The Informer - 5th Mar 2024

FLOX OPENS MB ART ESCAPE GALA NIGHT

BY DOROTHY PREECE

The Gala Opening of the Mercury Bay Art Escape at Hot Waves Café and Gallery on Friday, 1 March set the tone and raised awareness of the ever-expanding Art Studios Trail 2024, which stretches from Tairua to Opito Bay.

spoke of her inspiration to paint street art “before street art was accepted or appreciated.”

She enjoys working out in the open, where the public can see the work develop and share the experience of making art.

The event was such a colourful success, attended by 130 enthusiastic art lovers, sponsors, and of course, artists mingling and talking all things creative.

Flox is passionate about birds, which feature large on her murals in public spaces around Auckland and elsewhere. Flox artwork also makes the backdrop for the TV One Breakfast show. She told her audience that it’s okay to be different, to work outside the square frame and to experiment with other forms of art.

Guest artist Flox

Flox, Hayley King vivaciously addresses the crowd at the Mercury Bay Art Escape opening, demonstrating the vibrant and bright colour that has made her art forms so distinctive.

“Temporary Tattoos” is her own business. Carys Green is 16 years of age and you will find her at her business stall at the Whiti Citi Markets in Soldiers Memorial Park, every Saturday in the summer and warmer months.

Carys is going to Japan as part of a Mercury Bay Area School cultural trip. She is one of a group of students and her big task is to help raise her funds even though she has the full support of her family.

Carys is used to working in the community. Her mother is Eloise Green, the greatly loved, Matilda the Time Travelling Fairy.

At many community events, Carys works with her Mum and younger sister painting the faces of children, blowing huge glistening bubbles, running competitions, to the delight

of children of all ages. They are a dynamic wonderful entertainment troupe of three.

Carys does this as a volunteer, but it is her business, Temporary Tattoos, that will earn her some funds to help

get her to Japan.

The Informer helped a little by purchasing some tattoos of a beautiful lion image at a very modest price at Carys’ stall. She carefully applied one of the lions to my forearm and I wore it as a piece of art for three days – very enjoyable and a great talking point.

Carys’ temporary tattoos last for at least three days. After that they just wash off.

Children and adults have a great choice at Carys’ Saturday market stall – cartoon characters, fairies, sparkles, animals, and storyland heroes.

This enterprising, studious young woman values the support of her community. She will be at Whiti Citi Markets every Saturday 8.30am till 1.00pm and at Easter.

Carys is off to Japan with the other MBAS students on 6 April – just a month to go.

Tuesday, 5 March – Wednesday 13 March – Much to see with Jupiter. Bright Jupiter is now quite low in the dusk western sky but still the brightest thing apart from the Moon. A small telescope will show its four biggest moons (it has 92!) moving from night to night. These four are called the Galilean moons as he was the first to spot them in 1608. The Earth’s virtual twin, Venus, is even brighter and visible very low in the dawn sky if you have a clear view of the eastern horizon. There will be only one Chinese Tiangong space station pass this week. As usual, timings may change, especially if it has to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above.com for updated timings. Thursday, 7 March: The eastern

High Tides: 6:48am 7:09pm

Low Tides: 12:05am 12:40pm

Sunday 10 March

Sun: Rise 7:10am Set 7:42pm

Moon: Rise 6:26am Set 7:44pm

High Tides: 7:44am 8:07pm

Low Tides: 1:03am 1:37pm

Monday 11 March

Sun: Rise 7:11am Set 7:41pm

Moon: Rise 7:42am Set 8:13pm

High Tides: 8:37am 9:01pm

Low Tides: 1:58am 2:31pm

Tuesday 12 March

Sun: Rise 7:12am Set 7:39pm

Moon: Rise 8:57am Set 8:42pm

High Tides: 9:29am 9:54pm

Low Tides: 2:51am 3:23pm

Artists craft of capturing light

BY CYNTHIA DALY

Light, without it as humans, we can see nothing. With it we can see colour, movement, texture, life in all its forms, minute detail and so much more. A true talent of an artist is to capture that light as if staring at its effect in the mind’s eye.

The Informer spoke with first time exhibitor, Whitianga Photographic Club President, Kate Beauchamp, a first-time exhibitor with Mercury Bay Art Escape.

Looking upon a photograph by Kate Beauchamp of tauhou (waxeye bird) taken in her garden as it perches on a vintage teacup, its silver-surrounded eye expresses light and life through the tiniest fleck.

In another composition, Kate ‘extends’ the depth of colour and texture of a cluster of hibiscus flowers by using light against a black background. The result draws you into the photograph and holds you captive.

While Kate has been a photographer for a very long time, she now feels that she has the confidence to be able to exhibit her work.

Viewing her work though, that seems like a major understatement for the artist who bought her first camera, a film Practica, when she was in her early teens. The purchase set her on a path to study Photography and Graphic Design at South Devon College of

Art and Technology at Torquay, Devon.

“Those were the days of film, so you had to get everything right the first time,” says Kate. A major life change saw her moving to New Zealand to live and work. This interrupted her focus on photography. A lifestyle choice brought Kate to Whitianga ten years ago. She bought her first DSLR (digital single lens reflex) camera and joined the local photographic club to make friends and to meet like-minded people.

“I’m a member of the Photographic Society of New Zealand

(PSNZ) and last year gained the PSNZ honours distinction at the Associate level. To gain this recognition, I had to demonstrate advanced photographic craft and skill through a portfolio of 12 images.

“Through the PSNZ I’m also currently studying to become an accredited photography judge, so I’ll be able to help others on their photography journey. I love that there is always something new to learn with photography, whether it’s something technical or something artistic.

“Everyone I have met through Mercury Bay Art Escape has been so supportive and encouraging; it’s great to be involved this year; I’m excited to show everyone my photography work.”

You can visit Kate Beauchamp’s studio at 46 Robinson Road, Whitianga. It will be open again next weekend, from 10am to 4pm.

Nearby at Whitianga Art Group, Marianne Moyes admits that light evaded her for some time as she tried to complete her underwater scene, Ocean Forest, painted in acrylics. The painting was inspired by a trip snorkeling with her husband at Poor Knights Islands.

“You do see seaweed there and fish and all sorts of other little things pootling around doing their day-to-day activities and you do see that beautiful greeny-blue

light in the shafts of light coming down in the ripples on the water. It was absolutely spectacular.”

Marianne says of Ocean Forest: “It took a long time to finish and I was looking at it and trying to figure out what I wasn’t getting right about the colours because I wanted them to really pop. And it was just by chance that I discovered the colours I needed to make that bright light come down from the surface.

I was very happy to have got that in time for entry in the Art Escape because it’s been sitting in my office for a long time just waiting for the moment to finish it. I actually added several new strands of kelp over the top and more light where the light hits the surface of the water. That worked a lot better and I touched over a few spots to make the light come down and through.”

“I’ve been working on differ-

ent styles depending on working from photos, a little bit of print work, doing a little bit of abstract. Just exploring different paint techniques and colours and subjects, because you can’t just keep doing the same thing all the time, it just gets boring. This exhibition is a reflection of the different things that I’ve been working with and playing with; challenges I’ve set myself before Art Escape,” says Marianne.

Her work, The Land Endures, is Marianne’s statement about the politics leading up to Waitangi Day.

“That’s why I put the date on it. So you’ve got the European thrush and the native tui and they’re squabbling over land that is still going to be there after all is said and done.

“In the end we’ve all just got to live on it in peace and that’s kind of my point. Although I may not have got that image across perfectly, it is what I was feeling about the whole situation at the time. We are all birds of a feather living on the land.”

Through The Land Endures

Marianne demonstrates another form of light, the light of exposure and expression through art.

Marianne Moyes is exhibiting as a member of the Whitianga Art Group, at the gallery, 23 School Rd, Whitianga, which will be open each day of Art Escape March 2-10, from 10.00am-4.00pm.

Kate Beauchamp prepared a visual treat with her photographs for the many visitors to her studio during the art escape open studios. Photo credit – Anita Ruggle-Lussy

Marianne Moyes – enabling light to shine through the colours provides the finishing touch.

Transformative Mercury Bay Art Escape Artists

BY LYNETTE GAIA

Stunning views of sea and shoreline from Christina McGrath’s studio mirrors her passion for the sea and is the creative inspiration behind her unique art.

A wellness specialist and coach in energy medicine, yoga, nutrition and sports massage, Christina works with fluid acrylic and resins in rich polished blues, greens, sands and white on recycled surf boards, wooden tables,

big and small rounds and all sizes of framed and natural canvases. Her mesmerizing compositions depict the fluid elements of wave formations and shorelines against the immersive power of the ocean.

Christina lets the flow on the canvas dictate the shapes and complexity of her seascapes. Therefore, each piece is unique and Christina describes her highly personal art as unlocking the depths of the ocean and encouraging connection and creativity.

Anniemieke Kregting is well known name to locals from years of caring for injured and lost birds at the Kuaotunu Bird Rescue Trust. Her keen knowledge of the anatomy, structure and features of birds has now transferred to the medium of mosaic art and the wildlife of the Coromandel serves as her inspiration. She believes strongly in recycling materials and her unique style uses mainly china from local op shops.

Barry Hishon in a previous life was an electrical/electronic

tradie. Today he swings a hammer to move steel and has taken the bold step of working from his gallery and smithy in Hahei as a full-time artisan blacksmith. A half day course with a blacksmith fuelled his creative spark and he discovered working with red hot steel mesmerizing and fulfilling.

With a strong sense of the history and tradition of hand forged steel artistry from the past, Barry works with both new and recycled materials to create aestheti-

cally pleasing handcrafted pieces with both function and beauty. Visit these and other artists in their studios over the first 2 weekends in March of the Mercury Bay Art Escape Open Studios. „ Tickets and artist information on the MBAE website.

