Summer Magazine 2024-2025

Your Summer

BUILDING COROMANDEL

Its people … spirit … creativity … enterprise and connectedness

Capturing the life, energy and beauty of the people, places and events in the stunning Coromandel Peninsula

WELCOME

Just because you drive around the Coromandel does not mean that you have seen it. Just because you have walked and swam a dozen beaches does not mean you have experienced the Coromandel.

The Coromandel is a spirit. It is more than water, wind and waves. It is a life force and once it touches a person, that person wants more. Skeptical? Ask the residents.  You can drive the Coromandel, from one end to the other and never see its essence. The Coromandel Peninsula is more than bendy roads, stunning views and endless beaches. It is a unique life experience. It stirs deep feelings and amazing dreams. Ask any of its artists, poets, craftsmen.

The Coromandel catches you when you least expect it.  At first imperceptibly, then in restless dreams and new imaginings. But, when it has you in its grip, you know that something different is happening to you. Out of nowhere the thought comes, “I must come back”. And then the scariest thought of all, “I want to live here; make my home here; live a different kind of life.”

Enough of this esoteric meandering. Let’s get down to the content of this magazine.

Read the stories of real people who live on the Coromandel. Look over the businesses who advertise in this magazine. Try them out. We haven’t traded with all of them. However, we have done business with many of them. We have found their coffee and food, their services and products all to be of high quality. We have found their commitment to keep going in the toughest of times, inspiring. We believe you will also find this to be true.

Thank you for visiting the Coromandel. We believe you will feel it doing you good. And if you catch the Coromandel spirit, or if the spirit catches you, your life may never be the same.

Stan and Pauline Stewart

Editors of The Coromandel Informer –publishers of Your Summer Magazine

Photo and cover photo Wayne Martin

The Coromandel Informer Your Summer Magazine is published by The Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga and printed by Webstar, Auckland. Enquiries – phone 07 866 2090 or email info@theinformer.co.nz © 2024. All rights reserved.

Contributors – Pauline Stewart, Stan Stewart, Pam Ferla, Suzanne Hansen, Jack Biddle, Trevor Ammundsem, Perry Cornish, Dorothy Preece, Verna Carr, Fiona Elder, Jillian Johnston, Suzanne Murrell, Maria Balan & Alan Hopping, Leigh Hopper, Peter Farmer, Louise Wilson, Robert Simmons, Des Gyde, Jack Brayden, Mike Walker, George Fletcher, Bronwyn Ririnui

Editorial assistance – Jillian Johnston

Business manager – Emma Gaunt

Key photographer – Wayne Martin

Design – Clare McGillivray, CM Design Production asistance – Diane Andrew www.theinformer.co.nz

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PRESCOTTS

A family that held the Hikuai district together and a signpost for all Coromandel Peninsula travellers

By Stan Stewart

The first people to come to Hikuai were searching for gold. Then some came to farm dairy cows. Scenery and beaches, including beaches with hot water in the sand, were taken for granted. Bill’s dad couldn’t see the point of going to the beach. Speaking to his wife he said, “If you want the kids to play in sand, I’ll bring a truckload and dump it in our backyard.”

The thought that sand, beaches and views could have a dollar value only started to dawn in the late 50’s and the 60’s. This realisation has grown a-pace ever since.

John Prescott, Bill’s dad, was born in Thames and went to school in Hikuai. When he was twelve, he had the cream run from Pukotui to Laylocks Hotel and Landing. From here the cream was transported by boat to Auckland. Then John bought a Model T Ford trip dray1 and spent time filling bridge approaches in Hikuai.

By now he was aware of the need for transportation in the district. Using a sevenseater Hudson he started a taxi service. This led to his obtaining the five day a week

mail contract from Tairua to Waihi. This run entailed much more than passengers and mail. He was given shopping lists which he purchased in Waihi and duly delivered the goods to road-side boxes. His taxis and trucks were a lifeline that connected the district. His vehicles moved people and produce, most notably milk and cream, across the district.

His boys, Johnny and Bob were also a part of the Prescott operation. Johnny ended up with a few Ford trucks with hand operated hoists doing road work. Later Bob looked after the workshop and Johnny did the cream run.

Then the freight run became too large and Johnny purchased two 1929 White Buses. As they had both done 1.2 million miles, they were considered worn out. With Johnny’s care, they operated for another 2O years. More trucks were purchased between 1948 and 49 and Johnny ran the cream trucks until the run was taken over by a firm located in Thames.

Throughout the war, because there was no one else who could or would do this work, Johnny was ‘manpowered’ by the government to continue these services. When a person was ‘manpowered’, he/she had no option but to do what the government required. He

was appointed a Justice of the Peace and was required to work in conjunction with the police. He was asked to draw up an evacuation plan for civilians which he would implement in the event of the Japanese landing in Hahei. It seems unlikely now but those were tense times and the Japanese forces were roaring through Asia like an express train.

After the war his work with motors and the transport of goods and people continued and grew. Prices for farm products rose and there was increasing technological innovation and scientific agricultural research. The 50’s and the 60’s were buoyant times for farmers as they developed their land, increased stock numbers and productivity and enjoyed new prosperity.

For his secondary education, Bill was sent off to Wesley College Boarding School in Pukekohe. Given the twists of the Coromandel roads, travelling to and from Wesley was a long and arduous journey. Bill had a dream of driving himself to school but in what? The only way he could do this was to bring back to life a derelict car that was in the yard. That is exactly what he did. He rebuilt the motor of a 46 Ford Mercury and fixed up the body

Bill Prescott in the Prescott’s Garage and Workshop

and proud as punch he had his wheels. From that point on he drove to school. This was the beginning of his long career in fixing cars, and everything mechanical and restoring them.

The original business was located further down the Hikuai Settlement Road (the road into Pauanui). In 1996 Bill purchased the corner block which joins Hikuai Settlement Road with State Highway 25. Fronting Hikuai Settlement Road is a Waitomo Fuel Stop and a shop with snacks and some groceries. Behind this is a large workshop. From the pavement cars, trucks and a variety of machines large and small can be seen. At one end is the two-story office and amenity facility. All of this, including the Waitomo Fuel Stop is Prescotts Garage Ltd and it is Bill’s domain.

RESCUES

For years, Bill and his team (and his father and brothers before him) have been rescuing motorists stuck in flood waters. With the combination of heavy rain and a high tide, flood waters quickly cover the highway at Hikuai. It may look innocent, just a few inches lapping over the edge of the river bank and across Highway 25, but it is not. Motorists soon realise they are stuck. In recent times Prescotts have found a tractor is the most effective rescue-prime-mover.

A FLOOD-PRONE LOCATION

It may not be obvious at first, but the area around the intersection of State Highway 25 and the

Bill Prescott drives his tractor, towing a truck filled with people he rescued from the floodwaters.

Hikuai Settlement Road is extremely flood prone. The reason for this is that three streams flowing from three different directions flow into this area. Most of the time they look like little creeks but heavy rains can turn each of them into torrents. When they converge after exceptionally heavy rain, flooding is inevitable. Many tell stories of Bill and the resources of Prescott’s garage coming to the rescue of travellers and even

regular business couriers.

Today Prescotts is a garage for fuel and small goods for the journey but its feature is one huge workshop repairing buses, tractors, trucks and cars and a big display of vehicles and equipment as the regional agent for Walker mowers, and the vast Husqvarna range.

1. Trip dray - dray refers to the actual vehicle used to haul goods; these days it’s a chassis truck - used to carry out or haul goods.

CHISEL, ICEHOUSE, BIC RUNGA and EVERCLEAR UNFORGETTABLE LIVE MUSIC AND FESTIVAL EXPERIENCES

LOOP BUS

FreeWhitiangaTown Loop bus

BUS DEPARTURES:

• Coromandel – Information Centre – 9.30am

• Matarangi – Matarangi Fire Station – 9.45am

• Kuaotunu – Kuaotunu Reserve – 10.00am

• Whangamata – Whangamata Rugby Club – 9.00am

• Pauanui – Community Hub carpark – 9.15am

• Tairua – Tairua Information Centre – 9.45am

SEE PAGE 116 FOR CONCERT DETAILS ALL RETURNS DEPART AT 6.30PM FROM DROP

Left: Johnny Prescott in 1930 with his Chevy car taxi after an 8½ hour return trip to bring home a mother and her newborn from the Waihi Hospital. Johnny was 20 years old. Above:

Maria started making clothes for women when she was a young teen. Her family lived in Thames. There was a shop across the road that she could hire, so she did. Maria started with calico, yards and yards of it.

“I tie-dyed the lot which was very ‘in fashion’ in those days and made baggy pants and tops. It was successful and that experience stayed with me through years of travel and raising a family. I love sewing and I love seeing women find that garment that makes them feel good and groovy.”

“I can make those special garments,” says Maria. They are one of a kind.”

That is what Maria does; original clothing designs which she also sews herself. Maria has her own mini atelier in Thames and manages her own label and shop, Air-Am Clothing, which is part of The Depot group of shops in Pollen Street, Grahamstown, Thames. A striking range of edgy, avant garde clothing awaits you, all made by Maria. “It doesn’t mean

much until someone is wearing them,” she says. “When a woman puts on that top or dress or trousers and she knows instantly, this is just right for her, then it’s magic. It’s as if that piece of clothing comes to life.”

Shopping Coromandel

Shopping on the Coromandel offers a unique and charming experience, blending the latest fashions and trends with local artisan products and the natural beauty of the region.

Shopping is so much more relaxed with breaks for coffee and delicious pastries at very short distance.

The area is filled with boutique shops, local markets and specialty stores that cater to both residents, kiwi and international visitors.

Whitianga and Whangamata have vibrant town centres offering everything from handcrafted jewellery, to locally produced skincare products and high fashion. Visitors can find galleries featuring local artists as well as beautiful and locally designed home décor in all five centres Thames, Whangamata, Tairua, Whitianga and Coromandel township over on the west coast.

Coromandel Town is quite a different shopping experience, more rustic and laid-back. The

gold mining history imbues your experience of the town. Local pottery, local paintings acrylics and oils, as well as woodwork and handmade goods are a feature. In the smaller towns of Pauanui and Tairua, the shops cater very well for tourists and holiday makers with beachwear, artisan gifts and locally made giftware being popular purchases. Their boutique stores are often set against stunning beach backdrops, making the shopping experience feel truly like a holiday.

Back to fashion; there are plenty of choices with stores like Get It On, Tango Shoes, Annah Stretton, Stilo design, Hello Friday, Mainly Casual, Chances, Harry and Her, Blackjack Surf, Air-AM Clothing. The women on holiday can indulge and enjoy a plenty. Shopping on the Coromandel is not just about buying things – it’s experiencing the culture and creativity that abounds on the Peninsula, one of the most picturesque regions in NZ.

Maria Autridge

Over a glass of wine...

In 2017, two friends sat and discussed their ideas for a new business venture for Whitianga.

Mary, who had owned Stilo Hair Co. for three years, was looking for a bigger premises and Vickie was keen to open her own clothing boutique. That glass of wine turned out to be the catalyst for Stilo Collective, a collaboration of hair and fashion combined.

Over the past seven years, Stilo Collective has evolved. Stilo Hair has grown to eight stylists with a multitude of skills and a passion for training the next generation of hairstylists.

A partnership with Sustainable Salons was instrumental in bringing the service to the whole of the Coromandel Peninsula and ensures up to 95% of salon waste is recycled.

“Our team loves to produce beautiful hair that compliments your lifestyle and personal style,” says Mary. “Partnered with Kerastase,

Keune and ghd, they bring a commitment to having you look and feel your best.”

Stilo Design has broadened their range of kiwi and international designers including beautiful accessories, quality handbags, footwear and a select range of gifts and homeware. With the introduction of personal styling and the Capsule Wardrobe, Vickie and her team specialise in bringing to you a small, curated collection of versatile pieces that can

be mixed and matched. It focuses on quality over quantity.

Simplicity and sustainability with timeless, items that work well together. “Throw in a couple of seasonal pieces and you have a wardrobe to last you for years that emphasises your personal style,” says Vickie. “I work to give people confidence in their fashion choice. Adding one new piece can make a variety of new style combinations.”

Stilo Collective team with Mary (Stilo Hair) front row centre, and Vickie (Stilo Design) front row right.

Coromandel local steps up to Partnership at Specsavers Thames

Specsavers Thames is thrilled to announce that Sam Dolling has taken on the role of Dispensing Partner, joining Optometry Partner

John Kwak. Sam brings 15 years of experience in the optical industry to the team and is a familiar face in the store having been a part of the Specsavers Thames team for two years prior to taking on the Partner role.

Sam and his young family have lived in Thames for the past five years, however Sam has been a Coromandel local for a lot longer. Raised in Whitianga, he spent time in Wellington and London while still maintaining strong ties to Coromandel and has always called this part of the country home.

“As a Registered Dispensing Optician, optics is my passion and I am delighted to be able to offer affordable frames and lenses to help people achieve the best vision possible,” says Sam.

Optometrist John, who opened the Specsavers Thames store in 2022, is pleased to be partnering with someone who really knows the community and understands their needs.

The pair plan to prioritise community outreach by extending their school screening programme, collaborating with local businesses and community organisations, and continuing to deliver their glasses cleaning service in local rest-homes and retirement villages.

Speaking about this service, Sam says, “These visits serve as a great opportunity to check in with our patients who are more vulnerable to age-related eye disease and vision loss. We like to see how they are going and address any concerns they may have.”

Sam, John and the Specsavers Thames team encourage anyone in the community who may be struggling with their eye health to come in and see them. Regular two-yearly eye tests are recommended to help maintain good eye health and ensure any underlying conditions are detected early.

“The sooner we detect an eye condition the sooner we can treat it and the better the outcome” says John. “At Specsavers, we offer an OCT scan with every eye test at no additional charge, this is hospital-grade technology that helps the optometrist to detect eye conditions earlier.” Specsavers Thames is located at the Goldfields Shopping Centre and is open seven days a week. Services include children’s eyecare, contact lens assessments and 3D scanning technology (OCT).

Book an eye test today by visiting www.specsavers.co.nz/stores/thames or calling 07 868 6090.

Specsavers Thames Goldfields Shopping Centre (Near Pak’nSave) Tel 868 6090

Nga _ wa _ hine toa Two mighty women

By Stan Stewart

In the picnic and recreational area, at the entrance to the beach at Whangapoua, on the Coromandel Peninsula, a handsome information board outlines the life and achievements of one Meri Te Tai Mangakahia life. Whangapoua is world famous for New Chums Beach. However, the big story of Whangapoua is that it was the home of a Māori family from whom emerged two powerful, game-changing women, Meri Te Tai Mangakahia and her youngest daughter, Mepara (Mabel).

MERI TE TAI MANGAKAHIA

Before women had the vote anywhere in the world, in May 1893, Meri Te Tai requested of the Māori parliament that women should have the right to vote and that they be eligible to sit in the Māori parliament. In doing this she was ahead of the women’s rights movement, anywhere in the world, way ahead of the burgeoning Suffrage movement.

Meri’s courage and forthrightness was beyond anything known in her day. Meri approached Queen Victoria on behalf of Māori women. Queen Victoria’s deliberations on New Zealand had not much benefited Māori women. Meri felt she might listen more attentively to a woman. In her direct approach to Queen Victoria she raised issues which included the administration and ownership of land by women. Queen Victoria did not respond to her entreaty.

The take-away here is not what Meri achieved, but what she attempted. This woman was a leader of leaders. The force of her vision raised issues which are still pertinent today.

Meri Te Tai was from a family of ruling Te Rarawa Chiefs from Panguru, Hokianga. Her hapu were Ngāti Te Rēinga, Ngāti Manawa and Te Kaitūtae, three hapū of Te Rarawa.

She is said to have been born on 22 May 1868, near Whakarapa (Panguru) on the Hokianga Harbour. She was the great-grandchild of a woman of mana, Ngākahuwhero. Her father, Rē Te Tai, was an influential chief of Te Rarawa in the Hokianga district in the 1890s and later. Her mother was Hana Tēra. Meri was the eldest of the four children of Hana’s second marriage. Family tradition suggests that Meri Te Tai was well educated. She is said to have studied at St Mary’s Convent in Auckland, and was an accomplished pianist.

In the late 1880s or early 1890s she became the third wife of Hāmiora Mangakāhia, a highranking member of Ngāti Whanaunga and his hapū were Ngāti Hei and Ngāti Pare. His father was from Ngāti Kahungunu. He was an assessor in the Native Land Court and was working at Waimate North in 1887. He was also at the Bay of Islands in 1889, attending the meeting at which Te Kotahitanga, the Māori parliament movement, was formally initiated.

Hāmiora and Meri built a homestead on his land at Whangapoua on the Coromandel Peninsula. During the following years, Meri gave birth to four children: two sons, Mohi and

Waipapa, and two daughters, Whangapoua Tangiora Edith and Mabel Te Aowhaitini. Following in her mother’s footsteps, Mabel became a pioneer and trail blazer in her own right.

MABEL (MEPARA) TE AOWHAITINI MANGAKAHIA

Mabel (Mēpara) Te Aowhaitini Mangakāhia, was born on 4 September 1899 at Whangapoua. She was the youngest of four children of Hamiora and Meri. For all of Mabel’s childhood and upbringing, she had parental role models of competent leadership and responsibility. Hāmiora, her father, had been premier of the Kotahitanga parliament in the 1890s and was still promoting the movement in 1907: Meri, her mother was a leader of the women’s movement within Kotahitanga.

Mabel was brought up at Whangapoua and attended a local primary school. Her childhood was happy and secure. Meri, her mother, took a tremendous pride in her family.

As a teenager Mabel was sent to Auckland Girls’ Grammar School, and then to Queen Victoria School for Māori Girls, where she did well academically and won a nursing bursary. She did her general training in Auckland Hospital, completing it in 1923. Initially Māori nurses were assigned a special, less rigorous, course of training, but this had been abolished in 1913. Mabel Mangakahia did the full course, set for any aspiring professional nurse.

In June 1925 she was appointed to Rāwene as assistant district health nurse for Hokianga.

Mabel was assistant to Ella Leslie, an efficient and ebullient character. Since Leslie owned a Dodge, the two didn’t have to ride on horseback or bicycle as was customary in making visits to remote settlements.

However, their cottage was ‘tumbled-down and damp’. The work was hard. District nurses were called on at all hours of the day and night to attend the sick, often contending with bad roads and flooded rivers. They gave health talks in schools and taught their patients hygiene and good health practices by practical demonstration rather than theoretical explanation. In the late 1920s, Mabel was one of only four active, qualified Māori district nurses serving Māori communities.

In 1928, Mabel took a midwifery course at St Helens Hospital, Auckland, and in July 1929 was transferred to be a district nurse there. Later that year she was seconded for her Plunket training at Karitāne-Harris Hospital, Dunedin and then in 1930, she was transferred to Tokaanu, the isolated new centre for the vast Taupō district.

This time, Mabel was provided with a cottage and a health assistant by the Health Department. The Tūwharetoa Trust Board contributed generously towards provision for transport by taxi and general upkeep. In December 1930 the nursing instructor, Mary Lambie, reported to the department that Nurse Mangakāhia was a most efficient and competent nurse and recommended Mabel have use of a service car.

In the 1930s, Mabel was the pioneer district

nurse of Te Araroa near East Cape and in 1936, was appointed district health nurse in Hamilton. Mabel was one of two district nurses expected to cover a huge area with a Māori population of approximately 13,000. Three more nurses were subsequently appointed at Kāwhia, Morrinsville and Te Kūiti.

The district nurses had to store equipment in their own boarding house rooms, where they also treated patients.

At times, the Medical Officer of the Health Department had to remind the Waikato Hospital Board that the district nurses were invaluable, treating many Māori in their homes who would otherwise require treatment at the hospital.

In February 1939, Mabel was granted leave and a bursary from the Health Department to attend the postgraduate course in Wellington. She was probably the first Māori to complete this. She returned to Hamilton, but early the following year was diagnosed with cancer. She died in Hamilton, aged only 40, on 23 August 1940. She was taken home and on 25 August was buried at Whangapoua.

Mabel Mangakāhia never married. The most eminent and successful Māori nurse of her day, she remained wedded to her profession despite attempts by her family to arrange marriages for her. She often returned to Whangapoua for visits and holidays, and her nieces and nephews remembered the malt she gave them for their health, and the picnics and expeditions she

PINKY’S BARGAINS

shared with them. Although she had no direct descendants, Mabel’s dedication meant she had ‘children’ all over the country.

Sources: Angela Ballara, Dictionary of New Zealand Biography Macdonald, C. et al., eds. The book of New Zealand women. Wellington, 1991

Mabel (Mēpara) Te Aowhaitini Mangakāhia

PINES AND MONSTER TRUCKS

Pine plantations are around every corner. New Zealand now has 1.75 million hectares of planted forest, of which some 90 per cent is radiata pine, much in first rotation forests. A third of the world’s radiata forests are grown in New Zealand, with Australia and Chile other major producers.

By Stan Stewart

BEGINNINGS

1912-23 Forest Service director Leon MacIntosh Ellis estimated that the country would face a timber shortage by the early 1960s. To avoid this, in 1925 he began a 10-year programme to plant 300,000 acres (121,406 hectares) of exotic state forest.

NEW FORESTS

State and private forests were mainly in the central North Island. The most effort was concentrated on the Kāingaroa plains. The plains were considered unsuitable because stock grazed on the plains, suffered from a mysterious wasting disease (called ‘bush sickness’). Agricultural scientists later identified the cause as a cobalt deficiency in the soil.

RADIATA PINE

By the 1920s radiata pine had become the favoured exotic for planting. Radiata Pine, a native of California - had been introduced to New Zealand in the 1850s, although the timber was not highly regarded. Its advantages were

the large quantities of seed available, its high level of successful germination, rapid growth and ability to grow in poor soil.

THE LABOUR FORCE

Unemployed men were engaged in planting from 1926, and in 1927 and 1928, their numbers exceeded the other labourers employed by the Forest Service.

The labour force was boosted in the depression of the early 1930s, and at times more than 1,500 men were on unemployment assistance schemes planting these pines. By 1935, the Kāingaroa State Forest alone had grown to 259,147 acres (104,873 hectares). In total, over 406,000 acres (164,300 hectares) of forest had been planted, a much greater area than Ellis had originally proposed.

In the 70’s and 80’s, large swathes of forest were ready for harvest. The question then was, how do we do this efficiently?

The country with the most experience in harvesting pine was Canada. Teams of Canadian Lumber Jacks were recruited to show the Kiwis how best to do this. The Canadian teams brought with them their equipment and that is how the monster truck featured in this article arrived in New Zealand.

Canadian Leon MacIntosh Ellis was the first director of New Zealand’s State Forest Service. He was a strong proponent of plantation forestry and one of his most noticeable legacies, still very apparent today, is the extensive plantation forests of the central North Island.

HEROIC

THE REAL McCOY

If you are a truck lover like me, there’s a real showstopper on State Highway 25 on the way to Auckland, on the left-hand side, 5km from the Kopu Bridge before one gets to the Kopu roundabout near Thames. It belongs to Barry Caufield who is now retired in Thames. Outside a large shed there is an assembly of machinery parked in a paddock facing the highway. It is the truck that captures my attention.

When first driving past, I imagined it was the largest Mack truck I had ever seen. When finally, I had time to venture closer, I found it was twice as big as the Macks I knew. It was not a Mack. It was a ‘Pacific’, first manufactured in Vancouver, Canada by the ‘Pacific Truck and Trailer Company’ and later by ‘International Harvester’. This truly monster truck is the last of its kind in New Zealand. The Pacifics are not permitted to drive on public roads, only off-road. The unit beside State Highway 25 is not a museum piece. It’s in working order, ready to pull loads in forests or in a quarry.

I began wondering how these behemoths arrived in New Zealand.

The truck was used for the logging industry to pull huge loads, 100 tons and more on logging tracks in pine forests. Powered by a 400 horsepower, Cummings diesel it drives like any modern truck with all the home comforts, steering hydraulics, great seat, air-conditioning etc. This unit is ready for work in a quarry or back on the forestry tracks.

Part of the reason the truck filled me with awe was because I had seen it before. One of these Pacific trucks was the leading prop in the film, Mad Max – Fury Road. The truck they used in the film was purchased in New Zealand and transported to the Australian desert set of the film. For the truck’s role in this film, the producers decorated it to give it the required ‘monster’ appearance. A Pacific truck just like the one on Highway 25, was a star in the movie.

