Dec 2010

20 December 2010

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Hi all

Another great day on Saturday with 3 club boats in action and 13 divers in total

Weather was a bit foggy to start with (couldn’t see the island) but once there we were rewarded calm waters & 12m viz

Ton & the team on Seabird managed a few crays, myself & Steve Jones onboard Paul’s new boat also bagged a few nice ones plus a good feed of fish.

What I am wondering about is what happened to Silhouette???

6 Divers onboard – Including Dan & Glen, Greg, Eric – NO CRAYS?????
Not sure what you were doing guys – but I have attached a photo of my 8 LB cray so you can see what they look like.
Perhaps if you print off & glue into the inside of your mask, you will know what to look for next time……….

[Editors note - for the record, there was actually one cray caught...]

A few cold beers afterwards rounded off a great day and a good close to the year.

Paul is putting club dives together every 2nd weekend over summer (good on ya prez) and we meet 8am at the club.
All you need to do is actually confirm a few days prior so he knows how many boats are needed etc

Also big thanks to those members with boats who make them available.

Bazz was also out on the water in Aussie & nailed 3 wahoo over 12kg each – good effort & even better if you send some over mate!!!!

Stay safe over Xmas, don’t drink & dive!!!

Paul / Andy / Pete / Todd / Mitch / Chloe

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15 December 2010

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Hi All

Club Dive 18 December

Paul has just said there are now a couple of boats available on sat & Silhouette is joining the fleet

Divers need to be at clubrooms – 8am sharp if you want to get wet & grab crays for Xmas

If you want in – please txt Paul on 0274484773 to confirm your spot

Pete

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13 December 2010

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Hi All – ref below for the low down of Jan Cat Fish cull

We have about 9 club members already keen to go & the more the merrier.

Pete

 Great Lake Taupo Catfish Cull
✓ Saturday January 29th, 2011
✓ Prizes for a variety of categories
✓ Registrations and Sign-On at 7.30 a.m. by the Yacht Club at Stump Bay. (That is half way between Motuoapa and Turangi)
✓ Entry Fee $ 25 per person
✓ Competition starts after the Briefing
✓ Pre Competition Briefing will define the areas for competition and identify areas to be avoided (e.g. 300m from river mouths)
✓ All competitors must be out of the water by 3 p.m.
✓ Weigh-in at Stump Bay followed by Prize Giving and BBQ
✓ Competitors swim in Teams of two.
✓ Each team to tow a float or plat with dive flag attached
✓ If a boat is used, that must fly a dive flag. Competitors will use Handspears only
✓ Wild Blue is providing Prizes as well as Handspears
✓ A basic Handspear with rubber sling can be purchased at the time of Registration for $ 25
✓ Taupo Hunting & Fishing is sponsoring Tee shirts
✓ Dept of Conservation is providing additional sponsorship and support
✓ Updates to information will be on our website's Competition Schedule under Catfish cull www.spearfishingnz.co.nz
✓ Contact: Aaron Dowman info@simplytiling.co.nz

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12 December 2010

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Hi All

A few notes from Paul & follow up from AGM

Thanks to all who attended club meeting on Monday & our AGM.  Andy reported financials as $8000 in club savings & $2300 in trading account – with all bills paid up to date.

SUBS: Club subs for 2011 are due now & everyone should have their renewal notices.  If you haven’t (like me) please let Andy know ASAP & he will post you one out – subs can be paid direct into club account.

For online payments direct to our bank account:

Westpac Bank
Paraparaumu Branch
Account name:  Kapiti Underwater Club
Account number:           030732 0263893 00

Remember to include your name as a reference!

Elected committee for 2011
Paul Bennik – remains as president
Andy Garner – remains as secretary / treasurer
Pete / Todd / Mitch / Chloe – club captains

Greg Bishop has also offered to continue looking after the club WWW (thank you)

DIPSTICK
As always – the annual Dipstick award was a hot topic.
This year however was something of a precedent with ONLY ONE person nominated and receiving in excess of TWENTY nominations
To my knowledge – this is a club record.

So – congratulations MALCOLM PRIEST – you are the unanimous winner of the 2010 Dipstick award.
The nomination that actually sealed it was your actions at 2am during the club trip to NO ROAD INN.
Probably least said about this the better...

Other stuff
No club meeting in January as most members are away.

Club working bee – March 20th, all members support appreciated to help with the annual painting / building / clean up – BBQ lunch.

Power – the big old bar fridge is costing us approx $120 per month in power consumption.  We have gone from $60 to $180 per month since getting the fridge.
To that effect – it is good sense for the club to invest in a new, big, glass door fridge – the power savings alone will pay for itself within a couple of years.

Does anyone have any contacts in the hospitality industry etc – we are after a commercial glass door / pub style bar fridge?  Only wanting prices & options at this stage.
Plan is to have a couple of fundraising events at Club first to raise extra $$$.

Cleaning
It has been recognised the club is not as clean as it could be; Paul went down last week & mowed lawns / got stuck into cleaning etc.
Club captains – this falls on you 1st off & toilets / carpet / floors etc need to be cleaned on a regular basis.

Members – you all use the facilities & are welcome to help out.
There are ample cleaning products in cupboard & anyone is welcome to help keep the place clean.

We are also getting a sign put up outside club stating “members only” (Pete organising).
We have a never ending stream of Joe public just walking in to use our loos – hence why they keep needing attention.

Poor Knights trip
Club is looking at a mid winter trip in May / June.  This is a mixed trip / partners etc welcome (same price) and there will be ample snorkelling opportunities between dives.

$100 initial deposit will confirm your spot – 1st 12 members to pay are in.  Confirmed to date – Paul / Pete / Mandi.

Philippines trip
Talk to Paul if you’re keen - deposits needed.

Other trips
Spearfishing comp – all go for 19th Feb.
Cat fish cull – all go for last weekend of Jan.

Thank you
Thanks to Ben Knight for support & steering new members towards the club

Club dives
Next club dive is Sat 18th Dec, then Sat 15th Jan.  Boat owners & divers – please confirm.

That’s it – have a great Xmas & we will see you under the water

Regards

Paul / Andy / Pete / Mitch / Toddy / Chloe

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6 December 2010

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Hi All

Hope everyone managed to get into the water over the weekend.

We had a good turn out for the club dive on Saturday and rewarded with 20 m viz – awesome!!!!

Ben, Mitch, Ton, Paul – thanks for making your boats available.

For those who missed out, the day was 10/10 perfect conditions & water as calm as a mill pond.
We did two dives at the back of Kapiti & plenty of crayfish / butterfish etc were put on the Xmas bbq afterwards.

Steve Jones took the largest cray of the day & well done to Neil for 7 butterfish (that’s his best yet).

We had a great BBQ afterwards with plenty of seafood / steaks / ham etc.
Not sure what happened to Santa ?? – Probably out diving!

Reminder - last weekend of January – pencil this into your calendar now. It’s the annual Taupo catfish cull (hand spears only).

Last year over 100 divers turned up & 1000 catfish were taken – these are a pest & DOC wants them gone.

Plan this year is to get a big team of KUC members up there & make a weekend of it.

Safe diving

Pete

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Nov 2010

29 November 2010

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Hi All

Reminder – Club dive this Saturday then club BBQ

We have FOUR boats organised – Ben / Ton / Paul / Mitch
We need 13 divers

Plan is to meet at clubrooms 8am SHARP, launch boats & head off to Kapiti to do two dives.
Afterwards there is the club Xmas BBQ & all members and family are welcome 4pm.

Club will supply the Ham & its BYO / pot luck salads / deserts etc.

So far we have 4 divers confirmed – what’s happening to the rest of you?

If you’re keen to go diving, please ring / text Paul Bennik on 0274484773 ASAP so he can organise things

Cheers

Pete

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23 November 2010

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Hi All

President Paul has asked I forward the following.

Mark Dec 4th in your calendar for a club BBQ at 3pm

There is also to be a dive on the day. Ben Knight will have his new boat available & can take 4 divers. Paul also has a new boat & can take 3.

4 + 3 =……..7 and its first in first served.

Plan is to meet at club 8am sharp then head out to Kapiti - (cost is $50 pp I think)

(Paul – count me in as confirmed)

Any other boat owners keen to come – Mitch / Ton? Please let me know ASAP & we will get more divers.

This weekend (SAT) is Steve McCoy’s farewell party. I understand there will be a BBQ & he is putting an initial tab on the bar to start things off.

SEE YOU THERE!!!!

He also has a size 4 wetsuit / 7mm for sale and in good nick.
If you know any kids learning to dive or a midget needing a new size 4 suit, give him a call.

Malcolm – if you lose 30 kg this will be a good one for you mate!!!

Pete

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9 November 2010

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Hi all

Just had a phone call from Paul, this weekend’s trip over to the bach has been cancelled – please take note if you were booked to come

NO TRIP TO THE BACH THIS WEEKEND.

If the weather holds up, I am keen to 4 x 4 around red rocks to get a few more paua – they go down well on the Xmas BBQ
Anyone keen?

Pete

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Oct 2010

19 October 2010

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Hi all

As per below from Sue Nelson

Hiya,

I went to the rebreather session at Dive HQ last night. It was good fun & surprisingly easy to use.

They use the Posiedon rebreather which is idiot proof as its all electronically controlled so you don’t have to make any adjustments, just breathe normally.

My buoyancy was a bit different using the rebreather but after a few minutes I got used to it.

It’s aimed at recreational divers and the main advantage is that you can dive for up to 199 minutes. Probably not that long in NZ as it’s too cold but it would be great in the Red Sea or Caribbean.

It’s a nitrox system so ideally you should do a nitrox course but I managed fine without doing the course.

It’s a closed circuit system but you can manually switch it to breathe off air only like a normal DV. That’s a safety feature really.

It’s so quiet without the bubbles, really good for photography or video, we took a camera down with us as well.

Claire & I had great fun with it. I so want one!

Problem is it costs $9500.

But they are promoting the idea that if you do the proper course which includes 4 dives, then you can rent the gear for a dive trip rather than buy it.

