Can magic mushrooms really help you understand bitcoin?

That’s what one German billionaire says. But it’s not why the Aztecs and the hippies were such fans

Finally! Whoa … Says who? Christian Angermayer: “It was the single most meaningful thing I’ve ever done in my whole life,” he said, about his first psychedelic trip in 2015 in the Caribbean (where it’s legal). He said it provided the insight required to get his head round the cryptocurrency.

Who is Angermayer? A new-age space cadet? Actually, a 43-year-old German billionaire investor. He has an unconventional portfolio that includes space travel, as it happens, as well as crypto, special purpose acquisitions companies, films, cancer drugs, Covid drugs … … Continue Reading

Book review 

Battlers, Bluffers and bully boys. 

Spending  some time sifting through the Library’s catalogue often rewards with an interesting find, Battlers, Bluffers and bully boys is one such. Author Richard Wolfe has done some serious investigation to produce a background piece on each of New Zealand’s leaders up to and including Helen Clark. These including men who held the titles of colonial secretary and premier, the direct predecessors to the modern office. Colonial Secretary, the original title of the office was formally changed to “premier” in 1869, and then to “prime minister” in 1907 when New Zealand was granted Dominion status in the British Empire.  … Continue Reading

From the Mayor

Autumn has arrived, with the cooler temperatures coming as a wakeup call as we approach the winter months. A few years ago, this would have signalled the shoulder of the tourism season, and businesses would be winding down. Not so this year, with Martinborough seeming as busy as ever – long may it last.

We have had excellent attendance at public meetings, both for the proposed Long Term Plan, and Spatial Plan. The submissions closed on the last day of April, and we will consider all submissions during May.

The eco-reef trial along Cape Palliser Road look set for installation, and I’m excited to see how this will influence maintenance of the road to Ngawi. This road is one of 6 Special Purpose roads in NZ, which means the maintenance is funded by NZTA. There is a plan to remove this subsidy in a few years, something I will be fighting to avoid. … Continue Reading

Community Day Activity For Elderly Available

Wharekaka Aged Care Facility has launched a new Community Day Activity service for older people living  in the South Wairarapa. 

Held every Tuesday from 9.00 to 3.00pm at the Lions’ Den, Oxford Street, Martinborough, the programme offers interesting activities, a midday meal, and a welcome chance to chat and meet others over a cuppa.   

Co-ordinated by one of Wharekaka’s experienced, trained caregivers, with support from an external qualified diversional therapist, the planned activities include bowls, card games, baking, quizzes and crafts.  … Continue Reading