• Postscript: The Mad Max franchise has just released a new movie ‘Furiosa’. Same set – the Australian desert, same dystopian setting. I am not sure if it features the monster Pacific truck from Fury Road.

TRUCKS AND ME

When I was 12-13 (1951 -53), my dad was caretaking an estate with an impressive house. The house was always unoccupied. In their house, they had a small library which had a large stock of glossy magazines, Life, Time, Newsweek, Country Life and National Geographic. On afternoons when I had nothing more to do, I would go into the library and thumb through the magazines. That’s when I became interested in trucks and tractors. Some of the magazines contained

full colour advertisements of trucks and tractors. They looked so beautiful to me, that I cut out many of the advertisements and pasted them in a large scrapbook. (I should not have done that.)

My favorites were big trucks. My absolute favorite advertisement was the adverts for Mack trucks. I still remember their slogan which in today’s climate must be the most politically incorrect slogan ever.

“Real Men Drive a Mack”.

A BUSINESS I LOVE

By Su Marceau

In 2025, Mainly Casual will mark a significant milestone – 30 years in business!

I, with my husband, Kev Marceau, started this journey in 1995 after spending six years running a fruit and vegetable shop. We wanted a change, and the community led us to transform our business expertise into the fashion world, starting with a small Mainly Casual shop on the main street in Whitianga. Our beloved Mainly Casual stores are also now in Whangamata, Thames and more recently we opened The Style Makers in Whitianga.

The retail landscape has changed dramatically over the last three decades, particularly with the rise of online shopping. Staying relevant means we must be open to change so about 10 years ago we launched a robust online store to reach customers all over New Zealand. Our online presence continues to grow.

It doesn’t stop there. Recognising the power of social media, we have made Facebook and Instagram core parts of our marketing and

thank you to

A big thank to you all our shoppers. We appreciated your valued support and look forward to bringing you more beautiful Décor, gifts and Little Darlings clothing, accessories and toys. Wishing you all happy and safe holidays from the ladies at Chique.

support and look

advertising. You may have seen me pop up in your feed – I try to be as hands on as possible by making fun and engaging videos as we like to give customers the personal touch.

What really sets us apart is our commitment to customer service. We pride ourselves on knowing our regular customers by name and making sure each customer that walks through our doors or shops online feels valued. This paid off a few years ago when our stores got through to the finals of the prestigious Top Shop Awards in Hamilton.

As we move into our 4th decade, we are as committed as ever to providing fashionable, affordable, comfortable clothing with that personal touch. For us, it isn’t just about what you wear – it is about how you feel!

Follow us on our Social Media pages to keep up to date with what we are up to, as we have some exciting plans for 2025!

•  Su Marceau is the owner of three Mainly Casual stores and The Style Makers store.

Su Marceau with Mindy, Donna Anderson and Charlotte Davies in Mainly Casual, Whitianga.

The Waterways, Whitianga

This summer come and soak up the sun at Basker. Start your day with a smooth Allpress coffee at sunrise and chill out with a Peroni on tap or a refreshing margarita as the day winds down. With a vibrant, laid back atmosphere, great sounds, and a delicious array of tapas, Basker is the perfect place to take in Whitianga’s stunning sunsets. Whether you’re catching up with friends, taking the kids to the park, or simply relaxing solo, there’s always a spot to bask at Basker.

3 Rewiti Drive, The Waterways, Whitianga Open 8am-Late 7 Days a Week

info@basker.co.nz | www.basker.co.nz

HOW HARD CAN IT BE?

Changing your life’s direction and learning a new way to make a living

“How hard can it be?” That was the question my husband Brent and I asked ourselves nearly two decades ago when we decided to leave our secure city jobs and dive into running a café with no hospitality experience. Little did we know how much that question would shape our journey ahead.

By Fiona Elder

Our story begins with Café Coghill House in Whitianga, where we’ve poured two decades of passion and hard work. Just days before taking over the café on January 1, 2005, we completed a two-day barista course – right in the middle of Whitianga’s bustling summer season. Armed with determination and optimism, we figured, “How hard can it be?”

Running a café turned out to be tougher than we imagined. Thankfully, our eldest daughter, Natalie, who was 16 at the time, pitched in during school holidays, babysitting her little sister Isabella or helping out at the café. Her presence brought a sense of family to our small team, and we all grew close.

Our decision to move from the city to Matarangi was driven by a desire for a better

lifestyle for our family. We traded the urban hustle for a more meaningful life, envisioning a welcoming café filled with warmth and delicious food.

While the learning curve was steep and mistakes were made, we kept going. Soon, we were not just running the café but also catering, managing the local Mercury Bay Club, and even running the school tuck shop.

As Whitianga evolved, so did we. We adapted our menu, our service, and our approach to keep pace with new businesses and competition. Through all the changes, Café Coghill House remained a cornerstone of the community – a place where friendships were forged and memories created.

At one point, we expanded our vision beyond the café by purchasing a 10-acre organic garden property. With no prior

gardening experience, we threw ourselves into the challenge, working closely with the previous owners to learn permaculture and organic farming.

Despite setbacks like storms that wiped out our tunnel houses, we persevered. We planted 18,000 garlic seeds, nurtured them, and shared our harvest with the community, learning valuable lessons about resilience along the way.

Through all the challenges, Café Coghill House has been the heart of our journey. It’s more than just a place to eat; it’s a place where young team members grow into confident adults. Some return to share their milestones with us, reminding us of the impact we’ve had on their lives.

Our youngest daughter, Isabella, now leads the café team. Her energy and leadership ensure we provide the best

Brent, Isabella and Fiona Elder and Kyle O’Reilly also a member of the Coghill Café family.

service possible, and we are incredibly grateful for her dedication.

Meanwhile, Natalie now lives in Perth, blessing us with two beautiful grandchildren. Both of our daughters have grown into independent women with supportive partners, reflecting everything we’ve dreamed of for them. We couldn’t be more proud.

Our team remains central to our success. During busy service, we come together, working hard and sharing laughter. We lead by example, never asking our team to do something we wouldn’t do ourselves, whether it’s washing dishes or cleaning bathrooms.

As we approach our 20th summer, Café Coghill House stands as the longest-running hospitality business in the area - a milestone that fills us with pride. We’ve watched families grow, seen customers pass on,

and built countless relationships. These moments remind us how deeply our café is woven into the fabric of this community.

Despite recent challenges – from Covid to economic downturns – our commitment to this town has never wavered. We believe it’s our responsibility to give back, whether by offering young people their first jobs or supporting local initiatives.

Now, with the highway reopened and a renewed sense of hope, we look forward to welcoming back visitors and weekenders who’ve been part of our story. There’s something special about a café like ours in a town like this – the connections, the stories, the shared experiences. These are the things that make Café Coghill House more than just a business.

A delight to taste and senses CATHEDRAL COVE MACADAMIAS

In the hills behind Cathedral Cove, Jill and Doug Johnston have an orchard, no ordinary orchard. On 17.5 acres they have 1000 40-year-old fruit bearing Macadamia trees. Jill and Doug purchased the orchard in 2016 and have continued to develop on the good foundation of the previous owners.

Doug likes to point out that this Cathedral Cove farm is not a hobby. It is a fully functioning, self-sustaining, commercial rural enterprise. However, add to this the farm is a ‘fully certified organic farm’. That means much more than just spray free. It takes an awful lot of effort to be organic in the true sense.

The orchard is open from 10am to 3pm six days (closed Wednesday). It is in a beautiful bush setting, but more than that, the trees produce a delightful, soft aroma. Two handsome, friendly goats, Prue and Willow, are on hand (tethered) to give an enthusiastic welcome.

Jill does the marketing. Though most of their produce is sold online, they have a very attractive caravan shop on the premises, stocking an amazing variety of macadamia nuts – natural, salted, chocolate coated – in

OPENING HOURS

02 Jan 2025 to 28 Feb 2025

Daily 10am – 4pm

Closed Christmas Day

Closed Boxing Day

Closed New Years Day

03 Jun 2025 to 31 Aug 2025

Josh Hayes, Doug and Jill’s grandson helping out in the caravan shop

packages of different sizes. There’s macadamia paste which is as tasty as peanut butter and macadamia oil which Jill and Doug produce and which has won awards as a superior cooking and salad oil. This is a beautiful landscape and a very pretty farm. Come and visit.

Jill and Doug have a current project. Adjacent to their caravan shop, they are building a pleasant, spacious deck with shade

Jillian and Doug Johnston, Cathedral Cove Macadamias, 335 Lees Rd, Hahei

Join us in a beautiful setting of macadamias and native trees and sample free tastings of our macadamia produce. Self-guided and organised tours available. 335

Open by appointment while we harvest

For the rest of the year, Check our website or phone us The food and setting is comfort and luxury.

Freshly baked pastries and desserts and a great range of cabinet food

4 / 41 Albert Street, Whitianga

7am-3pm every day Enjoy breakfast, lunch, coffee and a

THREE SPECIALTY STORES ALTOGETHER

At the Buffalo Beach east quarter of the Main Street of Whitianga, you will find three specialty and very different, sister stores in a row.

1: WHITIANGA FINE WINES AND SPIRITS

The store is like an art gallery displaying fine pieces from all over the world. This is not your regular bottle shop – local, national or international, beer (craft, ale, lager, or fill-your-own riggers), spirits; we can help you. Also displayed are special casters the trays for that classy after five occasion to add to your drinks and cheese board fare.

2. WELL STOCKED DELI

This is not any ordinary grocery store. Owner, Alex has sourced the best cheeses, locally based breads and a multitude of specialty snacks not found anywhere else on the Coromandel. Her gift baskets are ready to go or you can fill one with

Alex’s help. Many do just that for the right Christmas gift basket or special birthday. The counter cabinet is full of ready to eat cuisine.

3. SLICE SLICE BABY

This parlour is the home of a range of unique pizza tastes. The pizza pastry is prepared by Mike’s father every morning in the traditional Italian manner. Mike (the owner) has devised his own particular toppings, taste-tested to perfection. With names like The Big Lebowski, Home Alone, Shaka Bro, Welcome to the Jungle – you can’t go wrong. They are delicious and large!

find anywhere else  Free gift wrapping  Great new variety of gifts in store for Christmas and New

I VISITED WHITIANGA FOR FIVE DAYS

… the place to be

There is a rare gem in the North Island landscape. The small township of Whitianga (permanent population 6,500) nestled in Mercury Bay on the Coromandel Peninsula is a jewel of the North Island.

By Suzanne Murrell

From fabulous beaches to great fishing and a top foodie spot, there is much to be savoured. I visited for a week. I loved the excitement, then the relaxing, the pampering, accommodation, food and the adventures I had. It is an increasingly popular summer get away spot and a place where people want to live simply for the lifestyle it offers. The beautiful harbour has made Whitianga the main departure spot for big game fishing enthusiasts. There are several game fishing tournaments held throughout the year. Charter boats cater for the fishing, diving or scenic cruising trips. The Whitianga Marina is a world class “clean” marina and is a popular stop

off point for local and international boat owners.

For fishers and visitors, the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club, one of the oldest game fishing clubs in New Zealand, is where people enjoy the thrill and passion of catching the big one (maybe) in and around the glorious waters of Whitianga and Mercury Bay. Delicious meals plus quick-fire raffles make up the entertainment on a Thursday night. Sides of beef and great haunches of pork are raffled off. As a great local quirk, whoever wins one of the “A chuck a chook” raffles has to catch the cold, cooked chicken when hurled in their direction or they lose it.

Another top spot in Whitianga is the Mercury Bay Club which hosts numerous functions from quiz nights, cabarets, snooker competitions,

and great cover band dance nights. Every night the restaurant is open for good inexpensive meals. You can’t beat their apple crumble and sticky date pudding with ice cream. The club plays a major role with hosting meetings and functions. It was opened in 1976 with the object of promoting friendship, entertainment and sporting events. It certainly does all of that.

There are some great pubs in Whitianga. Grace O’Malleys Irish Pub and Smitty’s Sports Bar & Grill are central to town and celebrations with great entertainment are regular features with their easy menus.

Whitianga is a haven of delight for foodies. From gourmet burgers to Indian, Thai, Asian > Continued overleaf

Fusion, Chinese, Nepalese and pizzas. Coro Club Cafe and Bar at the Airport, Lukes Kitchen in Kuaotunu and Basker on the end of Whitianga town near SH25 are destination places for dining, for their vibe and their location.

The annual Oceans Festival is a huge drawcard for quality seafood and celebrity chefs. Thousands come for the one day festival and of course stay awhile.

Saturday is special for the Whiti Citi markets which take place in Soldiers Memorial Park (see markets page 120) every Saturday over the warmer months.

At night the Monkey House hosts top entertainers in the evenings like Hollie Smith and the Madelines, plus comedians and dramas. There is no shortage of things happening, but no monkeys.

In the town centre, every retail need is satisfied – designer shoes, surf baggies, quality linen, funky souvenirs or even a boat. Whitianga has it all. With a fast-growing population, the town is moving from strength to strength. The waterways raise the bar of lifestyle and dwellings. They attract people to live here. Visitors are spoilt for accomodation choices. Apartments overlook the marina or the local beaches.

Not far away is Hot Water Beach where you can bathe in hot pools right in the sand, Hahei, Cooks Beach, Matarangi, New Chums, and

Kuaotuna. Cathedral Cove is to open summer of 2025 and this fabulous walk will be open to the public once again.

There are four superb golf courses in the region - Mercury Bay Golf and Country Club, Purangi, The Dunes and Tairua Golf Club some set in glorious surroundings with sea and harbour views from most holes.

When all the activities and trips are done, enjoy one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets. The Lost Spring is a truly magical place with its soothing pools and waterfalls surrounded by lush tropical vegetation - check out their story page 32.

The good news is that the Summer Concert

is back. This is the biggest event and a highlight of the summer in Coromandel; 2025. 26 January is an all-star powerhouse bill – Cold Chisel, Icehouse, Bic Runga and Everclear.

Whitianga is two and three-quarter hours drive from central Auckland and travelling is excellent. There is also a shuttle bus with stops along the way. A short flight from Auckland on Barrier Air takes about half an hour.

Whitianga - a small jewel of a town where big things happen. I want to go back.

> Suzanne is a journalist specialising as a food writer and for several years covered the Whitbread Yacht Race.

By Trevor Ammundsen

The Esplanade, running from the roundabout at the beach end of Albert Street to Blacksmith Lane, offers visitors to Whitianga a number of great dining options. These range from top quality pub grub to high level dining and offer you various styles of dining experience. The editor knows I enjoy food and drink, so she sent me off on a mission to experience the delights of the Esplanade and convey these to the summer visitors.

It was therefore on a nice sunny day in winter that I set off from the Albert Street end on my mission, aiming to dine myself to the other end. First stop was Kufe on the corner of the Esplanade and Mill Street.

KUFE

Kufe has an elegant demeanour and offers a Mediterranean style menu with an obvious Turkish influence, this coming from the owner who is Turkish. Opening at 11.30am and closing late, Kufe offers both lunch and dinner guests with the option of being seated outside on the lovely veranda, enjoying views of Mercury Bay.

STOKED

Stoked also offers diners superb views and sunshine, accompanied, of course, by fine food and refreshments. Stoked has had a significant upgrade and now has a large deck with increased capacity seating.

Extended hours and competitive prices for drinks makes this venue more of a restaurant/bar combo. You can while away a sunny afternoon enjoying a few drinks while boat spotting on the deck and then a quality restaurant meal prepared by head chef Andy or one of his team of chefs.

Andy cooks one of the best steaks in town. There is plenty of variety and as I do, you can check out their specials, often designed by Andy’s Filipino chefs and generally reflect their culture. They are well worth a try.

The bar and service areas are run by Andy’s wife Bex whose earthy humour and odd accent ensures her charges are having a good time and being well looked after. Bex provides computer-based ordering to ensure any waits are minimised. For the really adventurous, ask Bex for one of her famous chilli cocktails. That will get your afternoon going.

MERCURY BAY GAME FISHING CLUB

Located just around the corner from Stoked, opposite the Wharf, the Game Fishing Club has plenty to offer diners. This is a club however so to gain entry you must be, or be accompanied by, a club member or an affiliated fishing club member. Having gained entry, you get a great location for a bit of boat spotting; an extremely attractive price for a cold beer with a settle down at a leaner by the windows. After that it’s a great meal at an affordable price enjoying both the scene of the estuary and wharf and your drinks. Lunch and dinner are offered during the school holidays period; outside of this time it is dinner only. Lunch features some lighter meals such as pan fried fish and salad.

If you have been using our Bay for a spot of fishing then the lovely kitchen staff are only too willing to cook the fish you caught for you and your group. If you bring them anything unreasonable, a 400 pound marlin for instance, you are likely to be turned away.

Right next door is the museum, one of Whitianga’s little treasures, which is just great to spend some time in.

Two cafes on the Esplanade specialise in breakfast and lunch – Harbour House Café and Espy Café. These open quite early at 7.00am, so they are definitely your start of day option. Both cafes offer inside or outside dining, using their large decks enabling customers to breakfast while enjoying the sunshine and the view of the estuary. Both close at 3.00pm so plenty of time to enjoy your breakfast, brunch or lunch experience.

HARBOUR HOUSE

Harbour House menu can be viewed online – www.harbourhousecafe.co.nz – and when walking in you will note their exquisite bakery options.

ESPY CAFÉ

ESPY provides one full All Day menu which includes all of the standards plus some more savoury items such as Curry of the Day, Savoury Eggs and so on. ESPY is a licensed café enabling guests to enjoy a tipple including bubbles. This is the only establishment on the Esplanade offering the option of breakfast with bubbles before midday, I mean so celebrate early. Espy also does a lot of ready-made orders.

GRACE O’MALLEY’S IRISH INN

Grace O’Malley’s Irish Inn is an iconic building on the Esplanade, originally having a couple

of other functions before settling into the Irish Head Quarters of Whitianga. Gracies, as it is known locally, provides a great ambience centred on the large deck out front, the inside bar and two additional bars, one along the side and the Blarney Bar out the back. So there is plenty of room for guests, and it is a great venue to have entertainment.

From the deck you can enjoy views of the estuary. Gracies offers quite an extensive menu of quality pub grub.

This will include all of the staples but also some surprises such as a couple of great salads and daily specials which always look attractive. This menu is offered from midday to late, giving you convivial options no matter what the time of day.

BLUE LAGOON

Next door to Gracies sits the Blue Lagoon restaurant, one of the town’s top options when considering your evening meal. This restaurant is a lovely spot with excellent views up and down the estuary from seats either on the patio or from inside alongside the concertina windows.

The Head Chef at Blue Lagoon produces an excellent array of dishes, some traditional like the surf and turf with an eye fillet served with scallops; but the international influences become obvious when you scan the menu.

The bar staff are able to mix up a range of cocktails for you to complement the more usual wines and refreshments so any cocktail circuit

should definitely include Blue Lagoon.

MARINA BAY EATERY

Almost at the end of the Esplanade now. Marina Bay would be one of the top restaurants in Whitianga in terms of food and service so well worth a visit. The challenge it has is there is no real view from Marina Bay despite its Esplanade location.

While they offer the full-sized dishes, the specialty of Marina Bay is the sharing dishes, large tapas I suppose you could think of them, where three dishes could be shared over two people. The larger the appetite the more dishes you add to the mix. It is great to explore those flavours. As for the cocktails, I’m a fan of a well prepared Negroni, which I regard as an evening drink. I tend to visit this establishment for the evening meal.

SALT RESTAURANT & BAR

The Salt Restaurant is associated with the Whitianga Pub but as the pub is not on the Esplanade I shall say no more about it in this article, concentrating instead on the Salt Restaurant.

The Salt Restaurant is under new management and the new owner has poured significant investment into the renovation of Salt. A new and very large deck, excellent hospitality and a new menu should be on the go for the peak summer break.

Marina Bay Eatery

Grace O’Malley’s

Kufe

Espy Cafe

Off the beaten track

What makes the Coromandel unique when it comes to food, drink, and hospitality?

When we travel, our senses are accosted by new sights, sounds, smells and flavours. But what is it about food that seems to indelibly etch itself into our brain-especially when we travel? Experiences are deepened through our connection with food and drink.

In Coromandel this manifests itself in the bounty that surrounds us – ocean full of kai moana; a rugged landscape that supports a wealth of microclimates perfect for growing many different kinds of plants.

Whether it’s the ubiquitous mussel, delicate and much under-rated flounder washed down with a micro-brewery ale there’s plenty for tourists, weekenders or locals to indulge in. We’re pretty lucky! Think about hot fish and chips eaten on a blustery beach day out.

There’s nothing quite as memorable as a beer or wine overlooking the water, a harbour and fishing boats.

Whitianga, with Mercury Bay are gems with lots of options.

But take a trip to the far side of Tairua, or

Coromandel Town and you can find similar places which are worthy of a look, we just need to hunt them out.

Food wise we have some awesome local producers with their roadside shops like 309 Honey, Wilderland, Cathedral Cove Macadamia’s store and the Matatoki Cheese Barn; all quintessentially Coromandel, and deserve a stop this summer.

Going a little off the beaten track has its

rewards. For those wanting something a little different there’s Whangamata’s back street Brewery – Salt District Brewing or the Family in Whenuakite.

Look out for these iconic Coromandel food producers: Uncle Dunkles Chilli Sauces, Coromandel Chocolate, The Little Dairy Company Cheeses, Opito Bay Salt. All bring a quirky “Coromandelness” and unique takes on hospitality.”

Ferry Landing Cafe & Day Bar is the perfect stopping point for coffee and dining, only 3 minutes by ferry from Whitianga. We offer a range of brunch, lunch, and cabinet dining.

(01 December - 28 February) Thursday to Sunday 10:00am to 4:00pm

website for the

Perry Cornish, Salt Farmer, Opito Bay Salt Company

SIP SUSTAINABLY MAKE THE SWITCH TO REUSABLE CUPS

As the summer sun shines and our beautiful seaside towns welcome thousands of visitors, there’s one thing that stands out (and not in a good way): the mountain of throwaway coffee cups we’re sending to landfill.

While a hot cup of coffee is the perfect way to start your day or take a break between beach strolls, those single-use cups (SUCs) have a much longer life than the 15 minutes it takes to drink from them. And sadly, it’s a life spent sitting in a landfill.

But here’s the good news! You can enjoy your coffee guilt-free by making a simple switch to a reusable

cup. Not only will you be doing your bit for the environment, but you’ll also be making a style statement. Who doesn’t want to sip sustainably?

Our towns are buzzing with fantastic cafes, many of which are more than happy to fill up your reusable cup. Whether it’s your morning flat white or a cheeky afternoon iced latte, your reusable cup is the perfect companion. Pop it in your beach bag or car, and take it with you wherever you go. Plus, you’ll often find that some cafes reward you with a discount for ditching the Throwaway. It’s a win-win! www.wahitukurua.co.nz/sucfree

Single Use Cup Free

with an estimated 250,000 single-use cups from Mercury Bay going to landfill each year, you can make the switch and choose to reuse!

Support the following cafés who are on board:

Colenso Café

Nook Grocer + Refills

Hula Café

Coro Club

The Office

@SUC_FREE_MERCURY_BAY WWW.WAHITUKURUA.CO.NZ

Welcome to Smitty’s Sports Bar

THE HEART OF WHITIANGA’S ENTERTAINMENT

Smitty’s is more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s the ultimate destination for food, and entertainment in Mercury Bay.

Known for its great menu and friendly vibe, Smitty’s offers a wide range of delicious options from classic pub favourites to gourmet dishes.

What truly sets Smitty’s apart is our massive screen, the biggest in the region, perfect for catching all the live sports action with a view that feels like you’re right in the stadium. Whether you’re here to watch the big game, place a bet in our fully equipped TAB, or try your luck in the pokie room, there’s never a dull moment at Smitty’s.

As the summer sun sets, the energy at Smitty’s heats up. Our late summer nights are famous for live bands that get the whole town rocking.

And when it comes to celebrating, our massive New Year’s Eve party is legendary, drawing crowds for an epic night of music, dancing, and celebration as we bring in the new year in style.

SUMMER BEAUTY

Is anyone else confused? The amount of information available at your fingertips just in the health and beauty industry can be mind boggling and overwhelming.

By Louise Wilson

Are you scratching your head about what to eat, drink, take; what to put on your skin, what treatments to have, whether to lift weights, go to a pump class? Pilates? Yoga? Or just simply go for a walk?