Mercury Bay Art Escape gala night

Continued from front page

Earlier in her career, Flox raised her profile as an artist by producing a range of clothing adorned with her own artwork. Two of her works, one a white scalpel-cut bird stencil and an artfully painted umbrella, were auctioned for sale at the Gala event. The bidding was brisk, the stencil selling for $1100 to people visiting from Rotorua, and the umbrella sold for $700. Flox is currently engaged in painting a mural at Mercury Bay Area School.

This year there are 42 Open Studios on the Peninsula, including nine new members this year. All of the artists and craftspeople who are opening their studios displayed examples of their work on the Hot Waves Gallery walls, setting the ambience for the evening. Some items were sold on the night.

Mercury Bay Art Escape studios are open for two weekends, Sat, 2 March – Sun, 3 March and Sat 9 March – Sun, 10 March.

The Art Escape began its life in 2006 when a core group of cul-

tural enthusiasts initiated an Art and Music Weekend to attract people to the Peninsula. Alan and Julia Rhodes were founding members of that group, being original members of the Hamilton County Blue Grass Band. Their pottery studio on SH 25 is still open to the public.

Print maker and painter, Jane Parson was also a founding member. Jane said a Trust was formed in 2010 and the event has gone from strength to strength.

“The Gala Opening is a great event every year,” Jane said.

“When we first started, the artists were almost suspicious of showing and discussing their work with one another. Over the years we have become great friends. It is the diversity of art forms and the camaraderie that makes it so special now.” Jane said the Trust is keen to ‘bring people over the hill to Mercury Bay’ and to encourage new local artists. First-time member Annemieke Kregting has switched her attention from looking after rescued birds to portraying them in multi-media mosaics.

“Each year the Art Escape Trust sponsors a year 12 student at MBAS,” says Jane.

“Their teacher, Janet Hoogwerf, recommends a talented student for a Scholarship which includes mentoring by local artists of the student’s own choice.”

This year’s Scholarship winner is Siobhan Cox, who displayed her painting of the extinct Huia, ‘In Death I Rise’, demonstrating Siobhan’s concerns for the future of the planet.

www.mercurybayartescape. com for the studio venues.

Anniemieke Kregting with her mosaic art of bird life she knows so well

Leave social services to Wellington

– Following on from the article “Money doesn’t grow on trees”

BY FLEMMING RASMUSSEN

Local government, both Thames Coromandel District Council – TCDC, should be focusing on essential services only and leave social services to Wellington (central government).

To do this, TCDC must prioritise essential services only and leave the rest to central government.

By delineating these roles clearly, TCDC can enhance efficiency, improve service delivery (reduce cost), and ensure better outcomes for us, the local fee and ratepayers. That way, we all avoid paying more than is required for services we need, value and are prepared to pay for.

Local New Zealand government entities are pivotal in delivering essential services to communities. The extent of their responsibilities, particularly concerning social services, is debatable.

As ratepayers and fee payers, we fund local government. As taxpayers, we fund central government. I advocate a change in focus in a cost-of-living crisis and a high-inflation economy A getback-to-basics culture.

1. EFFICIENCY AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION:

TCDC is a local government entity. It is tasked with managing limited resources efficiently. It can streamline its operations and allocate resources more effectively by focusing solely on essential services, e.g. infrastructure maintenance, waste management, and emergency services. Social services require specialised expertise and (often) significant funding. By relinquishing responsibility for social services, TCDC can avoid overextension, concentrate its efforts on essential services, and do a better job.

2. CLARITY OF RESPONSIBILITY:

Clarifying TCDC’s focus and role fosters accountability and transparency. When local governments are inundated with various social service obligations, it blurs the lines of responsibility, leading to confusion among residents, fee and ratepayers (about who is responsible for what).

By concentrating on essential services, TCDC can clearly define its mandate, allocate its resources and deliver services more effectively in areas where they can have the most significant impact. As fee and ratepayers, this clarity enables us to hold our representatives accountable for service delivery and ensures that TCDC remains focused on its core responsibilities.

3. SPECIALISATION AND EXPERTISE:

We live in an ever-increasing complex world. Social services require specialised knowledge and expertise to address complex issues, e.g. mental and physical healthcare, education, and welfare. We pay tax, and central government agencies exist, for this very purpose. They are better equipped to provide these services efficiently as they can access the expertise and derive economies of scale (EoS).

Specialisation ensures that we receive high-quality services tailored to our needs, leading to better outcomes and improved social well-being.

4. CONSISTENCY AND EQUITY:

Centralising social services promotes consistency and equity in service delivery across regions and districts.

In the Coromandel, we know all about the fact that dispari-

ties in resources and capacity among local and regional councils result in unequal access to social services for citizens. By centralising social services, the government can ensure uniform standards and equitable distribution of resources, regardless of geographical location. It requires central planning, with distributed resources and service delivery locally. This fosters social cohesion and reduces disparities, enhancing the well-being of all New Zealanders.

5. FLEXIBILITY AND ADAPTABILITY:

Centralised provision of social services leads to greater flexibility and adaptability in responding to changing needs and circumstances. Central governments, can (quickly) reallocate resources and adjust policies to address

emerging issues, such as public health crises or economic downturns. This facilitates that social services remain responsive and effective in meeting our population’s needs.

6. FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY:

TCDC faces significant fiscal constraints that limit its capacity to fund social services adequately. There are simply too few ratepayers amongst us, and fees can only go so high to remain affordable and in demand. By focusing on essential services, TCDC avoids overstretching budgets and maintains fiscal sustainability without constantly asking us, the poor fee and ratepayers, for more money. Most social services require substantial long-term investments, which strain TCDC’s financial resources. Our scarce resources should only focus on

essential, core services and be allocated judiciously to meet these requirements.

7. FOCUS ON CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:

By leaving social services to central governments, TCDC can focus on their core responsibilities, such as infrastructure, public safety, and economic development. With good leadership, this, in turn, leads to more effective governance and better outcomes for residents and fee and ratepayers.

CONCLUSION:

Common sense should prevail. This is what we pay our rates for. TCDC should focus and get back to basics. It should stick to its knittings and deliver essential core services only. Nothing more, nothing less. What do you think?

BY STAN STEWART

Ron grew up on a farm and horses were always there. His father trucked horses and was a horse dealer and blacksmith.

Milking three cows before he rode to school on a pony was for Ron his normal life. It was only natural that Ron would slip into a life with horses and saddles and riding gear. He grew to love them and still does.

Horse related chores, saddles and shoeing still occupies him from daylight to dusk. It’s his life and he loves it.

His home in Whitianga is also part museum – walls lined with photos and memorabilia of a life in showing horses and jumping. It is also a workshop where riding gear can be repaired.

Equipment for shoeing horses which is still one of Ron’s specialities is neatly displayed. Ron’s wife Estelle, who shared his love

for horses died four years ago. His informally adopted two boys are now far away, but they keep in touch and share his passion for horses and competitions.

His daughter Shelly who lives in Whitianga visits every afternoon for a chat and a beer.

Ron left school when he was fourteen. His aim was to be a vet. His family could not afford the tuition fees but nonetheless, Ron was able to spend a lot of time with vets.

His interest was in more than strains and breaks. He wanted to understand the medical side, what made horses sick and how their sicknesses could be combatted. His young life was always around horses. He was a competitor in any-

thing that was going – buck jumping, show jumping, dressage, anything to do with horses. Young Ron was always rearing to get in the saddle.

In later years, equestrian and dressage has become his passion. If you are a novice like me, the world of equestrians and dressage needs some explanation. Here is a description I found on the web.

“Equestrian is a broad term used to refer to sporting disciplines performed on horseback. Dressage is one such event and is one among three equestrian events in the Olympic roster, alongside eventing and show jumping. Dressage is described as the highest expression of horse training” where “horse and rider are expected to perform from memory a series of predetermined movements.”

Over the years, Equestrian has become Ron’s passion and his training ability in

this field is of the highest level. In his early years, he represented New Zealand on many overseas competitions.

Back then, there was no New Zealand funding for such events. Competitors had to pay their own way.

Locally, his large Nissan diesel truck was and is a regular at district shows. The truck is not only equipped for trucking horses; there is a kitchen and sleeping accommodation built in. For years Ron competed and won many trophies. He also still holds the record for the highest jump ever recorded.

In the 1954 Auckland A&P Show his horse cleared 6ft, 3.5 inches.

Ron now lives in Whitianga and clearly, he is an asset to our town and district. His work over the years has been of much benefit to his old stomping ground, Matatoki.

„ There is to be more of his story in subsequent editions of The Informer.

Ron Cook at home in his amazing workshop.

Bright spark works globally from Whitianga

BY STAN STEWART

In an age where technology and the internet have bridged distances, Whitianga has emerged as a hub of global connectivity.

Gone are the days when local employment was confined to traditional sectors like fishing, farming, or hospitality. Today, locals can collaborate with teams across the globe, from Auckland to Dunedin and beyond, to international places like Germany, all from the comfort of this picturesque town.

Ethan Lessiter stands at the forefront of this modern work revolution. With his company, LFM Audio, rooted in Whitianga, with extensions in Europe, Ethan demonstrates that all you need is a mobile internet connection to make the world your office/studio.

Whether he’s working from the studio in Whitianga, a café, the beachside, or any spot that sparks his creativity, his MacBook is his gateway to clients in Europe, the USA, South America, and Oceania.

Collaboration across continents is seamless for Ethan and his team, thanks to digital communication tools.

“Even though we’re spread out across the globe, it almost feels like we’re working in the same studio,” Ethan shares, highlighting the closeknit operation with LFM

Audio’s Senior Producer Igor in Europe.

Ethan’s journey into the world of innovation began early. A Whitianga local since age three and a Mercury Bay Area School student, Ethan was always the one to think differently, constantly dreaming up new ideas. His ambition to create a radio station became a reality even before he hit his teens.

