237 Main Road North, Tairua Phone: 07 864 8737

Emergency AMBULANCE, FIRE, POLICE (24 HOURS) -111 POLICE - WHITIANGA - 07 866 4000 POLICE - TAIRUA - 07 864 8888 POLICE - COROMANDEL TOWN - 07 866 1190

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WHITIANGA 66 Albert Street Whitianga 07 866 5555

TAIRUA 2 Manaia Road, Tairua 07 864 7575

THAMES INFORMATION KIOSK Goldfields Mall Thames

PAUANUI 23 Centreway, Pauanui 07 864 7101

COROMANDEL TOWN Samual James Reserve 60 Kapanga Road, Coromandel Town 07 866 8598

WHANGAMATA 616 Port road, Whangamata

Refuse stations THAMES - 102 Burke street 07868 9637 COROMANDEL - 535 Hauraki road 07 866 7616 MATARANGI - 101 Matarangi drve 07 866 5427 WHITIANGA - 237 South Highway 07 866 2954 TAIRUA - 3 Red Bridge rd 07 864 7639 PAUANUI - 887 Settlement Rd 07 864 7949 WHANGAMATA - 2755 SH25 Waihi-Whangamata 07 8659723

Extra numbers DOG AND NOISE CONTROL - 07) 868 0200 COASTGUARD RADIO OPERATORS- 07) 866 2883 CIVIL DEFENCE - 07) 868 0200 WHITIANGA LOCKSMITH SERVICES- 027 446 6921

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