I only have to open my social media account to be bombarded by anti-aging products (oh how convenient someone must know I’ve just turned 60). ‘Magnetic lashes, do it yourself dermaplaning and IPL, lip gloss that’s just about to sellout…. up your skin game…. experience the power of…. get our mystery box for only $100…..30% off 50% off…..dermatologist tested…..’. The list is endless and aimed at you putting your hand in your pocket to buy products you may or may not need.

So, what are you going to do about it? What are you going to buy? Lift? Eat?

● Sothys Hydra 3 Institute Facial

● Deluxe Exfoliating Back Treatment

Experience? To help your summer glow? Here in Mercury Bay, we have a multitude of trained professionals to help you with your health and beauty goals. Massage, to acupuncture, Brow lamination to pedicures, waxing to IPL.

The health and beauty industry in our town has had an explosion in the last two years. We now have three gyms and countless beauty, massage and health practitioners. There is so much choice.

SO HOW DO YOU DECIDE?

Firstly, not all practitioners suit everyone. You’re going to get on better with some people than others.

Get a recommendation – always wise – you can usually trust your friends, can’t you?

Find someone that will help you identify your goals be it exercise, skin care, or nutrition.

Check qualifications – there is a big

difference between practitioners who have completed weekend courses and those that have recognised NZ and international qualifications. The health and beauty industry is woefully unregulated here in NZ enabling unqualified therapists to perform quite invasive treatments.

Be consistent but realistic - we are all guilty of having a cupboard full of products that we have bought but ‘don’t work’. Instant results are rare. For example, committing to a skin care regime prescribed by your practitioner will give you the results you crave but that moisturiser or sunblock is not going to work if it stays in the pot. You see your skin everyday – if you want great results then you must be your own skin care therapist.

• Louise Wilson is the owner of Coastal Sanctuary Beauty – a renowned sanctuary for your beauty care and for your wellbeing maintenance needs.

● Head Massage $199

This summer indulge in our full menu of beauty treatments. We stock a comprehensive range of skin care and makeup. Buy a Gift Voucher online or see us in store.

● Sothys Facials using state of the art luxurious French cosmetics

● Janesce Facials - organic, natural,plant based, skin care

● Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing

● Electrolysis

● Spray Tanning

● Eye Treatments, Tinting and Shaping, Brow Lamination, Lash Lifts

● Relaxation Massage and Body Treatments

TREAT YOURSELF OR SOMEONE SPECIAL THIS SUMMER!

14 Victoria Street, Whitianga | Phone: 07 866 2679

Open Monday to Saturday; late night Thursdays Email: enquiries@coastalsanctuary.com www.coastalsanctuary.com SUMMER SKIN RENEWAL PACKAGE

MY TOP TIPS FOR A HEALTHY, GLOWING SUMMER

• Plan your travel to avoid stress

• Drink plenty of water

• SPF 30-50 (I know we all bang on about it) That’s because its important and could save your life. We have high skin cancer rates here in NZ and no one needs to be on that chopping block. Reapply every 2-3 hours and stay in the shade during the middle of the day

• Wear a hat and sunglasses

• Use a UV spray for your hair to protect colour and minimise fading

• Switch your foundation to a tinted moisturiser with SPF (a

much lighter option that will still give you a bit of coverage but with a dewy finish)

• Book a massage and or a facial (because you want to support your local practitioners, experience an hour of bliss and get some health and beauty guidance)

• Take care of your feet, there is nothing more off putting than ragged toenails and cracked heels.

Enjoy the warmth of summer while maintaining health, vitality, and natural beauty. No time or effort spent on grooming is ever wasted.

Gemma and Louise.

THE WELLNESS STORE

The Wellness Store, your go-to destination for all things health and well-being, is more than just a store—it’s a sanctuary for those who seek a balanced and fulfilling life.

Located in Monk Street, Whitianga, The Wellness Store offers a carefully curated selection of products that cater to every aspect of your wellness journey.

We offer an extensive range of organic foods, supplements, and eco-friendly products designed to nurture both your body and the planet.

Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, enhance your energy levels, or simply find natural solutions to everyday health challenges, you’ll find exactly what you need on our shelves.

For all your health requirements and needs, The Wellness Store

1 Monk Street, Whitianga

Phone 07 260 5002

wellnesswhitianga@gmail.com www.thewellnessstore.co.nz

provides a comprehensive selection:

> Natural Health

> Health and Supplements

> Beauty and Body

> Immune Health

> Supplements

> Sleep Support

We work with trusted brands that share our values of sustainability, transparency, and holistic health. From organic skincare and ecofriendly household items to vitamins and herbal remedies, our offerings are chosen to ensure that you’re getting the best for your body and the environment.

Visit us today and discover a world where health, happiness, and harmony come together in perfect balance.

Reaching for tomorrow

THE LOST SPRING TE WAI NGARO – A PLACE OF WATER

The Lost Spring new extensions bring in more magic for visitors

WHITIANGA THERMAL OCEAN VILLAGE – STUNNING

The visitor will be ‘transported’ to a balmy Fijian resort in the ocean village of Whitianga. The significant construction works of extending The Lost Spring Day Spa and expanding by moving to another level is nearing toward completion.

Owner, Alan Hopping, and Maria Balan, Lost Spring’s CEO, are confident and excited that everything is close for 100,000 visitors per year to enjoy absolute luxury. “We have actually several extensions, rather than one main development,” says Alan. “But overall, our pacific island values will be apparent both on appearance and personal experience.

“It will be for every visitor, an experience, outstanding in New Zealand,” says Maria. “We

The Lost Spring has a passionate well-trained team insuring high-quality and generous service and who are fully conversant with the special nature of day spas.

will have 15 therapists by Christmas this year and everything to be fully completed around July 2025. The Spa will have 28 stations as well as the Clamshell pool. Once all stages are complete, we will be operating seven days,

with 30 staff employed in the Tree-tops plus 40 in the restaurant, pools, and grounds. Our goal as always to exceed expectation. The full spectrum of the Day Spa indulgences can be enjoyed over two days.

Yes, a visitor can have a soak in the pool for a couple of hours, but their experience can also be indulged over two days of spa, pools, restaurant, town, and return for night swim. This is the uptake of many couples and small groups taking a break from the city, and overseas tourists planning their holiday around the availability of this idyllic oasis in the heart of the Coromandel Peninsula.

It is no surprise that The Lost Spring earned the title and award of being “Pure Fiji Clinic of the Year” in 2024.

One of the developments is an extension to the kitchen of The Lost Spring, so when the 100,000-visitor capacity is reached in three years, all requirements can be more than satisfied. This will extend into the new Pacifica and space art centre which has an accentuation on the future with a very imaginatively featured, galaxy scene.

Interiors

your room... your home... your office.. your space...

What is the colour trend for 2025?

Earthy tones like warm browns and deep greens accompanied by vibrant optimistic shades such as orange, lavender, tranquil blues and gold accents

MAXIMILISM

• Layers of colour, pattern & texture compose a rich vibrant space

• Artwork & collected possessions tells a unique life story

NATURAL WOVEN TEXTURE

• Great for layering, adding texture with natural materials

TEXTURE AND PATTERN

• Chunky, woven and boucle fabrics

• Herringbone wallpaper

• Loop pile natural wool carpet

• Engineered timber floor

• Mottled, vintage look subway tile

ROUND RUG

• Add a layer of warmth and softness with a rug

• Provides texture, colour, pattern

• Curved furniture and decor remain in vogue

PAINT PALETTE

Our take on the 2025 colour trend:

• Dulux Castlecliff (dark colour)

• Dulux Sandfly Point (warm white)

• Dulux Moss Green (deep green)

• Dulux Waitangi (warm brown)

• Small format tiles grow in popularity

• A mix of texture and uneven colour highlighting a worn & tactile nature

• Tumbled edges & grounded colours

COMFORT IS KING

• Oversized cushions on deep sofas

• Cozy throws

• An invitation to relax and unwind THE IMPERFECT TILE

GREEN & GOLD

• A touch Mid Century modern mixed with a feature wallpaper

With seventeen years of experience in Whitianga and the surrounding areas, Guthrie Bowron Whitianga has always focused on providing an enjoyable experience for their customers. Their professional team cover all aspects of interior decorating and can guide you through the process, from an initial consult to a quality finish.

Specialists in paint and wallpaper, they offer in-store colour consultations and can mix up paint test pots on the spot. Their award-winning flooring consultants handle tiles, carpet, vinyl, laminate and timber, offering an extensive range of samples. Carpet offcuts can be turned into rugs with an in-house rug binding service.

When it comes to window coverings, their

curtain consultants are well-equipped to assist with curtain, blind, and shutter needs and can handle complex questions around motorisation, recessed roller blinds or tracks, and shaped shutters.

Having spent years working closely with local trades, Guthrie Bowron Whitianga is able to coordinate timing and details directly with painters, tilers, builders, electricians, plumbers, and kitchen joiners for the client.

Whether you need guidance on interior finishes or an exterior colour scheme, Guthrie Bowron Whitianga offers valuable advice and inspiration.

Their knowledgeable team are comfortable with all manner of interior design styles, and the showroom is designed to inspire with a range of offerings, including

furniture, mirrors, cushions, and wall art.

Community involvement is a priority for Guthrie Bowron Whitianga, and they actively support many events and organisations in the local area.

Regular sponsors of Whiti Run Fest, Mercury Bay Art Escape, and their own Gifting by Giving Christmas tree, encouraging the community to provide presents for locals in need.

Within the Guthrie Bowron Group, the Whitianga branch has been recognised with multiple national awards over the years. They provide free in-home consultation, measure and quote services from as far south as Pauanui and as far north as Port Jackson. Call in to meet with the friendly team and talk about your next project.

I’LL GO ANYWHERE FOR KAURI GUM

Meet Walter Fielding, a character, a pioneer, and an adventurer, a man who knows well the early settler history of this region and who has carved out his life from the bush on the Coromandel Peninsula

Walter has a magnificent kauri gum collection, the largest private collection this author has ever seen.

“I didn’t start collecting it until I retired. When I was a young bushman, I was surrounded by it. I guess it is about memories and my childhood. I find it to be truly beautiful. I’ll go anywhere for kauri gum.

As told by Walter Fielding

“I love finding Kauri gum and bringing it home. I varnish and polish it and I enjoy looking at that finish. So many lights inside the piece of gum. Years ago, they would chew it.”

Walter was talking about the days of kauri tree felling in Coroglen affectionately called Gumtown. The community hall is still called Gumtown Hall. It is where the Coroglen farmers markets are held from Sunday Labour weekend to Easter weekend.

“We were paid to cut down kauri trees. Dad had the first chainsaw. I was 17 and we lived up the Rangihau. That chain saw was $275 in the 1940s. It was nearly as much as a Morris Minor. When there was a big slip, and there were plenty, we had a contract to remove the kauri trees

which were all dead. We would pull them out on to the tracks with a winch and a tractor. There was an enormous kauri log, bigger that anything else around, lying in the bush. It

was too big to move. Uncle Horace had found it, but we all knew about it. We worked long hours into the darkness. We were too buggered to go home. We didn’t have any hut to sleep in. Our

Uncle Horace Harsant in front of his kauri log hut..

super sacks became a bed in the kauri log.

It was Uncle Horace Harsant who had made the log his home back in 1932. It was that big we could stand up in it. It became a regular place to stay. We had four beds in there and a table and you could still walk down the centre of the log.

Uncle Horace said he would rather live in that log than live with our Aunt Florence. He loved it. My dad and I and Uncle Horace were a bush team. The log is still there up the Taranaki Creek. I would see it when I went back to that area sometimes. I remember the kauri gum falling down from the inside of the log. One

piece was 12lb but then I didn’t do anything with it. It’s seventy years since I slept in that log. It is still there, that home in the bush, somewhere up there beyond Coroglen.

> Note: Walter’s Uncle Horace was the father of Vaughn Harsant. Vaughn Harsant was the man

dad’s

who, with his wife Dawn, gave the 88 acres along the beach front and surrounding hills around Cathedral Cove as a gift to the crown to be for the people of New Zealand and never to be built on or developed. Their family had purchased the farm from a Mr. Wigmore in 1915. The land had been abandoned and unoccupied by Māori since 1818 when Ngapuhi came and almost wiped out the Ngāti Hei people. They called Cathedral Cove Te Whanganui-A-Hei (The Great Bay of Hei). It’s a beautiful name and still goes by that name for Ngāti Hei and local residents who have been around a long time.

Walter’s

chainsaw – it still works! Left: an unpolished piece of kauri gum.

Walter’s Kauri gum decorates the window sills in his home.

TARA KING INTERIOR DESIGN

Tara King is the Whiz Queen of Interior Design and finishes here in the Mercury Bay.

“I take immense pleasure in helping my clients create spaces which is uniquely theirs and that they can be proud of and identify with.

“Every single space has the potential to be beautiful, regardless of its shape or size. Having studied in both London and New Zealand, I bring a unique point of difference to my client’s design schemes. I’m passionate about colour!”

It’s essential to enhance a space, create emotional awareness and to harmonise a design scheme. Whether it’s a focal point or an ascent, colour can make or break a space.

Imagine having an interior space that is uniquely yours, reflecting your individuality and personal style. The design process is like creating a masterpiece, one that you’ll be proud to own, experience and share with others!

“Collaboration with my clients is key throughout the process. I’ll work within their budget, brief and timeframe to create a space that they will love.”

Tara King Interior Design will also transform your space into a luxurious haven with their high-end drapery, blinds, shutters, and motorisation blinds. Tara will work with the latest colour trends and textures to create a stunning look that will elevate any new or existing build.

Collaborating with our local suppliers and retails is paramount. They have a wonderful array of products including exterior and interior furniture and soft furnishing right here on the Peninsula, therefore supporting our local businesses is a no brainer.

Not only completing your Interior Design Scheme’s, Tara and her team can transform your outdoor space with expert guidance. Offering advice on everything from exterior colour schemes, cladding to roofing and joinery. They can even assist with motorised exterior blinds, awnings and shutters to help you create your dream exterior.

So, don’t just dream how your home could look, contact Tara King Interior Design today and let’s make that dream become a reality together!

ONE CANOE AND A THOUSAND DOLLS

By Ian Boardman

Igrew up on a farm in the Waikato and was always interested in woodwork and boats and had I not had the opportunity to go fishing when I left school, I may well have been a builder. My youngest son is a builder. He served his apprenticeship with Sam Harsant who was a well-known builder in Hahei.

Growing up in the fifties before the days of TV and social media, we had to make our own amusements and as so many boys did back then, I spent a lot of time building model aircraft and boats from balsa wood. My first serious attempt at a real boat was the construction of a sixteen-foot wooden Canadian canoe which involved planking on steam bent ribs which I built whilst home for holidays from boarding school. It was a bit of a challenge for a first boat, but I learnt a lot and went on to spend many happy hours with my dad and brothers, duckshooting from that canoe on the Piako River.

My wife, Noeline is passionate about making and dressing porcelain dolls. This is her lifetime hobby. Noeline has a huge number of dolls which she has made herself, both the dolls and the costumes. There are just a few which she has collected on overseas trips. I had quite a large shed. You could say it was the perfect workshop. One evening on the internet, I came across some information on a three-story Victorian style dolls house kitset. I thought this might really appeal to Noeline. It did. So, we ordered the kitset and it duly turned up at our door.

I got the first floor of the dolls house basically completed and then we moved from Matarangi to Whitianga.

There were a lot of complications with regulations, but finally, I could build a studio for Noeline to display her dolls and me a decent size workshop on our bush block. By the end of 2020, the building project at our home in Whitianga was complete. I started once again to do a bit more on the dolls house.

One day, we visited old friends in Devonport, Bruce and Fay. Bruce, like me, had an interest in woodwork and took me down to his workshop to show me a wood turning project.

But of much more interest to me was this most beautiful strip planked, wooden, sea kayak sitting to the side in his workshop. When I asked him about it, he casually remarked that he started it years ago but had never got back to finishing it.

One day soon after our visit, I received a phone call from Fay asking if I would be

prepared to finish Bruce’s kayak. Bruce suffered from allergies particularly to fibreglassing. The kayak definitely needed fibreglassing. Bruce could not finish the kayak.

This was a challenge I couldn’t resist. Soon after visiting Bruce, I set up the halffinished kayak in my shiny new workshop. Noeline’s dolls house was now on hold.

The kayak hull is put together on a mould which is constructed first. Thin strips of Western Red Cedar are cut and shaped and then edged-glued together on the mould. The mould is one piece, but the hull itself is made in two halves.

When all the stripping is completed, the two halves are removed from the mould, scraped and sanded smooth inside and out and then fibreglassed. Then the two halves are put together and taped tightly with packaging tape. The seam where the two

Ian Boardman with the finished canoe he built for his friend.

halves meet is then taped with glass tape and epoxy. Doing this on the inside was very difficult, having to work through the cockpit opening.

Once the hatches were cut in the deck, the whole boat received several coats of varnish. It was ready at last, but to christen and paddle it for the first time, was for Bruce to do. That day took a very long time

to come about due to ill health with both Fay and Bruce. Eventually they came, and with a bottle of bubbly on Buffalo Beach, the beautiful kayak was christened.

Now it was back to the dolls house. Being a kitset, it was so different from the kayak – exquisitely made and everything fitted together perfectly. We added a few things such as kwila flooring, architraves, scotia

and skirting boards. Noeline also made curtains and wallpaper and wired mini lights in every room. This stretched my electrical knowledge which was limited to electric fences on the farm.

The dolls house is perfect. Noeline’s collection is a testament to years of careful, intricate and skilled work. However, I think I will stick to building boats.

• Mould removal specialists

• All fabric types, including thermals

• Roman blinds – clean and repair

• Pick-up/delivery/take down and reinstall

Local Whitianga agents covering Coromandel to Whangamata

www.curtainclinic.co.nz

Left: Noeline with her exquisitely made dolls house. Right, Ian and Noeline outside their home and workshop in Whitianga.

MERCURY BAY GAME FISHING CLUB

YEAR’S

By Suzanne Hansen

In the winter of 1924, Ernie (The Chad) Chadban, publican of the Whitianga Hotel, was part of a small group of men who introduced game fishing as a sport in Whitianga. Their zeal for big game fishing was brought on by landing a striped marlin (300lb) and a mako shark (320lb) with no specialised game fishing gear, but by towing live Kahawai baits tied with heavy line to four-gallon drums and hauling in their catches by hands protected only by their felt hats.

These hearty and keen men immediately decided to start a new sport in the region by initiating the Mercury Bay Swordfish and Mako Shark Club for the next summer season. Over the winter, Chadban provided a cargo shed at the end of the long wharf which extended from the present-day hotel, to serve as the club rooms, and the group built a set of scaffolds on the nearby beach for weighing in their fish in the coming summer season.

On the 26 February 1925, the newly minted Mercury Bay Swordfish and Mako Shark Club recorded its first ever marlin ever to be weighed in by the club, landed by that very same Chad Chadban and local policeman, Tom Cannon. The club issued its first two certificates that day.

In the later part of the 1920s, news started to spread internationally about a new fishing playground in the Mercury Bay. As the years passed, logging and milling gave way to dairying and tourism so much, the popular pulp fiction writer, Zane Grey, made a visit to the Mercury Bay in 1929.

Although Grey was not taken with Mako as a fighting game fish, when he first came to Whitianga, by 1933 he devoted a whole trip to Mercury Bay for the sole purpose of catching Mako. Through the 1930’s Whitianga became known as a hub for game fishing.

World War II put an end to leisure for a while and big game fishing waned in the Bay. But it had a renaissance in 1947, when a few men at the hotel were reminiscing over a few beers about the halcyon days of game fishing before the war and decided to go out and catch a fish. The boat did not come back that night and a search party was dispatched. The fishing party eventually returned with a black marlin estimated to be over 1000 lbs (453.6kg), which dragged the boat quite far out and took over 12 hours to land. As a result, big game fishing became popular again and the Whitianga Hotel became the home of the newly named Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club. That marlin, or what is left of it, after a fire at the Whitianga hotel, now hangs in the Mercury Bay Museum.

In May, 1957 the MBGFC, with four other

clubs, became the founding members of The New Zealand Big Game Fishing Council (now the New Zealand Sports Fishing Council), the oldest incorporated organisation representing recreational anglers which takes an active role in fisheries management and research in NZ. The NZSFC currently has 54 member clubs with over 35,000 members. The NZSFC is governed by the IGFA which is a global non-profit organisation committed to the conservation of game fish and the promotion of responsible, ethical angling practices.

Over the ensuing years, with better equipment and the growing popularity of light tackle fishing the MBGFC morphed into more of a family affair attracting more women and children into the sport as the club grew into a local social headquarters. In 2003, the MBGFC moved into its newly renovated HQ across the road from the current Whitianga Wharf. The Club now has well over 3000 members with an average of 12 fishing tournaments annually.

CENTENNIAL TROPHY FOR 26 FEBRUARY 2025

In celebration of a century of the founding of the Mercury Bay Swordfish and Mako Shark Club, now the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club, is holding the “Centennial Marlin Tournament” from 26 February - 1 March 2025. The Centennial Marlin Tournament will celebrate the heritage of big game fishing in the Mercury Bay by taking anglers back to the day in February 1926, when the landing of the first two official game fish was recorded.

The tournament will be simple and noncommercial with few sponsors and no big prizes, but it will initiate a new “Centennial Trophy” for club members and their families, as well as other affiliate NZSFC club members, who are all bound by strict NZSFC rules, to compete. Non-members who want to compete can buy a day membership for the club, which also binds them to the NZSFC rules of competition.

The Centennial Trophy will remain in the MBGFC clubrooms permanently, honouring both the boats that enter and the winning team (s) of this historical competition. The entry fee will only be $100 per boat ($1 per each year of the club’s age) which will cover the cost of the trophy plus the gala weigh-in celebration at the end of the tournament. The tournament will be fished only for striped, blue and black marlin and two prizes will be awarded for the heaviest marlin weighed, but also skewed heavily towards a second award for tag and release. The gala weigh-in and dinner on Saturday, 1 March will celebrate the Mercury Bay in the 1920s and feature fancy dress and club history.

More information and entries for the Centennial Marlin Tournament can be made on the MBGFC website.

Left: Ernie Chadban, publication, with 1st two gamefish weighed in Whitianga, 1925. Above: Roma Grey with Mako shark, 606lb, in 1929.

How do you fully describe 420 boats cruising out of the estuary of Whitianga from 5.00am all ready for a gunshot start at 7.00am to spend three days aiming to be the first to catch that big billfish or, if not, catch the biggest one of any species. The stakes are high; the prize money for the biggest fish is $350,000 and the champion team will claim $462,650 for first prize. The total prize pool was valued at $1.8m. It was the 2024 annual Kubota Billfish Classic, and for Whitianga, the biggest ever and the largest billfish tournament in the world. It was a very exciting weekend for everyone involved.

Kubota as the lead sponsor has the naming rights. Tom Maxwell, resident of Whitianga, and business owner of Mad Max Sport Fishing

is the inspiration, key organiser and director. The Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club (MBGFC) was the host, providing the framework and the organisation and the huge team of people on the ground through club manager, John East and club president and vice president, Gordon McIvor and Anne Smal – an efficient and friendly team. Three key dealerships have been with Tom Maxwell as sponsors since the first Billfish tournament. These three are Central Motors Hauraki Plains with managing director, Andrew Welch; Agri Life Hamilton with managing director, Richard Kibby, and RNR Tractors, Te Puke with managing director, Robin Murray. These three dealerships are not boating or fishing suppliers or manufacturers – they specialise in providing for rural and suburban

rural life where there are thousands who love to go fishing and who need boats and lots of accompanying gear. All three dealerships are providers of Kubota machinery. Kubota is a global Japanese-based company established over 150 years ago. The annual Kubota Billfish Classic tournament has Kubota’s commitment and generosity through the three dealerships and three men named above.

The result of all of this is an amazing global scale and world class billfish tournament. Already the 2025 tournament is fully booked and some are international bookings. “We had to close off bookings for the tournament early this year,” says Tom Maxwell. ‘So many boats had booked – 420. Each boat has a team of four to six so that’s a lot of people who will be in town.”

A chat in the spa AND A BOAT IS BUILT

It all started with a casual chat in the family spa. “What do you think of this boat babe?” These were Blair’s casual words one night, four years ago.

By Pauline Stewart

Blair is a young family man enjoying life in Whitianga. He was sharing a picture on his phone of a Dan Leech 8.5m Powercat (a particular style of boat).

His wife, Katie replied, “So cool. Maybe when we win that lotto, aye.” Blair came back quickly, “Nah, I want to build it.”

