The Informer - 20th Feb 2024 by theinformernz

FLOX, ART ESCAPE

20 February, 2024 | Proudly locally owned and operated Issue 1093 Circulation 9000

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CONNECTING COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA

SEE PAGE 6 (07) 866 2090 info@theinformer.co.nz

EROSION AND FLOODING THREATEN BUT LITTLE ACTION BY PAULINE STEWART

his is an aerial view of Buffalo Beach and clearly seen is Mother Brown’s Creek or Taputapuatea Stream flowing down to the ocean. In this photo it was a tidal small river. There are storm water drains positioned to assist the overflow of water to and from the ocean and river in times of deluge. You can see circled the mouth of the stream and Taputapuatea Bridge, also circled is the Boating Club where it used to be, and the home of Warren Harris and Suzie Fletcher’s home. Now there is no tidal action at the mouth of the stream; the flow has stopped and no flow under the bridge. A large sand bank gave way during Hale and Gabriel and it has filled the mouth and added to it are a series of dumpings of debris from throughout the past winter rains. What was clear ground is now overgrown and the wetlands around the stream are clogged with undergrowth and the smell is foul. The flow has stopped, not because of the volume of water or that the direction of flow has structurally changed; there has been little done by any

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authority to make a difference to this situation. Warren Harris and Suzie Fletcher live on opposite sides of Buffalo Beach Road. Warren’s home is facing severe erosion if something is not done to protect the homes between the road and the Bay. He represents a number of home owners. The edict for many years now has been, ‘No hard ﬁll or no hard structures.’

He is also just metres from Buffalo Beach Road which is also State Highway 25. The road is as vulnerable as the homes. Concrete blocks, a line of large stones and the Boating Clubhouse on stilts between Warren’s home and the ocean are a crude reminder of how past proposals, plans and actions have not worked. Suzie Fletcher approached The Informer out of frustration and great concern at the knowledge that she is surrounded by wetlands that can only flood her entire property if there is another decent storm and deluge because there is nowhere for the water to flow. Continued on page 3

The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024 | 1

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CORRECTIONS: Whitianga Airfield is another base of operations for the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter service over the peak summer holiday period. The service is located there from Boxing Day through to Waitangi Day, subject to aircraft availability. The service is grateful for the government’s support in helping cover our operational costs. The total cost of a mission is about $8,000 per hour. Specifically, Te Whatu Ora or ACC helps cover this cost dependent on whether it’s an accident or medical emergency. The Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust has a very good relationship with the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter service. The majority of mission taskings come from the National Air Desk. Task-

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Leith Jackson, Hangar Operations, next to John Stephenson, Chairperson of the Trust with the vehicle on free loan from Farmer Autovillage.

ings can also come from other agencies such as the Rescue Coordination Centre or Police. Innovations such as the Lucas device and the larger cabin size of the Leonardo AW-169’s means resuscitation can be performed with relative ease aboard all three aircraft. Whitianga crew were afforded two vehicles for use this summer. Sponsor SG Fleet provided a Santa Fe as a Rapid Response Vehicle (RRV) and Sponsor Farmer Auto Village provided a ute for getting around town. The RRV means Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter crew can assist local patients and emergency services

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STAR and SPACE STATION GAZING IN 2024 – your guide to the night sky Tuesday, 20 February - Wednesday, 28 February: Bright Jupiter is still unmistakable after sunset glowing as the brightest thing in the northwestern sky but getting ever lower each night. As it gets darker the Pleiades or Matariki can be seen to its right and are best viewed in binoculars. Much brighter Venus is low in the dawn sky and is gradually catches up to and passes faint but slightly reddish Mars this week. Mercury is now too close to the Sun to see. There will be several International Space Station (ISS) passes to enjoy this week. As usual, timings may change, especially towards the end of the month, if it has to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above.com for updated timings. Wednesday, 21 February: Venus has moved to be almost beside reddish Mars low in the east at dawn. Friday, 23 February: Brilliant Venus is now right next to Mars at dawn in the east with a short evening ISS pass from 10:05 low in the south. Saturday, 24 February: Full Moon tonight. Sunday, 25 February: We have a short but bright ISS pass from 10:05pm low in the SW. Monday, 26 February: There will be another short but bright ISS pass low in the SW from 9:16pm disappearing into the Earth’s shadow just after passing just below the Southern Cross. Tuesday, 27 February: Brilliant Venus has now passed Mars low in the eastern dawn sky with a short but bright ISS pass from 10:04pm low in the SW. Wednesday, 28 February: A short but brighter ISS pass tonight from 9:15pm in the SW.