The course is $1,000 including 4 dives.

If you do get the chance to try a rebreather then I'd recommend it, it’s really great.

CU

Sue

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18 October 2010

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Hi All

Hope you had a great weekend.

I managed to get around to the south coast and get wet – viz wasn’t the best but still got a feed.

Long weekend coming up – if weather permits, I was thinking of heading over to Tora on Sunday morning & making use of the club caravan. Stay the night & come back Monday afternoon. Anyone keen to come along?

Also – as per below from Ben re the free diving course with Dave Mullins– please read email from Ben.

Dec is getting close to Xmas - 19th / 21st of Nov works for me.

We have a club BBQ planned for the 21st – we could tie this in with a wrap up after the course and end the weekend with a bbq

Pete

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7 October 2010

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Hi All

Every now & again some HUGE NEWS comes along – some really really GOOD news and in this case its AWESOME news.

As per below from Ben / Cressi / Kapiti Dive – he is buying a boat & will have it in another couple of weeks.

Once its all up n running, the club will make some firm bookings & if all goes well we will be able to dive Kapiti every 2nd weekend over summer.

What could be better!!!!

Pete,

We are buying a new McLay 525 fisherman with 90hp motor for small group dive charter work.  We will get it into survey and can make it available for club trips if you guys are interested?  Price per person for 4 would be $50 each for club members including 2 airfills/tanks per diver.  I know the standard contribution for club boat dives is $30-$35 per diver so I figure our price including air fills/hire tanks is reasonable for club members?

Cheers  

Ben Knight
Sterling Leisure NZ LTD
Phone +64 4 9050089
Mobile +64 027 3483010
Fax +64 4 9050079
Email Ben@cressi.co.nz
www.cressi.it

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5 October 2010

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Hi All

Good to catch up with you last night.

We are all go for this weekends trip to Paul’s bach & will be taking two vehicles over - one with scuba / one without.

Sounds Trip to Gary & Barbara Ashton’s NO ROAD INN is all go at the end of the month.

Plan is to head across Friday morning & return Sunday. Trip is full but a few still haven’t paid their deposits – if you don’t, you will miss out - simple as that.

Bazz is 100% confirmed & paid – he is flying over just to join us.

Club Xmas party – date is 4th December 3pm and all members / family / friends are welcome. BYO salads – club will supply the ham & turkey.

Club BBQ – Sunday 21st November – plan is to do a dive if weather permitting in the morning, then BBQ & beer from 3pm.

All boat owners keen to participate – please let us know.

Next years overseas trip is confirmed – we are off to the Philippines with Paul as team leader & plan is to match time & date with whale shark migration.

Cost is approx $3600 and that will cover airfares / accommodation / dives etc. $500 deposits are needed to confirm your place then an AP set up into club account to make it simple & easy. Date; TBA but approx July.

Safe Diving

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4 October 2010

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Hi All

With the good weather finally starting to show – some of you may actually start dusting off the dive gear!!

Attached is a buddy list & members are encouraged to use it.

The idea is members can touch base with each other & organize their own dives.

Club captains are Mitch / Malcolm / Todd – they are also there to help & by all means give them a call.

Also – don’t forget tonight – BRING YOUR DEPOSIT to confirm Sounds Trip.

Regards

Pete

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Sep 2010

24 September 2010

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Hi All

Daylight saving about to start & that means the diving gets a lot easier.

Thanks to all who attended the last club night – good effort, and the benefit of attending meant you got 1st dibbs on two weekend trips to Paul’s batch over at Terewhiti station - one is on the 9th Oct & the other is on the 13th Nov. These trips are full – you snooze you lose!!

A few of as went over last weekend to get Paua for Mitch’s 50th

In all my years diving, I have never seen so many paua – 10000000s of them & in less than 2m (Mitch did come, but as he could not fit into his wetsuit, had to sit it out)

Malcolm also came but by the time he stopped talking, we had our quota!!

Speaking of Mitch – it’s the big 50 THIS SATURDAY

7pm Plimmerton Boat club – all welcome

New member – Steve Jones has joined the club, having come back from overseas & keen to go diving.

Mel Bird popped in & mentioned there is a fundraiser for Dave Mullins world record free diving attempt on Thursday 7th Oct to be held at the comfort & quality hotel Wellington @ 5.30pm / 7.30pm.

There will be nibbles / prizes & mixing mingling with other divers etc plus Dave will be talking about his attempts so far.

Tickets are $25 ea & you get a $10 gift voucher for Dive Kapiti.

There are 6 of us going so far, if you want a ticket – please let me know ASAP

Sounds Trip to NO ROAD INN – last weekend of OCT is also fully booked, and we even have several members on stand by.

Gary & Barbara Ashton have kindly offered to host the club yet again at their fantastic lodge & it has become the highlight of the year.

Cost is approx $350 ea – that covers everything - fuel / food etc but BYO booze.

This is a 10/10 trip, great diving, fantastic hosts, amazing accommodation – an excellent weekend and we will be taking down a whole hogget to roast in the outdoor oven.

All members who are confirmed on this trip, please bring your $200 ea deposit next club night – deposits “must” be paid.
If you don’t pay your deposit, those who are on the back up list will get their chance.

In the past – on many trips, we get people who say they are in, but then pull out a few days before – this means the costs go up for the rest of us.

Deposits are non refundable & must be paid - please.

Safe diving – Pete VP

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14 September 2010

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Hi All

As per below – lets get a KUC group together & give it a try

Interested in Technical Diving? Want to give a re breather a go?

We have the opportunity to dive with the Poseidon Discovery MkVI at Huia Pool
Minimum numbers are required for this try dive experience, which will be held late September or early October – bookings essential!

A re breather play if anybody is interested
Let us know and we will get some dates to run

Tomo

Dive & Ski HQ Wellington
14 Waione St
Petone New Zealand
ph 04 5685028 fax 045684560
mob 0210369996
www.diveski.co.nz

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6 September 2010

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Hi All

Quick reminder – club meeting tonight & prez Paul has a couple of dates for club trips out to his batch on Terawhiti Station

Club captains are also keen as to get some summer diving trips booked in – speak to them tonight.

Pete

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Aug 2010

13 August 2010

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Hi All

Ref last club night:

Many thanks to all who turned up & good to see Steve McCoy back in town. Steve & Paul gave us a great insight into life in the Philippines & are looking at putting a dive trip together for this time next year.

This will be a mixed trip, partners welcome & there is plenty to do for non divers. (Shoes for $4)

Costs once there are very cheap – food / accommodation etc cost very little. Plan is to get names of anyone keen and put an itinery / costs etc together.

To make this very very easy, We will then set up an account under the club name & everyone puts in $500 deposit – this will secure bookings / accommodation. From there each person will simply have an AP going into the club account, you won’t even notice a small weekly amount going out & by this time next year.

You are 100% paid up – toooo easy

The club will book & pay for all tickets / accommodation etc as it comes due.

Note – once you confirm you are in – YOU ARE IN - no cancellations / no refunds

Paul officially presented the NZ spearfishing champs cup to this years winners Mel & Kevin

Paul & Pete have been up to Turangi & met with Bob Rosemergy and other spearfishing clubs to discuss the direction of NZ comps for next year.

We also have all the info on the January cat fish cull – keep the last weekend free for a great weekend away

KUC Midwinter Party / family evening
Sat 21 Aug starting 3pm for pre dinner drinks. Kai cooker will be in action loaded with meat / BBQ will be sizzling with sausages & steaks

Please bring a salad or desert

Any boat owners keen to take divers out in the morning, let us know & we will tee up a kai dive – would be good to have cray on the menu

This is a good time to catch up with members & share a few stories

Mitch’s 50th
All club members are invited, it’s on the 25th September, 7pm onwards at the Plimmerton boating club
This will be the mother of all parties!!!!!

Speaking of Mitch, he has found a home for the club dive trailer.
Members are encouraged to use this great asset – it has a shower, BBQ etc a great if you are shore diving

Oriental bay clean up dive – postponed due to weather / Eric will let us know next date

Breath holding course – we have approx 10 club members going this in October & its being taught by Dave Mullins himself.

If you are keen – let me know or go direct to Ben Knight at the Prm dive shop

Congratulations: Toddy is now a dad, mum and baby are doing well

Scallop Season: is well under way & we have already had a few club dives. Not as many as last year but still plenty if you know where to look.

Safe Diving

Paul

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2 August 2010

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Hi all,

Quick reminder – its club night tonight.
Paul is back from the Philippines & has some good info on local diving etc that he will be telling us all about.

Paul & I have also just come back from Turangi where we met with DOC and got all the info on spearfishing catfish
And the big catfish cull being planned for January.

We will be heading up a few times prior if members are keen to do some fresh water spearing – we cooked on up
On Saturday night – they taste real gooood :-)

Pete

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Jul 2010

14 July 2010

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Hi All

Scallop season - TOMORROW

Last 3 days has seen Wgtn harbour as flat as a pancake & vis is good. I think its going to blow up again later on, but fingers crossed it holds still just one more day. I have been laid low with the flu all week & not looking likely to dive – so will be tea boy instead.

Plan is whoever wants to dive opening day – meet 10am sharp at Miramar wharf - look for my red Pajero 4 x 4.

We will then head around the bays and pick the best spot for a dive (last year took 7 minutes to quota as we were the first in). As is COMPULSORY, everyone donates a part of their quota and we will have a cook up on the BBQ.

Is anyone able to pop into club & grab our banner?

Also – the club trailer is at Pauls, if we can get that down then hot showers are also an option.

Cheers

Pete

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8 July 2010

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Hi All

Many thanks to those club members who came in on Monday night.

Overall attendance by actual club members was not the best, but we had 34 people attend all up, mostly made up by other divers keen to hear Dave Mullins talk about his free diving feats.

Dave is a great speaker & listening to a bloke who can free dive deeper than a commercial diver was very interesting.
The DVD footage was fantastic & we also got to see the custom fins he uses.
Dave also holds many spearfishing records – no wonder considering his average spearing time underwater is 3 minutes!!!