This was not the response she was expecting. Katie was puzzled,

but looking at his expression, she knew he wasn’t joking. “Go on then,” she said. And that was that….

But, in the days following Katie and Blair’s little spa conversation, their back yard suddenly became a very busy place – the back deck was being ripped up and a shrink wrap tent was being assembled. Blair didn’t waste any time. In less than

a few weeks, the view outside the kitchen window was a fully-fledged construction site.

Blair is a boat builder by trade and owner of Coro Boat Builders, so of course, to “build a boat” came naturally to him. But to build a boat single handed and at home was not the standard path to take. Also, for Katie, his wife, she knew it would

NEW OWNERS - WELCOME!

Pacific Coast Marine and Diesel have new owners, Mat and Rachel Burt. After running a successful mobile mechanical business in Queenstown, Mat and Rachel have taken the opportunity to expand and purchased Pacific Coast Marine and Diesel, moving to Whitianga at the start of September. Mat has a broad range of experience in the marine industry. He is a marine mechanic by trade, with experience in commercial jetboating, commercial vessel engineering and maintenance management of fleet and fixed plant assets.

Pacific Coast Marine has retained

all the current staff, meaning you will still see the same familiar faces and receive the same great service you are accustomed to. Their workshop manager, experienced qualified team of mechanics and dedicated sales and parts manager will ensure your job is managed seamlessly from booking to completion.

Mat and Rachel both grew up boating and are looking forward to getting involved in all the boating and fishing opportunities that Mercury Bay offers. They’ve thoroughly enjoyed the last month settling into Whitianga and look forward to meeting many of you, both through work and within the community.

Waiting for the boat to be launched.

Blair Harkin

take far more than just being a boat builder to make this happen. Blair was doing this alone. It became his second job. At the same time Blair had the responsibility of being the dad of three young children. Katie felt he was crazy and that he was pursuing an impossible dream, turning an 8.5 metre boat into reality.

The name of the boat was decided – Paradigm Shift. Blair was actually making a paradigm shift in his daily life. The hours between 7.00pm and 3.00am became a ‘building the boat’ shift, almost every day,” said Katie.

Blair’s drive to finish what he envisioned in his heart and mind took his family’s breath away.

This project took insane amounts of determination, persistence and energy. Friends and family could not count the number of 3.00am finishes there were.

His hobbies were put aside; and any free time left over after a day’s work and time with the kids, was with his beloved boat. He would use all his skill and focus making each aspect perfect.

Finally, one day it was finished.

Finally after all the hard work is done, Paradigm Shift is in the water.

It was four years almost to the day since that chat in the family spa. Now a fairly large boat trailer was sitting in the drive waiting to carry the boat to the sea.

The pride and self-satisfaction felt cannot be measured.

Recently, Blair and Katie and family had their first two nights away on their special boat out near the Mercury Islands. It was so satisfying and special to be finally out boating.

The Powercat is designed by Dan Leech and is 8.5 metre long. It is a semi-displacement hydrofoil assisted design which maximises lift for reduced fuel consumption and an extremely soft ride.

The three-metre beam makes for great interior volume and a large cockpit, which is seen in a much larger mono hull.

Lower accommodations feature a forward cabin with a transverse extra-long queen bed, a head/shower and two quarter berth beds.

Upper accommodations feature a centre helm station, a U-shaped settee that can convert into an additional double bed and a good size galley. Boat construction is fibreglass.

LEARN TO DIVE AND DIVE THE COROMANDEL WITH

Dive Zone Whitianga

> You can complete the training and start diving in a few days.

> Learning to dive is a great achievement.

> Discover the wonderland that exists under the waves. In the waters around Whitianga, there are a variety of different diving locations – each with its own beauty and excitement.

> Make new friends. Enjoy the Dive Zone Centre and getting to know the friendly dive trainers.

> Experience the whole new world of MAGICAL underwater diving.

> Dive Zone Whitianga is New Zealand’s top spot to learn to dive and commence diving.

> Just come and visit the Coromandel Peninsula for a long weekend or more.

The owners of Dive Zone, Darrell and Linda Bird, and their staff, are waiting to greet you. Darrell is one of New Zealand’s most highly qualified divers and since beginning Dive Zone in 2004, this husband and wife team have developed excellent and experienced trainers who love and understand scuba diving and the waters around Whitianga and can teach you to be a diver.

The Dive Zone premises in Campbell Street Whitianga are full of the atmosphere of the sea and diving. The second floor of their building is now the location of a most suitable class space for the many courses which now take place there.

Beginning in 2004, Dive Zone Whitianga’s capacity for large groups of divers has seen it become the largest Dive Training facility within New Zealand.

GETTING STARTED LEARNING TO DIVE

To dive here or anywhere in the world you must have a “PADI Open Water Diver” Certificate.

The Theory: You can access this course via PADI E-learning on-line - on your computer, or your phone or at the Dive Zone Whitianga’s computers at the premises in Whitianga. Many have passed the theory over a weekend.

> The Practical: This can be completed in a couple of days. This involves familiarising yourself with the dive equipment and its use underwater. This training takes place is a specially constructed swimming pool in Whitianga.

> The Cost: The total cost for obtaining the ‘PADI Open Water Diver’ Certificate – all training theoretical and practical and your three first dives in waters close to Whitianga: $750.

The ‘PADI Open Water Diver’ Certificate enables the holder to dive at dive sites anywhere in the world.

ADVANTAGES IN LEARNING TO DIVE IN WHITIANGA

Principal amongst these is the closeness to great dive locations. No travel time is required to get to the training pool and the dive boats. The boats are literally just down the street. Plus the availability of everything to do with diving - Dive Zone Whitianga, being the largest Dive Shop in New Zealand, is a fully equipped retail outlet and filling facility for all dive related needs.

Scuba Diving is one of the fastest growing water sports worldwide and Dive Zone Whitianga will definitely lead its future growth in this country.

QUERIES? NEED HELP?

The Dive Zone Whitianga friendly staff will answer your questions. They can also make suggestions regarding accommodation in town. Many young people stay in the cabins in nearby camp grounds.

Darrell Bird at The Dive Zone Centre, Whitianga

She’s one great angler

By Pauline Stewart

Kelly Chambers lives on the Coromandel. Her home is In Pauanui but she travels regularly to Whitianga as a member of the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club. “It’s such a good club to belong to,“ says Kelly.

Kelly loves fishing. She grew up in Ngatea and Thames with fishing being a key part of leisure time for her family. Kelly loved it from the start.

These days she is a world-famous angler in addition to being a young mum with a soft, gentle personality. Close to the surface is her deep well of tenacity and resilience; and Kelly has needed that for her amazing achievements.

On May 16, 2023, while six months pregnant with her first child, Gus, and her husband Shannon, Kelly attempted a dream of many years - to capture a billfish on 8kg line class off the top of the North Island.

Fishing from their own 14 metre boat, Kelly landed a 168kg swordfish. This broke a 37-yearold record held by Deborah Dunaway. This catch was remarkable in that this was a 21-1 ratio catch. For the record, her catch was heavier than the 134.3kg mens’ record for the same line class.

On April 15, 2024, she smashed the women’s 24kg World Record, catching a 300kg broadbill swordfish! This is also the biggest swordfish ever weighed by a Mercury Bay Game Fishing

Club member and a new All Tackle club record surpassing Ian O’Briens legendary 291.9 kg swordfish caught back in 1998 which still stands as the men’s 24 kg World Record!

Kelly also currently holds the world record for catching a broadbill swordfish on an 8kg line so well done to Kelly and Shannon Chambers, Captain Hunter Bryce and all the crew onboard the Ruckus involved in this incredible achievement!

Kelly was also awarded New Zealand Sports Fishing Council, ‘Old Man of the Sea’ Cup for her 300kg broadbill mentioned earlier, plus 103kg marlin caught on a 10kg line, several tag and release billfish and southern bluefin tuna to round of the season.

In addition, Kelly has been awarded by her own Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club, the Champion Angler of the Year 2024.

Soon to be published in Marlin magazine, USA, is own story of that exciting, incredibly demanding but ‘over the top’ rewarding 300kg billfish day.

NATIONAL AWARD FOR LOCAL CLUB

Kelly Chambers on the day of her 300kg billfish catch

Kelly was very keen for readers to know that in 2024 the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club (MBGFC) has been announced as New Zealand Sports Council Club of the year. It is a prestigious award made from out of a pool of 55 clubs and awarded on governance, community service, fundraising, fishing results, tournaments held and value to the members, a little over 3,350 members.

LOOKING AHEAD: A bright future

By Leigh Hopper

After returning from a boating expedition to Fiji and facing a few lingering southerly fronts, I’m pleased to observe that Whitianga has weathered the recent recession reasonably well.

I think about the whole of the Coromandel Peninsula in terms of the recession and some towns did not do as well as others but in focusing on Whitianga where Hoppers is very involved, I believe much of what I say will have a ripple effect throughout the Peninsula and further afield.

The atmosphere in and around the town is notably buoyant, with events like

the Oceans Festival providing a welcomed boost. Our Waterways sales team has also noticed an uptake in genuine inquiries from potential buyers, which aligns with reports from real estate agents along the Coromandel east coast.

Recent sales statistics suggest that we’ve likely seen the bottom of the market. From my experience, shifts in market sentiment can happen sometimes rapidly, almost like flipping a switch. I believe we’re at a pivotal moment for the Coromandel – where confidence is set to return, with potentially significant outcomes for the region.

It’s been a tough period for many in business, and unfortunately, not everyone has survived. Many business owners are

feeling dejected, and the impact on our communities and the country at large has been substantial. Having endured four recessions during my career, I can confirm they are never easy.

The past year has been very much a “buyer’s market” for property. However, we’re now seeing some positive changes.

Building costs are easing, with reductions in the prices of materials and trade labour, and land prices have also dropped. Inflation appears to be under control, and interest rates are expected to decline. In recent times, purchasing an existing property has seemed a better option than building, but in my view, this won’t last forever.

> Continued on page 53

Leigh Hopper

> Continued from page 51

The Coromandel continues to draw people who are eager to escape the hustle of city life. We hear this sentiment echoed by many of our purchasers, who initially move for a better work-life balance or to retire early. Understandably, many maintain close ties with family and friends and frequently return to the city.

Yet, over time, we’ve noticed a trend. As people settle into their new coastal lifestyle - where life is relaxed and there’s no congestion, and everything is just five minutes away – they realise how wonderful this new reality is. Over time, the need to travel back to the city diminishes, as they fall in love with living here.

Whenever (my wife) Linda and I travel abroad and we return to Whitianga, we always return in awe of the natural beauty here, grateful to be living in such a unique place.

DEVELOPMENTS THAT EXCITE ME:

With the third generation of the Hopper family now at the helm, we’re embracing many new challenges. The original Master Plan for Waterways outlined several initiatives to enhance Whitianga as a destination and provide long-term benefits to its residents. Some of these projects have already been completed, while others are still in the early stages or yet to be initiated. We can only move forward at the pace that the economy allows. At present, we’re working on several exciting developments:

• The Moorings Retirement Village: Construction is well underway along Joan Gaskell Drive. Our Village Manager, Toni, is eager to share more about what’s in store.

• Medical Centre Expansion: We’re planning an extension to accommodate

additional health services for the growing community.

• Concert Park: The first stage of a new concert park is being developed on council land north of the airfield.

• Dockside: This area holds potential to introduce new retail opportunities and commercial activities to Whitianga.

• Marine Precinct (Stage Two): We’ve secured resource consent for a precinct dedicated to the haul-out and maintenance of large vessels, which we hope will attract new boat-building and servicing businesses.

• Marina Berths with Accommodation: Stage Two also includes 65 marina berths capable of accommodating vessels up to 30 meters, complete with self-contained services. Each berth comes with land title and the

opportunity to build a two-level, singlebedroom unit – something that’s not available anywhere else in the country.

• Wharekaho Residential Development: We’ve recently acquired land in Wharekaho, which is in the design and consent process for residential development.

Others are also making significant investments in Whitianga, such as the solar farm, the Whitianga Hotel upgrade, potential industrial land extensions, and improvements to council infrastructure, to name a few. Many of our bigger stores are excelling in marketing and the quality of stock.

There’s still much to be done, but I feel confident about the future. We are on the cusp of a new phase of growth, and I believe we’re about to see things spring into action.

“IT’S THE RIGHT TIME”

Peter Farmer has an important idea for people who believe in the Coromandel Region.

Peter, with wife Dianne, (who have a much-loved home in the Whitianga Waterways), founded the Farmer Autovillage in Tauranga (1991), which also has a branch in Whitianga (Coromandel area) as part of the company’s “Hub & Spoke” business model.

The Whitianga Branch, at 6 Abrahamson Drive, provides Service, Parts and Sales.

The well-known car dealership group represents Nissan, Audi, VW, Skoda, Cupra, Subaru, Jeep, Ram, MG, Haval, Ora and Tank (GWM), plus Roller Team Camper Vans.

The Autovillage employs 160 staff, and is managed by Peter’s son Mike, who as managing director, is now the majority shareholder.

Peter’s idea is to form a Coromandel endowment orientated Community Trust similar to Tauranga’s very successful Acorn Foundation.

Acorn was formed 20 years ago by a small group of community leaders including Peter. The basis of Acorn is to encourage families and individuals to set aside a very small portion of their Will (Estate) to be assigned to Acorn Foundation.

When setting up such a gesture from your Will, you also advise the Charity and/or cause you wish your estate to support. Cash (small percentage of your estate) will be invested and the income from the wider pool would be assigned to your nominated cause, less a very

small admin charge.

Peter believes initially Estate funds coming to such a Coromandel Foundation, would be focused on improving health care facilities, emergency access (rescue helicopter and St John Ambulance) and other health care support infrastructure.

After 20 years of operation Acorn, this totally community orientated foundation has accumulated $65 million in invested funds and 450 individual funds.

All funds held are invested and governed by an appointed group of qualified people.

In many instances, Acorn has found that individuals prefer to give now, (give with a “warm hand”).

Many funds are therefore active in giving grants shortly after inception. Others prefer to see their estate funds enter a pool with the pool funds directed to strong community initiatives and causes.

Peter believes that such a foundation could be set up in the Coromandel , either with the Acorn model or Momentum (the Waikato Based Foundation).

“I am confident any such foundation we formed, within and for the Coromandel, would receive strong and effective guidance and assistance from the Acorn and Momentum Foundations”.

Such community foundations are governed by local community leaders with very strong input

from the legal and accounting professions.

Peter is also very much encouraged by the positive reaction from TCDC to setting up such a Foundation following tentative proposals from Community champion and Coromandel resident Michelle Crook.

Peter has over the past 20 years devoted a substantial part of his time and energy to many community projects in the Bay of Plenty.

• Trustee – Waipuna Hospice –nine years

• Trustee – Riding for the Disabled – 12 years

• Board Member – Avocado NZ

• Board Member – NZ Motor Trade

• Chair – Bay Venues

• Trustee – TECT – a $1 billion Community Trust

• Founding Trustee – Acorn Foundation

It is Peter’s ambition to assist in the formation of a Community Foundation for the Coromandel over the next 12 -18 months and invites any interested/qualified people to contact him, via advice to the Editor

– The Informer Newspaper and Your Summer Magazine.

The Acorn Foundation was formed after it was clear there was

not much depth in Philanthropic funding within Tauranga. After 20 years in operation, Acorn has $65 million in funds and in the 2023/2024 year provided $3.2 million in grants to specific community organisations and causes.

A significant amount of the wealth within the Coromandel is often not made in the Coromandel.

Such wealth was probably made in the Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Auckland regions. Peter said “A significant amount of the wealth in the Coromandel has been brought here, typically when people retire. Their legacies/ estates could also additionally, via their existing estate, be focused on the Coromandel community with priority for healthcare and wellbeing in the Coromandel.

“Imagine the outcome in 20 years if that comes about”.

Finally Peter stresses, “These foundations are not the preserve of the wealthy”.

People can and do make provisions in their wills for small, medium and large amounts.

It has been Acorn’s experience that they have a very wide crosssection of generous donors in their funds.

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Peter Farmer

He’s done alright!

By Stan Stewart

In truth its more than just hard work. Stacey says, “You have to love your work”. His work is pile driving, foundations and installing retaining walls. He has worked at many locations in the North Island and in recent years based on the Coromandel.

Stacey was born and raised in Ongarue which is in the King Country. He says he comes from great stock. His parents and his grandparents taught him well. “Good, hard, honest work is the key to success in life”. They didn’t just tell Stacey, they demonstrated it with their actions. They walked the talk. Stacey says it was the greatest gift they could have given him.

As a teen he worked for three years doing bush work for an old contractor in the King Country. When this job was winding up, he gave Stacey some good advice. “Buy a machine and become a contractor”. Stacey followed this advice and purchased a truck with crane on the tray. With a loyal dog as companion that was the beginning of Stacey’s life as a contractor. In time it was this enterprise which led Stacey to establish, Drill 4 U. He began Drill 4 U in November, 1999.

Since then there have been ups and downs. His approach to tough times has been to economise all you can and be grateful for whatever work comes your way. These days the Coromandel is not booming, but there is still work enough to keep his small team busy.

For some time his home and base was in Hamilton. However, he always loved the Coromandel and he purchased land close to Whitianga. His dream was that one day he and his family would live off the grid. One day he was tired of dreaming and he and his family took the plunge and moved onto the block

Stacey with two of his drilling team

he owned near Whitianga. Living in the bus was tough. For fourteen months there was no running water or electricity and the long-drop toilet was 50 metres away.

In true Stacey, King Country style the family toughed it out. That was some years ago. Now the sun provides ample electricity and their home lacks no modern convenience.

Stacey is an inspiring philosopher in the best ‘Number 8 Wire’, kiwi tradition.

• Like tough times – they are tests. They come along to sort out the cowboys from the rest. Tough times bring out the best in those who are willing to think, adapt, work hard and persevere.

• Your kids are learning from you everyday. Give them your best.

• Finish your work completely. When we leave a job it is always clean, tidy and safe. Delivering the DRILL 4 U Ltd standard!

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The Karamu design from Versatile’s Freedom range was the perfect choice for the location, with its contemporary and streamlined design allowing all-day sun and views from every room. The home stands proudly on the hill and can be seen as you drive down toward the beach.

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The clients love their new holiday home and thoroughly enjoyed the building journey with the Thames-Coromandel team.

“We are loving our new Karamu Versatile home. It has exceeded our expectations and the quality of the workmanship is really high.”

Three generations of fisherman

You sometimes question what drives somebody to take up a certain vocation, what makes them want to be a butcher, a corrections officer or whatever. But when the question is raised, and the answer is the same threefold, the curiosity becomes quite piqued. So it was with the Davidson family, where three generations have been involved with commercial fishing out of Whitianga in excess of 50 years by Christmas 2026.

By Trevor Ammundsen

How hard can professional fishing be? Chuck a net in and then pull out tonnes of fish?

The answer, it seems, is “You have to work with a whole lot of elements; the boat, crew, equipment, seasons, the seas, weather and politics and meet the challenge by securing the catch and meeting your quota,” says Craig.

Craig’s dad Nigel says a similar thing but

in a different way. He says that he didn’t like recreational fishing after he retired because it seemed so meaningless.

Nigel’s working life started by training as a motor mechanic with New Zealand Post. Following this, he worked in various roles including running his own business in rural delivery, something he enjoyed but found stressful due to customer’s late payment of bills and often poor attitudes.

He regularly went fishing out of Raglan with a mate on Nigel’s small fibre glass boat

and on one such trip, his mate mentioned a fishing boat, the Owenga in Whitianga, was for sale.

Nigel thought about it while tossing out a line and the thought of not having to deal directly with customers while enjoying a day fishing certainly had some appeal.

Three weeks later, Nigel and his mate purchased the Owenga which they then took scallop trawling for the next two years.

After a three-month learning curve, they started to get the hang of things. Their

The Owenga

contract finished in two years and Nigel decided to go it alone so left the Owenga and purchased a boat called Vagabond which he ran for three years until in 1982, the Wombles came along; a boat that was to be Nigel’s working office for the next 23 years.

During the eighties, Craig also started his career as a fisherman working with many experienced fishermen.

He learned the corridors in the sea that you need to know if you don’t want to lose your nets. The sea looks nice and smooth on the top but on the bottom, it is anything but. Fishermen cannot just go anywhere.

Once he had become partially useful, Craig joined Nigel as crew. This was 1984, and during this period secured his skipper’s ticket. Having two skilled people on board can certainly be useful and this was illustrated one time when the Wombles lost its anchor at about 5am one morning while they were sheltered for the night behind Cuvier Island (Repanga Island).

The change of background sound woke Nigel who leapt up and yelled at Craig to get the boat started. Rushing straight outside, he could touch the rocks and pushed like hell to keep them away as Craig got the boat moving and took it out of danger.

Craig spent a few years working for various people in the area as well as Nigel before purchasing his first boat, the Sea Harvest, in 1998.

On this boat he was primarily long lining but eventually his arms and shoulders were suffering too much so he purchased a new

“The fishing industry probably provides the most comprehensive and accurate survey of fish stocks that we currently get; and to ensure all is well on board the government can optionally place a bureaucrat on board.

longer left to the fishermen. Each boat is set up with cameras to enable processes and activities to be monitored. GPS recordings are taken at the start and end of each tow and the boats are linked to onshore systems via satellite.

Everything is monitored and recorded electronically to the extent that a fish can be linked to an actual tow in a defined area of the sea at a certain date and time.

boat, the San Victoria, which he ran for eight years before purchasing his current boat, the Lord Nelson.

The San Victoria is a trawling boat which runs a number of tows every day, each tow being on a lane such as I mentioned earlier. The fishing crew’s day starts while it is still dark with the first tow starting at about 4.30am.

This will run for three to four hours, finishing after dawn when the catch is processed by putting everything into bins with slurry (ice and water) and then into chillers.

These tows are repeated with the boat doing three or four tows a day. One variable effecting this is the depth of the tow, 450 to 500 metres for Ling or Hoki whereas snapper and gurnard etc call for a tow of 50 to 100 metres.

The supervision of the catch is no

The fishing industry probably provides the most comprehensive and accurate survey of fish stocks that we currently get; and to ensure all is well on board the government can optionally place a bureaucrat on board. This is in the form of an observer who must be fed and housed for free while he or she sits out front counting sea gulls.

The third generation of the Davidson family to fish out of Whitianga is Craig’s son, Brendan who started crewing for Craig at the age of 13.

Brendan has just secured his skippers ticket and is in the process of setting up on his own and so we should see two Davidson boats at Whitianga seeing in the fiftieth year of their family feeding the people of New Zealand through their hard effort. It is something they should be proud of and something we should all respect.

When the fish come in Brendon’s two young boys are keen to watch the boat being unloaded. Soon there could be a fourth generation of fishermen from the Davidson family.

Brendan and Wyatt on the Lord Nelson.

Craig unloading from his sturdy Sea Lord.

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To view our homes by appointment at 5 Moewai Road, Whitianga or for further info contact us at evanshomes@xtra.co.nz www.evansgroup.co.nz

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This home in Purangi Road has the latest features in joinery and balustrading and in glazing. It is the work of Al and his team.

MEET AL GOULD

“I have been in this business 35 years. My background and training is in engineering and when I had an opportunity to get out of dairying, I took on windows and aluminium joinery. I am from Nelson originally and I worked there for the Anchor Shipping Company. My wife is a Coroglen girl and we met in Nelson when she was teaching in a local school there.

Now we live in the Coroglen neighbourhood and have done so for a long time. This area is our home and our community.

We bought this business from Dorothy and Derek Preece. Dorothy is still very active in Whitianga. We also shared a yacht with them for several years. That speaks a lot about this town. Our business deals have built friendships.

It is the people I work with who keep me here.  I have enjoyed a lot of loyalty from many and that makes it easier with the many compliance changes in the industry. It is a very progressive and vibrant industry with new designs and excellent quality in materials. New Zealand is a leader in joinery and we offer a multitude of

Al Gould

Support

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07 866 5509 | A/H 021 867 646 admin@pcelectrical.co.nz Locally

colours where many countries don’t.

With the glass industry, we are up to date with thermally broken windows, that is heat controlled windows. Every new house built today has thermally broken windows; doesn’t matter where you build. It does add significant cost and a slightly longer building process and we try to assist people through that in their build.