With encouragement from his grandmother, Mavis Lessiter, who raised him, Ethan developed a business plan, saved money from a paper round, and garnered support from local businesses. His vision materialised into LFM 88.2 and 107.4, Whitianga’s first Mainstream Top 40 radio station, a project that allowed him to involve other students as announcers. The radio station is still broadcasting to this day – give it a listen!

Today, his company, LFM Audio, specialises in creating Radio Imaging, Audio Ads, and Sung Jingles, using singers and voices from Whitianga and worldwide.

The audio clips created play between the songs on the radio and provide each radio station with a distinct identity that instantly familiarizes listeners with the station’s personality.

Ethan reflects on his career with satisfaction, cherishing the work-life balance it offers.

“I love my job and what I do. For anyone dreaming of starting their venture and who is passionate about that industry, my advice is to go for it,” he encourages.

As Ethan Lessiter continues to innovate from Whitianga, he stands as a testament to the limitless possibilities the digital age offers, proving that even the smallest towns can have a global impact.

Thank you from Mercury Bay Area School

Mercury Bay Area School would like to say a massive thank you to the following groups who supported our 46th annual Across the River Swim.

Dive Zone Whitianga Coastguard

Whitianga Ferries

Hot Water Beach Water Safety Team

Whitianga Harbour Master

Ethan at home and at work in his global studio/office in Whitianga

FROM CONSTABLE MICHAEL CARTER

„ Monday, 26 February to Sunday 3, March

GENERAL:

Seven Burglaries: Early hours of Monday, 26 February, a burglary occurred at a Rimu St address. A silver utility was stolen at the time.

Monday, 26 February, a boat parked on Rabbit Way was interfered with by an unknown person cutting the cover.

Tuesday, 27 February, a burglary was reported as occurring at a SH25 Whenuakite address with a quad bike stolen.

Wednesday, 28 February, a burglary was reported occurring overnight at a Haddon Cres address. A Suzuki vehicle was stolen which has since been recovered. Enquiries continuing to identify the offender.

Wednesday, 28 February, a burglary occurred at a Palm Drive address where an unknown person has attempted to take items from a boat parked in the driveway. Enquiries continuing to identify this person.

Friday, 1 March, a burglary was reported as having occurred at a Wharekaho Cres address with the offender gaining entry.

Saturday, 2 March, a burglary was reported occurring at a South Highway property where diesel stolen from a digger on site.

Shoplifting: A shoplifting incident was curtailed by staff at a local business. The young person has since been trespassed from the store due to their actions.

Various vehicles unlawfully on property travelling from Rewiti Drive to South Highway. This is a construction area and is not open to the general public for access or drive throughs.

ARRESTS:

1x male arrested for injuring with intent.

1x male arrested on warrants.

1x male arrested for Assault, Escapes Custody and Possess Offensive Weapon

OCCURRENCES:

Monday, 26 February, a person has made threats via a phone call to a female victim. Enquiries are continuing to identify this person so they can be spoken to regarding their actions.

Also, Monday, 26 January, threats were made via messages to the victim after a relationship break-up. Both parties making counter allegations against the other. They were both spoken to regarding their actions.

Thursday, 29 February, a Breach of

Protection Order was reported by a female victim due to ongoing harassment from an ex-partner. This male is to be spoken to regarding his actions.

Friday, 1 March, a domestic assault occurred on Buffalo Beach Rd where the female victim was punched to the face. The male offender ran from the scene but was located eventually in a nearby street where he was arrested. He is now facing various charges at court.

Saturday, 2 March, a Family Harm matter was reported occurring at a Cook Drive address where an intoxicated male refused to leave the property. He has since been spoken to and was apologetic for his actions.

Saturday, 2 March, a Family Harm matter occurred at a Protea Cres address with two people arguing. Male left the address so that the parties could calm down.

A Breach of Protection Order via text messaging was reported from a Centennial Drive address where the offending party refuses to acknowledge that the relationship is over. Assistance provided to victim.

Sunday, 3 March, a Family Harm matter was reported at a Dundas St address with an agitated female. Male had walked from the address in attempt to calm down the situation.

TRAFFIC:

A number of driver licensing breaches observed over the past few weeks.

Please comply with your licence conditions.

Restricted drivers are not allowed to carry any passengers unless the passenger is either their spouse, wife/husband, or de facto partner, or has held a full driver licence for over 2 years. Failure to comply with this carries 35 demerit points. Three simple failures could result in no licence for 3 months.

Learner drivers must display an ‘L’ plate and carry a fully licensed passenger who has held their full licence for more than 2 years. Failure to do so also carries 35 demerit points.

If you wish to keep your licences, please comply by the Road User Rules and Land Transport Act.

COROMANDEL RESCUE MISSIONS

For the Auckland & Coromandel Westpac Rescue Helicopters

1-29 February 2024

03.02 Manaia Crew tasked to Manaia to assist a female patient in her 20’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.

04.02 Pauanui Crew tasked to Pauanui to assist a female patient in her 30’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to North Shore Hospital in a moderate condition.

04.02 Whangamata Crew tasked to Whangamata to assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.

04.02 Tapu Crew tasked to Tapu to assist a male patient in his 60’s involved in a motor vehicle accident and in a moderate condition. Transportation to hospital by helicopter wasn’t required and crew returned to base.

04.02 Kopu Crew tasked to Kopu to assist multiple patients involved in a motor vehicle accident. Crew were stood down enroute and returned to base.

05.02 Thames Crew tasked to Thames to assist a male patient in his 30’s involved in a car versus motorcycle accident. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.

07.02 Whitianga Crew tasked to Whitianga to assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.

08.02 Pinnacles Crew tasked to the Pinnacles to assist a male patient in his 60’s suffering a fall. He was flown to Thames Hospital in a minor condition.

10.02 Waihi Beach Crew tasked to Waihi Beach by police to assist with a boating accident. Crew were stood down enroute and flew back to base.

10.02 Whangamata Crew tasked to Whangamata to assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Thames Hospital in a moderate condition.

11.02 Colville Crew tasked to Colville to assist a female patient in her 60’s suffering a medical complaint. Unfortunately she died and crew returned to base.

13.02 Port Charles Crew tasked to Port Charles to assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering from a fall down some steps. He was transported to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.

17.02 Coromandel Crew tasked to Coromandel Forest by the Rescue Coordination Forest Centre to assist a female patient in her 40’s suffering from an 8 metre fall into water while canyoning. A beacon was activated. She was extracted by winch from a height of 70 metres and transported to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.

18.02 Pauanui Crew tasked to Pauanui to assist a male patient in his 60’s suffering a walking injury. He was extracted by winch. Transportation to hospital wasn’t required and crew returned to base.

19.02 Pauanui Crew tasked to Pauanui to assist with a person in the water. Crew were stood down and returned to base.

20.02 Puriri Crew tasked to Puriri to assist a male patient in his 30’s involved in a trail bike accident. He was extracted by winch and was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.

A Taste of Matarangi – countdown is on

As the days tick away, anticipation is building for the much-awaited ‘A Taste of Matarangi’ festival, set to take place on Saturday, 6 April at the Beach Reserve on Kenwood Drive, Matarangi. Join us for a day of family fun starting 10.00am – 4.30pm.

Food enthusiasts and festival-goers, get ready to indulge your taste buds with diverse culinary offerings, premium wines and locally brewed beer while enjoying a musical backdrop that sets the perfect atmosphere. Engage in family activities, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all ages.

In the spirit of giving back, the festival hosts a charitable event, encouraging attendees to contribute to a worthy cause through various avenues, including charity auctions, raffles and the

ever-popular bucket drop.

This year’s recipients are Te Rerenga School and Kuaotunu Search and Rescue, and with the option to donate online when purchasing tickets ensures that the charitable spirit extends beyond the festival grounds.

This unique blend of gourmet indulgence, entertainment and community support makes A Taste of Matarangi a not-to-be-missed celebration, bringing people together for a day of joy, generosity, and shared experiences.

All the details you need to make the most of your time at ‘A Taste of Matarangi’.

Be sure to visit the festival’s official website. There you will find all the information you need to plan your day, including participating vendors, the musician line up,

festival programme, parking, transport and purchasing tickets.

Take a moment to peruse the website and review the terms and conditions outlined. These details cover a range of important aspects, including entry requirements, event regulations, and any special considerations that will contribute to a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.

Buying tickets online is the quickest and easiest way to secure your spot at this fantastic festival. Go to www. atasteofmatarangi.co.nz

Adult tickets $30, child $5 (5-17yrs) and under 5yrs free. Gate sales will be available on the day at an increased price.

Gather your friends and family, get your taste buds ready, and prepare for an

unforgettable day filled with live entertainment and cherished memories. We can’t wait to see you there!

We are deeply grateful to the following sponsors for their unwavering support:

SPONSORS:

Gold - All about Whitianga, Creative Fuel, Richardsons Matarangi, CFM Coromandel, Winton Beaches development

Silver - MATARANGI Beach Paper, Matarangi Rate Payers Assoc. Puku and Kerre’s liquor, Four Square Matarangi, Good as Gold Painting, Matarangi Monitoring services, ITM Coromandel, Matarangi Homes, Holistic Health, Hopper Construction, NZPGS

Bronze - Matarangi Plumbing, Peninsula Pests, The Whole BoxnDice NZ, The Matarangi B&B.

atasteofmatarangi.co.nz

A fabulous day of food, drinks & music by the beach Supporting our community

An incredible fair at Cooks Beach

REVIEW BY HEIDI GORDON

What an incredible day we had at the Cooks Beach Carnival January 4, 2024!

The collective sigh of relief from Whenuakite School’s Fundraising Committee could be felt throughout the entire Coromandel when Thursday rolled around and it was realised that the conditions were perfect.

