Monday 20 August 2012

Shell Service Station Tokaanu.

If you haven't driven along State Highway 41 for sometime when you do you will notice that the Shell Service Station at Tokaanu has been dismantled. The Shell Company decided that due to falling custom they would have to remove the pumps and underground tanks.
It will be greatly missed by the many fisherman who always stopped to fill up with petrol before heading for a day's fishing on the lake.
I wonder if anyone knows how long that station existed, it is over thirty years that we know of and could be an additional twenty years beyond that.

The garage has not been effected, Joe Rowan still operates his business next door.

Likewise the Tokaanu Hotel is fast falling in to disrepair. Once considered thee place to stay or dine at, some very famous people have graced their doors. It is quite sad to see history disappearing but such is the changing way of life today.

Road Signs

Locals have for some years been trying to get a road sign placed near the wet land Tokaanu to warn drivers of the birds that frequently cross where the water lies on both sides of the road.
Finally it has happened, there is a sign on the south end as your apporach the small bridge and coming down the hill one is on the left as you approach the Waihi Village turnoff.
Pukeko are often seen eating grass on the roadside verge and sadly become victims as they attempt to cross over to the opposite side.  If you have read of the man who trained the pukeko and chicks seen in the TV advertisement, like me you will be surprised how clever these birds are and that they deserve our greatest respect.


Monday 6 August 2012

Eruption Update

It is now 1pm and Pukawa is still clear of ash.
The sun has broken through the cloud a few times but the air is quite cold.

Eruption

I have just been outside to check for ash but there is no sign of it here that I can see.  It has clouded over, possibly the ash cloud so it is time to check our emergency water supply.
Should the situation change I will log it.