‘Peninsula Glass and Worthy Windows’ are committed to flexibility and providing excellent quality service. I still get that same buzz as I got 35 years ago when a home is completed or just renovated, has our windows, aluminium joinery, balustrading, mirrors, glazing and screens, and the owners see a fantastic finish. That’s a great feeling.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF LOCAL EXCELLENCE:

Bayleys Coromandel

For a quarter of a century, Bayleys Coromandel has been woven into the fabric of this stunning region, helping people live, work, and play throughout the Peninsula. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we reflect on the journey, community ties, and commitment to the Coromandel.

Bayleys is a proudly New Zealand-owned family business with over 100 offices across the country, who celebrated 50 years of operation last year. A true Kiwi success story. Our Coromandel offices embody the Bayleys values of dedication, community, and being passionately local.

“Our journey on the Peninsula began in July 1999, with the opening of our first office in Whitianga. The very first property we sold was a charming bach on Jackman Avenue, Whitianga for $135,000, a transaction that not only marked the start of our success but also symbolised our deep roots in the community. That property was sold by Mary Walker, who founded our Coromandel business, alongside, as chance would have it, Garry Paterson, my father”, says current Director and General Manager, Shaun Paterson.

Today, Shaun continues the legacy, leading our

teams with the same passion for the Coromandel that he grew up with.

“Over the years, we’ve expanded to four offices with a team of 48 dedicated professionals, and in the past year alone, we concluded 150 transactions totalling $160 million in sales despite turbulent market conditions. Our commitment to the community goes beyond real estate—we proudly supported 31 local sponsorships last year, reinforcing our belief in giving back to the place we call home.”

As we look ahead, we’re excited about what the next 25 years will bring. The Coromandel

Bayleys Coromandel Directors

After recently welcoming in two new partners, we are better placed than ever to help our clients embrace this change. Our Bayleys Coromandel board of directors includes Shaun, a Whitianga local, as well as Karl Davis and Lee Carter, both Thames Valley locals. Additionally, our corporate partner, Success Realty, provides us with all the advantages of a large-scale business, connecting us to national and global networks, all while preserving our local roots.

Covering all sectors of the market, we’re passionate about continuing to help people discover the beauty and opportunities of the

Our open plan, single level apartments feature covered balconies with fantastic views of the sea, Kauaeranga River and mountains.

All residents enjoy scenic views from each level’s shared lounges, use of the Village Community Lodge and participation in all activities and amenities at your leisure.

Each unit’s elegantly finished kitchen, lounge, bedrooms and bathroom offer stylish warmth and light.

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Building beautiful homes, with integrity.

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Shop 6, 1 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga coromandel@urban.co.nz | 07 868 0502 | urban.co.nz

The Urban Homes Thames-Coromandel Franchise is owned by husband and wife team Daniel and Tanya Blok. With an inviting office and design centre in Whitianga to help with your design inspirations - whether a permanent home or family base for fun at the beach, Dan and Tanya and their experienced team of local contractors and businesses, deliver exceptional homes, built with integrity.

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From project conception to handover Cove Construction is able to provide planning, development and construction services that will ensure the final product is delivered in the most cost-effective manner while not compromising on high standards and a quality finish.

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BUILDING HOMES WITH HEART

“My team is my favourite part of the job. Signing a contract with a client is next and then handing the keys to their finished home. Hey, maybe that’s number 1. I have done it a little over 550 times, and I can pretty much remember every one,” says Glenn Sontag, franchise owner for G.J. Gardner Homes Coromandel.

Glenn is a qualified builder and has been in the business since 2003. Throughout his vast residential construction experience he has been completely dedicated to providing exceptional quality houses. He and partner Kelly run the business alongside Russell and Tania, with the support of a great local team.

“Our team prides themselves on building great quality homes, and love designing homes to meet the needs of each individual customer” says Glenn. “We work closely with each client every step of the way, from initial design concept to finishing touches”. Glenn remembers well those encounters where someone in the street will call out, “We still love our house!”

When it comes to building on the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, it is essential to work with a builder who understands the local building

regulations and challenges that can come working in this unique environment.

“Whether you’re looking to build a new home, bach or remove and rebuild on your existing site, our team is here to help you every step of the way” says Tania, “We’re here to make the experience as enjoyable as possible”.

G.J.’s have been building in the Coromandel since 1999, with a local team of highly skilled professionals who are dedicated to providing top-quality service and construction, and each home is completed to the highest standard. They’re passionate about the local area and pride themselves on sponsoring local events such as Whitianga Run Fest, Waihi

“We pride our business and personal reputation on providing a high quality product with exceptional service. We are confident you will enjoy building your home with our passionate and dedicated team” says Glenn. If you’re thinking of building on the Coromandel Peninsula, make sure to visit the team at G.J. Gardner. With their local expertise, passionate team, and commitment to excellence they’re ready to make your new build journey a great one. Drop by one of their local offices or visit their showhome to start your new build journey today.

Rugby, Mercury Bay Bowling, Ladies Golf and a number of other local activities.

Glenn Sontag

At Richardsons Real Estate we pride ourselves on being the real deal.

Our teams are made up of real locals who know the ins and outs of our local property market, which means you’ll receive first-hand insights and real expertise when it comes to buying or selling property.

We have ten offices across Hauraki-Coromandel and each of our team members have extensive knowledge of their local real estate market. They understand what marketing works best for here, and how different the market is to Auckland.

Our teams live and work in the local community, and are deeply involved and invested in their hometown. It’s not just one or two causes. We get behind a wide range: Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Coastguard, Surf Lifesaving, St John, FENZ and KSAR, Sports Clubs, Schools and ECE’s all benefit from Richardson’s community values.

5 Monk Street, Whitianga Office Ph: 07 8671087

Email: info@plannersplus.co.nz

David: 027 4994833

Tracey: 027 4907988

See us for all your land development, planning, subdivision and resource consent requirements.

www.plannersplus.co.nz

TAIRUA RIVER TRAIL TO BECOME PAUANUI – TAIRUA TRAIL

By Pam Ferla

An exciting multi-million dollar project linking Pauanui with Tairua through a lovely 15km river trail is moving closer to reality, thanks to strong local support and the tenacity of enthusiastic volunteers.

The Tairua River Trail already attracts around 30,000 users a year. When completed it will connect the two communities via a 110-metre span suspension bridge across Tairua River and a new trail on the north bank, enabling walkers, runners and cyclists to enjoy the scenery and wildlife as they travel from Pauanui’s waterways right through to Tairua School.

Funded by a combination of grants and community fundraising, the existing trail runs for nearly 7km between Pauanui waterways and a point downstream of Hikuai, and has been gradually developed and extended over more than 15 years by volunteers. It follows a stretch of land along the river and inner harbour, stopping

parallel to the river.

Hikuai District Trust Chair Derrick Adams, who is helping oversee the funding and planning of the trail, says passionate local volunteers continue to put in a huge amount of work to help make the completed trail a reality.

“We’ve been busy meeting, with local residents, iwi, TCDC, land owners, Waka Kotahi, Environment Waikato, the local community board and many other community groups, to ensure we build a world-class trail that’s in tune with the local environment and brings benefits for the whole community,” Derrick says.

“Community support has been overwhelming. In the meantime our fantastic teams of volunteers have been busy with native tree planting, pest trapping, and cleaning up after weather events to keep the trail in tip top shape.

“We see a huge range of potential benefits to a completed trail, including economic opportunities from increased year-round walking and cycle tourism, conservation benefits and a

safer off-road walking route for residents south of Tairua township, and improved community health and wellbeing.”

A recent highlight on the trail was the Pauanui Half Marathon, 10km and 5km events on the trail in March. The organisers made a generous $7,000 donation to the upkeep and future planning of the trail. “It’s a fantastic annual event that showcases the trail and the great scenery along the way,” Derrick says.

As a keen cyclist with a background in construction and civil engineering, Derrick believes the length of the trail will appeal to those wanting an enjoyable bike ride away from the road. “It’s wide and easy to travel on and will be a pleasant link between the two townships.”

Resource consent was recently granted by Waikato Regional Council. A staged construction of the bridge and new trail sections will commence once all approvals are in place. In the meantime, Derrick encourages people to enjoy the trail, and follow its Facebook page for updates.

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

Tairua’s Spring Fling - Saturday, 30 November 2024 – everything that makes Tairua special

Get ready for a day bursting with fun, excitement, and community spirit at the Tairua Spring Fling, set to light up the town - Saturday, 30 November. From 8.30am to 2pm, the Pepe Reserve, will transform into a vibrant festival ground.

> Trash and Treasure Car Boot Stalls: Dive into a treasure trove of unique finds, and hunt for hidden gems, collectibles or a great bargain.

> Food and Market Stalls: Savour many local culinary delights from a diverse range of food stalls.

> Music and Entertainment: Groove to the tunes from CFM, our local music maestros, plus buskers will add great street performance magic.

> Family Fun: The Spring Fling is a paradise for families with young children – face painting booth, flower crown station, and big bubble extravaganza. The discovery tables will captivate the under-5’s.

> Exciting Competitions: A range of quirky competitions, including the Handle the Jandal throwing contest and the jandal running race.

Join in the sandcastle competition or the spirited tug of war, hosted by Paradise Gym. Unleash your creativity in our Wearable Jandal Fashion Parade! Show off your unique designs for a chance to win fantastic prizes – three categories: junior, senior, and adult.

> Cultural and Community Highlights: Captivating performances include a jujitsu display, vibrant kapa haka by Tairua Primary School, Surf Life Saving Club display showcasing essential ocean safety skills.

> Educational Opportunities: The Historical Walk and Talk Tour of Tairua with the fascinating “Now and Then” photo display is an enchanting step back in time.

> Spot Prizes and Giveaways: All throughout the day – score some fantastic freebies!

The Tairua Spring Fling is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of our community spirit and local pride. We promise a day of fantastic entertainment.

Proudly supported by TCDC, CFM, Tairua Business Association & its members;

Tairua is terrific!

By Pam Ferla

There’s much more to Tairua than the ocean, harbour and bush-clad hills and that’s why it’s a favourite place for families to holiday and for tourists to relax and enjoy. But I must say the ocean and the beach are just about perfect.

Low tide is a good time to wander around Pepe Inlet, where keen rockhounds have been known to find Kauri gum. Beside the landmark Pepe Bridge (a popular place to jump into the sea!), there’s a very popular playground. Families can relax here with a picnic.

The town’s surf lifesaving club keeps an eye on those enjoying Ocean Beach over the summer months.

The friendly shops and cafes will meet the needs of residents and visitors all year round.

Tairua Clubs include the Bowling Club, Golf and Country Club and Tairua Pauanui Sports Fishing Club.

The lovely setting of Tairua offers a range of walks, from a flat stroll around the edge of Pepe Inlet and golf course, to the short steep climb up iconic Mount Paku.

Stroll by Tairua’s Cory Park Domain and you’re likely to see lots of happy skateboarders

showing off their skills and learning new moves on the town’s new state-of-the-art skatepark. The long-awaited facility opened on April 17, 2024.

It was designed by Acid NZ, project managed by Veros, and caters for all levels of ability. The cost of the skatepark was $1.12m, with $150,000 of this raised by the community.

A tenacious group of locals kept the dream alive through 30 years of debate on where to put it.

Tairua Sport and Recreation Trust drove the project forward with Thames Coromandel District Council and Veros. One of the trustees, a Tairua woman, Alison Smith, says it was important to the Trust that young people had a key role in its design.

“Each of us on the Trust have a smile when we pass the skatepark and see it come to life,” she says. It’s a very inclusive facility and one people have waited for, a very long time.”

At the peak of Paku, there’s a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and offshore islands.

There’s a legend that if you climb up Mount Paku you may return to Tairua one day. Most visitors agree that once they visit the town, they pledge to return.

BEACH BITES

Surf and Sand is extremely popular as a burger and fish and chip take away shop. There are so many great picnic spots to eat your delicious takeaways within a very short walking distance of Surf and Sand. This oasis is open every day till

9.00pm and the friendly, efficient and ‘good memory’ staff can assist you with lots of other food treats on their menus. You will also be able to get your copy of ‘Your Summer’ magazine at Surf and Sand as well as a copy of our weekly newspaper, The Coromandel Informer.

Main Road, Tairua

THE STONES OF THE EARTH HAVE HEAVENLY VIBRATIONS

By Robert Simmons

Iremember the first stone I ever bought. I was eight years old, and my school class was taken to a rock and gem show. The stone that “talked” to me was a tumbled carnelian with swirls of orange flowing through it. I paid 25 cents for my treasure, and I kept it for many years. It gave me a good feeling inside. Sometimes I even slept with it.

Fast forward 65 years, and here I am, still fascinated with stones and still getting very good feelings from them. My childhood interest became a lifelong career, which blossomed into “Heaven and Earth” – a mail order business in the USA and (eventually) a big crystal, gem and jewelry shop in Tairua. Over the decades, I have learned how to make jewellery, and how to identify and evaluate minerals and gemstones. Most importantly to me, I have developed the ability to feel the energies of stones, and have written six books on the subject, as well as leading classes and workshops.

That’s my personal story. But it is also true that millions (or billions) of people around the world collect crystals, wear gems in jewelry, or even meditate with stones. Why are stones so popular?

There are many answers. Gemstones and minerals exhibit natural beauty. Many of us marvel that the Earth spontaneously produces rich purple clusters of Amethyst crystals, iridescent multicolored Labradorite, crimson Ruby, golden Pyrite, sky blue Turquoise, vivid green Pounamu, and hundreds of other remarkable mineral species. It is my passion to gather them all and offer them through our shop and mail order website. My enthusiasm is as high at 73 years old as it was at eight!

realised that I had been unconsciously aware of them my whole life, from my very first stone.

But is physical beauty the whole story? I don’t think so. If it were only that, people would be as excited about colored glass as they are about crystals and gems.

When I was in my mid-thirties, my wife Kathy assigned me the “homework” of sitting in meditation every morning with a piece of Moldavite – an extraterrestrial gemstone that came with a meteor shower 15 million years ago. After many weeks with no tangible results, one day I felt an intense current of almost electrical energy buzz in the hand where I held the stone, and then zip up my arm and into my heart, where it expanded like a flower of white light. The energy moved up and down my spine, filling me with bliss. Later that day, when we went into our crystal shop, I could, for the first time, feel the vibes of every stone in the store, and I

Today people come into our shop in Tairua with all levels of interest and awareness of stones. Many are attracted by the beauty, or are fascinated by the amazing variety of forms and colors taken by the minerals the Earth produces. Others touch a fossil or a piece of petrified wood and are suddenly drawn back millions of years in the planet’s past. And some, like me, want to hold the stones up to their hearts and invite the energies to come into them.

To me, all of these are valid and pleasurable ways of encountering and appreciating minerals and gemstones. I especially like the “energetic” qualities of stones, because I can feel them affecting my body and my consciousness in beneficial ways. Also, I view the Earth as a living being – the Great Mother of humanity and all that lives here. The energies of minerals and crystals can be viewed as the vibrating notes of a love song the Earth is singing – a healing song that

invites us to awaken to joy, health, and greater awareness.

So, to me, the name of our shop has a special meaning. “Heaven and Earth” can be one and the same place, when our eyes and our hearts are open. I think the crystals and stones are singing a silent song that invites us to recognise that, and to make it our reality.

And aside from that notion, there is a great deal of simple enjoyment and fun to be had in playing with rocks and gems, on whatever level we choose. That’s why we are happy to encourage three-year-old kids, as well as eightyyear-old grannies (and everyone in between) to come in and play. Look, touch and enjoy the treasures of the Earth!

• Robert Simmons and Kathy Helen Warner are the owners of the Heaven and Earth Gallery of Crystals Gemstones Jewellery and Minerals at 227 Main Rd in Tairua. The shop is open seven days a week. To be notified when the new website comes online, send an email to crystals@together.net

Robert Simmons and Kathy Helen Warner

“The low density development and extensive landscape planting within it, including the preservation and enhancement of three wetlands, will give residents a real connection to the environment and the natural beauty of its surrounds.”

Tairua is celebrated as one of the most enchanting spots around, and now, a new hillside development offers a chance to own a slice of this paradise.

Pepe Ridge, a new residential development spans 42 hectares of gently sloping hills, starting at the end of Azimuth Road, stretching from Grahams Creek north, around the western side of Tairua Golf Course to Pepe Stream at the southern end. It is being brought tolife by Jeremy Disher and Jason Carruthers, who recognized the site’s ‘enormous potential’ and are excited to share it with you.

“It has expansive eastern views across Tairua and Pauanui and out beyond the Shoe, Slipper and Aldermen Islands and this is what attracted us to this site,” says Jeremy.

“There’s also the vista of mature native forest and the vast landscape of the Coromandel Ranges.”

After the land was acquired in 2021, consent was granted for a 44-lot residential subdivision, and construction started in late 2023. The spacious lots range in size from 676m2 to 8,253m2

The development will be enhanced with 30,000 native plants to tie into the existing native corridors and provide a seamless integration of the proposed subdivision into the receiving environment, while also managing stormwater and restoring ecological environments on the site.

Construction remains on schedule and is expected to be completed in late 2024, with titles being issued early in 2025.

Jeremy says that the grandeur of the completed development is yet to be realised.

“However we have laid the foundation of what promises to be an exceptional addition to the Tairua landscape. The low density development and extensive landscape planting within it, including the preservation and enhancement of three wetlands, will give residents a real connection to the environment and the natural beauty of its surrounds.”

He says well-defined covenants will ensure the quality of the neighbouring homes and minimise the impact on the local landscape, proving security to investors.”

Sections are priced from $550,000.

As well as the 44 lots currently being prepared, 25.1 hectares of land remains for development within a second stage.

Jeremy says the natural environment and ecology was challenging to navigate through the planning and construction phase.

“However these features and its land form what make Pepe Ridge so spectacular”

For enquiries, please visit www.peperidge.co.nz or contact Adam Fuller +64 22 018 0856 adam.fuller@harcourts.co.nz.

Article By Pam Ferla

Pepe Ridge Development in Tairua Mid-Construction Update, August 2024

Departs Hahei Beach (10mins from hot water beach)

Operates year round, hourly & on request

ONE HOUR TO EXPERIENCE IT ALL…

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Hahei’s volcanic coastline. Set off right from Hahei Beach and traverse through crystalline blue waters of the marine reserve. Along the way you’ll explore natural wonders, from Cathedral Cove to hidden sea caves. Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!

Eighteen years of fun

By Pauline Stewart

Sandy and Eric Gaskell own and operate one of the most popular attractions on the Coromandel Peninsula, Combat and Fun Zone is an adventure park just 7 minutes from Whitianga township, travelling along State Highway 25 then a beautiful one kilometre drive along a scenic country road with simple, sign posted directions.

Fun Zone is a very popular destination for end of year functions, birthday celebrations, family gatherings and stag parties.

On arrival at the property, a park like setting with a beautiful native bush backdrop, the many choices of activities and combos are clearly displayed in the office. The most popular choice for families is the Group Combo which includes laser tag, soccer golf and target paintball shooting. “It’s affordable and doable for almost all ages,” says Eric.

Sandy explains how they got into the outdoor entertainment business 18 years ago this summer. “We were on a mystery weekend for a friend’s birthday and found ourselves playing paintball. I absolutely loved and it and could not stop thinking about how much fun it was. We had bush and forestry on our property and I thought to myself, “we could do this”. Eric didn’t need

much convincing and so two years later we were into it! We kicked off with combat paintball and have added (and subtracted) activities along the way. It has morphed more into a Fun Zone so we changed the name from Combat Zone as it appeals to a wider potential customer base.

We have had fantastic staff over the years, local year 12 or 13 students who keep coming back year after year on Uni breaks. Some become more like family. At the peak of the summer break we take on three extra staff as well as ourselves. The 18-hole soccer golf course is now well established in native trees and gardens. It was the first course in New Zealand, also known as foot golf.

“Our friends, Diane and Graham Eccles, played it in Thailand thought it would be a great addition to our business. Graham helped us design and build the course. We are pleased with its popularity and have many return time and time again. Combat paintball still remains the beating heart of our operation, but we could not exist without the addition of the other activities.”

It’s easy to see that the Gaskell’s get a lot of enjoyment out of the visitors to their park. “They come out to have fun,” says Sandy. “It’s not like they are coming to the dentist. They are here to enjoy themselves and it’s our job to make sure they do.”

Littlies Playground Group Parties

Sandy and Eric

Cycling this summer

By Jack Biddle

New Zealand has in recent years become a global hot spot for those wishing to explore the country by bicycle. For the more adventurous who want to take in the whole country from top to bottom, there is a combination of connected trails, tracks, pathways and country roads to be enjoyed as well as taking in the spectacular scenery that both islands have to offer along the way.

On a smaller geographical scale, there are an ever-expanding number of trails to be enjoyed around the country with more and more towns offering a user-friendly cycle trail to their visitors and their community.

So what about those holidaying on the Coromandel Peninsula this summer? Are there comparable cycle trail networks holiday makers can enjoy?

HAURAKI TRAIL:

This stretches a total of 197 kms and is seen as one of the easiest trails in the country, being in five sections and travelling along one of New Zealand’s oldest railway corridors. It is steeped in history from the gold rush days of the past.

There’s a lot to see and learn with plenty of cafes and coffee shops along the way. For visitors to the Coromandel region, its best to start in Thames though Paeroa is quite the place too. For more details, go to haurakitrail.co.nz.

THAMES COAST PATHWAY:

This is an easy 3.5km flat ride which runs along the foreshore of Thames from Shortland Wharf to Kuranui bay, taking in many historic sites along the way.

PAUANUI-TAIRUA TRAIL:

Please read the special write up by local journalist Pam Ferla. See page 72.

WHITIANGA, THE HEART OF MERCURY BAY

You wouldn’t call Whitianga an overly friendly cycling town. For those who simply enjoy an outing that is ridden on a well-maintained pathway and separated from an ever increasing vehicle traffic count there is a distinct lack of these. Traffic flow over the holiday periods is heavier. You need to stay away from the main roads especially if you are riding in the company

of young children. Safety is therefore paramount with high visibility clothing a must along with good fitting helmets.

> 45 km round trip: For active, keen and experienced road cyclists, an anticlockwise loop ride is a staple outing for locals starting in Whitianga and heading out to Coroglen, Whenuakite, Purangi, Cooks Beach, Ferry Landing and finishing with a short ferry ride back to Whitianga. It’s a total ride of around 45 kilometres which is at times, undertaken on roads which in parts, have little safety shoulders for cyclists to move into in busy times, so extreme care is recommended. Once again with safety in mind, single file is the only way to safely ride this route.

> Cooks Beach: 15 km easy and relaxing. Jump on the ferry at Whitianga for a short trip across the harbour to Ferry Landing. Once off the ferry, head straight to Cooks Beach where you will find flat and quiet roads to explore the beautiful surroundings. At the Southern end of the beach there is a delightful picnic area leading to the

Jack Biddle is an experienced trail cyclist. He enjoys the distances and the scenery and has more than once travelled the length and breadth of New Zealand. He is our motoring columnist and before his retirement, reviewed cars for AA and New Zealand Herald. Jack understands well roads accommodating both cars and cyclists in busy seasons. He has ridden on all the routes he describes here. The super adventurous mountain bike rides are not included in this summary.

Purangi Estuary to set the bike down, take a dip or walk the beach before heading back for the return ferry ride back to Whitianga.

From the ferry it’s around three kilometres on what can be at times, a busy road to the turnoff to Cooks Beach with once again no cycle specific lanes to separate vehicles and cyclists. The ride to Cooks Beach and return to Ferry Landing is around 15 kilometres but can be extended to at least double that if riders detour into the recently developed Longreach subdivision or ride the total length of Cooks Beach.

> Bike Park a great destination: For family groups that include young children, the local Bike Park located at the end of Moewai Road is a great destination. It’s an easy bike ride from town and cyclists can use one of the few dedicated wide shared pathways on offer that runs parallel to SH25. A dismount is recommended to cross the main road opposite

the airport before heading up to the Bike Park. It’s an industrial area so not busy on weekends and in holiday periods.

The Bike Park has a number of trails and obstacle courses while the BMX track is always enjoyed by a wide age group. Loan bikes and helmets are on offer for kids at no cost. It’s an idyllic setting for a family picnic in beautiful surroundings plus there are walking trails to explore as an added bonus. Entry is free with gold coin donations gladly accepted and appreciated. There is more about the Bike Park on page 91.

> Rural rides - Kaimarama and Mill Roads: If you don’t mind riding on a maintained gravel surface and love the tranquillity of a rural landscape, Kaimarama Road is around 6kms from town heading south which once again includes a main SH25 ride or around a five-minute drive by car.