The Carnival could finally go ahead. No pandemic, cyclone, or other disaster was going to stand in the way.

By 9am families were pouring into the reserve, children tugging at parents’ arms in excitement; at 9.10am there were giggles and shouts of delight everywhere. The floating aroma of coffee and candy floss only fuelled the unmistakable feeling in the air; summer is here.

The Cooks Beach Carnival 2024 stayed true to its traditional roots of over 20 years, with things such as the popular Cooks Beach Rich-

It was so much fun at the fair. Such a large number of volunteers from the community and Whenuakite School, on 4 January 2024.

ardsons Real Estate Daisy Dung Drop and mussel fritters, but this year hosted some new events too. Cooks Got Talent was introduced and what an incredible success it was. We saw contestants from all over enter to dance and sing their way across the stage in front of a packed crowd of hundreds of people for their chance to win the $500 first place prize money.

Cooks Got Talent was hosted by CFM’s MC extraordinaire, Fabian. The stage was nestled between the ocean and the buzzing carnival, a layer of shade provided by the huge pines was a welcome relief from the beating hot sun. The talent show was certainly a highlight for many. The Carnival also saw the return of the popular winning wheel. Tickets sold out in the blink of

an eye because of the generous prizes donated by our amazing local business. The Coromandel Informer Games were bigger and better than anything seen in previous years. The jar throw sold out in record time, despite having more jars filled with prizes than ever before. The ‘Dunk Tank’ was a massive hit! It was entertaining to see just as many people wanting to be dunked as there were

wanting to do the dunking. The music, the crowd, the stalls, and the sun all came together to create an atmosphere of joy. As you looked around and saw families laughing together, smiles from new temporary tattoos, parents snapping photos of ecstatic children on rides -one thing was abundantly clear – this was an amazing carnival and fundraiser for Whenuakite School.

THANKS YOU!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in our amazing Carnival Day on 4 January 2024

Your presence, donations, and support have truly made a difference in helping us make Whenuakite School a better place for our students.

Whitianga Office 21 Coghill Street 07 282 0736

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THROUGH THE PORTAL

Healthy actions make for better Health Ministry outcomes

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

Politically the year has started off like most years with Maori issues taking centre stage at Ratana and Waitangi.

Unlike most years these have continued to be centre stage as our government proceeds at pace with its first 100-day program, basically a dismantling of a whole lot of the previous government’s ill thought out and costly initiatives. The dismantling that is centre stage as I write this is the closure of the Maori Health Authority (Te Aka Whai Ora), this being done by introduction of a bill with this purpose.

What is unique about this bill is that the people leading the arguments from both sides are all Maori.

On the socialist side we have Te Pati Maori, Marama Davidson for the Greens and Willie Jackson charging forward for Labour.

The promotion of the bill is led by the well-respected Dr Shane Reti

and he is supported by Winston Peters of NZ First and David Seymour of Act. All of these people have Maori lineage.

What is to go with this bill is a centralised bureaucracy totally focussed on Maori Health with the bureaucratic functions reverting to be carried out by the Ministry of Health.

However, specific “operational” Maori areas of expertise such as the Hauora Advisory Committee and Iwi-Maori partnership boards would be retained. The focus is to be on health outcomes rather than the administrative function.

You cannot help but wonder what the fuss is about as this is primarily an administrative tidy up and cost reduction.

Possibly it is that a potential income stream for consultants has become a lot more difficult. Possibly it is something else, but there can be no doubt that the socialist side are upset.

Willie Jackson is doing his usual

personal attack thing where any non-Maori that doesn’t agree with him is a racist and any Maori who doesn’t agree with him is not a real Maori.

Marama Davidson is claiming the bill is a breach of the Treaty of Waitangi, although she is not clear how the Treaty protects government departments from consolidation and cost saving.

The real point is that with all main protagonists being Maori, this issue starts to look more like a socialist versus pragmatist issue, rather than a racial one.

This lack of Maori unity must be very disappointing for some Maori but probably is just a reflection on any group of people; opinions do vary.

So how can Maori on the socialist side make some gains out of this, or at least lessen their perceived losses.

Earlier Maori Party caucuses realised the need to work with others and be pragmatic if they wanted to make gains for the

Maori people. Such an attitude saw innovations such as Whanau Ora come into being.

The current incarnation of the Maori Party appears to reject this focus on gains for their people, preferring to make noise occasionally but basically do nothing.

Perhaps this is why only 15% of the Maori voters gave their party vote to Te Pati Maori.

The next few terms look like we will have steady governance from the current government while the left re-organise themselves, which could take them some time.

Labour will get a new leader, but the question is who? Willie Jackson would be a candidate but where would that leave Te Pati Maori? Could he handle more responsibility, after all Kelvin Davis found this to be difficult.

The Green Party are seeing off their last environmentalist with James Shaw’s retirement. This leaves a shrill bunch of extreme left ladies banded together in need of a new identity.

I suggest they drop the Greens brand and pick a new name, “The Aunties” perhaps.

Te Pati Maori do not need to waste the coming years tying themselves to the loser’s side and doing nothing for the people. They can make gains by communicating and working with the present government.

They will not agree on everything but can agree on some things. Just pick the issues carefully.

The National government would probably like to have another voting option if one of their coalition parties were to flex muscle, which does not mean Te Pati Maori must support all National policy but can use their potential vote to make policy gains. Time for some serious thought guys.

„ Thought for the day: Progress comes from cooperation, which comes from communication, which involves listening. Ranting is not part of the equation.

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Bye Bye Number 8 Wire?

Forty years ago, when I started visiting New Zealand, I was intrigued by a term I often heard – ‘Number 8 wire’.

On enquiry, I learnt it was a way of thinking and doing that Kiwis were very proud of. ‘Number 8 wire’ was the gauge of wire commonly used in farm fences. Farmers and rural people used bits of this wire to repair all manner of things – machines, furniture, toys, bicycles – in fact it was generally believed that almost any breakage could be fixed with Number 8 wire.

Bush dwellers and farmers in Australia did the same thing but the term was never coined in Australia.

Often faced with a breakdown or need for a particular piece of equipment and the solution was not available or not affordable, kiwis would find a way of fixing the problem in an unconventional way. That was ‘Number 8 wire’ thinking.

Recognising a problem and thinking of a solution way with an unconventional method, is also an aspect of ‘Number 8 wire’ thinking.

For example, Ernest Rutherford, whose lab split the atom, was an original thinker. Air Vice Mar-

shall Keith Park tactics decried by many in the Air Ministry, nonetheless won the Battle of Britain. This also applied to his education, scientific and theatrical endeavours.

For a bit of a laugh, Fred Dagg was the epitome of a ‘Number 8 wire’ man. Kiwis were proud of what could be achieved with their ‘Number 8 wire’ approach to life. I admired it. I haven’t heard the term used for years. The reason for this is because ‘Number 8 wire’ thinking has quietly, surreptitiously been put to death. Health and Safety edicts and compliance requirements have squeezed, assaulted and throttled ‘Number 8 wire’ thinking so now it is just a distant memory. I understand the reasoning behind the Health and Safety and compliance edicts, but I

believe that unintentionally it has gone too far. I think in its essence, ‘Number 8 wire’ thinking is terrific. It’s a kind of kicking against the wind, thinking outside of the square, kind of approach that our world needs now and always. In my mind this was a most admirable Kiwi character trait.

In the Weekend Herald, February 24, p.A9, Russel Coutts, the master yachtsman who brought home the Americas Cup in 1995, says that New Zealand is, “The most complicated country in the world. … ten times more complicated than anywhere else in the world.”

He’s talking about getting things done. He goes on to say that 40% of the cost of building a new housing development goes on compliance costs. He further illustrates his point by compar-

ing the difficulties encountered in staging a yacht race here in his own country, New Zealand as compared with other countries.

I know about children’s clubs, large holiday camps with hundreds of young people, day camps, adventure events, outdoor stage performing events on a large scale. My wife and I have been running them all our lives.

Recently we have been scanning old albums from some of these joyous events. Guess what! Some of the activities we organised back then, no, most of them, would not be allowed now. Nor could we have recruited our leaders and helpers if we had to put them through the ‘Health and Safety’ sieve of today. Over our lifetime with the thousands of children who were involved in our events, we have never had any life-threatening episodes or scandals or disasters.

Nowadays it is very difficult to run a children’s club because of health and safety requirements. Every potential leader has to have a police check and this applies to adults transporting children to and from any childrens/teens activities. Taking children home after club is now a nightmare. We used to bundle children into a

car with the driver. Not anymore! There must be two adults (the driver plus one - certified suitable – police checks etc) in every car.

These days the number of children’s/youth clubs around New Zealand are few and seem to shrink every year. Part of the reason being the Health and Safety requirements for leaders and helpers.

Children can still play outdoors in playgrounds with rubberised surfaces. But mostly they are indoors with their devices. Is this better for them? Safer for them? Apparently not. I have read of horror clips aimed at children. And the constant news about on-line bullying and on-line stalking. They maybe in-doors in their homes but they are not safe from harm.

What can be done about this?

Bring back ‘Number 8 wire’ thinking. I’m serious when I say this. I feel that our whole health and safety and regulatory regime needs to be reviewed. I know the intent of current legislation is well meaning, but the rules and regulations have gone too far.

In my mind ‘Number eight wire’ thinking must not die. It is part of our heritage that needs to live on. We need it now.

Anything could be fixed with Number 8 wire.

Planning Your Treescape

Part 1: Planning and Space Considerations

BY ANDREW NOAKES

When in the planning stages for any garden, it is easy to be over zealous and choose too many plants or species for a given area. It’s a little like having big eyes in a sweet shop. That’s understandable, but it often leads to crowded spaces with plants competing for available resources rather than creating a cohesive landscape. This is especially true when planting trees, as saplings are hard to imagine in their full potential; it’s an evolution which occurs throughout their long lifespan.