Big thanks to Ben / Cressi for providing a raffle prize & also promoting the event. We raised a couple of hundred towards Daves cost of competing this year for the WORLD RECORD (he is currently 3rd).

Paul passed his apologies for being away. Steve McCoy has been in contact & enjoying daily sun / warm water / 30 m viz…… yeah yeah...

Bazz also says hello to everyone.

A trip to D’urville came up & looks to be all go – we have the accommodation and boat sorted out, just nailing down a date.
Members who attended meeting will have 1st option & most seats are filled.

Scallop season is nearly here & a club dive is all go on Thursday 10am. Take the day off get stuck in – meet 10am Miramar wharf.

SEE YA THERE

Pete

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June 2010

28 June 2010

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Hi all

Right – next club night is Monday 5th July and it will be a good one.

We have David Mullins coming in as a guest speaker. Dave is 29, holds 12 national free diving records, 4 world free diving records, silver medal 2007 world champs, 2008 male free diver of the year.

His personal best is 118 m FREE DIVING

He will be bringing in some DVD footage of his diving in the Bahamas and also has many stories to tell. Dave is also holding free diving courses in PRM and will discuss this as well.

Please make the effort to attend, but not only that – tell everyone you know, bring family / friends etc as this will be a very entertaining.

Dave is currently fundraising $$ to help pay for his 2011 attempt to exceed the WORLD RECORD of 124 m.
We will be holding a raffle to help support his efforts.

Start time is 7pm & Dave will be speaking from 730pm / Club captains – please swing into action & help rally the troops.

See you next week.

Pete

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15 June 2010

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Hi All

Thanks to those who made the effort to attend last nights club meeting.
For those who braved the elements – the clubs latest acquisition was on display.
We now own a custom built dive trailer – Darryn Plows built it from scratch and it comes complete with tank storage area, pressurised hot water / shower, gas BBQ, filleting bench / sink etc plus an upper level for storing dry bags / dive gear.
The top opens via a hydraulic ram and has its own internal lighting / power supply.

The trailer will be used on club dives, especially during scallop season & any away trips we do
I.e. heading up to dive Taupo / Rotarua lakes etc
Members can also hire the trailer for a small fee

Dwayne Hood has kindly offered to have it sign written

Greg Bishop brought in his DVD of a recent poor knights trip, excellent footage and the shark was awesome (shame about the music)
Its is also Greg’s birthday TODAY – all the best mate
Has anyone noticed the MO is gone!!

Speaking of Birthdays – it is / was our presidents 50th birthday on Friday – HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAUL
For those of you who didn’t attend last night – you missed a few bourbons.

Now – the 50 th was on the 19th but then changed to next weekend 26th at the Monteiths Bar in PRM
Flyers were handed out last night – BUT WAIT, there is MORE
Paul has just advised several of his family, plus a few good mates (not that he has many) can’t make that date..

SO – FORGET the 26th
Paul is going to come up with another plan / another date and we will yet get to party!!!
Fingers crossed it’s before his bloody 60th!!!!

Paul / Greg – happy Birthday guys

DIVING ….. not a lot happening due to #$##*%*$  weather, Ben Knight managed a dive not long ago & nailed 3 x 4kg crays, Andy Garner also managed to bag a few.
Glen, any more since the last ONE?

Pete

VP

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14 June 2010

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Hi All

Don’t forget there is a club night tonight – it’s late due to the long weekend.

The new club dive trailer will be on display & ready for members to use – complete with BBQ / hot shower

I daresay this will get a lot of use come scallop season – which isn’t far away.

Thursday the 15th if I am correct?

I have already booked the day off, if you are keen to join me then do the same and we will hit the beds 10am on opening day
Last year it took 7 minutes to get quota.

Also – Paul B’s 50 th – not far away & he will no doubt have a plan by now…… SURELY!!!!

Pete

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4 June 2010

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Hi All

Paul asked I send a quick note out reminding you all that Monday is a public holiday & no club meeting.

There will be an informal one the Monday following.

Next month we have a special guest speaker coming in – Dave Moran is one of the countries top free divers and he will be at the club along with video footage.

This guy can free dive deeper than we do on tanks!!

Regards

Pete

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May 2010

4 May 2010

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Hi All

Good to catch up last night & for those who missed it we now have a full calendar of club dives and trips in the works.
This will be up on wall in club & Greg will pop up on the www site for all to see.

It’s now up to YOU to make these events happen by joining in.

There is a CLUB DIVE this Saturday – leaving 8am at Mana on Wildecat.
Cost is / was $60 pp Inc lunch – but talk is now adding $20 ea on and going further around coast to Ohau.
Only 5 spaces left – be quick.

There are many club scallop dives booked in, including an opening day 10am dive plus one club dive each month from here on.

A Waikato river free dive is booked in October.

We have Paul Benniks 50th not far away and there will be a bit of a birthday bash at the club.

Not far after that is Mitch’s 50th (Sat 25th September) at the Plimmerton boating club – I think I need to find some more mates as the current ones are all getting bloody old!!!!!

We have the mid winter Xmas dinner booked in, a club lunch at Logan Brown restaurant and an overseas trip if we can get the numbers.

Its all go & well done the new Prez and captains.

Regards

Pete

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April 2010

12 April 2010

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Hi All

Just a quick reminder tonight is club night seeing as last Monday was a holiday.
We also have had 2 cancellations of club dives so are $400 in credit with boat – need to rebook another dive day.

WILD BLUE North Island Spearfishing Champs….. DONE
Many thanks to all who volunteered their time to help out on Sat
Despite 2 prior cancellations & also sharing the day with Plimmerton boating club fishing comp, the day was a great success.
Registration got underway 730 sharp & competitors signed in / safety briefing was done & then it was all go at 9am with a perfect day.

Weigh in started at 330pm, A total of 112 fish were weighed in & a staggering $1700 was raised for Mary Potter Hospice.
We had a huge turn out from the public & fish auction was well supported.

1st place went to Mel Bird & Kevin Lowrey / 2nd – Anne & Steve Rose / 3rd – Scott Perkins & Daniel Bruce
A Total of 112 fish were weighed in, 44 butterfish / 8 moki / 10 banded parrot fish / 8 butterfly perch / 1 bastard red cod / 2 copper moki / 11 blue cod / 4 red cod / 3 john dory / 1 XXL kingfish
1 koheru / 6 red mullet / 1 sweep / 11 terekihi / 1 telescope fish

Next year we will also include a junior section & add the largest kina into mystery prize (two kina went for $19 in auction)

Special thanks –           Matt Lind / Wild Blue, sponsor / prizes (Matt – we had your banner flying high)
                                    Doug & Jan Palmer – Harcourt’s
                                    Jude Harris – City life news
                                    Beach FM
                                    Pak n Save
                                    Bob Rosemergy / President NZ spearfishing assn (Bob – we will put a KUC team together for the next Taupo cat fish cull)
                                    Steve & Anne Rose

Helpers on the day:
Pete Jones, Paul Bennik, Toddy Martin, Andy Garner, Neil Calvert, Darryn / Brenda / Rochelle Plows / Sue Nelson / Pete Martin – have I forgotten anyone?

Pete

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March 2010

29 March 2010

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Spearfishing New Zealand – Wild Blue North Island Champs
Competition Update

Wild Blue North Island Champs at Kapiti Island this coming Saturday, 27 March postponed again due to forecast of 25 knots NW winds. New competition date will be April 10.

Hi All.

Wouldn’t you know it, another weekend of weather mayhem and on Monday its perfect…..

Thursday’s Met & Niwa weather reports both gave wind warnings of 25 knots – no good for a comp / safety reasons, so joint decision was to pull pin early and save the out of towners coming all the way down

We are having ONE last attempt to hold the spearfishing comp – new date is April 10th.

This works in with the spearfishing comp calendar and two other competitions already in the works that would otherwise conflict.

So – Saturday April 10 is the only spare date & if this falls through – it’s off until next year.
This has certainly been a hassle & I appreciate the efforts off all concerned.

Mel Bird has said he will also try & get Dave Mullins in as a guest speaker later on in the years (NZ spearfishing champ)

Dan & Ton have taken off to the coromandle & I am heading to Auzzie in an attempt to find some settled weather.
There are kingi & Alby tuna in good numbers off Mana – if you can get there.

Pete

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February 2010

24 February 2010

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Hi All

As per the attached flyer

 The spear fishing champs is now to be held on the 27^th MARCH.

Not the 27^th FEB……………

There are two other spear fishing comps on this month, Dive HQ & Splash Gordon

We had to pick another date so as not to clash with these events.

 March will have more settled weather & blue water behind the Island so viz will be at its best.

Please spread the word

 Regards

 Pete

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12 February 2010

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Hi All

 

Hope you have all been making the most of some great local diving…

 

South coast has been fantastic with 10 plus M viz and there are schools of King Fish in the harbor

There are also good numbers of paua further around past devils gate and you only need to go 1m deep to get a feed

(check out the man size paua mincer that bolts onto the back of my truck)

 

Darryn & I have been diving Eastbourne most evenings this week and amazed at how many XXL scallops are still there – especially in the 4m mark

Twice I have also been buzzed by kingi…

 

Right – THIS WEEKEND:

Tomorrow is the WILD BLUE spearfishing comp

 

By the sounds of it there are a good number of members coming in to help run the event.

We need about 6 of us from 7am to 9am & then about 10 or so from 230pm until 5pm

 

We also have Toddy & Cello out on the water with the Oxy bottle & scuba as safety boat &

 

If you want to help – just come on down & no doubt I will find something for you to do.

If you are particularly good at filleting, bring your knife with you.

The Auction starts 4pm so tell your friends / family etc to come down & support a great cause (Mary Potter)

 

We will also have the BBQ going in the afternoon with plenty of fresh fish on the menu

 

SUNDAY – we are off on another club dive aboard Wildecat.

I think trip is full, thanks to Paul’s efforts of ringing around, but call Paul B on 0274484773 if you want to come & he may fit you in.