Once on the Kaimarama Road which is sealed in parts, cyclists will enjoy a mainly flat out-and-back ride totalling around 10kms. Mill Creek Road is another hidden gem for cyclists with bikes more suited to gravel surfaces and is located a couple of kilometres past Kaimarama Road on SH25.

It’s another approximately 10km total

out-and-back flat ride taking in picturesque farmland, surrounding hills and quiet country roads.

> The Waterways canals: A look at the ongoing development of the waterway canals by bike is always a nice casual way to spend time in Whitianga and while it’s another shared road experience there are a couple of wide pathways to divert onto.

> Whitianga beachfront: There is also the shared beachfront pathway which runs from the Whitianga Wharf to the end of Brophy’s Beach but be warned, it gets very busy with foot traffic and best avoided at peak times.

Other cycle options within the greater Coromandel region include:

> Ride Coromandel Bike Park

– ridecoromandel.com

> Whangamata Mountain Bike Park – whangamataridges.nz

> Thames Mountain Bike Club

– thamesmtb.club/trails

Whatever trail, track or road you use, enjoy your travels by bike. Take care and pick a route that best suits your experience and ability.

Landing daily at CathedralCove!

The Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve opens up a sea kayaking paradise full of beaches, islands and rock gardens that are just waiting to be explored. Paddle in the secluded bays of the Coromandel’s first Marine Reserve, interact with the local sea life and discover the thrill of kayak sailing with the wind on your back! This tour offers great photo opportunities and is topped off with cappuccinos, hot chocolates and cookies on the beach at Cathedral Cove.

Hot chocolates, cappuccinos &cookies included!

kayaktours.co.nz (online bookings recommended)

& 1.00pm (May - August)

Additional departures: 5.30am & 5pm (December/January only) 8.45am & 1.30pm (September - April) Duration: 3 hours (paddle time: 2-2.5 hours)

Office: 4 Jackson Place (first on the left as you enter Hahei)

Child prices apply to ages 5yrs -17yrs!

Prices: Family passes: Adult $165pp Child $95pp $455 $535 (2ad & 2ch)(2ad & 3ch) Daily Tours: 8.45am & 1.30pm

(The calmest sea conditions are usually in the morning!) Duration: 3hrs - including hot chocolates,

We have designed a Cathedral Cove Classic Tour exclusively for families... R Wepaddleatacomfortableandrelaxedpacetoenjoytheviewsandsoakupthesun. OurguidesarefulloflocalknowledgeandhaveloadsofNewZealandhistoryand fascinatingstoriestoshare.Ourstableseakayaksallowchildrentosafelyenjoytheir kayakingexperiencewithanadultpaddlingrightbehindthem…Letusknowyourfamily requirementsandyourguidewillensureyourkayakingtourissafe,memorableandfun! o cookies and a swim at Cathedral Cove!

BOOM, BUST AND BEYOND

Boom, Bust & Beyond is one of those browsing ‘musts’. This is the name of a guided walk of the township of Coromandel. It is not a ‘big effort’ walk – gentle and with the guides to tell you the stories of the town and the buildings, it feels very leisurely, and the history is eventful and extremely interesting.

This guided walk is the enterprise of the Coromandel Information Centre and it is such a great deal at a cost of $25. Boom, Bust & Beyond reflects the town’s spirit. It was indeed a boom town in the late 1800s but it is booming again but for a different reason. The gold in the town is the art, the creative dimension of the people demonstrated in the upstanding galleries, the beautiful landscapes and ocean environment and of course its history.

DID YOU KNOW?

In pre-European days, the Coromandel town area was called Kapanga. The whole Peninsula was known in Māori mythical lore as ‘TeaTara o te Ika Maui’. That means the barbed sting of the fish which is by description one of the Whai or stingray species. All the land around the current town was Te Patukirikiri Marae and the waka would regularly come up the Whangamata creek now known as Fureys Creek. The coastal and sea travel was most important to the fishing life of local Māori. Coromandel got its name from HMS Coromandel which anchored off the shore in 1820. The ship was built in India and named after the South East Coast, which was called Coromandel. The HMS Coromandel was previously used as a convict ship transporting the convicts from England to Australia.

Tour guides under the stone archway at Samuel James Reserve.

Coromandel Town was built largely on the discovery of gold in 1852 by Charles Ring. There was already industry due to the felling of kauri trees for spars and house timber, and digging for kauri gum was quite the industry as well. Many gum diggers came to Coromandel town from 1820 to 1860. Kauri gum was Auckland’s main export from 1850 to 1900s.

Charles Ring had been in the area earlier in 1841 to mill timber, but then he left to go to gold mining in San Francisco.

Who knows what brought him back. Perhaps

the San Francisco surrounds were similar and made him think gold was back there in New Zealand.

A total of 11.2 tons of gold and silver bullion was produced from Coromandel gold fields from 1852-1933.

The town thrived during the gold rush years; several thousand people lived here. There were five churches and 19 hotels. The town even had its own newspaper, ‘Coromandel Observer’, produced by F Woollams in 1867.

The current Coromandel Chronicle was first published in 1996.

WHAT YOU’LL SEE:

Historic locations with great stories to tell and where their current use is even more interesting and appealing. Here is a taste of just a few.

> Samuel James Reserve – This is where the Information centre is located, and there are toilet facilities and a place for picnics. The area was donated to the town Samuel James, the Success Mine manager. Around 1929-1930 he had the building (now the Information Centre) moved from the farm behind to its present location.

> Continued overleaf

It was turned into a restroom. The stone archway was built in commemoration of Samuel James’ donation.

> Fire and the Star and Garter that was. There was a huge and devastating fire that swept through the town of Coromandel in 1895 destroying 13 main buildings. The old Star and Garter Hotel was one of those buildings. It was located where the 4 Square now is and was the biggest hotel/accommodation facility in Australasia. However, it was where the fire started on Christmas Eve 1895 and one person at the hotel died in the fire whilst he was sleeping. The fire ended just short of Samuel James’

> The current Star and Garter - The building that is now the Star and Garter was established as a drapery in 1896 by a Mr Rostgard, after the fire. The store sold drapery for a hundred years, staying open till 11.00pm to accommodate the miners who popped in after the pubs closed. This is a gathering place for residents and visitors alike with great food, wine and beer choices. Sundays are famous at the Star and Garter for their pizza specials.

> Assay House – It was originally the national bank built in 1874. There was also a separate melting house which was used to melt the gold

and it sported two furnaces. After being a bank, the premises became solicitors’ offices, then tea rooms and today this fine structure is a fishing gear shop, well worth a visit.

> Former Mine Manager’s House – Now Top Ten Holiday Park. Francis Hodge was the Manager as well as the superintending engineer and attorney of the Hauraki group of mines. He was highly regarded in the community and due to his management, these mines thrived. The whole walk will cover about 1.5 kms walking along footpaths, the road and a lane; taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. It starts at the Coromandel Information Centre with a very friendly guide. ww.coromandeltown.nz

Hardware shop (now James and Turner and the Post Office.

> Continued from previous page

Assay House

A new dawn rising

By Barbara von Seida

Ifeel blessed being able to communicate through my art work by using colour, form and line to create a meaningful and personal image that expresses my inner world.

When looking for inspiration, we creative people are constantly searching to feed our desire to illustrate and share our honest and deepest feelings.

My latest work is based on the technique called “chiaroscuro”, a term first used in the Renaissance.

Those images display a strong contrast

between light and dark, effectively provoking an emotional response from the viewer.

In the accompanying picture we see a semi dark room, and a clock on the right-hand side that shows the time transitioning between night and day. Dappled light is shown through a window displaying a reflection on the table beneath.

A glass vase with hydrangeas is also touched by side light and its reflection too, illustrates a

pattern on the still semi dark environment.

The inspiration for this painting came to me during a sleepless night when a clear full moon displayed a chiaroscuro-like pattern in our bedroom.

Subconsciously, there is a subtle reference to the time humanity is presently faced with, as we are expecting a new dawn.

Hence the painting’s title, “A New Dawn Rising”.

Photo Credit: Dmitri Kotelevki – FernVision

YOUR WORLD HERITAGE QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS ANSWERED

A public meeting on the subject of a World Heritage Site was held Sunday, 4 August at Mercury Bay Club, Whitianga. 0ver 50 attended. The reason for the meeting was information sharing and exploring what a World Heritage Site means for an area. Also, the possibility of a part of Mercury Bay applying to be a World Heritage Site was presented by Professor Gordon Maxwell, an experienced consultant in this field.

A number of people who couldn’t attend the public meeting have asked for answers to questions about the proposal to apply for World Heritage status for Mercury Bay.

The journey to achieve this is long and it must have the support and involvement of the local community and also the visiting community in holiday periods.

The WHS local action group is seeking licence to move ahead on this. To do this, feedback is necessary and sought after and will be gratefully received.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

• Huge international recognition and mana.

• Assisting in protecting a site from exploitation that would damage the landscape, ecology, culture and heritage that make it so special.

• WH is not politically aligned so no fear or favour influence.

• The international recognition of outstanding universal value that is conferred by WH status is a protection in itself, making those who might seek to exploit, back off and think again.

• World Heritage can also help financially with scientific advice and legal assistance.

• Increased tourism bringing financial benefits locally and nationally.

WHAT ARE THE DOWNSIDES?

Too many tourists can create problems, but these are controllable and WH can give help and ideas about how to do this.

Note: The Tongariro Crossing is New Zealand’s most accessible WH site and has experienced such problems as stated above, but those who manage it have been strong in their praise of help received from WH to control tourism so that everybody benefits.

HOW ARE PEOPLE’S RIGHTS AFFECTED?

A regular hunter in the area questioned whether his activities, using dogs etc, would be controlled in some way. Absolutely not is the answer. The site would include only the sea and coastline of

Mercury Bay and here, people’s normal activities – fishing, diving, boating etc would not be affected unless they were causing damage to the environment or disrupting culturally significant sites.

CUSTOMARY RIGHTS?

Recognition and protection of local people and their cultures is one of the major aims of World Heritage. Customary rights would be acknowledged and honoured. If, as may sometimes be the case, these rights are abused, WH may be able to assist local iwi with however they might want to deal with such a situation.

COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES

Any activity not causing significant adverse effects and abiding by local rules (such as fishing quota, rahui etc) would be unaffected. Tourism operators may be encouraged to educate their clients in treating the area with appropriate respect and possibly managing access so that increased numbers of tourists do not harm by overcrowding.

Having a spat farm in Mercury Bay may not be a positive on a WH application but if it’s not damaging the environment, it would probably be okay.

However, a large number of marine farms would almost certainly degrade claims of outstanding natural beauty and of caring for the unique marine environment and the creatures who live here. Word Heritage status would become unattainable for Mercury Bay if that was the case.

Can World Heritage status be taken away? Yes. This can happen if the attributes that led to WH recognition are degraded so that it is no longer an internationally extraordinary site.

HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT TO THE 2015 WH APPLICATION?

There was a WH application prior but very different to this. The so called “Coromandel Heritage Plan” for the whole Peninsula, land and coast, was developed without any public consultation and in partnership with an American travel company.

It was working under rules of the International Union of Conservation of Nature which is one of several advisory bodies to WH but focuses more on poorer, less developed areas where few safeguards exist for local environments and cultures and where protection is most effectively provided by influencing local government rules and planning. World Heritage expert, Professor Maxwell, said the plan to put the whole of the

Coromandel under IUCN Category V was puzzling, unwise and totally unnecessary because we are already largely protected by layers of central and local government regulations. He is adamant we would not give away any local control.

BUREAUCRACY WOULD TAKE OVER AND WE WOULDN’T GET ANYWHERE

It’s encouraging to note that DOC is NZ’s lead agency for the World Heritage Convention and works closely with our Ministry of Culture and Heritage. Study and evaluation of potential WH sites is done in NZ before going to WH advisory bodies for their evaluation and then to the intergovernmental World Heritage Committee to make a final decision. So bureaucracy, yes, but most of the process is in NZ, not in some distant UNESCO offices.

NGATI HEI IS ALREADY PROTECTING TE WHANGANUI A HEI AND ITS MANA

It’s a matter for iwi and they don’t need any help. Even Ngāti Hei may not be able to protect the Bay if say, in the future, powerful international companies discovered and wished to exploit enormously valuable and scarce minerals either in the sea or the hinterland. Fine words about the preservation of our precious environment tend to evaporate when seductive big money and power come calling.

A current example is what has happened in Tolaga Bay where slash from often overseasowned forests is devastating beautiful beaches and contributing to catastrophic flooding events. Who would have foreseen this years ago? Ngāti Porou and Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti have been powerless to stop it. The Gisborne District Council spent huge money prosecuting a Malaysian forest owner who was not complying with the conditions of their resource consent, but the maximum fine was little more than a slap on the wrist for the wealthy company. The Council has no more resources to fight with. Still the slash comes down every time there’s much rain.

If World Heritage had been involved in this area, its financial muscle and mana would be providing invaluable assistance.

We all want to be able to look our mokupuna, our children and grandchildren in the eyes and say we did everything we could to preserve this place and their heritage.

For further information, email your questions and interest to mercurybayworldheritage@gmail.com

Whitianga Bike Park A magical place

The Whitianga Bike Park offers incredible views of mercury of the beautiful Mercury Bay and surrounding islands and that is all available while you enjoy cycling around the Park on the trails that take you up into the higher levels of the park.

By Jon Maud

Whitianga Bike Park is located at the end of Moewai Road not far from the Whitianga airport and just a five minute drive from the centre of town (or a 20 minute cycle ride).

It’s a huge area offering a venue for cyclists of all levels of abilities and experience – BMX, mountain bike, and relaxing gentle cycle trails. Also, there are bicycles and helmets ready for those who didn’t bring them on holiday or don’t happen to own a bike.

An inspiring team of volunteers work to make this park so convenient and enjoyable for the community and a host of visitors. Volunteers are committed to bring all the plans together and see that this wonderful park is maintained and always ready, especially for the summer influx of visitors. There are also hiking trails and great places for picnics and a BBQ to cook for the family picnic.

CHRISTMAS TREE COMPETITION

There is a very special event near to Christmas where local children, community organisations and family groups on holiday come and decorate a tree for the Christmas season. Decorations are provided and there are wonderful prizes from the local business community for the best dressed tree or the most creatively decorated Christmas tree. It is held on December 8, 2024 from 10am to 2pm.

With further investment of funds and local input, this Bike Park has the opportunity to become the jewel in anyone’s holiday and regular leisure activities.

Contact: Jon 027 366 4606, enquiries@whitiangabikepark.co.nz

Note: This Bike Park article has been sponsored by Noel and Nicky Hewlett, both generous pioneers along with Ray Hewlett in establishing and developing the Whitianga Bike Park.

Aviator Experience The

By Des Gyde

The owner of The Aviator Experience in Thames is Craig Saunders, a very experienced private pilot, plus a retired RNZAF Avionic technician.

At Aviator Experience, everyone has the opportunity to fly any one of the 16 different aircraft types (including four helicopters ) that are all set up, as accurately as possible, to replicate the true characteristics of each aircraft.

No previous experience is required. Clear instruction is provided by Craig or his staff at no extra cost to the amount of time you choose to fly the simulator. Within a few minutes you can be flying solo. In a real aircraft, that can take up to 10 hours to achieve.

Most of the sensation of flying is from the superb graphic visual effects of the virtual reality (VR) headsets that are worn by the simulator pilots. Spectators can also view your flying progress via the screen on the wall in front of your seated position. They see what you are seeing. Sound, wind and slight seat movement effects give extra sensual enhancement.

The Aviator Experience is also a fully licensed cafe’ with very comfortable airline seating and aviation designed tables in a spacious lounge.

Another feature of The Aviator experience is the many references to aviation history by way of photos, books and commentaries from the staff. Each simulator aircraft type has its own history, such as the World War 2 fighter aircraft, or the modern fighter F18 Hornet which can be landed on an aircraft carrier.

Helicopters are available and need more concentration to fly but are still great fun.

Although ‘crashing’ your simulator aircraft is not an uncommon occurrence, it comes at no additional cost. A simple reset process is done within half a minute.

The Aviator Experience truly gives all participants a unique experience, even to the likes of me, a 55-year retired veteran of flying. I get a huge buzz out of flying this way!

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHAT IT IS LIKE TO FLY AN AIRCRAFT ?

For me, a love of real flying began when I attended the opening of Auckland International Airport, 29 January 1966. I was an inquisitive 11-year-old roaming around all day gazing at the static displays and watching flying presentations.

A year later, 1 January 1967, from Raglan Airfield, I experienced my first aircraft flight with my father. It was a scenic flight, but I distinctly remember being more interested in how the aircraft was being operated than in the scenery.

Eighteen months later, my local Scout Troop’s visit to the Te Kowhai Airfield near Hamilton confirmed my interest. We all had a couple of complimentary flights plus I was very impressed by the arrival of a flying instructor, Lewis Valiant and his newly purchased aircraft.

I took my first flying lesson six weeks after my fifteenth birthday, in October 1969, with

All ages enjoy the flying experience

Lewis, who had also been the Raglan pilot for my first flight. It has always been a great pleasure to be able to share my passion of flying by taking others flying with me. I would often let them experience hands on flying the aircraft.

After almost 55 years of flying, including 14 of my 22 years in the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) as non-pilot aircrew, and numerous superb experiences, I have now decided at 70 years of age, to retire from private flying, rather than suddenly having to retire due to unforeseen health or other issues.

Learning to fly and being a pilot requires a lot of self-discipline. You have to be totally aware of everything around you; look after your fitness; be prepared to deal with any of many possible emergency situations and correctly manage your aircraft’s performance.

Maintaining the various skill sets by study and practice is an individual pilot responsibility. As daunting as that sounds, it is all worth it. I have loved being a pilot. And now I am enjoying a far simpler and cost-effective way of flying aircraft - flight simulators at The Aviator Experience.

PARTY LIKE A PILOT

Described as the ultimate ‘man’ cave, the Aviator Experience with its licensed cafe o ers a unique, exciting venue for your next event. Our stunning hangar houses multiple military Flight Simulators that allow everyone to fly like a Fighter Pilot.

From a family celebration to business Christmas party, it will be an event to remember.

A LONG OVERDUE RECOGNITION

By Geoff Furkert – President, Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield Inc.

This year I flew to London, by invitation, to participate in the unveiling of a painting of Sir Keith Park at the RAF Club in Piccadilly. It all happened on Monday, 9 September. The portraits of ACM Lord Dowding and ACM Sir Keith Park were hung as part of a very special ceremony, on either side of the existing portrait of Sir Winston Churchill in the RAF Club’s main reception room. It was a great personal honour for me to be invited!

This is a huge acknowledgement and recognition by the stalwarts of British leadership and the RAF Club for Sir Keith of what he achieved in orchestrating the winning of the Battle of Britain in World War II and thus turning the tide against the Luftwaffe in the fight for freedom, our freedom.

It is also a great complement to our local project which is creating a significant memorial to Sir Keith at the Thames Airfield - his hometown.

Sculptor, Joanne Sullivan, at work on the full-sized (2.3m) clay model.

The Thames Battle of Britain Commemorations are held every year on the second Sunday In September at the Thames Airfield. VIPs include TCDC Mayor Len Salt, RNZAF Group Captain Mike Cannon, Royal Navy, Commander Richard GreenwoodBell, and Hon. Scott Simpson.

A mural portrait of Sir Keith by local, and very talented artist – Kylie Gunn – has been

erected on the east-facing end of the Hauraki Aero Club Hangar. This brilliant interpretation is floodlit at night and already greatly respected and admired by locals.

Stage 2 of the Memorial Project for Sir Keith Park is progressing well. That is the making of a bronze statue of Sir Keith, that

will stand 2.3 metres high adjacent to and complementing the Stage 2 Hurricane Fighter in Sir Keith’s Battle of Britain colours erected in 2020 at the entrance to Thames Airfield. This is a monumental task.

The waxes, which are the pre-cursor to the bronze statue, have been shipped to the foundry. The finished statue of Sir Keith will return about March 2025, a most significant milestone in this project to honour this great man and the things his life and leadership stood for.

Much is being done to ensure Sir Keith’s contribution to freedom is not forgotten. Material about Sir Keith has been developed for schools, displays have been initiated at the Thames Museum and NZ Warbirds, and presentations made to a number of community groups in Thames and in Auckland.

This is not quite the end of the project though, as a further approximately $45,000 is required to close out the books.

Any donations will help get the project over the finish line and can be made at the Thames Airfield, website –www.sirkeithparkmemorial.org.nz or by contacting Geoff Furkert, phone 021 833 044 or email geoff.furkert@xtra.co.nz.

Geoff Furkert is the President of Thames’ Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield, and he has been a strong supporter and leader, working to complete the Sir Keith Park Memorial Project in Thames.

Sir Keith Park mural portrait on the HAC

FOR THE LOVE...

Sandy Gaskell is a dedicated artist in a very particular field. Her art is about love, history and politics. It is emotive and the message is a mix of sadness recognising unjust history but there is a soothing, and forgiving quality in her colours along with the stark message.

By Pauline Stewart

Sandy uses traditional Māori techniques of weaving with feathers with all her creations. Her cloaks are indeed beautiful. She makes them for gifts to her family to link

hands. But I never thought of myself as artistic. It was not a career that you were encouraged to focus on. My art was not something I considered. Actually, I was terrible at art at school. I was selfconscious and didn’t want my work shown to others. I hated being critiqued at art, as often it

TWO ART PIECES FOR NATIONAL COMPETITION

Early this year, Sandy entered a national art competition, The Molly Morpeth Canaday Awards 2024 and became a finalist with her piece. “It was

No. 8 Wire

Mō Te Aroha Ki

Te Whenua - For the Love of Land

TWO LOCAL ARTISTS BRING INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE AND INFLUENCE

Peter Augustin and his partner Peter Felix Muller settled in Whitianga in May 2021. Prior to that they had lived on the Kapiti Coast and developed a one-hectare property at Peka Peka over a thirteen-year period. “We were looking for a downsize, a place in the sun, easy access to shops and our love of the beaches. We knew about the Mercury Bay Art Escape, and that Coromandel had a lot of amazingly creative people tucked away in many locations, so we thought we could add to the creative and cultural input of the Coromandel and Whitianga with a flare of a European and international touch. Whitianga with lovely people, community and the many national and international visitors made this village a great location. Art in our community establishes a shared identity and sense of belonging among diverse groups”.

PETER AUGUSTIN

Peter Augustin encourages people to participate by interaction with arts people about their creativity and to benefit from their knowledge and passion.

“A lot of my inspiration comes from music, including historical portrayals in opera. My colours reflect the music I listen to and hopefully stimulate viewers imagination and trigger some emotion.”

Peter’s other influences include nature and the sea.

Prior to coming to New Zealand in 2004, Peter Augustin lived most of his life in Switzerland, where he painted and organised or participated in exhibitions. Peter’s art was well known in Zurich, represented by galleries and involved in the local art expo. He has exhibited and was awarded in many parts of Europe including Switzerland, Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Holland and Russia.

Over the thirteen years living on the Kapiti Coast, Peter was part of the Kapiti Coast Arts

Trail, and his studio and property showcased several other artists. Peter Augustin is now part of the Mercury Bay Art Escape, held over two weekends in early March. Since moving to Whitianga, he has joined other art groups, Xpress Artists a printmaking group, and joined art societies in Whitianga, Thames and

PETER FELIX MULLER

Peter Felix Muller is a New Zealander, born to Swiss parents who settled in Nelson in the early 1950’s. In the mid 70’s he worked in a silversmithing workshop run by a former art teacher, Ray Mitchell. Later he attended a Summer School run by Nelson’s famous Silversmiths, Jens Hansen and Gavin Hitchings. “I was torn between making jewellery or working in photography”.

Peter Felix moved to Wellington in 1978 to study photography and spent forty years as a partner in a large photographic and digital printing business. From 2000 the business specialised in Museum display production, a key supplier for Te Papa and others nationwide including Waitangi.

Peter Felix still takes pictures, using black

and white film, scanned and often colourised before digitally printing.

Waikato. Supporting art groups is important to him to share ideas, knowledge and support other artists.

Peter paints and sells his art at his homebased Studio/Gallery in Whitianga. He paints most days if not in the garden, so visitors are always welcome.

His work is landscape and architectural or abstract images from these.

Since moving to Whitianga, Peter Felix has renewed his interest in jewellery making,

specifically silver rings. “It’s a bit late to call it a career change”.