QUESTIONS MUST BE ASKED WHEN PLANTING ALL TREES, BUT ESPECIALLY LARGER SPECIES:

• Will it interfere with your or a neighbour’s view?

• Will it grow into a power line or overhang your driveway or fence when fully grown?

• Will the tree cause a subsidence issue for your property in the long term?

• Will this planting cause structural hazards when fully grown?

• Are you going to encourage wildlife or will you be fostering pests and disease? (ie unpruned Phoenix Palms are happy homes for possums and rats).

• How accessible is your tree for ongoing maintenance?

If I’ve heard it once, I’ve heard it a thousand times… “I didn’t realise the tree would get that big.” I understand that when ambitiously trying to establish a treescape we think more is

better, but that is not always the case. We need to think practically about meeting the needs of the trees in the space available and that includes consideration of valuable resources necessary for vitality; both in rural and urban environments.

RESOURCE CONSIDERATIONS:

• Sunlight (available energy): Access to or lack of sunlight has

direct influence on the energy available to a tree. Trees utilise chlorophyll to make component molecules available for sugar production to feed the plant which directly enables tree growth. This takes solar energy.

• Hydration (access to water): Water is needed throughout the tree for the root system, vascular system and process of photosynthesis.

• Soil Structure (nutrient availability): Soil composition and structure has direct influence on the availability of water and nutrients to a tree through its root structure. Soil compaction due to external forces (ie human, construction, vehicles, livestock, etc) diminishes the water and nutrients available from the soil; being mindful of the space around a tree will help the tree thrive in the long term. Water logged soil can also deprive roots of oxygen, though some thrive in this environment like Salix.

• Temperature: Each tree species has an optimum temperature range to encourage growth and soils that fall outside this range

will not provide the right conditions for growth. For example, a late spring frost can have dramatic ill effects on fruiting trees, just as a dry/hot drought will negatively affect the growth of deciduous trees.

Species can be selected for their limit in growth to suit the available resources and landscape, but ongoing maintenance costs must then be considered at the outset.

Trees planted in an orchard (ie fruit and nuts) require adequate spacing and regular pruning to keep them producing.

Trees are an investment, both financially and energetically, so it’s worthwhile to do your homework first and ensure the right tree is chosen for the right space. A tree is a gift for generations to come.

Next Month… Planning Your Treescape - Part 2: Species Selection and Placement.

„ Andrew Noakes, of NZ Arb Consultancy, is a local Quali�ied Arborist and TRAQ Certi�ied Assessor with over 30 years experience caring for trees in a variety of situations. 0204 163 5486 nzarbconsultancy@proton.me

Native Ponga and “Exotic” Catalpa, left, planted too close together, and too close to the house; Juvenile Phoenix Palm, right, already overbearing and requiring maintenance.

Know anyone who wants to potty train the cows?

Item number 25

Some of our population, rearing our children some years ago, remember the chore of washing nappies.

The more children the more nappies to be washed, until thankfully the little children were potty trained. The functions of the body were perfectly natural and critical to life.

Practically thinking, if you do not eat, poo and pee, you die.

My apologies if offensive, but that is the way it is and that is the way it is as far as I am aware, in all animal life.

A recent issue in another paper distributed in this region, relates yet again to the problem science has with animal effluent, and particularly nitrogen as a part of a perfectly natural function, delivering a biodegradable waste back into the soil that it originated from in the first place. (‘Biodegradable’ – capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms. Oxford Dictionary). Where then, is the problem?

The biodegradable waste is recycled into the soil to grow more fodder to feed the animal again.

Sir Robert Muldoon was correct about one thing and that is, “Get

a statement three times on television and it becomes a fact.”

Mussolini, Italian dictator during the Second World War said, “If you want to tell a lie make sure it is a big one.”

So while farmland produces most of New Zealand’s tradeable income and the biggest earners are animal products, we are now faced with animals being a serious problem according to science.

A pamphlet produced by Wairarapa sheep farmer, Derek Daniell, makes some very relevant and interesting comparisons with Africa, where huge animals such as elephants, rhinos, hippos, wildebeests, frolic and bathe directly in the waterways and the fish life is abundant.

The fish very likely feed on the scraps from the dismembered wildebeests the crocodiles have torn to shreds. Distasteful in some ways, but real natural life in the waterways of that continent, with a lot of the urine and dung from the said animals excreted directly into the water.

Derek Daniell says African waterways have over 1200 species of fish compared to New Zealand with only 58 species.

Returning to the nitrogen prob-

lem, this was briefly mentioned in Item 17 printed in ‘The Informer’ where we have taken samples of our pond water tested by Hill Laboratories in Hamilton with the pond water reading 3.5 parts per 1,000,000 on a number of tests and on one test no nitrogen detected. Our pond is now quite a serious test bed, as it has a closed catchment where only water from this property enters our pond.

The World Health Organisation place the upper level of nitrogen at 11 parts per 1,000,000 for safe drinking water and here we are under four while science is going to virtually ‘potty train the cows’ to find out how to reduce nitrogen levels in the water.

Now this farm is not alone. Speaking to another farmer in Waipukurau where he has a stream flowing at the rear boundary, he said, “The water entering my property tested at 4.5 ppm N (still quite low) but down to 4ppm N exiting my farm”.

Obviously, this farmer was doing something right by lowering nitrogen levels as the stream flowed through.

Now in our case for the first time, we have taken a test for e coli and it revealed 110 /100ml. The 110 is 110 cfu (coli forming units) per ml. The plot thickens as Land and Water Aotearoa (LAWA) state water with a count below 540/100ml is safe for swimming

while above 540 may be risky.

It must be admitted that the e coli count was something of a surprise at such a low level as there is a population of Canada Geese, ducks – several varieties, sometimes swans and shags, and of course eels in the pond. Further e coli tests will be taken to establish a standard level, as has been done with the nitrogen levels.

A farm pond with a closed catchment, subject to the runoff of rainwater that is normally associated with cattle farming, reading both low nitrogen and low e coli levels – apparently, according to science, this could not be.

Now here is another example relating to historical figures. The American Indians claimed and it would have to be a bold man to refute their claim, that ‘before the white man came, we could drink from any stream’.

There were reputed to be forty million buffalo in North America and who thinks for one moment that when they went to drink their forty to seventy litres daily, that they said to themselves, we must not pee or poo in the stream, the Indians drink here.

As always, nature, if allowed, takes care of the problem.

Potty training cows is not an option? Photo supplied by Freepix.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

CLIMATE CHANGE

Watching the continual parade of fossil-fuelled cars along Buffalo Beach Road, I’ve realised that this is mirrored by small communities NZ-wide.

With the Aid of the big business transport industry we are blithely ignoring that 2023 has been the hottest year since we have kept records.

Our Leaders are failing us by using tree planting as an economically viable method of carbon sequestration. The Friedman philosophy will spell the end of our civilization. It is worth trying to stop this climate change when we know that humanity has reached eight billion, needing fossil fuels to feed and house us?

Peter H. Wood Whitianga

POSITIVE PEOPLE

The people that really matter are the positive, helpful type. Here in Whitianga there is a group of dayto-day workers that contribute greatly to our community – going about their jobs with a “can do” attitude.

Recreational services staff are a pleasure to deal with and deserve a mention in our ever-declining negative attitude world.

The work they do greatly enhances our town. Thanks to all the staff, you are a pleasure to deal with and set an example many can learn from.

John Maud

Whitianga Bike Park SYSTEM REQUIRED FOR THE PUBLIC VOICE TO BE HEARD AND HEEDED

Thoughts of locals appearing in this paper make it clear that the present system of government is not working.

The idea of democracy being effected through a system of representatives working within the confines of NZ’s parliamentary system is no longer credible. Democracy is “a system of government by the whole popula-

tion”. The present level of public unrest is proof that government by the people is not happening.

The representative idea was not criticised while things were just tootling along as they were in the ’60’s and ’70’s when we had plenty of space for businesses and inflation to expand without hindrance. The people voted once every three years and then forgot about all that political stuff until the next election in the knowledge that their lifestyles would continue as before for another three years.

Today we realise that our representatives are not coping with the ‘political stuff’ enough to keep us free of government interference. Our lifestyles are being severely tampered with and we are paying heavily for this interference!

It is not just interference but the blatant wastage of public money which is starting to horrify.

We need a radical change to our system of government. It is time we started to discuss what this new system would look like and how it could be run.

The new system must enable every public voice to be heard before any government initiatives are launched at local, regional, national, and international levels.

The communication technology is already in place to enable instant, nation-wide surveys, or referenda to be carried out at minimal expense.

Use of this technology could enable NZ’s choices to become the people’s choices.

John Veysey Colville

GUEST EDITOR

Following on from your guest editor Alistair Brickell on the downsides of electric vehicles, I would like to regale you with a tale from my friend in the UK.

On a whim, driven by the worlds obsessed media for electric vehicles, he bought one. The fad lasted but 6 months before he sold it. He gave some interesting reasons

1. The battery was HUGE and covered in plastic. Plastic is a by-product of oil, so to produce the battery cover we had to drill for oil

2. The battery is driven by Lithium which has to be mined, thus digging once again into Mamma Earth. The Greens wouldn’t allow mining, but we are happy to bring it in from China, Zimbabwe, Canada, Australia or other countries, some of which employ child labour.

3. The battery has to be charged. This is done by coal powered electricity, Once again, NO COAL MINING here, so we bring it in by the thousands of tonnes from China, Australia etc. All, of course, delivered on Diesel powered ships, contaminating the atmosphere and polluting the oceans.

4. Very soon (estimates at 6 years or less), the battery will have to be replaced at some horrendous cost, and the whole cycle starts again

5. What happens to the old battery? Where is it disposed of?

Sad tales come in from around the world, of batteries bursting into flames. People isolated on motorways because the battery ran out. They had to be saved by a diesel powered generator driven out to them.