As the Sunday falls on Valentines Day, we will start day with smoked salmon omelet’s & a glass of bubbly, then crayfish salad for lunch

 

Regards

 

Pete

VP

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4 February 2010

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Hi All

 

We are off to a great start & the new president and his team are certainly on the ball.

 

Great turnout on Monday & thanks to all who attended

 

Well done to Andy Garner for bringing in 3 potential new members & also thanks to Darryn Plows for getting the big plastic tubs and all the work you put in.

 

There are TWO left - $20 ea - perfect for washing down dive gear.

 

11 club members had a great day diving on the 24^th & next club trip is Feb 14th

 

Don’t forget – next Saturday 13^th if the spear fishing comp & the call is out for volunteers.

We need 6 people from 7am & then about a dozen from 230pm.

 

This is a huge exciting day & great to be part of.

Fish auction is from 4pm – tell your friends.

 

SUBS – DUE NOW

They were handed out on Monday night & remainder will be posted.

Greg is trying to get the new buddy list finished off & we need subs paid up etc if you wish to be on it.

 

Also – please ref to below>>>>

 

Pete

VP

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January 2010

19 January 2010

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Hi All

Thanks to all who attended the 1^st club meeting of 2010.

 

The new committee certainly has plenty of enthusiasm and the drive is being directed towards getting more regular club dives happening.

 

To that end – can boat owners please touch base with Paul Bennik / Club president and confirm your participation.

The general idea is if you can perhaps be available one weekend a month, we can then roster boats on & fill with divers.

 

Divers

Mitch & Malcolm in particular are your club captains you need to touch base with for local dives.

Both have boats are happy to offer regular dives.

 

Costs – we have set price at $40 pp for an average local dive.

This is very very cheap as boat owners have fuel / maintenance / insurance etc plus all the other ongoing costs associated with owning a boat.

 

Paul                  0274484773

Mitch               0272311752

Malcolm           021701978

 

Wild blue North Island Spear fishing champs – as per attached flyer

Volunteers are needed.

 

We need approx 6 people from 7am to handle the registrations & probably 10 from 2.30pm

 

There is the weigh in / filleting / scoring to write up / BBQ / Bar / prize giving etc

Please let me know direct if you can help out.

 

Pete 0274180841

 

We also want a boat or two on the water as safety vessels.

Does anyone have a spare RF marine radio we can set up in the clubrooms to keep an ear open.

 

CLUB DIVE – this weekend Sunday 24^th

We are booked to go on Wildecat with Lance.

There are a few people already paid up from the last trip that cancelled due to weather.

Please confirm direct with Paul B if you are coming.

 

Cost is $60 pp and max is 12 divers.

 

Subs – now due.

Greg has just about finished new buddy list & subs invoices will be sent out. 

 

Safe Diving

 

Pete

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8 January 2010

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Hi All

Hope you have all had a great Christmas & ready for an exciting New Year.

 

1^st club meeting is next Monday 11^th Jan – 7.30pm

Come in for a beer & swap a few stories about the ones that got away over Xmas.

 

Paul Bennik is the new club president, Andy Garner is Treasurer and along with myself as VP / captain, Toddy, Mitch & Malcolm are your club captains and all are rearing to go & get some club dives happening.

 

We also have Wildecat booked over the next few months for regular club dives.

 

Cheers

 

Pete

 

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December 2009

18 December 2009

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Hi All

 

Quick reminder – 1^st club night for next year is Monday 11^th Jan

 

Informal meeting & BBQ

 

Have a good Xmas

 

Pete

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11 December 2009

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Hi All

 

Ref this Sunday’s club dive – its all green for go.

 

Everyone who has confirmed – meet 9am sharp at Mana marina.

As you head in – go left and then drive to end of car park – look for the big 50 ft cat (wildecat)

Bring at least 2 tanks….

 

Sounds like the wind will be changing and should flatten sea out – tide is 830 & 2pm

 

We will be diving Mana – or heading left along coast.

Time to get wet !!!!

 

AGM

Cheers to all who made the effort to attend.

After 3 years – its time for me to step down

The club is in great shape – membership is up, and bank balance has increased over the year by $2841.

Total in bank is $10.890.00

(Thanks to Sue for an excellent job as secretary)

 

There is some major work soon needed to repair cracks in brickwork & window frames – hence the build up of club funds.

 

I would like to personally thank my past committee for all their efforts & hard work.

Like any club – its takes a combined effort of all members & committee to drive things forward & I appreciate all the help over the last 12 months

 

New committee 2010

Paul Bennik:                 President

Andy Garner:                Secretary / Treasurer

Pete Jones:                   VP & captain

Mitch McLachlan:         Captain

Malcolm Priest:             Captain

Todd Martin:                Captain

 

Paul is a great choice as our new president and I step down knowing the club is a good hands.

Andy is a banker & a very capable new secretary.

Todd is the perfect choice as bar captain and the addition of Mitch & Malcolm will no doubt see an increase in club dives.

 

We have our 1^st committee meeting tonight & will start to plan next years dive trips.

 

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!!!

 

TOMORROW – at long last sees the opening of a new dive shop right here in PRM

Ben Knight is opening DIVE KAPITI

Address is unit 2 / 12 Ihakara St PRM

(Next to Beaurepairs)

Phone 04 9050070

ben@cressi.co.nz

 

All KUC members are encouraged to attend the grand opening – from 9am

 

Dive fills now available & we are lucky to have such an experienced dive operator so close to the club

 

Regards

 

Pete

 

Special note from the Webmaster - Pete appears to have forgotten to mention that he received the honoured "Dipstick" award for 2009!

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3 December 2009

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Hi All

 

Don’t forget next Monday is club night & also AGM

Time to bring in some fresh blood into the committee & put renewed zest into the club.

 

We need some good keen people who are prepared to step up & put in the hard yards in running the club.

Nominations have been slow – if you are keen to step up, or have a nomination – please let me know so I can put on the list.

 

Club dives in particular need to be more regular.

Don’t forget we have booked wildecat over the summer months & we need members to confirm if you are coming.

 

Sue has done the books etc & has a full copy of accounts

 

Start time will be 730 sharp as plenty to go over.

Greg – if you can facilitate again please?

 

We also have a guest speaker (as per below) Ursula has been in contact with Greg Bishop and will be giving a short presentation of the marine reserve plus asking some questions

 

See you Monday J

Pete

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1 December 2009

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Hi Troops

 

As attached - is some related dive info from DIVE HQ Petone – plenty of diving on the go & KUC members are welcome to join in. Just give Claire or Tomo a call if you want to go for an easy dive.

 

Also BIG NEWS!!!

A new dive shop is about to open in PARAPARAUMU

Details to come very soon & a big opening weekend planned very soon – WATCH THIS SPACE.

 

Club Dives – have had a few members pay deposits & confirm their spots – well done.

Still a few spaces left for the Dec dive & I need to fill them.

KUC members get 1^st option but I will be filling remainder with other divers if you are not quick.

 

Dates

Dec 13^th

Jan 24^th

Feb 14^th

Mar 14^th

 

Boat is WILDECAT – 50 ft cat & well set up for diving

Cost approx $60 pp and that will include lunch

 

Pete

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November 2009

26 November 2009

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Hi All

 

Well done to all who attended the KUC Xmas party & thanks to those who brought salads & desert.

I think we had around 40 people there at one point, plenty of kids as well & Santa certainly proved a hit.

 

Thanks Santa J

 

The food was perfect & our kai cooker has proved to be great investment – catering for all those who RSVP’d no problem at all.

 

The cool lights you saw strung up along the awning are our latest purchase & certainly add a party atmosphere – a great buy for $40

 

Thanks to those who helped,

Especially Eric & Chris who once again where the 1^st ones there to start setting up & the last ones to go the next day after a big clean up

It was Chris who put up all the Xmas decorations & made the club look the part – especially with some bits & pieces donated by new member Peter Bunn.

 

A bit of house keeping:

Have had a few complaints about dogs being in the clubrooms

 

It’s a fair enough complaint & I agree with it – please ensure you keep your dog outside in future. (Thank you)

 

Right – DIVE STUFF

Many people say we need to organize more dives.

When we do organize something there is always great support & show of hands etc

Yet when it comes to getting deposits from members to confirm their commitment – it’s like pulling a tooth out… PAINFULL.

 

We have pre booked WILDECAT for FOUR club dives over summer.

 

Dec – Sunday 13^th

Jan – Sunday 24^th

Feb – Sunday 14^th

March – Sunday 14^th

 

Costs will be about $60 ea if we can get 12 divers & that will also include breakfast & lunch.

GUYS!! This is walk on / walk off – Wildecat is 50 foot of dive boat, toilet / shower – easy access.

That’s the cheapest diving you will do.

 

All you have to do is PAY A DEPOSIT

Of the 20 plus people who indicated they are keen – ONLY TWO have paid.

 

PLEASE – I need your deposits ASAP.

The club has to pay a deposit to confirm the dates – Even a $20 per trip deposit will secure your spot.

 

The D’Uville Trip in late March / Early April is all go & pretty much full – but again deposits are slow to come in.

 

Right – time to go for a scallop dive.

 

Cheers

 

Pete

 

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20 November 2009

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Hi Troops

 

As per the above attachment – please open, fill in & email back.

 

Greg has put in a lot of time & effort on this and the idea is to update current membership details.

A new Buddy list is being prepared & will be ready once we have the forms back.

 

 

Xmas party is all go tomorrow & we have 30 plus people coming & a dozen or so kids.

Santa is ready to go and even has a sack full of presents

 

I will be there approx 1pm to start setting up & sounds like there are 6 odd good keen volunteers coming as well.

 

Dinner will be ready approx 5pm – SEE YOU THERE & don’t forget its pot luck salad or desert

Club it putting on ham / turkey / wild venison / plus the minted baby potatoes / honey carrots / peas & gravy

 

Danny – bring your chefs hat / carving block & knife…. Santa has nominated you as carver.

