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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Mercury Bay

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Mercury Bay.

Mercury Bay, in the county of Coromandel, is the name given generally to a district which includes the thriving settlements of Kuaotunu and Whitianga. The harbour itself is small, and lies to the north-east of the Thames, and is about eighty-five miles by steamer from Auckland. Quartz mining on an extensive scale is carried on at Kuaotunu. The Mercury Bay district has a population of about 600 persons.

Hodge, Gregor Alexander, Tailor and Clothier, Mercury Bay. Mr. Hodge's business was originally established by Messrs Dowling and Hodge in 1895, and taken over by Mr. Hodge on the dissolution of partnership in 1897. The premises are centrally situated with a floor-space of 270 square feet, and possess every convenience for a first-class trade, which extends through the whole of the district north of Whangarei. Mr. Hodge guarantees first-class work and as he subscribes to all the principal tailors' journals is in a position to supply his customers with up-to-date fashions. He was born in Auckland in 1874, is a son of Mr. R. P. Hodge, of Mercury Bay, who was born on board the “Jane Gifford” in 1842, during her voyage from England to New Zealand. Mr. R. P. Hodge served through the Waikato and Taranaki campaigns, and was invalided home. His son, Mr. G. A. Hodge, served his apprenticeship with Messrs Davey and Sons, tailors, of Wellesley Street, his cutting experience being gained from Mr. John White, of the North Shore. Mr. Hodge was for eighteen months with Mr. M. Murchie, and then in conjunction with Mr. W. P. Dowling went to the Bay of Islands and established the firm of Dowling and Hodge at Ohaeawai in 1895. Later on he removed to Mercury Bay. Mr. Hodge is an enthusiastic cricketer and takes a lively interest in all sporting matters.

Mercury Bay, where Captain Cook observed the Transit of the Planet Mercury.

Mercury Bay, where Captain Cook observed the Transit of the Planet Mercury.