I am sure that somewhere down the track a viable alternative to petrol will be found, but for now, don’t follow the media hype and rush out to buy an electric vehicle. You aren’t doing us, or the planet any favours.

Rob Barnes Whitianga

EV SALES

It’s absurd how Alastair Brickell regurgitates oil companies’ nonsense about electric vehicles (EVs).

Brickell’s assertion that EV sales have peaked is absolute rubbish. In 2023 alone, a whopping 14 million new EVs hit the streets globally, marking a 35% surge from 2022 and an astonish-

ing 54% leap from 2021 to 2022. Yet Brickell expects you to believe that all these buyers are mistaken while he alone holds the monopoly on truth. 1.2 million Tesla Model Y cars were sold in 2023, the world’s best-selling and safest car, but they too must somehow bow to Brickell’s assumed superior knowledge.

EVs command an impressive 20% share of the global car market, with the International Energy Agency forecasting this figure to skyrocket to 60% by 2030.

Meanwhile, Chinese and European EV manufacturers are producing models that rival gas-powered cars in both specifications and price, such as the 3 times NZ ‘Car of the Year’ award-winning MG hatchback EV.

Major battery producers have announced an astounding 50% reduction in battery prices for 2024, paving the way for even more competitive pricing and increased EV adoption rates.

It’s sad how Brickell, akin to his climate change denial, cherry-picks misinformation from the depths of the internet while disregarding readily available hard facts.

Just like the sceptics who scoffed at smartphones and the internet, Brickell fails to comprehend the exponential growth potential of disruptive technologies. The plunging costs and surging sales of EVs will leave traditional automotive giants like Toyota, VW, and Ford trailing.

Brickell can’t even get the price of a Tesla right—it’s $11,000 cheaper than his inflated figure. Real-world data from Norway debunks yet another of Brickell’s myths, exposing gasoline cars as having a fire risk nine times higher than EVs.

Advice to Brickell: instead of peddling misinformation from fossil fuel trolls on social media, perhaps he should heed millions of satisfied EV owners, industry experts, and hard data.

Paul Sommerville

VIRTUOUS EV OWNERS

The only point not mentioned in Alister Brickell’s brilliant EV ‘ Report Card ‘ (Informer, 27 February) is the hypocritical moral high ground EV owners claim to occupy.

Anyone who reads S. Kara’s ‘Cobalt Red’ published last year (once they wipe the tears from their eyes), will be rapidly disabused. Tens of thousands of artisanal workers, many women and children, work in underground mines in southern Congo where they scrape out cobalt ore which is then laundered through the ‘official’, mainly Chinese, companies.

The hundreds of kilometres of tunnels are airless and totally unsupported, which means collapses are regular. When this happens, the evidence is buried forever, and relatives are even denied a decent burial as the bodies cannot be recovered. The appalling conditions are invisible to the outside world and no-one, from digger to battery, takes any responsibility whatsoever. The Congolese Government from the President down is paid off.

Of course, the problem existed before EVs with cell phones but the (up to) 10kg of cobalt needed in a battery is ONE THOUSAND TIMES more than in a cell phone, such that the demand has recently exploded and exploitation with it.

The COP targets of eliminating hydrocarbon engines will require millions of tons of cobalt and push hundreds of thousands of men, women and children into hazardous pits and tunnels to meet demand. No doubt Mr. Tegg, “a strident anti-miner”, will be the first to boycott such unethical practices.

Gerry Sanders, Whitianga

BY KATE BEAUCHAMP

Every month there is a challenge subscribed and members work to enter something on the theme of that challenge.

JANUARY CHALLENGETRIPTYCH OR DIPTYCH

Next week The Informer will be highlighting the February Challenge which was Abstract Photography.

FIRST PLACE WINNER FOR JANUARY CHALLENGE:

Sean King won the January challenge with a maternity portrait of his partner, Ruby. By making the

Whitianga Photographic Club

outer two images smaller, prominence has been given to the centre portrait image. Taking the image at sunset has given soft tones and pastel colours, which makes a beautiful portrait and story.

Second place went to Kate Beauchamp and third to Anita Ruggle-Lussy & Wendy Pemberton

PHOTO OF THE MONTH:

‘On the wing’ by Bevan Walker won photo of the month, a perfectly timed wildlife shot. The Tern is well focused against a blurred background making it stand out.

Second place went to Lia Priemus and third to Tina Macrae.

If anyone is keen to join our small but successful club please email our admin team whitiangaphoto@gmail.com

The work and achievements of our members can be viewed on the Whitianga Photographic Club public Facebook page.

SPORTS

MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS

20 players this week, so 501 doubles was played. We had two visitors from Wellington this week and both featured in the final. Two teams won four straight sets, so they had a one game shootout. They were Rex Donaldson and Sue Walton and Mike Gillett and Jonathan Walton. Rex Donaldson and Sue Walton came out the victors. Highest finish was 92, scored by Mike Gillett. 180 was scored by Johnathan Walton. It was nice to have the Waltons visiting from Wellington and using our club facilities. Maybe we could return the favour in the future.

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB

North/South:1 David Wilkinson and Johanna Bonnar 58.85, 2 Jo Feasey and Chris Death 55.73, 3 Jenny Prince and Judy McKenzie 47.92.

East/West:1Rob Stewart and Ron Baker 57.50, 2 Robyn Waters and Sue Poland 53.75, 3 Diane and David Hayes 53.13.

MERCURY BAY CONTRACT

BRIDGE CLUB

Handicap Pairs Round Three

Wednesday, 28 February.

North/South:1 Jenny Layton &

Don Barry 58.3; 2 Rose Tegg & Val Dwight 55.1; 3 Susan Swan & Jan Autumn 50.0

East/West: 1 Bob Schibli & Dave Dylla 54.3; 2 Norma Hart & Chris Hilford 54.2; 3 Sergio Valle & Giorgio Allemano 53.6

Kupe Pairs Round Three Thursday, 29 Feb.

1 Rose Tegg and Faith Stock 68.3; 2 Terri Lipanovic and Hillary Scott 58.3; 3 Pam Churchill and Kathy Moy-Low 53.3.

MERCURY BAY CLUB

SNOOKER

Wednesday, 28 February

Best of three frames: Ten players on Wednesday and it was only Peter Challis and Wayne Malcolm with two straight wins to battle out the final third frame. It was past Club Champion Peter who triumphed against Wayne and and took home the cash prize. Runner up Wayne Malcolm and others with two wins were Greg Murphy and Ian Baumgren.

Saturday, 2 March

Best of three frames: Nine players on Saturday and it was only Peter Schultz and Jason Smith with two straight wins to Challenge the final third frame. However it was 2021 Club Champion Peter who was too strong for

Jason and took the win and cash prize. Runner up Jason Smith and also with two wins were Bob Haase and Phil Jones. No high break’s recorded either day.

Veteran Player and many times Club Champion Brian Codyre, now about 84years, is not well and in the Waikato Hospital. We the Mercury Bay Club Snooker Club and his many friends in the Whitianga Community wish him all our very best and wish hopes for a speedy recovery and to see him back on the tables.

THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB

Nine-hole Men – Stableford

Monday 26 February

1, Ray Green; 2, Peter Mathias; 3, Peter Murphy.

Ladies Nine-hole Nett and Putting – Tuesday, 27 Febraury

1, Merrin James; 2, Joanne Nicholson; 3 Sue Karl.

Putting – Joanne Nicholson.

Tony Cotton Memorial

Shootout Nett – Wednesday, 28 February

1, Tim Bodle; 2, David Ellis; 3, Chris Palmer.

Nearest the Pin – Toni Joblin

Twos: Tony Nicholson, Glenn LeLievre, Charlie Chilwell, Yony Joblin.

Ladies 18 Holes Stableford

Shootout Qualifier. Wednesday, 28 February

1, Polly Lambert; 2, Chrissie Smith; 3, Brenda Riggs.

Twos: Polly Lambert.

Nine-hole Par 3

Thursday, 29 February

1, Phil Rodgers, 2 Graeme Kinsington.

Closest to the Pin - Rey Bertling. March Haggle - Stableford

Saturday 2 March

1, Tony Nicholson; 2, Paul Shaw; 3 Bev Gwyn.

Nearest the Pin - David Ellis

Twos: Sandra Bowen.

MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB

Nine-hole Women - Stableford

Tuesday 27 Feburary

Div 1: 1, Pam Voigt; 2, Adele Conway.

Div 2: 1, Noelene Boardman

Nine-hole Men - Stableford

1, Edwin Lyle; 2, Patrick Gonthier; 3, Wayne Kettle.

Eighteen-hole Women – Nancy McCormick RD2

Wednesday, 28 February

1, Gail Doughty and Vinnie Schofield; 2 Chris Lowe and Betty Tocker; 3, Debbie Holmes and Chris van Veen.

Eighteen-hole Men - Stableford

1, Ron Watson; 2, Patrick Gon-

thier; 3, Brett Proctor.

Twos: Mick Henderson, Carl Mitchell.

Div 1: Gross - Mick Henderson.

Div 2: Gross -Gary Wheeler.

Nine-hole Mixed ScrambleStableford

Friday, 1 March

1, Patrick Gonthier; 2, Campbell Elliot; 3, Edwin Lyle.

Twos: Patrick Gonthier

Nearest Pin: Jeffrey Dixon, Peter Chaffin.

Eighteen-hole Men- Stableford

Saturday, 2 March

1, Brett Proctor; 2, Richard Steel; 3, Wayne Kettle.

Twos: Brett Proctor, Neal Robinson, Graham Dun.

Div 1:Gross - Stephen Gross; Nearest Pin - Neal Robinson; Longest Drive - Brett Goodger.

Div 2: Gross - Graham Dun; Nearest Pin - Jeff Dixon; Longest Drive - Richard Hanna.