 

Also – a big thanks to Aaron Sheerin.

I haven’t seen it yet but understand Aaron has been in & cleaned the carpets – well done J

 

Club Dive on sat isn’t looking good at all & Greg doesn’t think it will happen.

Those of you confirmed – keep in contact.

 

And: don’t forget about summer diving on Wildecat.

1^st summer club dive is Sunday 13^th – deposits are needed to confirm your spot and its 1^st in 1^st served.

You can pay me direct tomorrow or deposit direct into club acc

 

Cheers

 

Pete

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16 November 2009

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Hi Troops

 

Thanks to all who attended the last club night – certainly a lot to go over

 

Eric has got onto a couple of stings of outdoor lights which the club is buying – great for parties

 

Reminder – our annual CHRISTMAS PARTY is THIS SATURDAY…. November 21^st.

Any volunteers wanting to help set up – 2pm is a good time.

We need to have a quick clean up, set up the awning etc & put the hangi on.

 

Dinner will be served approx 530pm and will include ham on bone / hot turkey & veg / gravy etc

Club will be supplying the meat and its pot luck salads / desert…. (Please bring a salad or desert)

 

Santa is confirmed & there will be prezzies for all the kids

 

So far we have 23 adults confirmed & 12 kids – good effort & thanks to all who have replied.

Many are missing – if you intend to come, please let me know by tomorrow – txt 0274180841.

 

If you don’t RSVP – you will not be fed, simple as that.

 

Club Dive in the morning????

Ton is now having to work so seabird is out, Greg Bishop is making his boat available.

Can anyone with a boat or members wanting to dive 9am on sat please let me know.

 

Club captains – some help here would be good!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Aaron; any chance of getting the carpets cleaned before the weekend?

 

Right – Taupo River Trip – Done.

10 / 10 sunny weather all long weekend and fantastic Viz

 

Wanganui River Trip – Done & again 10 / 10 sunny weather

New member Neil Calvert came on his 1^st river trip.

Having come over from the UK only a few months ago he certainly got an eye full of pristine NZ scenery.

 

The trip was originally planned at Malcolm’s request – who then had to pull out because he forgot about a plumbing course – he didn’t go & also didn’t make the Plumbing course as cocked that up as well – it was the following weekend!!!!

That’s as good a dipstick nomination as any

 

Summer Dives.

I have bit the bullet & booked Wildecat for the following dates:

 

Sunday 13^th Dec

Sunday 24^th Jan

Sunday 14^th Feb

Sunday 14^th Mar

 

Wildecat is a 50 ft cougar cat & perfect for club dives – easy access in & out, toilet, BBQ and a new outdoor shower J

Cost will be approx $60 per head for a full day diving (3 if we don’t shag around) and include morning tea / lunch / afternoon tea

 

The Club is writing deposits as we speak and dates are confirmed.

This is the best way to ensure we do at least one big Club dive per month over summer.

 

If you want to join in – a $50 deposit will confirm your spot, a phone call will not.

So – pick your dates & bring your $50’s to club on Sat – 1^st in 1^st served

 

A 4 day D’Urville trip is being planned for late March / early April and limited to 8 people

Cost will be approx $650 ea and that will cover the whole trip & all meals – boys only on this one as only one toilet.

Plan is to leave on a Monday – get over there and dive dive dive. The again all sat & Sunday – heading home Monday.

A meat hunt would also be good!!

 

Exact date not confirmed – soon as I get 8 x $300 deposits we will book the trip

 

North Island Spear fishing comp.

Plans are underway – there is a lot to do here & many hands will be needed to help host the day.

More info to come soon

 

That’s it – see you Saturday

 

Pete

 

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October 2009

30 October 2009

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Hi All

 

Weekend weather looking good & plenty of crays around begging to be put on the BBQ – get into it J

 

Club night next Monday & I will be going over a bit on the spear fishing champs next Feb.

KUC is now running event & volunteers will be needed.

 

Taupo Trip had 10/10 weather, water was more than a weeee bit cold, hot pools came in handy.

 

Wanganui River trip is all go next week & we head away 4am on Friday.

One more person would be good – anyone keen for the adventure of a lifetime (compressed into 3 days J)

 

KUC Xmas function is Sat 21^st Nov – only a few weeks away.

Plan is to hold a club dive in the morning – so we need commitment from both boat owners & divers.

 

Xmas dinner is approx 4.30pm, Club is putting on the meat – hot ham on the bone, roast turkey, chicken etc & its BYO salads.

Santa has confirmed & will even have prezzies for the kids.

 

All YOU have to do is actually CONFIRM!!!

 

Yes or no – but please let me know as we need to buy meat etc.

 

AGM – is club night, Monday 7^th Dec.

Nominations are being called for & time for some new blood.

Anyone keen to put their hand up, let me know & I will put you on the nomination list

 

Being on the committee is about service before self – and for a time, being prepared to put in a lot of effort for the good of the club

 

If you intend to nominate someone – make sure they actually are prepared to step up & do the job

 

The main thing we need is a couple of keen young captains who are prepared to put in the hard yards & organize the club dives, ring around and tee up boats / divers etc

 

Right – I am off to pack my dive gear & heading out with Mitch tomorrow for a cray dive

 

Cheers

 

Pete

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19 October 2009

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Hi Troops

 

For those of you who have forgotten what a nice sunny weekend looks like – don’t despair!!

 

Summer is nearly here & the diving will be back in full swing soon enough J

 

Use the down time to check and service your gear – or perhaps book in for an advanced dive course

I.E: a rescue course – well worth it

 

The upper hutt dive club still has a few spaces free for their November trip to D’Urville

They are away Nov 27^th – 30^th and it’s a good chance for our members to join in & kick start your summer diving !!

 

I attached details on last email so call Gerard direct, or touch base with me and I will pass on.

 

Dive Trip – THIS WEEKEND

Free diving the mighty Waikato river / Taupo.

All welcome & camping is free

 

Wanganui River Trip – all go for the 2^nd weekend of Nov – (you need to allow the Friday 6^th as well)

Last call for trip - $100 deposit needed this week to confirm your space

 

Club XMAS PARTY: Saturday the 21^st November….

Make a note, we will be having a club dive in the morning & then the Xmas dinner from 4pm.

 

NZ spear fishing – North Island champs

KUC is actually running the comp next year – plans & prep are well underway & details to come.

Volunteers will be needed.

 

Pete the prez – 0274180841

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12 October 2009

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Hi All

 

Just a quick note re the TAUPO RIVER DIVE

 

Its not far away – Labour weekend

 

We will be free camping at Reids Farm – which is just out of Taupo & a few hundred meters before Huka Lodge.

Bring a tent / bedding & all the usual stuff you need etc.

 

I will take up the BBQ and pots / pans etc – its BYO food

 

Mandi & I are heading up on Fri 23^rd to set up camp and plan to stay the whole 3 days (Monday is a public holiday)

Coming back Tuesday to avoid traffic.

 

All members welcome & come / go as you can.

 

We camp right on the river and its a few days of fresh water drift diving down the rapids, or a tank dive from the control gate

 

Ring me on 0274180841 or email back.

 

Also: Wanganui River Trip.

Booked for the 2^nd weekend of November.

We will either head up Thurs night – or 4 am on Friday 6^th.

We will be on the river all Friday / all Saturday & exit at 1pm on Sunday – you will be home by 7pm

 

Have had plenty of members say they are keen – but no deposits as yet.

Cost is approx $250 & that covers all equipment / canoes / DOC permits etc – need $100 deposit NOW if you intend coming.

 

BYO food

 

This is a wicked adventure & one that you will remember for years to come

 

Pete

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8 October 2009

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1 October 2009

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Hi All

The Bazz has landed & will definitely be at the club this Monday night.

 

Come on down for a beer or 3 and a catch up

 

There are a few left overs from sounds trip, so I will be making a big salad & boiling up the spuds.

BBQ will be on, so BYO meat & let’s make a night of it.

 

Pete

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September 2009

29 September 2009

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Hi All,

Hope you all got notice about Steve McCoy’s 40^th – it is NOT on this weekend as club already booked out

No doubt we will do something on another date.

 

Next club night – Monday 5^th and we have a special visitor calling in

THE BAZZ – a.k.a life member Bazz Meredith and family are over from Aussie for a couple of weeks and he will be at the club.

Good time to have a beer & catch up, he can also explain why – with a huge flash as marlin fishing machine, “he still hasn’t caught one”

 

Club “sounds trip” been & done J

14 of us have just spent the weekend at NO ROAD INN, Endeavour Inlet

Club members Gary & Barb Ashton have built an incredible luxury lodge (next to furneaux) and once again kindly offered to host the club.

The lodge is true 5 star, luxury bedrooms, the very best of everything and a 30 + meter balcony on the 2^nd floor that overlooks the bush and inlet.

 

We made good use of the outdoor hot tub (Mitch decided to just fall head first into the creek) roasted a whole lamb in the outdoor oven and even got some diving in.

 

Well most of us did – Mitch for some reason didn’t dive on sat, perhaps the whole bottle of rum had something to do with it……….?

 

Plenty of scallops on the menu and a few bags to take home, a great weekend & fantastic hosts

Gary & Barb – THANK YOU.

 

Mandi also had her birthday on Sunday – perfect place to have it

 

Tora Trip – all go next weekend.

This is “boys only” and spaces limited

 

Taupo River Dive: – coming up fast on the long weekend, only a few weeks away.

All welcome & a great trip to do.

Ring me on 0274180841 if you are keen to come – bring a tent.

 

Wanganui River Trip – all go for the 2^nd weekend of Nov

We will head up Thurs evening so no work on Friday. This is a great adventure – no diving but you will certainly get wet!!!

 

 

All good, see you Monday.

 

Pete

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21 September 2009

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Hi All.