Most of his designs are unique pieces and are designed around the stone. Up until now he has bought stones locally or internationally, but local rock, Coromandel carnelian and agate, and of course New Zealand greenstone, have inspired him to cut and polish his own for unique locally inspired designs with Scandinavian and German influences.

“Creating rings is a good outlet for my creativity on a spontaneous random frequency”.

Peter Felix Muller’s jewellery and photography is available at Studio/Gallery Peter Augustin in Whitianga.

Peter Augustin and Peter Felix Muller

For art’s sake

Artist Jacquie Ellis

Paintings by Jacquie Ellis, a Coromandel artist whose Oaks Gallery is featured on page 97. These paintings are exhibited in her gallery just upside of Coromandel township.

Artist Souzie Speerstra

Souzie’s signature geometric compositions are in brilliant colours. Her clean sharp facets of colour outline this landscape just near her home in Tairua. Souzie is the first artist on the Coromandel Artscape Art Trail which is held annually the first two weekends of March – page 100. Like Jacquie Ellis, she creates in her studio on a daily basis.

THE OAKS GALLERY

The Oaks Gallery is a multifaceted gallery and studio, which has overcome the challenge of standing out in the crowded artistic field of Coromandel, home of the artisan. Jacquie’s gallery provides an exciting platform for her original artworks, resin creations and local crafts.

Embedded in the heart of the local community and close to the Driving Creek Railway, visitors and art collectors alike have direct access to the local art scene and can meet a working artist face-to-face. Jacquie opened her gallery only 2 years ago at the time of the Arts Tour 2022, and this proved to be the perfect opportunity for the most

tenacious and stubborn of artists to establish a voice in her local area.

Always collaborating with other like-minded people in Coromandel, the gallery provides a meeting place for artistic talent, discussion and tuition. The Oaks Gallery is more than just the artist it represents – it’s also the tourists, visitors, art lovers and collectors who visit and view the artworks, marvel at the mural, and take photos to post on social media.

The Oaks Gallery provides a wonderful artistic space for Jacquie’s artwork, from pastel, acrylics and oils paintings, and unique resin creations. It’s more than just an art gallery, it’s an experience.

By Stan Stewart

EFollow the dream

EMMA EVANGELINE GUSTAFSON’S STORY – SO FAR!

Don’t give up your day job Emma! Barista’s make a steady income.

mma was always drawn to painting. From the age of seven she knew she wanted to be an artist, but over the course of her schooling years was always told that it wouldn’t be possible.

Teachers said it was an unrealistic pathway, so she opted to study graphic design, the more ‘practical’ option. Years later when she had her design degree with first class honours, despite her best efforts she still could not find a job.

In the Covid lockdown a magpie saved her. Well, not exactly saved her, but placed her foot on the ladder of climbing to make a living from art.

‘The Story of SWOOP’ is an enchanting story about an injured magpie, a kind rescuer and a cat. Matt Owens, the author of SWOOP, is by nature an injured-creature rescuer, be they animal or bird.

He found a magpie with a broken wing by the road. To enable it to heal, he took the injured magpie home. Unexpectedly the magpie and his cat became friends.

SWOOP is the story of this friendship. Matt decided to tell this story in a children’s book. Emma obtained the assignment of illustrating this book after sharing a painting she created of the bird over lockdown.

The surprising story and Emma’s beautiful illustrations became a best-selling children’s book in New Zealand 2022. Clearly, Emma’s illustrations propelled the story to take wings and in doing this, launched Emma as a professional illustrator.

Emma has always found inspiration in the natural world. Since moving to the Coromandel, she has seen and experienced so much more. The beauty of the Coromandel surrounds

Wher and its hidden gems are so accessible. She loves to be amongst it, immersed in it, part of it. This is a theme of her art, and it reaches out to those who view it.

She has now taken the big step of writing, illustrating, and producing her own children’s book. ‘Friendship is Gold’ is a story of five treasure hunters – endearing native creatures who go in search of the fabled ‘Coro Gold’. They have missteps and adventures but eventually find that the Coro gold is not what they expected. Emma aims for this beautiful book to be available for Christmas 2024.

Emma is emphatic about the need for art and the opportunity for art in our time – today.

“Over the pandemic it was made clear to me that there’s never been

a better time to be an artist. Tools like Instagram and Facebook have given artists so much power to get their work out into the world. Even now in the face of AI, which appears to threaten artists, society will still always crave authentic, meaningful, handmade works of art,”says Emma.

Emma believes artists should not feel disempowered and that even in our daily lives creativity is so important, particularly for our mental health. “Creation is such a grounding force. We are all creative in our own way and I think when we honour our creativity and let it flow through us, it’s greatly beneficial for our wellbeing.”

Emma often facilitates art workshops for individuals wanting community support through CILT.

EMMA AND YOUNG ARTISTS

Perhaps because she remembers her own discouragements, Emma loves to encourage young artists. Her philosophy is power-charged for all ages in any creative endeavour. Her art tuition is not just about drawing or painting pictures, it is about life. Her basics for success below are confronting, powerful and challenging  for all of us.

SUCCESS BASICS

• Follow your joy. If it brings you joy, it will probably bring life to others.

• Focus on the tasks that you find exciting. If your work stimulates your heart, most

likely it will stimulate others.

• Commit to what you find most meaningful. The vision that makes life-sustaining sense to you will help others to search for their own meaning.

• Decide what would be your best gift to a dying person that you love. Put your art in this serious context. Your art will speak heart to heart.

• View every challenge as an opportunity or initiation for growth.

• If something you’re working on isn’t turning out as you’d hoped, remember nothing is wasted. Each piece of work is a stepping stone leading you to further creative expansion.

HAHEI CLAY

ith a Fine Arts degree from Elam School of Fine Arts and a handful of international residencies under her belt, Annie Sandano has been coming to the Coromandel since her family moved to Hahei 25 years ago.

More recently, after living and working in Florence and London, and a flourishing ceramics arm to her Fine Art practice, she has returned to her Coromandel roots to set up her dream ceramics gallery and studio five minutes from Hahei VillageHahei Clay. Purpose-built on a grassy slope overlooking Mercury Bay, Hahei Clay has a ceramics studio as well as a separate exhibition gallery where she invites other ceramicists,

potters and artists to exhibit alongside her own Hahei Clay works over the summer months.

hahei_clay

Above: Emma in her pop up stall. Left: Emma in her art studio, and two of Emma’s illustrations from her new book, Friendship is Gold.

The Mercury Bay Art Escape’s annual Open Studios takes place over the first two weekends of March with the opportunity to visit local artists and chat, view, commission or purchase art.

Kicking off with the annual Gala Opening, acclaimed Pasifika artist, Jeff Lockhart is the keynote speaker. Jeff’s art is influenced by tapa designs, tatau, symbols, motifs and the colours of the Pacific as well as the land and flora around us. Tickets to the Gala Opening evening function at

Hot Waves Café, Hot Water Beach on Friday, the 28th February can be purchased from our website www. mercurybayartescape.com.

In addition, there will be various artists in residence at Hot Waves Café during the week starting Monday 3rd March. Save the date, meet there for coffee or lunch and view artists at work.

Hot Waves Café also hosts the annual Showcase Exhibition featuring a selected piece from each Mercury Bay Art Escape artist.

The mentorship of student artists in the area is paramount to Mercury Bay Art Escape. MBAE gives an annual scholarship for a Mercury Bay Area School art student to be mentored by a MBAE artist.

An exciting development is a school art exhibition to be held in December at Hot Waves Café, Hot Water Beach which offers local students a venue to exhibit. Watch our social media and website for confirmation of dates. Facebook/Insta: mercurybayartescape www.mercurybayartescape.com

OPEN STUDIOS 2025

Hot Waves Cafe, Hot Water Beach on Friday, February 28, 2025

Purchase Tickets for Gala Opening on our website - www.mercurybayartescape.com

A highlight on the Summer Calendar in Mercury Bay is the annual Whitianga Art Group Summer Exhibition.

The event features a collection of new works by local artists displayed in the historic Art Centre and Gallery building at 23 School Road. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase Christmas gifts by local artists.

This popular event runs through the Christmas /New Year holiday period starting on Friday 13 December at 6pm with a wine and cheese opening evening and continuing until Sunday 12 January.

Each year a painting is donated by one of the Art Group members for the summer raffle. The 2025 painting donated by local artist Gillian Mc Nabb is a work titled The Pinnacles Tairua Harbour. Gillian paints in oils, specialising in NZ landscapes, portraits and flowers.

The guest artist this year is international artist Nick Fedaeff. Nick’s art has a

quality and originality appreciated worldwide. To date he has held successful exhibitions in Switzerland, Hong Kong, Germany, Australia and New Zealand. The style of Nick’s art is unique and constantly evolving, often displaying elements from paintings by old masters.

He acknowledges the influence of Da Vinci, Dali, Bosch and Picasso not only for their brilliant work but how they came to create, how they lived and their attitudes to life. Inspiration can come from many sources – dreams, observing life, other painters or creativity from within.

Visit the Art Centre and you will discover unique artworks full of vibrancy and emotion. The Whitianga Art Group members’ once again display commitment to produce quality paintings for our Summer Exhibition. Be in early to purchase that perfect piece of art to take home as a reminder of your summer visit to Whitianga. 2024/25

Raffle prize The Pinnacles and Tairua Harbour” by Gillian McNabb

Stephensons Unichem Pharmacy | Hot Water Beach TOP 10 | Little Gallery Tairua & Whangamata The Whitianga Gallery | The Pour House, Hahei | Hahei Beach Resort

TOP AWARD eleven years in a row

By Pauline Stewart

Bayview Valley Lodge has been awarded yet again - Travellers Choice Best of the Best. This is the 11th Year win in a row. Along with this huge accolade, David Hall, owner and host of Bayview Valley Lodge is excited to also report being awarded top 1% of Hotels in the World.

This is a huge step from the awarded 10% in 2021,” says David. “We feel very proud but also very aware we must keep our high standard. “

With a nearly full season last year, Bayview Valley Lodge is a testament to good oldfashioned service being the key to tourism success. Now celebrating 18 years in Whitianga, David has seen this region grow and bloom into a top traveller destination for visitors to New Zealand, and he sees that they select the Coromandel as a ‘must’ place to stay and explore.

“Tourism was hit very hard by Covid, especially with the long shut down time of our country,” says David.

There was more for the Coromandelenduring the cyclone of January 2023 brought more than devastation on the Peninsula, with Highway 25A damaged and closed along with the beloved Cathedral Cove access shut for nearly two years.

There were fewer tourists to our region causing yet again hardship for so many in

tourism. Now we have the promising delights of 2024/25, improved visitor numbers and the return of our Summer Concert in January 2025.

“Reviews are everything for our business to be successful,” says David. “I’m always mindful that I need to ensure moving forward. We are simply a Bed & Breakfast, but I like to think we go the extra mile with everything.”

Valley Lodge

Each year, we recognise travellers’ favourite spots around the world, based on reviews and ratings collected throughout the past year. Their reviews proved you’re one of the best – congrats on your well-deserved win.

By Carly & KB

Whangamata has always held a special place in our hearts – we even tied the knot here in barefeet at beach access 4!

We absolutely love working together every day. Our days often start with a swim in the surf first thing, a quick coffee and then straight into another fun, busy day.

dedicated to making your time here the most comfortable, happy, joyous, safe stay!

Holidaying here frequently, it became harder and harder to leave this beautiful sunny seaside town. Making the decision to pack up our busy corporate lives felt impossible with so much to consider - but it has been the best decision we ever made.

We feel so privileged to have the opportunity to meet people from all over New Zealand and the world.  We love to engage with the people we meet and learn about people’s adventures and their cultures.

We have recently rebranded the motel and refurbished the accommodation, upgrading all of the in-room amenities and services, we believe in running our motel in a sustainable manner and have incorporated this into the everyday operation of the

MyStays offers comprehensive holiday home management in the Coromandel, transforming your bach into a

We handle everything, from listings to maintenance, maximizing your property’s potential in areas like Whangamata, Onemana, Whiritoa, Tairua, Whitianga, Matarangi and beyond. Contact us today for a

We have been lucky enough through this journey to have made some lifelong connections.

Build with local expertise in the Coromandel

Nestled in the breathtaking Coromandel Peninsula, we craft bespoke homes from Hahei to Coromandel Town, and everywhere in between, including Whitianga and Matarangi. Whether you're envisioning a brand new home, bach, stand alone garage or boat shed, decking and fencing we offer custom designs tailored just for you. As a family-run business, Matarangi Homes provides a personalised experience, ensuring your vision is at the heart of every design and build.

Contact us or visit our show home at 2 Motutere Drive, Matarangi to experience our family-run business and unmatched local expertise.

Find your perfect match with this inviting 3-bedroom house plan we have on offer, suited for both seasonal escapes and full-time living. Enjoy the luxurious master bedroom with en-suite, an airy open-plan layout, kitchen and garage choices that can fit any lifestyle.

PAUANUI PINES MOTOR LODGE

174 Vista Paku, Pauanui

07 864 8086

info@pauanuipines.co.nz www.pauanuipines.co.nz

Property Features

Within easy walking distance of the beach, shops, recreational club and two nine-hole golf courses.

• Continental breakfasts available

• Swimming pool & spa pool

• Tennis court & gas BBQs

• Free WiFi.

• Small Conference room for hire.

• Pet Friendly.

BLUE MARLIN APARTMENTS

4 Buffalo Beach Road Whitianga 027 222 8311

viv@bluemarlinapartments.co.nz www.bluemarlinapartments.co.nz

Tongariro River Retreat

26 Ngawaka Place, Turangi

07 386 8949

book@tongariroriverretreat.com www.tongariroriverretreat.com

Property Features

• Great location, central and only a 1 minute walk to the shopping centre.

• Rooms have all linen supplied, towels on request.

• Free Wifi and Netflix.

• Washing Machine available.

• Outdoor BBQ area.

• 24/7 Service, bookings available all day, every day.

TUSCANY ON THAMES

200 Jellicoe Crescent, Thames

07 868 5099

Property Features

• 4 Star corporate motel

• Spa baths

• Plenty of bike storage

• Air conditioning / heat pump

• NZ Gold Card reduced rates

• Outdoor swimming pool book@tuscanyonthames.co.nz www.tuscanyonthames.co.nz

We’re a great spot for jumping off into your Coromandel adventures! For more information on booking your stay email: tahitoa@proton.me

• Across the road from the Hauraki rail trail

A Warm Welcome

A multi award-winning holiday park, family owned and operated since 2008 and only 700m from the world renown Hot Water Beach. 9 different accommodation options to suit any holiday maker. Year round heated pool complex and a vast array of facilities, events

and amenities found nowhere else on the Coromandel.

PUZZLES

Be in to win a $100 Prezzy Card by completing the puzzles on this page. Add your name and contact details and email to info@theinformer.co.nz or deliver/ post to 14 Monk St, Whitianga 3510. Entries close 28/2/2025

CRYPTIC PUZZLE

ACROSS

1. Stumble on a plank and come to grief at sea (4,9). 8. As it should be, don’t you agree? (5). 9. Take and put, kicking, into protection (7). 10. The person in the chair - the easy one (6). 11. Think well of, though driven mad with anger by (6). 12. Wear it, chum! (5). 14. A dramatic juncture? (5). 18. Come back again, wrong though it is (6). 20. Bound to be busy (4,2). 23. A clip around the ear! (7). 24. The Army man is sharp (5). 25. Getting engaged in Arabia, perhaps? (6,7).

DOWN

1. Favouring, at the outset, wood (6). 2. “Frivolous” is fair (5). 3. Though the two are driven round the bend, prove more durable (7). 4. Every little achievement, it’s recorded in (4). 5. One of us! (5). 6. Thinking ahead and diverting (7). 7. Thought it was me in the paper (6). 13. For the boy, secures food (7). 15. The tizzy he’s making fun of (7). 16. Bent on repairing the car he had (6). 17. Cake related to the Bath bun? (6). 19. Come back again for some more curry (5). 21. When she stood up she didn’t feel well (5). 22. He may be Irish (4).

QUICK PUZZLE

23. Atrocious (7)

24. Din (5)

25. Obstinacy (13)

DOWN

1. Talisman (6)

2. Lift (5)

3. Room (7)

4. Stone (4)

5. Machine (5)

SUDOKU

6. Cell (7)

7. Exultant (6)

13. Pennant (7)

15. Erudite (7)

16. Clergyman (6)

17. Emphasise (6)

19. River (France) (5)

21. Dirt (5)

22. Second-hand (4)

BRAYDEN JACK AND HIS TEAM FROM TASKFORCE KIWI WERE DEPLOYED TO JASPER, CANADA, TO ASSIST IN THE AFTERMATH OF A DEVASTATING WILDFIRE, WORKING ALONGSIDE TEAM RUBICON TO HELP THE COMMUNITY RECOVER.

JASPER ON FIRE

By Brayden Jack

The call to deploy to Jasper, Canada, to assist with the clean-up in the aftermath of a devastating fire, came about a week before we left. A quick but thorough medical check and the conformation that my passport was up to date, and I was off!

Three months earlier, I had signed up to a relatively new organisation, called ‘Taskforce Kiwi’, a Non-Government Organisation (NGO), that assists in post-disaster recovery. Set up in 2022, they have helped support Christchurch communities after the Port Hills fire, with cyclone Gabrielle recovery, deployed teams to the Queensland floods, to Hawaii after the fires and now Jasper, Canada. They deployments are staffed by volunteers for NZDF (NZ Defence Force), current and ex emergency service staff and those that are keen to lend a hand.

We had a very in-depth zoom meeting before we deployed. Taskforce Kiwi explained what we should expect, that wildlife such as elk, bears and cougars are roaming the streets… Slightly more dangerous than an upset Pukeko.

We would be joining Team Rubicon, a very large US and Canada-based humanitarian organisation. The team had been tasked with the clean-up in Jasper and would run the entire operation. We were to be working under them. Team Rubicon have deployed throughout Canada, the US and the world. They came to NZ in 2023, to help with the clean-up in Hawks Bay, after

Five of us had been chosen to go in the second wave of kiwis. The group consisted of myself and two other FENZ (Fire and Emergency NZ) members, an ex-British Army officer and a young lady who spends her life helping people: in Turkey, Haiti and Poland, and Ukraine refugees.

After a ‘quick’ 30 plus hours of flying and traveling, we arrived in Edmonton, Canada. We had six hours sleep in a near-by hotel before we started our four-hour drive to Jasper.

The first thing that strikes you about Canada, is it size: it is enormous! I have travelled to around 30 countries and the shear scale of Canada is something else. Along the way we stopped at a fire station for a mask fitting.

Jasper National Park is stunning - mountains and a never-ending scene of forests, lakes and rivers. As we approached Jasper, we noticed burnt trees. Soon all we saw was a burnt-out forest as far as the eye could see - an area of 300 sq. Km. To put that into perspective, it was 44 times larger than the Christchurch Port Hills Fire of 2017.

Jasper town is straight from a post card. Nestled in a valley, surrounded by mountains it is an absolute bucket list item! We arrived and settled in, had our briefing from Team Rubicon and prepared to go to work. Each one of us was placed in a team and we set about our task. Our job was to search through people’s burnt homes and try to find items they had lost in the fire. This sounds like an easy task. It was not.

It looked like a war zone; total and utter devastation. Over 40% of the town’s houses were gone. Businesses were wiped off the face of the earth. In total, almost 400 houses burnt to the ground in one night. The destruction was absolute and random. The fire that hit the town was so massive, it created its own weather system. A wall of flames more than 30 meters high roared through neighbourhoods. Entire blocks of houses were erased while other houses were spared. Concrete exploded under the heat, cars melted into the road, four-story houses were reduced to a meter high pile of rubble. It was the most devastation caused by fire, I have ever seen.

Our job was simple: find something, anything, that survived. We had to wear full hazard material suits, gloves, boots, goggles, helmet and respirators. We had decontamination pools of soap water, bleach and freshwater wash. Entering the site where a house had been, was like nothing I have ever experienced before. Twisted metal, entire kitchens moved from one side of the house to the other, with the force of the winds created by the fire. They said the winds were around 200kmph.

Our days started at 6am. Breakfast at 6.30am, briefing at 7am and off to work by 7.30am. We would typically search two houses in a day; finishing around 4.30pm, clean-up, chores, dinner and de-brief. We do it all over again the next day.

We worked in teams, it was hot, sweaty and

cyclone Gabrielle.

slow work. We sifted through rubble and ash, hoping to find something for the homeowners, and we did. The homeowners and tenants would meet us on site and try to explain where the item they hoped for was last seen. We looked at burn pattens, how the house collapsed and any other clue that could lead us to the valuables. We worked with a constant eye out for wildlife. No bears came close to us. However, elk wandered through our sights on several occasions. Like everything in Canada, they are enormous. The emotions at each search were something that you can’t prepare for. The Jasper people were so happy and thankful that we could help. On some sites there wasn’t a dry eye amongst any of us. When you find the gold ring belonging to their deceased father, the cross passed down through four generations, or the ashes

of someone’s parents, it is very hard to keep it together. These people have lost everything, yet they are determined to stay and rebuild. The people of Jasper showed what it means to be a community and look after each other.

As I mentioned, myself and two others are firefighters form FENZ. We met and spent time talking to fire staff from Jasper and those from local counties that gave the Jasper firefighters some time off. The Jasper volunteer firefighters did an impossible job saving the town from total destruction. Firefighters worked nonstop for 30 plus hours battling the fires. They had 400 structure fires to deal with at once. How they managed to stop the wall of flames is nothing short of incredible. To give you some perspective, almost one year ago, a fire almost destroyed four houses in Cooks Beach. We managed to save

Ussher Lawyers are available to help with all of your general legal needs, including conveyancing if you are buying or selling property, commercial leasing, sale and purchase of business assets, trusts, wills, and enduring powers of attorney. With offices in both Whitianga and Whangamata, call us on (07) 866 2270 if you need legal assistance, we would be happy to help.

three houses and lost one. That took 8 hours and 50 firefighters. Jasper, with support, had a similar number of firefighters to assist with a scene 100 times the size of our fire and over an area the size of Cooks Beach.

This has been an amazing experience; life changing. There is so much more to tell. From the Legion Club (similar to our RAS) that fed us and allowed Team Rubicon to make their clubhouse an operation base, to the Jasper Baptist Church where 40 volunteers camped, and of course all the Team Rubicon and Taskforce Kiwi volunteers that have become friends. So many more need to be mentioned and thanked but I cannot do it here.

Soon our mission will be complete and we fly home. This will not be the last time I am in Jasper.

Financial Advisor

KIWISAVER ADVICE

Is your KiwiSaver with a bank or are you unsure of its setup?

- Purchasing your first home or retirement

– Set your children up with KiwiSaver from an early age

- Contributions, tax benefits and withdrawals

- Being with a recommended KiwiSaver provider and the correct risk profile can make a massive difference to your balance

MORTGAGES & LOANS

Looking at purchasing a home, refixing your mortgage, refinancing or a business loan? Having a financial advisor will help simplify the process and improve the outcome.

- Remove the inconvenience of having to deal with the bank

- Having a correctly structured loan can help you pay it off sooner and pay less interest

- Cashbacks on refinancing and refixing

Both KiwiSaver and mortgage advice are completely free to the client as the bank pays the financial advisor.

Some of the devastation.

GIORMA ALLEMANO

The Ussher Lawyers Team: From left Jess Rawnsley (Office Administrator), Kassie Philps (Legal Executive), Michael Ussher (Director), Natasha Ussher (Solicitor) and Maria George (Legal Executive).

Robert Bott, Luke Allan, David Yeo, Iona Mackenzie, Brayden Jack.

Our churches are in every community

ST ANDREW’S BY THE SEA

St Andrew’s, the old church on Albert Street, was built by community subscriptions back to 1898.

From the beginning, it was designated to be a church for everyone. Preachers from several Christian denominations shared the building and it was managed by a community trust. Built entirely of kauri, the church was the hub of the community for early settlers, bushmen and mill workers.

That Christian ethic of sharing, caring and supporting all comers has remained with St Andrew’s all down the years.

In 2002 a new hall and kitchen were added, all fitting the heritage

style and designed as a peaceful, accessible safe place. Those facilities are used every day by various groups for the elderly, health support, exercise and crafts, and for Manawa Kai Heart Food, serving hungry families every Monday afternoon.

St Andrew’s has a reputation of ‘punching above its weight’ in sharing the Gospel of God’s Love every day of the week, not just on Sundays. Visitors are welcome any day of the week. The Opshop ladies will let you in. I have found St Andrews to be a church for everyone. Services 9.30am every Sunday and Christmas Day. Parish Secretary: Dorothy Preece 022 1322 061.