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If you have an activity or group or the existing information is incorrect, let The Informer know. Call 866 2090, email info@theinformer.co.nz or send a message on Facebook.

REGULAR ACTIVITIES/EVENTS

OP SHOPS

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Monday –Saturday from 10.00am – 2.00pm.

St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am-4.00pm and Saturday 9.30am-2.00pm.

St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen Street, Whitianga. 9.30am to 1pm Wednesday to Saturday. Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill Street (west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday 9.30am-2.00pm. Donations welcome and can be dropped off at this address.

SPCA Op-shop – 2/Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday 9.00am-5.00pm and Sunday 9.00am-4.00pm.

MONTHLY

AA Driver Licensing

Second and forth Friday of every month. In the Mercury Bay Service Centre Community Board Room in Monk Street, not at St. Andrews by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street. Cooks Beach Garden Circle

Last Thursday of every month 11.15am – 2.30pm. New members are welcome. Phone Anne on 07 866 0268 for more information.

Kūaotunu Dune Care

Every third Wednesday of the month. Protecting the dunes by removing weeds and rubbish and planting native dune plants. To get involved, please email kuaotunudunecare@gmail.com to get on the emailing list.

FORTNIGHTLY

Knit for a Purpose

The first and third Fridays of the month, 10.00am to 12.00pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. Gillian Reid on 021 781081 for further details, or just turn up.

Mercury Bay Creative Fibre

Spin, knit, weave, crochet. First and third Wednesday every month, 10.00am-1.00pm, supper room of Town Hall. Phone. Vanessa 027 896 5037 Email. - vandoo555@gmail.com.

Whitianga Tramping Group

Every second Sunday at 8.30am. Phone Wally on 021 907 782 or Lesley on 021 157 9979 for more information.

WEEKLY OR MORE

Alcoholics Anonymous

The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.

Al-Anon Serenity Group

For those affected by someone else’s drinking.

Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info.

Chess Club

Monday nights 6.30-9.30pm. Bowling club. Players of all levels welcome. Come along and enjoy a game or two of chess. Cost $2 to go towards room costs and supper. Contact Brett Soanes 0272117195 or brettsoanes16@hotmail.com

Chinwag Café

Every Friday from 10.00am-12.00pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. A place for over 50s to meet other people, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a chinwag.

Coffee and Discussion Group

Every Sunday, 2.00pm-4.00pm, at The Lost Spring. Topics are open and respect shown. No charge. Convener. Peter H. Wood.

Cooks Beach Care Group

Haere mai! We invite you to join our friendly team and learn about coastal conservation. Come weeding and planting while enjoying our beautiful

environment. Thursday mornings. Register www. cooksbeachcare.org.nz

Coroglen Farmer's Market

Every Sunday 9.00am – 1.00pm. Coroglen Gumtown Hall.

DANCING

Mercury Bay Dance Club

Recreational dance lessons. Thursday 6.00pm7.00pm. Please book with Kathleen 022 154 1702 and/or check out the Facebook page. facebook. com/mercurybaydanceclub/.

LINE DANCING – Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club

Commencing again 30 January, Tuesdays, beginners 11.15am-12.15pm; seniors 12.302.30pm. Starting 8 February, Thursdays, absolute beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, improvers 12.452.45pm. Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Phone Margaret 027 463 8850 or Glynis 021 1099 155.

Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes

Town Hall, Monk Street, $5 per session.

Intermediate classes Wednesday,12.00pm-1.30pm; Beginner / Improver classes Monday 10.30am -11.45am. Contact Cecily 027 294 1750 or Kathy 027 4321 353

Belly Dancing

Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran.com.

Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm.

SALSA/Merengue/Bachata and Cha Cha

Contact Molly, events@beatfairy.com

Every Monday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Monkey House. $20 per class which includes a drink.

Zumba

Contact Carly, book at www.infinitefitness.nz Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm, 86a Albert St. Free 7 day trial.

Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling club

Every Wednesday 1.45-4.30pm approx, Cooks Beach Hall. One month free trial (4 times). Contact Coral Strong 021 2303 944.

Dog walking group

Every Thursday at 2.00pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to a very sociable group where great friendships are made. Phone Jenny on 021 186 5797.

Grey Power Mercury Bay Coffee Morning

Meeting 10.30am, Thursday 15 February at the Lost Spring. All members and friends are welcome.

Living Well Within Oneness Meditation Centre

OM Centre focuses on the meditative art of going deeper within. Learn how to meditate, breath, calm the mind, relieve stress, anxiety and be a calm, peaceful, courageous, dynamic human being. Every Monday, 9.30-11.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881or email linda_c@orcon.net.nz

Meditation Stress Reduction Circle –Whitianga

Mondays from 7.30-9.00pm at the Embassy of Friendship, 5 Coghill St. More info. Steffen Lindner (Counsellor, Therapist & Mindfulness Facilitator). Ph 022 0853 121 or email steffen@eof.nz

Thursday Evening Meditation Classes

Spiritual, Heart, Soul Development. Sacred Energy, Chakra Activations, Working with Spiritual Guides, Open forum conversation, Thursdays, 6.30pm at Flat 1, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga. Cost is $10. Contact Verna 027 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com.

Mercury Bay Athletics

For information contact alana.baker@ bayleyscoromandel.co.nz.

Mercury Bay Badminton Club

Thursdays 5.00pm-7.00pm, 4 courts - All levels welcome with coaching available. At the school gym (adjacent to swimming pool). Mercury Bay Area School. Contact: Steve 027 211 3568

Mercury Bay Badminton

Every Wednesday from 9.00am-11.00am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, ages 16+. Phone Carol on 027 474 7493 for more information.

Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club Cook Drive, Whitianga. Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.

Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club

Restarts 7 March. Every Thursday evening, Whitianga Town Hall, 6.45pm. New members and visitors welcome. Phone Cheryl or Alan on 027 452 7887 for more information.

Mercury Bay Community Choir

Mondays 6.15-8.15pm, Music Room Mercury Bay Area School. Inclusive, open, friendly choir – no prior singing experience needed, no auditions.

Contact Kate 027 2709 058 for details.

Mercury Bay Environmental Trust

Every Tuesday and Friday from 9.00am-11.00am, location advised prior. For more information, please email mbenvironmentaltrust@gmail.com or go to www.mbet.co.nz.

Mercury Bay Pickleball Club

Every Tuesday 5.30pm – 7.30pm and every Sunday 4.00pm – 6.00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School gymnasium, Whitianga. Outdoor sessions every Thursday 4.30pm – 6.30pm, Matai Place courts, Matarangi. $5 per session, includes equipment and training. Contact Tony Minto on 021 426 150 for more information.

Mercury Bay Quilters

From 10.00am-4.00pm on the first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. 2 Cook Drive (Social Services building).

Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016.

Mercury Bay Table Tennis

Every Tuesday, 9.00am – 11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Phone Anne on 07 869 5162 or 027 565 5575 for more information.

Mercury Bay Tennis Club

Social tennis at Lyon Park is on from 6.00pm on Thursdays. All welcome. Ph. Jason - 022 186 7992 or Steve - 021 256 6865.

Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club)

Fourth Monday of every month, 10.00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Joan on 07 866 3801 or 027 275 1372 for more information.

SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated

Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers on 021 022 62504 or email seniornet.whitianga.admin@gmail.com.

Spiritual Coffee Mornings

Every Tuesday and Wednesday, 10.30am-11.30am, 19 Monk Street, the Starlight Centre. Grab a coffee and join in some great conversation where we talk about topics and subjects that have meaning. Gold coin donation. Contact Verna 027 320 0079.

Strength, Balance and Mobility classes for Seniors – men and women

Every Thursday morning from 10.00am to 11.00am at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. $2.00 per session. Contact Lisa Jury on 027 351 7110 for further information.

Tai Chi for beginners

Town Hall, Mondays 6.00pm-7.00pm. Gold coin donation. Ph. Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.

Tai Do Martial Arts

Town Hall, Tuesdays and Wednesdays 6.00pm7.30pm. Ph. Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.

Whitianga Art Group

Every Thursday and Friday 10am-4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.

Whitianga Bike Park

144 Moewai Road, Whitianga. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, barbeques and walking trails. Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact John 027 366 4606.

Whitianga Menz Shed

Open every Tuesday and Thursday, 9.00am – 12.00 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway, past the diesel truck stop. All welcome.

Whitianga Playcentre

Every Tuesday and Friday 9.00am-12.00pm,1F White Street. Contact. whitianga@playcentre.org.nz or 027 880 3947.

Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games

Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, from 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info.

Whiti Stitchers

Embroiderers meet every Tuesday at 9.00am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome.

Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss

Whitianga

Wednesdays 5.00-6.00pm, Room 10, Whitianga

Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals, eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.

Whitianga Gun Club

For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Graham Sutcliffe on 021 846 655.

Whitianga Community Patrol

Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043.

Hahei Contract Bridge Club

Every Tuesday 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Learners and casual welcome. Contact Don Barry 021 741 959 or Robyn Hogg 021543015.

Mercury Bay Contract Bridge Club

Every Wednesday at 1.00pm and every Thursday at 7.00pm at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. For more information, phone Gavin on 07 866 2343 or 021 146 9203.

Tairua Contract Bridge Club

Every Monday at 12.30pm at the Tairua Bowling Club, 44 Hornsea Rd. Contact Lynnette Flowers 021 252 4709 or Johanna Bonnar 027 466 3726.

Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club

On summer break now. Phone Alan or Cheryl on 07 866 4024 or 027 452 7887 for more information.

Mercury Bay Squash Club

Usually on a Monday night. In recess at present. Several levels offered.

Mercury Bay Model Railway Club

Monthly meet. Contact. Damon 0273551650

Greeting Card Making

The second and fourth Fridays of the month, 10.00am to 12.00pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. All materials provided. Contact Rev. Gillian Reid on 021 781 081 or just turn up.