 

I haven’t even had a chance to tell about Pete Martins surprise birthday 60^th at the clubrooms last weekend

100 plus people, 2 marquees, enough food & alcohol for 200 (yes we did drink most of it) – but that’s another story

 

Grab a pen and mark this down

 

Steve McCoy’s 40^th Birthday

 

When:  Saturday 3^rd Oct from 7pm (2 weeks away)

 

Where: Kapiti Underwater Clubrooms

 

Steve will be putting on a reasonable supply of beer & wine to start the night off – when it runs out the bar will open.

Nibbles / munchies will be supplied throughout the night & kai cooker will be in action with plenty of wild venison / roast chickens etc

 

Plan is also to get some paua on Saturday (weather dependant)

Anyone keen to help get them – let me know

 

All club members welcome to join in the celebrations

 

See you there J

 

Pete

 

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16 September 2009

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9 September 2009

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Hi all

Fantastic turn out on Monday night – always good to see a full club room

 

Many thanks to Dwayne Sheerin for the box paua measures. Dwayne called into the MAF office and scored a whole box these cool eco paua measures come shucker in one – and then gave out to everyone at the club.

 

Trip to the Chattam Islands:

Paul Bennik has a trip in mind / via Scotty Perkins with the plan to go to the Chattams in late Jan next year.

More details to come.

 

Club Xmas party – November / Sat 21^st.

Committing to a catered spit roast event & getting $$ from everyone has been put in the too hard basket

Instead – Club will put on the catering / food etc with a full ham / turkey / salad Xmas spread.

Santa will once again be calling in & have prezzies for the kids etc

Cost is $10.00 per head for big people – kids are free

 

Plan is to get as many boats / divers etc on the water by 930 am & go diving – then back to club for set up etc.

Xmas diner will be served at 4pm

 

Please RSVP to me so catering can be allowed for.

 

Tora – Eric & Chris are looking at heading over to Tora on the 19^th – anyone keen to join them??

 

Sounds Trip – we have had one pull out / so ONE spot is free & 1^st in takes it.

We leave 330 Fri 25^th and head over to Gary Astons NO ROAD INN – call me direct on 0274180841 if you want in

Included in the $330 cost will also be some home brew bourbon / rum & gin (trouble J)

All food is included.

 

Taupo: Waikato River Dive – all go for the long weekend 24 / 25 / 26^th of October.

Free camping & fantastic river diving, great fun for the whole family and all welcome.

 

Steve McCoy – 40^th birthday coming up????

I actually thought he was over 50 already…. Years of hard living certainly take a toll...

 

Wanganui River Trip – looking at the 2^nd weekend of November and will need the Monday as well

This is a 10/10 adventure that is a MUST DO – cost is $220 plus food etc

 

Local Dives: if not busy with all the above, plus ski season / whitebait season / hunting etc – I am diving every free weekend for scallops so anyone keen to join me is welcome

 

NEW MEMBER – Peter Bunn.

Pete came in and has paid his membership – been diving for 10 years, mainly in the calm waters up north.

Please make him feel welcome.

 

Boat owners????

Who is going out…..would be good to get more club dives happening on a regular basis.

All you need to do is let me know & I will pass on to the club

 

That’s it – see you on the water..

 

Pete the Prez

 

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4 September 2009

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Hi All

 

Just had a report from Splash Gordons dive shop - southerlies rolling in on the south coast and it will be NO GO for our planned paua dive tomorrow.

 

Several members indicated they were keen to come down…. NO GO

 

Mish – you are a jinx!!!

 

Scallops may be a go ??

 

J

Pete

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3 September 2009

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Hi Everyone

 

Reminder – Club night next Monday 7^th @ 7.30pm

 

Hot on the agenda is the fast approaching trip to Gary Ashton’s NO ROAD INN

 

If you are booked in & haven’t paid your $100 deposit – YOU MUST bring it in on Monday (no excuses)

People confirmed:

 

Pete & Mandi

Paul & Sue Bennik

Big Mitch & Michelle

Ton & Miguel

Eric Miller & Sue Nelson (lovely couple)

Andy Garner

Paul & Raewyn Mansfield

 

Room for ONE MORE !!!

 

Boat is booked & plan is to be at Mana Marina 3pm on Friday 25^th, load up and leave no later then 3.30pm.

That gives us the whole day on sat – more dive time J

 

Everything is organized – & we will go over trip plan on club night.

 

This weekend – club dive!

Anyone keen to join me on Saturday getting paua?

 

Paua patties will go down well on the BBQ during club night.

Meet 10am at the BACH CAFÉ – South coast / Island Bay for a coffee 1^st.

 

Cheers

 

Pete the prez

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May 2009

28 May 2009

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Hi Troops

 

Well……… I would love to have plenty of info about all the fantastic diving going on but alas there is none.

 

What a bad run of weather we have had L

My dive gear has actually managed to dry out – that’s a bad sign

 

Malcolm had himself down as crew to go on Wildcat & help with a Dive Charter Splash Gordon had heading to the Sounds last week – but 14m swell put an end to that idea.

 

On the club front – hopefully the new curtains will be in by the next club meeting

The new toilet cistern has already been installed into men’s toilets – so no more drips.

 

Club Night – MONDAY 1^st is a holiday……. Club night is Monday 8^th

This will be a good time to discuss some summer dive trips, get input from members & book a few dates / trips on Wildcat

I propose a large club trip to the Sounds on scallop season opening weekend J

 

Showcase…..

Darryn & I have been working hard for many months now on the ultimate dive trailer…. Actually 99% Darryn & 1% me doing a bit of grinding but hey – it was my idea

This beast is one of a kind – built from the ground up & complete with inbuilt BBQ, pressurized hot & cold water with hand basin & shower, storage area for the crays and wet stuff, a top floor for dry stuff

Inside lighting, external spotlight over filleting bench – and that’s just a few features…

 

If it’s ready – we will bring it up on Club night to show it off.

 

Bazz has passed his regards on to everyone & letting me know about the 20+ temp and blue skies everyday, he rang today while out fishing on his super duper marlin machine…..

All he needs to do now is actually catch one !!!!!!

 

Anyway – that’s it, stay warm & if anyone has a dive planned – let me know !!

 

Pete

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15 May 2009

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Hey Divers

 

Well, I was booked on a Pete Lamb fishing charter today, with the plan being I do a quick dive & get some crays for lunch then heading out after a few groper.

 

Yesterday – we could have walked across the straight. Today – not even Pete’s boat can make the trip L L

 

You gotta love the wild Wgtn weather……….

 

Anyway – forecast not looking good for weekend, had a few divers keen to do the Wgtn Sth Coast Reserve but no viz means no point – we will try again on another weekend.

 

Don’t forget – use the buddy list to tee up a local dive & pester Toddy & Cello to take you out

 

Scallops!!

Anyone still got a few in the freezer?

Check out the recipe below – bloody good J

 

Pete

Barbecued Scallop Salad with Nahm Jim

Nahm Jim
1 cup chopped coriander stalks and leaves
2 large hot green chillis
4 spring onions
4 cloves garlic
150g palm sugar, finely chopped
200ml fresh lime juice
50 ml fish sauce

Put everything into a food processor and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust the hot, sweet, salty and sour flavors if necessary so they are balanced. Pour into a bowl and reserve.

Salad
36 large fresh scallops
4 tablespoons sesame oil
1 Cos lettuce, leaves detached from the stem
1 cucumber, peeled, split in half lengthways, seeded cut into chunks
8 small vine ripened tomatoes, cut into small chunks
1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, coarsely chopped
3 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
basil, coriander and mint leaves for garnish

Toss the scallops in the oil. Reserve. Put the lettuce leaves, cucumber and tomatoes onto a serving platter. Heat a barbecue flat plate until very hot and barbecue the scallops until just cooked and well browned. Don’t overcook.
Scatter the scallops onto the salad. Drizzle some of the Nahm Jim over the salad and serve the rest in a bowl as a dipping sauce. Sprinkle the peanuts and sesame seeds on top of the salad. Garnish the salad with plenty of the herbs. Good with steamed Jasmine rice.
Serves 6.

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5 May 2009

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Hi All

 

Great turn out last night – good to see people make the effort.

We are also treated to seeing Toddy do the captain jack waltz on DVD J

 

Topics covered.

 

Overseas trip – as discussed ref to Tommo or Claire at DIVE & SKI HQ Petone

They have a beauty already on the go, it’s well organized, prices are good and any members keen to go on an overseas trip – make the call NOW

 

Gas Cage – DONE

We now have cage outside and bottle is permanently housed inside.

All you need to do is press switch inside, orange light will come on & bingo – hot showers.

Thanks to Darryn for all the hard work – we paid cost for parts & he did the labour free

 

Working Bee

Was rebooked for mid May but its now in the middle of duck season so we will rebook yet again for June 13^th??

 

April club trips.

Overnighter on Somes Island – done

Poor knights x 6 days – done

Club dive on Wildecat – done

 

Not a bad effort for one month.

 

THIS SUNDAY – I know its mothers day, but if weather is good I intend to shore dive the sth coast “reserve” and see all the schools of fish & crays that people tell me are EVERYWHERE.

Anyone keen to join me – RSVP ASAP

 

Cheers

 

Pete

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4 May 2009

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Good Morning all J

 

Don’t forget – club night tonight.

 

Plenty of photos / DVD of the recent poor knights dive trip to show, so come on down for a beer & see what you missed !!

 

Also – we need to tee up a weekend for the working bee

 

Cheers

 

Pete

 

Apr 2009

20 April 2009

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Hi All

 

Quick reminder re SUBS…. They are due NOW for 09

 

90% of members have paid – good effort & thank you.

 

We are updating the membership database & email list for 09.

 

If you have moved out of the area, no longer diving or for any other reason not rejoining – please let me know so we can take you off the list.

 

*Only financial members are entitled to use the club facilities and receive emails.

 

Also – the gas bottle is now housed in a cage outside so showers are ready to go at all times.

 

There is a key hanging on a nail between the showers – all you need to do is open the small grill on cage and turn the gas on, then flick the switch inside next to where the freezer plugs in.

 

The little light will turn orange.