Wednesday 21 February

should their expertise be needed (which was the case this summer). There are a number of reasons for transporting patients to Auckland City Hospital rather than Waikato Hospital including the domicile of the patient and severity of the injury or medical complaint. The travel time from Whitianga to Auckland City Hospital is 20 minutes (versus 35 minutes to Waikato Hospital). A typical Whitianga crew consists of a Pilot, Air Crew Officer and two Critical Care Paramedics. Pre-Hospital and Retrieval Medicine Doctors are also available from Auckland (16 minutes’ flight away).

Mercury Bay – the sun, the moon and the tides Thursday 22 February

Friday 23 February

Saturday 24 February

Sunday 25 February

Monday 26 February

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This week’s Tides is sponsored by

Tuesday 27 February

Sun: Rise 6:52am Set 8:07pm

Sun: Rise 6:53am Set 8:06pm

Sun: Rise 6:54am Set 8:04pm

Sun: Rise 6:56am Set 8:03pm

Sun: Rise 6:57am Set 8:02pm

Sun: Rise 6:58am Set 8:00pm

Sun: Rise 6:59am Set 7:59pm

Moon: Rise 6:35pm Set 3:06am

Moon: Rise 7:12pm Set 4:07am

Moon: Rise 7:42pm Set 5:09am

Moon: Rise 8:08pm Set 6:09am

Moon: Rise 8:32pm Set 7:09am

Moon: Rise 8:53pm Set 8:06am

Moon: Rise 9:15pm Set 9:03am

High Tides: 5:41am 5:55pm

High Tides: 6:35am 6:50pm

High Tides: 7:24am 7:40pm

High Tides: 8:09am 8:26pm

High Tides: 8:51am 9:08pm

High Tides: 9:30am 9:48pm

High Tides: 10:07am 10:25pm

HOT HOT WATER Low Tides: 12:43am 1:18pm WATER Low Tides: 1:31am 2:04pm BEACH BEACH

HOT WATER Low Tides: 2:14am 2:45pm BEACH

HOT WATER Low Tides: 2:54am 3:24pm BEACH

HOT WATER Low Tides: 3:32am 4:01pm BEACH

HOT HOT WATER Low Tides: 11:32am 11:51pm WATER Low Tide: 12:27pm BEACH BEACH

2 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024

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Taputapuatea Stream doesn’t ﬂow – Erosion part 2

This is at the back of Suzie Fletcher’s home – the land was once clear right through to the ﬂax; downstream from the Fletcher home are properties in line for ﬂooding; above Warren Harris and Suzie Fletcher.

Continued from page 1 As try as she might to be heard and get some kind of plan of action, there has been no clearing of vegetation and the stream mouth is so silted that flow is backed up way beyond her home. Many of the surrounding homes are lower than hers Bird life has almost disappeared and the rats have arrived. Last issue (Tuesday, 13 February) Warren Harris spoke about the lack of action and the danger of flooding and erosion that his home and many others live with every year. They know there will be another Cyclone Bola or Gabrielle. They want to prepare for it

and for a future that they know makes them very vulnerable.

WARREN CONTINUES HIS STORY. The edict for many years now has been, ‘No hard fill or no hard structures.’ It is all across the country. How could any government make one ruling for an entire island nation when many of the current stone walls (hard structures) have saved countless sections of coastal roads and saved people’s homes? I can understand the science that the ocean is rising and storms are becoming more frequent. Sorting out facts of the what and how of Climate Change and Global