ST PETER THE FISHERMAN – WHITIANGA

We are a small rural congregation here in Whitianga, but yet the people who make up our church have been suburban and city dwellers, and some have been farmers or business owners.

We have come to make our home here in Mercury Bay. Many of us have been worshippers in congregations in our previous communities. Belonging is important. Christian faith is meant to be liberating and strengthening. People need the church to

be here for them – to provide for them in times of trouble and sadness. We are here all the time and invite you to be a part of a community of faith throughout your life.

You will be welcome any Sunday, 9.00am. Christmas Day and Easter Day are very special and meaningful occasions. Bring the family or just come by yourself.

Reverend Gillian Reid - Vicar Ph: 021 781 081, Email: gillianreid. home@gmail.com, 7 Dundas Street, Whitianga 3510

COME AS YOU ARE

By Mike Walker

I“

Community Service - Sunday at 10am

Prayer Group - Sunday at 8 30am and Tuesday and Thursday at 1pm

Whiti Kids - Sunday School for the kids. For 3 to 10 year old

Mike Walker +6421793431

t may have been a year of change for you. We can often find ourselves reflecting on what has been, and asking if we want next year to be the same. We may not know where we are going, or what we want to do. We may want to talk to someone, even try God, but don’t want to come to church.

Some people want to come to church; but struggle for different reasons; they may not feel ready, or not good enough. ‘The building will fall over if I walk in,’ to which I say, we are enough. Exactly as we are. Today. Right now. All have ‘sinned’ and fallen short in life somehow. None of us are perfect; but we are loved, even if we can’t hear that, or understand it.

All of us like the idea that we can ‘come as we are.’ The challenge is when we all come as we are, we then wonder how we will relate together. Struggles arise from the spectrum of acceptance, because it’s easier to relate to people who are the same or similar to us. The challenge is when we find people different, and we don’t ‘get’ their difference. We

all need to be loved, we all need to be accepted and, we need to be accepting.

Grace is the bridge of change. It shows us the way to see forward and allows us to make space to allow the changes we want within ourselves. I believe grace is best understood through the person of Jesus.

Grace allows us to surrender the need to control. Grace allows us to create something different from a fresh perspective rather than ‘doing what we have always done but expecting a different outcome’.

Whether you have the willingness to walk through the doors to your local church this summer or not, that is up to you. What matters is that you learn to walk through your life with some love, some peace, and acceptance of yourself and others.

If you are looking for help with change, start there. And there you will be met by grace.

My name is Mike Walker, and it’s been my privilege as Pastor, to lead the Baptist Church here in Whitianga since 2017. If you choose to cross my threshold… I promise I will accept you as you are.

Information Centres

Whitianga 66 Albert St, Whitianga 07 866 5555

Whangamata 616 Port Road, Whangamata 0273 114 102

Pauanui 23 Centreway, Pauanui 07 864 7101

Coromandel Town 60 Kapanga Rd, Coromandel Town 07 866 8598 Tairua 2 Manaia Rd, Tairua 07 864 7575

FULL IMMERSION AT ENGLISH VOYAGE ACADEMY

By The Evakona Team

Just imagine you’re a young teenager, never travelled on your own, and you have been talking for weeks with your family and friends about a wonderful opportunity your parents have worked so hard to give you.

You are going to NZ to study English. This is the opportunity of your lifetime. Everyone you know is supporting you and has been highlighting the positives of this opportunity. You’ve shopped, had a goodbye party with friends, and at the airport you’ve said goodbye with lots of tears. Now, you’re alone on a plane, starting your 10-16 hour journey, it may be your first time on an international flight.

You arrive in NZ and have to struggle alone through customs. “Did you pack your own bag?” “Of course not, Mum packed my bag!”

Onward, the Whiti-City driver is a native speaker. ‘G’day, howru, howasyrflight, wearsyabag?’ You only know perfectly written English and have only spoken to another Japanese English learner. Argh…what are they saying? Why are they smiling like a crazy person?

Phew! Three hours later, after the windiest road you have ever travelled on, feeling as green as the grass, you meet your host family.

“Hi, I’m your host- mother-father- brotherssisters- dog, cat’. You drag your 33 kg suitcase,

which almost outweighs you, to your room –rest, tears, terror, excitement and anxiety are competing in your mind.

Morning arrives. Scary! You are not your best after travelling for 10+ hours, with jet lag and meeting NZ strangers. It’s time for school.

“Hi, we are having a test today. Come and meet 39 other teenagers whose stress level is at 100! Time to make friends.” It’s at this point our amazing bi-lingual support staff kick-in to high gear. Communication is the key to creating a safe education hub at the beginning of the student’s Evakona time. At the end of the day, students return to what is now their ‘safe resting place’ their homestay families.

We have families with 0- 30+ years experience hosting students and it’s inter-generational with their kids hosting now too. They all bring ‘uniqueness’ to the role, sharing generously their homes, families and friends with our students; integrating the students into the community.

Host families introduce the students to chess club, badminton, pickleball, soccer, dance, gym, choir, art and many other clubs and classes within the richness of our community.

Homework is set for students and families each Wednesday. The homework opens dialogue in a light way, with a little humour and, when possible, it includes an activity for the families and students to share.

EVAKONA EDUCATION

IS LOOKING FOR HOMESTAY FAMILIES

Current pay rate is $315 per week – $336 effective 7th Feb 2025

The student will need their own room with desk, three nutritious meals a day and care. Short term is from one to six weeks. Long term up to 40+weeks. Students are away usually mid Dec and back first week of Jan. Long term intake starts end of March. Contact Teresa 0273 059 144 homestay@evakona.co.nz

Homestay families kindly provided a taste of growing up in NZ with a little freedom and the opportunity to soar, with lots of guidance and care. Students often bring friends home to meet their families. Sleep-overs are a weekend highlight and if you get to have a NZ birthday party it’s the ‘jackpot’. We learn to share our open, active lifestyles respecting each other’s cultures as ‘different’ but right. As well as learn how to be more independent and more able to contribute in

all environments.

Our Homestay Coordinator works tirelessly, balancing personalities, expectations, life crisis’ and teenage angst. Teresa Thompson, is the conduit between our teenagers, homestays, support staff and teachers: This is quite the balancing act, managed in a kind, loving way with an iron will.

English learning in Whitianga is scaffolded. Our classes at Evakona are in an environment with a teacher who moderates speech and teaches grammar-based lessons with other students who are in the same situation.

The homestay provides a safe one-on-one environment with a native speaker. Our community is

the ‘wild card’ where students have the steepest and often the funniest learning moments. These are the forever memories.

Students settle into Whitianga life, creating lifetime memories, friends and bonds with their host families. Whilst they are studying at EVAKONA they are preparing for their next step in NZ: High School and then University.

It’s a team effort supporting and guiding these admirable young adults who are contributing so much to the richness of Whitianga and also to the NZ economy. Evakona is an outstanding place for learning English, making deep friendships and preparing for a confident life.

Contact: Teresa@evakona.co.nz

• COMPANY AND COMMERCIAL LAW • COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

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LLB, MBA, B.Com.

Phone 021 594 705 FRasmussen@coromandelchambers.co.nz

Flemming H Rasmussen

Quality education in your community

Enrollments are open now.

+64 7 8665916 admin@mbas.ac.nz www.mbas.ac.nz

We o er top quality learning programmes designed to meet the needs of our diverse student population, so that e ectively, every student is studying and being assessed at their appropriate level.

Primary Years

The aim of our Primary years is to provide a safe, responsive environment that enables our students to grow into their best selves, socially, emotionally and academically.

Middle Years

Our vision in the Middle Years is to create learning environments and experiences which will foster the development of con dent, connected, actively involved citizens who can think for themselves through thinking with others.

Senior Years

In the Senior Years our vision is to shift our gaze away from looking predominantly at the achievement ‘of’ a young person, to engaging in the achievement of the young person ‘as’ themselves with regards to their identity, language, customs, preparation to participate, and their values as akonga

ONE OF A KIND PROJECT IN NEW ZEALAND

Five planes built by one school

By George Fletcher

On June 14, The Informer (weekly paper for the Coromandel Peninsula) wrote about ‘the plane getting close to completion.’ The article was taken from a monthly report sent by the Plane Build Project which is part of the curriculum of MBAS (Mercury Bay Area School) and we were writing about the fifth plane (RV -12) which was being built by the students.

On Saturday, 9 December, at 10.00am that fifth RV 12 took its maiden flight with Linda Hopper in the pilot’s seat. Linda and Leigh Hopper of Waterways and Hopper Developments purchased the plane in its kit form and two years later the plane is in the air.

Linda is the RV’s first owner. The success of this long-term project relies on people being willing to buy a plane in kit form and then trusting the final product will materialise and in perfect condition. This has occurred five times now in the 13 years of Plane Build. Well done!

It was a very special day out at the Whitianga Airfield for MBAS and for Mercury Bay Aero Club. All five planes were there with owners and with pilots and all five took-off from the airfield in celebration of a great achievement. Television News One was there and has since screened a programme on the Plane Build. TV One News was out at the airfield 13 years ago when the first RV 12 had its maiden flight. Cara Bosman who was a student at MBAS and took part in the Plane Build, was there to pilot the first RV built.

Other schools have mounted similar programmes but have built just the one plane. This is a long-term commitment by Mercury Bay Area School and Mercury Bay Aero Club to engage students to be a part of building an RV 12 – (two-seater light aircraft) from start to finish. They are all kits which need to be put together, but it is indeed an intricate and difficult task for which persistence and a commitment to learning and careful watching is required. The Aeroplane Club works every week with the students and after every stage, they conduct a very careful inspection of everything to date.

Tony Turner has been the chief project

Linda and Leigh Hopper with the new plane they purchased as a kit two years ago for the programme, and in June it was ready for Linda to fly.

officer co-ordinating the plan build. He works with the students every Wednesday afternoon. Students choose to do this subject.

“It’s very rewarding to see a student who knows virtually nothing about aircraft or building them, become passionate about learning and even choose to learn to fly. Some have become commercial pilots because of this experience with Plane Build and some become aero nautical engineers,” says Tony.

Every student involved gets a ride in a plane, and if they are eager to learn to fly, the Mercury Bay Aero Club generously sponsors half the cost of flying lessons.

The amazing partnership all started in 2010 with Jim Evans a member of the Mercury Bay Aero Club. Jim’s background as an engineer and commitment to young people made him a great pioneer when it comes to teaching students the workings of an aircraft and a love of flying. Many in the Aero Club carry on his legacy. It is Tony Turner’s turn and he does a great job with the help of others from the Aero Club.

The continuation of the plane build programme is now uncertain. Tony has carried on the dream since Jim passed away five years

ago, but he is now uncertain whether he wishes to take on another one.

“The cost of the kit-set has risen considerably, so finding a new purchaser will not be easy. Also there is now a scarcity of good, knowledgeable people who will volunteer to mentor the students.”

Editor’s note: Mercury Bay Area School is the only school in the country to offer a plane build programme. The students physically work with the dynamic of flight and advanced precision building under the supervision of experienced qualified tutors.

This programme could grow and serve a bigger region. International students at MBAS will be attracted to this programme. This is an outstanding contribution to young people’s future in this country. Can we find commitment from others? This is worthy of investment of resources from the community and the region.

Interested? Email: admin@mbas.ac.nz

Cohesion and colour IMPORTANT TO SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

By Dorothy Preece

Ross Dunn took up his role as Principal of Mercury Bay Area School in January 2023. One week into his very first term, school life was disrupted by a storm which washed out roads around the Coromandel Peninsula.

Ross and his wife Natasha, (a former English teacher) sons Xavier (15) and Sebastian (7) were living in Kuaotunu at the time and he couldn’t get to work for five days.

“We were without power for a week,” Ross says. “But our family coped well.”

Having moved up from Akaroa, they were used to the vagaries of steep hillsides and unstable roads.

Ross began his teaching career at Riccarton High School in Christchurch then held the post of Head of the Arts Faculty at Western Heights High School for 11 years, prior to being Deputy Principal at Rotorua Lakes High for 5 years, before his two years as Principal in Akaroa.

Originally from Tauranga, Ross started his career teaching Art, Design, Sculpture and Photography and one of his many aims is to bring more colour and culture to the school environment.

“We have our dynamic Flox mural (acclaimed mural and contemporary NZ artist), and our whare, Puahape, is adorned

“We have our dynamic Flox mural (acclaimed mural and contemporary NZ artist), and our whare, Puahape, is adorrned with a range of colours.”

with a range of colours. I would love to see those lively colours and cultural narratives reflected all throughout our school.”

With 950 students and 110 staff, Mercury Bay is one of the largest Area Schools in New Zealand.

Ross says high expectations and boundaries are crucial in keeping students safe and help them develop self control and accountability. Even before the Government thought of it, Ross was consulting with the school community on banning mobile phones. “We don’t allow phones on the school property,” he says.

Attendance is another big focus. “Through some new initiatives, our attendance levels have improved considerably. We have a team of very capable staff working with me at a number of levels to strengthen students’ sense of connection and focus on learning.

Ross says he wants to work on bringing

more cohesion to the school.

“As an Area School we teach Years 1 to 13: Primary, Intermediate and Seniors. It needs to be seamless. We want the young people to have a continued sense of belonging. Young people only have one go at education. It’s our job to give them the best possible opportunities to achieve their goals. While some are aiming for universities, others might be taking the Gateway Trades programme, the Dive Academy, Equine studies, beekeeping, plane building... there is a place here for every student to find their niche.

“We have clear pathways to vocations for our students with the largest diving academy in New Zealand right here in Whitianga, and the same with the Plane Building programme.

At MBAS, a college student interested in engineering, can learn to build a plane and get started on being a pilot. These programmes also attract international students.

“Surrounding all of this is the most idyllic coastline of bays and beaches offering so many avenues for leisure as well as an energetic and caring wider community which provides amazing social and cultural events involving our students throughout the year.”

Most of all, Ross says the best thing about being a school Principal is making positive changes with moral purpose and implementing a school vision to enhance student wellbeing and success.

Ross Dunn

Truly Local Radio

Owned by locals, operated by locals and broadcasting 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

CFM is your go to for local information. Summer on the Coromandel is exciting and there is always something happening.

CFM will keep you updated with local gigs, events, fishing reports, beach reports, road and traffic updates, just tune in or check our web page at cfm.co.nz or our Facebook page CoromandelsCFM.

Join us for a fun filled summer at the beach and keep listening to find the location of our summer squad with plenty of giveaways including the very popular Hellers sausages cooked on our BBQ.

Coromandel’s Best Music Variety

Our Music, our DNA

We are recognised by NZ On Air as one of a handful of stations that plays 20% NZ Music. What is unique is our commitment to local artists. We play music that gets you joining in and enjoying the vibes of a summer day, music that makes the memories flow. All coming from local studios in Whitianga, Thames and our mobile studio in a retro 70's Zephyr Caravan.

Where to find us

We broadcast around the Coromandel and Hauraki Plains, hear us on 94fm from Bombay to Hamilton, on 95.1fm on the eastern coast and Coromandel Town, iHeart Radio or our website cfm.co.nz.

A taste of Matarangi

From humble beginnings to a premier event

By Bronwyn Ririnui

On Saturday, 5 April 2025, we will celebrate a significant milestonethe 10th anniversary of A Taste of Matarangi, a festival that has become a beloved tradition in our community.

What began in 2013 as a small, grassroots gathering with the simple goal of showcasing local flavours has blossomed into one of the most anticipated events on the Coromandel Peninsula.

As we prepare to celebrate this milestone, we reflect on the journey of A Taste of Matarangi. It’s more than just an event – it’s a celebration of what makes our

community special. It’s about the people who have poured their hearts into making this festival a success, the businesses that have supported, and the visitors who return year after year, drawn by the warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere.

This year, the festival promises to be a celebration more than ever. We’ll be honouring the past decade with a lineup of our best-loved vendors, along with new and exciting additions. Expect an array of tantalising dishes, local wines, craft beers, and live performances that will make this 10th anniversary exceptional and one for the history books.

This event is also a crucial fundraiser for three vital local organisations: the Coromandel Rescue Helicopter, Te Rerenga School, and Kuaotunu Search & Rescue. This festival has become a beacon of community spirit, where locals and visitors alike come together to

support these causes that are so integral to the safety, education, and well-being of the region.

So, mark your calendars, Saturday, 5 April 2025, and get ready to savour the flavour at A Taste of Matarangi.

Visit the festival’s website for all the details and terms and conditions, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

www.atasteofmatarangi.co.nz

Located in the beautiful rural town of Coroglen on the Coromandel Peninsula, the Coroglen Tavern is an iconic kiwi pub known for good, honest food and epic summer concerts.

The Tavern’s Mussel Fritters and Buffalo Wings are popular favourites from the menu. Both made from secret recipes that have been refined over time. There’s also long-time local fav - the Scallop Burger.

A hot spot over the summer months, with bands like Shapeshifter, Six60 and Shihad performing sold-out concerts on the outdoor stage. There really is nothing like experiencing a Coroglen concert.

Established in 1946, and steeped in history, this family-friendly tavern has been owned by locals for years.

1937 Tairua Whitianga Rd, Coroglen

MARKETS ON THE COROMANDEL

By Verna Carr

Buying seasonal produce fresh from local growers, speciality foods, handmade arts and crafts, doing family fun and activities with the children, and listening to live music are an integral part of the markets over the summer months on the Coromandel Peninsula.

When you return home after your summer holiday, you may have a special gift, a bespoke piece of art, photos of your children laughing as they are having their faces

1. NGATEA

Markets are held every Sunday, 8 September to Sunday, 9 March from 8am to 12pm

Find them in Orchard West Road in and around the Ngatea Hall; an array of local and homegrown produce, crafts and food trucks with excellent ready-to-eat delights.

2. THAMES

Markets are held every Saturday from 8am to 12pm in Grahamstown

You will be spoilt for choice especially the homegrown produce.

Steam Punk: Friday 8 November 2024 –Sunday 10 November 2024

Thames hosts the Steampunk Festival, which attracts people from all over New Zealand. Steampunk combines creativity, Victoriana, and reimagined technology. It’s fantasy, it’s fun (with a capital F), and the outfits are outrageous (and seriously creative and ingenious). The festival programme includes a pumphouse party, high tea, cocktail soiree, and burlesque show, as well as exhibitions and markets. Many events are family-friendly and free, including Unplugged Sunday with “Punk My Pet” and tea pot racing (and other crazy fun).

painted, or memories of that delicious meal that you bought from the food truck.

Visiting the markets is a popular activity for enjoying your summer holiday on the Coromandel Peninsula. It is that relaxed something the whole family, visitors and locals, can do together. The markets showcase a wide variety of local products that you can’t buy anywhere else, as well as providing opportunities to purchase fresh produce, artisanal food and drink, handmade crafts, jewellery and clothing. Come along - eat, enjoy and be entertained.

3. WAIHI

Waihi Veg Fest: Sunday, November 10, 2024, held at the Waihi Academy, Landlyst Road Vegetables reign supreme as stall owners from various cultures invite you to taste their unique signature dishes. But there is a whole lot more than veges!

Waihi Beach Summer Fair: Friday, January 3, 2025. Wilson Park, Waihi Beach. $5 entrance fee. (Kids under 5 free)

A place of happy vibes as over 200 stall holders offer a bonanza of bargains and entertainment.

4. WHANGAMATA

Whangamata Summer Festival Twilight Market: Friday, 27 December 2024, 2pm to 8pm. Williamson Park, Whangamata (behind Surf Club)

Whangamata Summer Annual Market: Saturday, 28 December, 2024 9am-3pm. Same place as Twilight market

Everything you would expect from a summer market. Stock up on fresh, flavourful food for the New Year barbecue, and/or buy your supplies for your stay at the beach. The live entertainment is terrific.

5. TAIRUA

Markets are on the first Saturday of every month in the hall and outdoor beside the main road

A good range of fresh seasonal produce and locally made crafts and art.

6. COROGLEN

Every Sunday from Labour Weekend until Easter. Early start at 8.30am at the Gumtown Hall on the main highway

It is probably the smallest of the markets, but the local produce is bountiful including their fresh bread, honey, jams. It’s where all the locals go to buy. You meet very clever people selling home-crafted items.

7. WHITIANGA

Whiti Citi Markets are in the centre of town at Soldiers Memorial Park on Albert St every Saturday morning from Labour Weekend till after Easter

A real community gathering place - local artists, craftspeople, small business owners with new products, live entertainment, face painting and other delights for children. Brunch and lunch right here with a wide range of ready to eat foods.

8. HAHEI

Hahei Market Day Sunday, January 5, 2025, Kotare Reserve

Spend a leisurely day browsing the 120 stalls. This Market Day is an annual fund-raiser to buy new books for the Hahei Library and support local projects in the community. Excellent standard of fresh food and crafts.

9. COOKS BEACH

Annual Cooks Beach Gala, Saturday, 4 January 2025 at the Cooks Beach Reserve

There is a mountain of fun activities and food options to make the annual Cooks Beach Gala, an enjoyable family outing. It is also a fundraiser for the local Whenuakite school. Many entertainment and fun options are enormous being an annual event. Buy your raffle ticket for the Daisy Dungeon Drop. Who knows, you may win $1000.

10. MATARANGI

Matarangi Sunday Markets over the holiday break. 29 December and 5,12,19 and 26

January

11. PAUANUI

Pauanui Market is held the last Sunday of every month from 9am to 12.30pm in the Recreational Hall, 31 Sheppard Ave, Pauanui Loads of fabulous stalls with live music, Market Cafe with fresh, homemade fare, Coffee Cart, wood carvings, bird houses, macadamia products, flowers, plants, books, knitting, art, quality second hand clothing, jewellery, candles, keto products, fruit and veggies, chutneys, jams, sauces, and crafts.

12. COROMANDEL

Keltic Fair: Thursday, January 2, 2025, 55 Tiki Rd, school grounds, Coromandel Town It will take you a full day to experience the delights and surprises of the 300+ stalls the Keltic Fair offers; live music, entertainment, kids’ rides, food trucks and a wide range of art and crafts. Entry $2 per person over five years old. All gate proceeds go to the Area School of Coromandel. See page 117.

Coromandel Farmers Market: Every Friday morning, 8.30am to 12.30pm at The Hike ‘n’ Bike lawn (opposite 4Square Supermarket) throughout the summer months. Find seasonal fruit, vegetables, homebaked bread and cakes, eggs, hand-crafted chocolates, preserves, plants, seedlings, herbs, spices, curries, natural remedies, crafts, and more!

Saturdays: Coromandel Town, Whitianga, Thames, Tairua – first Saturday of every month

Ngatea, Coroglen, Matarangi (in Labour Weekend to Easter)

Friday, 27 December 2024, Whangamata Summer Festival Twilight Market

Saturday, 28 December 2024, 9am -3pm Whangamata Annual Summer Market Thursday, 2

, Keltic Fair in Coromandel

11 Pauanui

Sally and Ian Sloane, are both longtime locals growing up in Whitianga, and both attended school in the original schoolhouse that is now The Lost Spring. But they never knew each other.

a bike in her lifetime and loving it, but she and Ian find any excuse to get out and ride.

As mid lifers, they have been married for nearly two years. They work and play in Whitianga because, “It’s just the place to be,” according to both of them.

Ian and Sally love their motorbikes, riding and the connections they have with other riders. Meeting all sorts of people from all walks of life, different biker characters, exploring the nooks and crannies of our local landscape, are what they love to do. Sally certainly didn’t foresee herself on the back of

The Whitianga Riders Club meet every second Sunday for a ride - whether that’s to Kaiaua for fish and chips, over the much-loved Coromandel Loop, or up to Colville for coffee on a sunny Sunday.

The new Mercury Bay Motorcross Club up on Mill Creek Road hosts four major events per year sparking a revitalisation of the sport for adults and attracting a new younger age group. Naturally, dirt bikes are all a key part of Kickstart services.

The favourite quote for the club is “Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Give him a motorbike and he will eat fish and chips 154 miles away!”

Whitianga 7 The Esplanade, Whitianga 07 866 0098 coromandel@bayleys.co.nz

Tairua 1/237 Main Road, Tairua 07 864 7325 tairua@bayleys.co.nz T Thames 459 Pollen Street, Thames 07 869 0632 thames@bayleys.co.nz

Wha angamata 501a Port Road, Whangamata 07 865 7990 whangamata@bayleys.co.nz