 

Pete

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20 April 2009

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Hi All

 

Another great weekend of diving yet again……plenty of big crays being caught by the sound of it

 

A few of us went over to Somes Island on Friday afternoon, stayed the night and had a great time.

Cost was $41 ea - $21 for ferry return and $20 for accommodation.

 

We stayed in education house – fully equipped with beds, cooking facilities etc and overlooking Wgtn harbour

After a few drinks we spent a couple of hours walking around the Island then back to the house for dinner and another drink or two.

 

Once dark we set off again with torches for what was to be a great night.

Apart from plenty of nesting penguins, we came across 8 GIANT Wetas……. These are gentle giants and can be held in hand.

 

Then half way along we saw a Tuatara Lizard…. 1sr time I have ever seen a real one in its natural environment.

5 mins later we came onto another even bigger one – right in the middle of the track.

 

What a cool site !!

 

FYI – they are reptiles…. Not lizards.

 

There is plenty of bird life & I would certainly do this again.

 

DIVING: we have a club trip to Tora penciled in for this weekend (usually it’s a long weekend with ANZAC)

Is anyone keen to go??

 

No one has bothered to actually confirm – if there is no interest then another option is a PAUA DIVE off Mana.

 

Next club night is Monday 4^th – there will be a photo / DVD showing of the recent trip to the POOR KNIGHTS.

 

Cheers

 

Pete

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14 April 2009

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Hi All

 

Back from the poor knights & another fantastic dive trip – will do a write up ASAP & have plenty of DVD footage and Photos etc to show next meeting.

 

URGENT!!

There are 5 spaces left for the overnight trip to Somes Island on Friday night

 

We leave 3pm on Friday from Eastbourne, stay overnight in a DOC house on the island & back 12 ish on Sat – short & sweet but a great experience.

 

Cost is very little / BYO food etc

 

Plenty to see & do, explore the island, penguin spotting at night.

 

Pete

Mar 2009

31 March 2009

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Hi All

 

For those who didn’t join in on Sunday’s club dive, I will fill you in.

 

13 of us hopped aboard WILDECAT, it’s a 50ft cougar cat moored at Mana Marina.

Before heading out, Andy cranked up the BBQ and we had hot bacon & Bennik egg rolls, tea / coffee etc then it was off to Mana Island.

 

(Nothing like black burnt crispy bacon to start the day off J)

 

As usual – the *%*$% weather was doing its best to ruin our day & we did a lumpy circumnavigation of the island before choosing the south end.

 

I was told that Saturday had black water….. 15 m viz and very calm.

 

That beats our howling nor wester, green water and 3 m viz !!

 

We spent the next few hours in what you would call challenging dive conditions but toughed it out and still filled a tub of crays, fish & kina

 

Lunch was a full on BBQ of crayfish, fresh fish, sausages, Bacon, chicken, salad & bread rolls etc – all cooked up by chef Beckett

 

Then we jumped back in for the last dive of the day.

 

Greg Bishop is rising up the ranks & claimed diver of the day – with the most fish & crays (biggest fish / smallest gun… go figure)

 

Paul Bennik & Sue Nelson nailed a monster cray (largest of the day) and then passed it over to cook on the bbq – good form J

 

Darryn Plows, having just brought a new dry suit & fins was finally ready to do the deed and get his 1^st cray….. Several dives have been thwarted by bad weather or a bad habit of losing gear.

 

Perhaps Greg & I shouldn’t have discussed a bet on what he will lose next, as he hadn’t got more than 5 m down before one of his new $400 fins came off and disappeared into the murky current…L

 

If anyone knows a one legged bloke who is keen to start diving – Darryn has a flash new fin for sale @ 50% off

 

A great day & cheers to all who joined in.

 

We will be booking Wildcat on a regular basis (once a month) although will probably keep it to 10 people.

 

Don’t forget – no official meeting next Monday but Neil or Sue will open up and members keen for a beer & catch up are encouraged to call in.

 

Sorry I can’t make it but will be busy diving the poor knights………BUGGA

 

Pete

 

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27 March 2009

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Hi All

 

We are all go for this Sundays dive, so everyone confirmed – see you there 8am sharp at Mana Marina.

 

We will be cooking up bacon & eggs for breakfast before we go, then head over to Mana for a couple or 3 dives.

Lunch will be a BBQ & salad – tea & coffee available all day.

 

2 spots left I think if there are any more takers.

 

POOR KNIGHTS

12 of us head away on the 4^th April, Toddy’s annual diving trip.

 

For those members who missed out, ref to the last email: Petone Dive HQ have another trip heading up to the knights very soon & have a few spaces.

There is also the info on an overseas dive trip – well worth checking out.

 

Next Club night – Monday 6^th April

With many of us away there won’t be a formal meeting, but by all means pop in for a beer.

 

There is also a non scuba – paua dive trip at Mana in the pipeline, probably in a few weeks – Mitch & Malcolm are keen to provide transport, I will keep you posted.

 

Sue Bennik heads into hosp soon for another op – Sue, we wish you all the very best.

 

Marcello is nursing a broken knee at the moment (bugger) so no diving for him & he has also had to pull out of the trip

HARDEN UP MATE!! You have one good one left.

 

Development!!

Wild blue North Island Spear fishing champs – we had a great day & cheers to all club members to made the effort to come down & help out.

Special thanks to Sue Nelson & Malcolm Priest.

For those who didn’t come down – you missed a HUGE KINGFISH that was filleted & cooked up on the BBQ.

I managed 5 kingfish Sammie’s before tapping out and couldn’t eat any more.

 

NOW: the interesting development.

K.U.C has “hosted” the event each year – but its put together & run by the Heretaunga free diving club.

 

KUC is now going to actually take over & run the event – it will be our comp.

The organizers have approached us & we are in discussion to sort out the finer details, Steve & Kevin will still be involved – but KUC will put it together.

 

This is a fantastic opportunity for the club to gain exposure & attract new membership – more details to come J

 

Right – that’s it, I’m off to fix my broken spear gun & fill tanks.

 

See ya on the water!!

 

Pete

 

 

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23 March 2009

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All

 

Am back in the land of the living after another fantastic Wanganui River adventure J

Have left my phone in another car & will not get it back for another day or two – so sorry if you have tried to call.

 

THIS WEEKEND – CLUB DIVE

 

Sunday the 29^th - Club dive on WILDECAT

 

Wildecat is a 50 ft cat and can take 15 of us.

 

Cost is $60 pp and that also includes breakfast and lunch, tea & coffee etc.

 

Plan is we meet at MANA marina 7.45am / 8.00 am

Drive in and head down to the left – park at the end.

 

Do not be late!

 

Load up, and then we will head out to Mana Island for a min of 2 dives – 3 if we can squeeze it in

 

Plan is to be back at 4.30.

 

Mana is on fire at the moment with plenty of HUGE crays and good viz

 

Trip just about full – please reply to me direct if you want to join in on what promises to be a great dive day

 

Pete

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18 March 2009

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All

 

Last call for this weekends Wanganui River trip……………..

 

We are on river Fri / Sat / Sun and cover 87 km of incredible scenery – some of the best you will see in a lifetime!!

 

Cost is minimal – approx $230 and they supply all equipment.

Canoes, waterproof drums, DOC passes, Hutt permits etc and we even get dropped off at river & collected at the end.

 

Anyone keen to join – let me know ASAP

 

Cheers

 

Pete

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13 March 2009

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Cost revision

 

Have just confirmed the Sunday 29^th March with Lance, owner of Wildecat Charters – 55 ft cougar cat

 

Club dive is all go & we can take 15 divers.

 

Boat cost is $750 for the day, divide by 15 = $50 ea

Add $10 for food and you have $60 ea for a full days diving Inc food / hot BBQ etc

 

 

We will be diving several spots around Mana Island.

I dived it on sat and nailed 4 big crays inside 1 minute of hitting the bottom at 14m

 

This will be a great day – be in quick

Pete

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13 March 2009

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Hi All

 

Dan has made call on Tora trip this weekend as not being very good weather wise & will not be going.

Better weather on Kapiti side & the Spear fishing comp is on this Sat anyway.

 

Eric is still heading over to Tora so anyone keen to go over & join them is welcome.

Please let him know!!

 

Last weekends Plimmerton Fishing comp was good.

Weather did its best to keep us on shore & the waves were as big as houses – but we prevailed & did the deed.

Mitch, Malcolm, Dwayne Hood & myself.

 

Tally was a lot of fish, a lot of crays and we even scored a couple of prizes to boot J

We also caught up with Lance / wildecat charters and tied off for a crayfish / paua BBQ.

 

Make a note now – March 29^th!!

CLUB DIVE

 

Wildecat can take 15 of us for a club dive.

Details to be confirmed but we are all go, cost will be cheap as & lunch included.

If we get away early we can get 3 dives in

 

This is a walk on walk off easy as dive boat

1^st 15 divers to confirm & pay $30 deposit are in.

 

Ring me direct 0274180841

 

I think cost will be about $45 ea and that will include breakfast / lunch / tea / coffee  etc

 

Pete

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3 March 2009

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Hi Everyone

 

Cheers to all who attended last night club meeting – good to catch up as usual.

 

I will do a full follow up newsletter soon but thought I better let you all know about the working bee.

 

CHANGE OF DATE !!!!!!

 

This weekend is the Plimmerton dive / fishing comp plus there is another one in Raumati.

½ the club members are going to be out diving & fishing….. funny that.

(Registration is Friday evening for those participating)

 

So – Working Bee has a new date – May 16^th “Please make a note” and spread the word to other members.

 

Also – Club Access….

I came in last night, the toilet window was open, the freezer door had been left open ½ inch (so everything has thawed out & gone off) and photos had been pulled off the wall???

 

The club is there for all members to use and enjoy – please do so.

 

BUT PLEASE!!!! Close up properly !!!!!!

Whoever didn’t close freezer properly has cost us the meat earmarked for the working bee bbq L L

 

 

Pete

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October 2008

14 October 2008

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Hi Troops

If you are not all too busy diving – please read the following……. J

The Kapiti Underwater Club CHRISTMAS PARTY is all set for Sat the 29th Nov from 6.30pm
We will be using the catering services of a spit roast company so that everyone can relax & enjoy the night.