Warming doesn’t clearly add up. Yes, the ocean is very powerful but why is retreat the only solution? That is the latter part I do not understand or accept. Holland would hardly exist if the Dutch had taken that attitude. The have raised magnificent structures and have ocean and river diversions to take and hold the water in peak flood times They direct where it goes and channel and contain however much the deluge determines. They didn’t just say, “It’s all too hard.” The Mayor has spoken often at meetings of the 400 kilometres of coastline and about the Coastal Protection Policy document – three years of work. It is good

research but the research on the river systems that connect with the ocean has not been done and they have a major effect on flooding and erosion especially when they meet up with the ocean. These points need to be a focus of decisive action. We have one serious situation right here at Mother Brown’s Creek or Taputapuatea Spit. What about just measuring the coastline where we need to do the work to protect the homes of people who are choosing to use science to help them protect their homes? To urge retreat as the only solution and saying that to a nation of people many of whom live

near the beach, without detail of options and with a policy of no rock walls, what value is on the very homes to whom the Councils granted the owners a Resource Consent to build? Those owners pay their rates and their taxes and are witness to often tardy treatment by local authorities. If a home is already there and it has not yet been washed away, then why not do everything to protect it. Across the road(SH25) from ‘Wozza’, is a quarter acre block on which sits the Fletcher home and the workshop of the late Mr Fletcher, Suzie’s husband. Erosion part 3 next week

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A challenging time for Whitianga Continuing Care January 28 – February 8 BY STAN STEWART

he days been 28 January and February 8 were extremely sad and stressful for the small continuing care home in Buffalo Beach Road Whitianga. Six of the 44 residents in this aged care residential facility died, during an outbreak of the flu like symptoms in this brief period of time. It was not covid. Every resident with the flu symptoms was tested and all the tests were negative. The property is owned and operated by Oceania Healthcare. There are 44 Oceania Homes of this kind across New Zealand and this very sad turn of events has not occurred in any of their other facilities. The Informer contacted their Group General Manager Sales and Service, Anita Hawthorne. “We are very relieved and satisfied that the facility is now all clear, with no symptoms reported with any residents.” Whata Ora’s report stated that from 8 February, no more residents had presented with flu symptoms and no resident or staff member is currently in hospital with influenza. From the time the first resident was identified with influenza type symptoms, the facility went into a pre-determined plan to manage such an outbreak. The Public Health service was immediately notified, and the Care Centre and Village were placed in lockdown requiring staff to wear PPE gear. Family and friends of the resi-

Whitianga’s Oceana care centre and village is now calm after the inﬂuenza storm.

dents were notified of the situation and some residents opted to return to family homes during the lockdown. The small facility in a very beautiful location on the beach front of Whitianga had been in crisis for those days. Many staff working at the facility also contracted influenza. In total, 28 staff and residents had suffered from influenza during the period of the outbreak. Approximately 50 staff, including registered nurses and healthcare workers, alongside cleaners and kitchen staff, work at Whitianga

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“Residents who were well, were At the time of writing, Thursanxious and worried for them- day, 15 February, the Continuing COME VISIT USandAT OUR selves their friends.CO-LOCATED Care home STORE is once again a calm “In the end, we Whitianga managed well and beautiful community. 1 Blacksmith Lane, | 07 8346463 because everyone pulled their Visiting is as normal and resweight and more. idents are moving around as Curtains | Blinds | Shutters | Tracks | Accessories Care Centre and Village. “Obviously, it was a tiring time before – a welcome calm after the One of the local staff spoke with but there were no complaints. influenza storm. The Informer. The work of care and support of Anita, was confident that the “Coping required the shared the Home had to go on. Because local community need no longer effort of everyone during this of hard work and shared effort, all be concerned but was clear that trying time. The outbreak greatly bases were covered.” any members of the community increased the workload for nursStaff commented that the rela- intending to visit friends and famBIRTHDAY ing, kitchen staff and others tives of the deceased were most ily there, must be very sure they particularly when several staff understanding and helpful. Their do not have any symptoms of flu members contracted the influ- cooperation in this sad time was or are feeling unwell, when they enza. very much appreciated. do. “Because of hard work and shared effort, all bases were covered.”