Craft Group

Meets first Saturday of the month 10.00am-3.00pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. Car park end. Work on your own craft (stitching, colouring in, scrapbook, card making anything goes). Bring your lunch and enjoy mixing with other crafty people. $2 per visit. Any queries phone Marilyn 021 1806 530 or Kim 021 1200 469.

American Muscle Street and Custom Club

Whitianga Club meetings first Sunday of the month, 11.00am at Smitty’s for cars and coffee. Phone Reg and Julie Smith on 027 493 5822.

MOTORING

Invercargill – where dreams are formed and come true... and a great road trip

BY JACK BIDDLE

Invercargill was originally dubbed the “City of Water and Light”, referring to its abundance of our most important natural resource – water and the long summer twilights, along with the frequent appearances of the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights).

The “water” reference, some humourists have suggested, comes from the notorious horizontal, driving rain in high winds, where the two main streets meet.

In 2017 our southernmost city looked to change its image and came up with a new slogan “Dream Big” which is far more appropriate and a better reflection on the city’s current focus and past history.

Some of that past history is still very much alive and kicking today. For example, the film, “The World’s Fastest Indian” released in 2005 and starring Anthony Hopkins as the legendary local Invercargill lad and motorbike racer Burt Munro, was an international success. It portrayed Burt Munro as a man who turned his

boyhood dream of setting a world land speed record into a reality. In August of 1967 at the grand old age of 68 and after 20 years of disappoint ments, grit, determina tion and good old fashion Kiwi ingenuity, Burt turned his 1920 Indian Motorcycle into a record breaker on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah USA. Certainly an amazing achievement and it’s a movie worth watching.

The Bert Munro Challenge which is a series of different events with a motorbike theme continues to draw thousands of visitors and enthusiasts to Invercargill each year is held to honour the man’s love of speed and motorcycles. He was a man who did not know the meaning of the words, “giving up on one’s dreams”.

E Hayes and Sons, which is more than just a hardware and engineering supply shop has on display Burt Munro’s authentic, original Indian Scout and is definitely worth a visit.

Another huge attraction in Invercargill, and the main reason

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Tairua, 56 Paku Drive

• Beautifully presented, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, cedar cladhome.

• 2 decks both with stunning beach and water views.

for my recent visit, is Bill Richardson’s Transport World. Bill Richardson was another born and bred southern man who saw his dream of bringing old broken trucks back from the brink of the crusher and turning them into showpiece condition, come true. His collection sits in a 15,000 square metre building which takes up an entire street block only five minutes from the centre of the city and is considered to be the largest private collection of its type in the world.

It’s an attraction many would automatically think to be solely a man’s world and to which a reluctant partner is dragged along, but

Katrina

Tairua, 2 Wharf Road

• 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom upstairs.

• Self contained, two bedroom, 1 bathroom unit downstairs.

• 200m from boat ramp, central location.

• Properties like this do not come to the market very often. FOR

FOR SALE Price By Negotiation

VIEW harcourts.co.nz/ L26411783

Adam Fuller 022 018 0856

VIEW

Philippa

Jo

once they pass-through the front doors, those same partners can often also be the last to leave.

There are also sections which display wearable arts and an abundance of grandma’s old household gadgets including original sewing and washing machines along with an old-world kitchen setting in the café.

Most of the vehicles on display are rare, unusual or significant and are highlighted by a 1940 Dodge RX70 Airflow truck – one of only three known to be fully restored worldwide. It was used as a water cart before being rescued from the wreckers by a tanker driver from Chicago with the intentions to restore it which he never did. Bill Richardson purchased it in January 1992 and completed its restoration in December 1996.

The other attractions on public display are just as well preserved and include many Ford V8 cars, American pre and post-

• Well-known local business for sale, established for over 25years.

• Over $25,000 worth of assets included in the purchase.

• Located in the heart of Whitianga town & provides a wide range of mechanical repairs.

FOR SALE $179,000 + GST if any

VIEW harcourts.co.nz/ L25578400

Kirby Faulkner 027 436 9990

Kirstin Brown 027 301 1775

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war trucks, British trucks, Kombi vans, pre-Model T Fords, classic race cars, and the legendary John Britten’s bikes.

Sadly, Bill Richardson passed away suddenly in 2005 at age just 64. His life was cut short but in terms of achievement, it was remarkable. He was also a man like Burt Munro who never gave up on his dreams.

At the entrance to the museum there is a plaque with the words, “I only hope when I die somebody will be interested enough to carry it on”. He can certainly rest in peace knowing that his daughter Jocelyn and her husband Scott O’Donnell decided to open up the collection to the public in 2015.

Invercargill is certainly a long drive from Whitianga, but Bill Richardson’s Transport World is definitely one of those museums that words alone do not do justice. For motoring enthusiasts, it’s a bucket list item. Invercargill has an awful lot of other attractions to offer visitors but the fact it was Burt Munro’s and Bill Richardson’s patch just makes it a little more special and complements the “Dream Big” slogan perfectly.

Tairua, 91 Pepe Road

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Tairua,

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FOR

VIEW

Philippa

Jo

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Issue 1095

Crossword Puzzle

© Lovatts Puzzles 352

Issue 1095

Proudly sponsored by Proudly sponsored by

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Phone no: .............................................................................................

Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver, mail, scan/ photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.

Word Search

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Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly.

Word Search Instructions

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.

Theme: BERRIES

BARBERRY

BLACKBERRY

BLUEBERRY

CRANBERRY

ELDERBERRY

GOOSEBERRY

GRAPE

LOGANBERRY

MAY APPLE

MULBERRY

RASPBERRY

STRAWBERRY

THIMBLEBERRY

WOLFBERRY

Last week’s word search solution

ACROSS

1. Skewered meat dish (5)

7. Housing loan (8)

8. Should, ... to (5)

10. Purposely overhears (10)

12. Dingier (8)

14. Major Indonesian isle (4)

16. Green gemstone (4)

17. Piercing with spear (8)

20. Full-length (10)

23. Of sound(5)

24. Quivers (8)

25. Proposal (5)

DOWN

1. Raps (6)

2. Dull pain (4)

3. Hand (out) (4)

4. Breeding males (5)

5. Wide (view) (9)

6. Japanese hostess (6)

9. Brindled cat (5)

11. Wood-smoothing sheet (9)

13. Shady tree (3)

15. Titled ladies (5)

16. Lively (6)

18. Food retailer (6)

19. Beetle larvae (5)

21. Antlered animal (4)

22. Remove (hat) (4)

Last week’s crossword solution

Last week’s winner - Sheila Key

Last week’s winner - Lee Pudney

Work on Cathedral Cove a priority

Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has made the reinstatement of the walking access to Coromandel’s Cathedral Cove/Te Whanganui-a-Hei before next summer a priority.

The track to the famous beach - renowned for its natural rock arch feature –was severely damaged by extreme weather events in January and February 2023. The Department of Conservation (DOC) staff determined the track was an unacceptable risk to public walking access.

DOC has now announced its work programme to determine how the walking access can be reinstated in a safe and resilient way, especially given climate change, rockfall and land movement challenges at the site.

“It’s clear we need to make sure visitors can once again safely and fully enjoy one of the country’s

iconic locations – and DOC staff have made this a priority,” says Tama Potaka.

“Ideally, we want safe walking access to the beach reinstated and our ambition is to have it ready for visitors next summer.

“Cathedral Cove/Te Whanganui-a-Hei is a crucial part of Coromandel’s tourism economy and reinstating walking access to it will help get the district back on track.

“I expect to receive advice from officials by the end of June on the reinstatement options. Assuming there is a safe option for public walking access, I want to see the

mahi procured and underway ahead of summer.

“There are some further conversations to be had with Ngāti Hei, the Coromandel community and our stakeholders in the district about how this work is resourced and supported.

“In its present condition the track is not safe for visitors – and DOC is focussed on finding a resilient solution which will give visitors the chance to again walk to this majestic place,” Mr Potaka says.

A special page on DOC’s website has a range of information on Cathedral Cove, including an overview of the work programme, the Tonkin + Taylor risk assessment report, and information on the current visitor offer and walks across land above the cove.

„ Press release from Mercury Bay Business Association via Ray Van Beynenpdate10

STORAGE AVAILABLE

STORAGE SHEDS

Whitianga Total Storage opposite

Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660

CONTAINER IT SELF STORAGE

17 Moewai Road, Whitianga.

Ph: 0274 817 258

FARRIER AVAILABLE

FARRIER AND HOOF TRIMMING SERVICE

Coromandel/Thames & Whitianga area.

Phone: Tony 027 494 7692

Enquiries

Grazing

CHURCH SERVICES

GR8 STORAGE, WHITIANGA

Phil - 0273 433023, Car, boat, campervan storage, 20 foot containers available to store your belongings.

HOLISTIC HEALTH

CATTERY

KAIMARAMA CATS

2679 Tairua-Whitianga Road, KAIMARAMA 021 0283 0515

kaimaramacats@gmail.com

GRAZING

ST ANDREW’S BY THE SEA Presby/Methodist Church Albert St Whitianga (Est.1898) COMMUNITY WORSHIP

EVERY SUNDAY 9:30am Come, join us! Bring the family! Parish Secretary: ph 022 132 2061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

Everyone Welcome

Sunday 10 am – 12 noon

@ 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga (Community Service Bldg)

Enquiries - 021 113 0566

• 2 landed and 18 tagged Striped Marlin

• 11 King Fish heaviest being 13.99kg

• 14 Snapper, the

canopies and carports come with premium UV safe roofing and are custom made to your individual requirements. Making outdoor living easier all year round.

The Coromandel Informer is published weekly and distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of them are entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name, telephone number or residential address. Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. Published by The Mercury Bay Informer Limited.

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