The club will be decked out with Xmas theme & the tree will be up – Santa will also be popping in with prezzies for the kids & a warm knee for the ladies to sit on….

Sue & Christine are coordinating this event & we need 40 adults minimum (that’s only 20 members plus partners) to make this happen.
Cost is $35 per head for a full Xmas feast J (big people only)

The club will be providing refreshments & food & presents for the kiddies so bring your family as all are welcome
If you do have kids (under 12) please let me know so we can ensure Santa has their present.

We need to sell the tickets ASAP and confirm the booking – PLEASE, if you are coming, let me know ASAP – and pay your $$

SHORE DIVE FOR PAUA

I have been in touch with the Wgtn 4 x 4 club and they are keen to take us out waaay around the south coast on Sat 1st November.
Anyone keen – let me know, plan is we meet at Island bay quarry & pile into the 4 x 4s – head around the coast, get some paua & have a beach bbq / beers etc

Wanganui River trip – we are heading off next weekend for 3 days in our wetsuits – still room on trip for anyone keen on the adventure of a lifetime.

Club dives – already happening, I have logged 9 dives in the last week or so by simply using the buddy list to tee up some dives with other club members – it’s as simple as that.

We had a good turn out at the last club meeting & have a few new members join up, plus others who have simply come in as have heard of the club.
Toddy’s annual dive trip to the poor knights had its last few spots filled by club members & we are also looking at a Chattam Island trip in Feb – will keep you posted. (ref Paul Bennik)

Talk of the night was all about our fantastic club trip down to Gary & Barbara Ashton’s lodge – NO ROAD INN & the very hairy crossing we had getting across the sounds.

Weather was 45 knots, STORM WARNING was in place and the straight has waves bigger than a 3 story building……. NO PROBLEM JJ
The KUC flag was hoist & our merry band of 14 keen members made what was a 2 hour decent into hell…. the waves were HUGE, the wind was howling and at one point I was wishing I had my wetsuit on.
The Cherry chatter & banter soon turned into the sound of breakfasts being regurgitated by several not so hardy club members – Jude taking line honors with her redecorating of the “inside” of the cabin.

10/10 marks to the skipper – although bloody rough, the boat handled it no worries & the skip knows his stuff for sure – we got across several pieces but from there had a great weekend.
We dived for crays, well 3 did as everyone else was green – then we all hit east bay for scallops before heading to the lodge & a night of 5 star luxury.
A whole sheep was slow roasted in the outdoor oven, the drinks flowed, as did the outdoor hot tub & Gazza & Barbe went out of their way to make us feel welcome –  Thank you both for your fantastic hospitality!!
We did two more dives on the way back – more crays, more scallops and a nice calm crossing back.

Members who made the trip – please tell everyone you know all about the NO ROAD INN as word of mouth is the best referrals.

WWW – Re the club web site

The site is out of date & we have a new one already done but Glen’s business commitments are preventing him from putting in the time needed to run it.
Is there anyone out there keen on looking after the club website? – Please talk to Glen & he will fill you in.

Speaking of Glen – he has made the commitment to take out regular club trips over Jan / Feb / March – bloody great offer mate J
The club is also booking a boat big enough to take 15 divers on club dives once a month so the summer diving is looking good.

Catch you under the water J
Pete the prez

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August 2008

24 August 2008

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Hi Eveyone.

Summertime is almost on us (honest) and with daylight saving about to start the diving picks up big time.
Now is the time to get your gear into the local dive shop for a service, also – if you haven’t dived for awhile then a refresher course is a bloody good idea.
A Navigation touch up is essential for some J

I have witnessed a few inexperienced divers of late getting a bit out of their depth so to speak – this is where the club can help.
The most important lesson a good diver learns – “is know your limits”
Don’t be pressured or ever feel like you have to keep up with the more experienced members.
Anyone wanting or needing some extra dive tuition / advice or help in anyway – please feel free to call and myself or the club captains will happily offer our help.

Lots to discuss in this newsletter.
Before I start – if anyone doesn’t want to get the club emails just let me know and your address can be blocked out.

Last club meeting – FANTASTIC TURN OUT.

A cold and windy night still saw the club room almost full with members who popped in for a beer and catch up – good effort
Apologies were sent by Greg Bishop & Paul Bennik unable to attend.

Petone Wharf clean up – DONE J
About 10 club members (7 divers) made the effort to support dive HQ on their annual clean up under the Petone wharf.
We pulled up 3 supermarket trolleys, found a few old fishing rods and filled up our catch bags with plastic rubbish etc and left the place in a better condition – Job WELL DONE
Dwayne also decided to leave his catch bag somewhere on the bottom so anyone wanting a catch bag – salvage laws apply J

After the clean up we then headed to Eastbourne for a scallop dive and a few cold beers.

Scallop Dives – have been happening pretty much every single weekend and are well attended by club members.
Apart from scallops we have seen flounder, skate, seahorses, mussels and even a couple of oysters.
I scooped a scallop up last week measuring 159 mm – verified by Malcolm & Eric (who measured it twice ha ha) this is the largest scallop I have seen for a few years and certainly knocks Eric & Greg out of the big scallop comp.
It was only in 3.1 m of water – so keep an eye out in the shallows.

The club has purchased 2 floating dive flags for use on club shore dives – should keep the boats off our heads!!

Another recent club addition is a 2nd outdoor patio heater so we are well set up for summer bbqs.
There will also be regular Friday night club drinkies over summer – every 2nd Friday for members wanting to do more socializing & after work diving

TORA – DONE

In what must have been the largest club turn out – 20 members made the trip over to the coast.
Weather was so so and dirty water put paid to diving – but we still made the most of it with a huge fire to keep us warm, venison, pork, chickens etc in the hangi cooker and what must have been a lot of piss as I don’t remember anything after 9pm J
We got a good feed of paua by searching the rocks at low tide, Ton & Dwayne Hood brought their boats over and had a crack at the fish.
Danny showed us all exactly how much damage a prop can suffer from hitting rocks – all in all another great weekend.
During the night we discussed the idea of setting up a club catering trailer – fully enclosed & all set up with cooker, gas, hot water, fridge, utensils etc so on a club trip we just hook it up and away we go.
This would support more “away” trips – it’s either a bloody great idea or the beer was talking as 20 people have already indicated support.
We certainly have the skills within the club to build it on the cheap and it would be an asset for the next 20 years – anyone wanting to perhaps draw up some ideas please do & we can at least look at the idea.

Poor Knights – Dive Trip

Dive HQ have a trip coming up to the poor knights in a few weeks – leaving 13th OCT
Cost is $775 and includes 12 dives and food / boat etc
Boat is the PACIFIC HIDEAWAY – 4 days.
Anyone keen – contact Claire or Tommo ASAP
If you have not done the knights or been on the Pacific Hideaway – DO THIS TRIP !!!!!
I have done 5 and not to be missed – BEST DIVING IN NZ.

UPCOMING SOUNDS TRIP TO GARY ASHTONS – not far now !!

Its 100% ALL GO J
Weekend of OCT 4th & 5th – deposit is paid.

We are all to meet 7am SHARP at F Pier Mana Marina – Boat is the big cougar cat that’s 1st on the left (Wildcat Charters)
Plenty of room for gear but please limit tanks to two each.
Plan is we will head across and catch up with Gary in his boat plus Toddy & Chello who are going over with GT I think.
We will get a couple of dives in, do a bit of fishing then head to the lodge for what will be an epic night J
Tanks can be filled up at furneaux overnight so we can get another couple of dives in on Sunday before heading back with a return ETA approx 4pm.
There is plenty of parking at the marina – drive in and go to the left, drive to the very end and park there.

Food – I will be doing a full shop and get pretty much everything for morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, breakfast, lunch etc.
That will also include tea, coffee, juice, toilet paper, Ice and whatever I can think off – BUT… by all means feel free to bring some home baking J
Cakes are especially welcome.
BYO BOOZE

COST – looks steady at $250 each – we have all paid $100 deposit & we now need to pay the $150 balance.
I don’t want any $$ hassles or IOUs etc so please deposit your $$ direct into the club account so it’s over & done with.
That way the food shop can be done and boat paid etc – the few members making their own way over still need to pay $50 ea towards food and something for Gary to say thanks for having us.
Greg will keep tabs on the account – lets make his job easy and get the $$ paid over the next week odd.
Members going – Pete, Mandi, Ian, Geraldine, Sue & Graham, Mitch, Greg, Brent, Malcolm, Paul Bennik, Eric & Chris, Danny & Jude – plus toddy & Chello

You need to bring – DIVE GEAR, Sleeping bag & Pillow, change of clothes, 2 towels and personal stuff, – Swimsuits are totally optional for the hot tub but Toddy – please cover up!

WANGANUI RIVER TRIP

Labour weekend – OCTOBER 25th, 26th, 27th.
This is a 3 day, 87 km canoe adventure down the Wanganui River and rates as an incredible life experience.
Cost is approx $290 ea and that will cover fuel (car pool) food, canoes, DOC permits, hutt passes and all the equipment plus an experienced guide (ME J)
Anyone wanting to come on this trip needs to let me know ASAP. – Again, this is an amazing trip that you will remember for the rest of your life.
I put it as one of the things you MUST do once in your life time.

Thank you – Aaron Sheerin who has once again cleaned the club carpets

Xmas Party

Sue & Christine have penciled Nov 29th for the 41st annual KUC Christmas party.
This year will be a fully catered spit roast dinner & dance etc and 40 people minimum are needed to make it fly @ $35 per head – big people only
We will put on other food & stuff for the kiddies at no cost.
Santa will be there & prezzies for kids under 10.

Right – That’s about it.
From reports coming in members are already diving hard out & Glen has made mention he will make silhouette more available this summer to help the club host more regular club dives – thanks Glen!
Any other boat owners who can help out – please let me know

Safe Diving

Pete the prez

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