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Mercury Bay Art Escape 2024 Open Studios

You are invited to explore the artists and their studios - rich and eclectic mediums. GALA OPENING KEYNOTE SPEAKER Mercury Bay Art Escape 2024 opens with the annual Gala Event on Friday, 1 March 2024, 6.00pm at Hot Waves Cafe, Hot Water Beach. Art Escape 2024 will be opened by the internationally acclaimed aerosol and stencil artist FLOX. Her trademark native birds, ferns and flowers are a celebration of Aotearoa’s environmental taonga. FLOX’s trademark of vibrant and confident colour combined with delicacy magically transformed walls into vibrant depictions of the natural world. See this in her mural on the wall of the alleyway between the town hall and The Cave shop in Whitianga. FLOX has expanded her practice into prints, publications, murals, graphic design, live painting, projects and workshops. She has been involved in numerous collaborations, charity work and both group and solo exhibitions and is recognised as one of New

FLOX, Mercury Bay Art Escape’s opening guest speaker and artist seen here in front of one of her creations.

Zealand’s leading contemporary artists. In recent years FLOX has pushed her own artistic boundaries with residencies in Taiwan and a journey to Udaipur in India. She has gained

international recognition as an artist. Come to Opening Night featuring FLOX as guest speaker. Tickets available from the MBAE website h t t p s : / / w w w. m e r c u r y -

bay-artescape.com/ Hot Waves Café in Hot Water Beach is exhibiting showcase art from each Art Escape artist Over the first two weekends in March, Saturday, Sunday 2/3 March and Saturday, Sunday 9/10 March, Mercury Bay Art Escape is the opportunity to visit 40 local artists in their studios from Matarangi to Hikuai in the stunning Eastern Coromandel Peninsula. With an eclectic mix of art mediums, studio visits provide the opportunity to see work in progress and buy direct from the artist. There is such a range – painting, printmaking, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics, photography, mosaics, and ironmongering. If you miss the March Open Studios, these artists are open by appointment during the year and welcome a visit. On the MBAE web page is a listing of our local major sponsors as well as supporters who provide gifts and flowers for our event. Check them out and give these local businesses and artists your support.

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STAN’S STUFF

Living in paradise, why think about a concentration camp? BY STAN STEWART

have been thinking about an Auschwitz Concentration camp story. It is a true story written by Viktor Frankl, one of the most influential psychotheraptists of the 20th century. I think about it when I sit on the Whitianga wharf, when I stroll the beaches at sunset, when I lay awake in my comfortable bed. Why? In this wonderful environment with so many friendly people there is so much to enjoy. Why spend any time or energy thinking about one of the most horrible episodes of human history. It’s because of my need to find meaning in my life ‘now’. Frankl titled his book “Man’s Search for Meaning’. The search for meaning in human existence is unending. It is the number one most important human endeavor in every circumstance of life. The search for meaning is relevant for me and I suggest for all of us who in 2024

live in this Coromandel paradise,. What is my life’s meaning NOW? Let’s imagine that you have worked hard, and raised your family, bought your dream house – if you’re lucky with a breath-taking view. What next? I mean what next for your life? Now! What is the meaning of my life now? That question confronts all of us even those who are not aware of it. What do I do now? What’s next? Do I sit back and admire the view until I die? For some years I lived with an old man. His main thing was watching TV. However, he would always complain “There’s nothing on TV worth watching” but he continued to watch it until he died. Frankl says to have a full life, a satisfying life we all must have a ‘meaning’. Searching for that meaning in every situation of life is always a most important task. I agree. That is why I constantly search for my own ‘meaning while living in paradise.

I think this is an important question for all of us? Finding my meaning is a key to living a satisfying and fulfilling life here in the Coromandel. This is just as important for us as it was to the inmates of Auschwitz. The concentration camp that Frankl writes about is really about life with the volume turned up 1000%. At its core, the life and death situations that the prisoners face are not that dissimilar to the issues in our beachside paradise. By observing how individuals wrestled with the question of the meaning of their life in that horrific situation can be of surprising help to those of us lucky enough to live out our life here in paradise. But believe me – the presence or absence of ‘meaning’ can be a life and death question for all of us. I have heard that some people feel it’s not appropriate for me to be drawing attention to a ‘Jewish’ text at this time. The horrors of the Gaza strip confront us

every time we view international news. The right and wrong of this catastrophe are debated on the world stage and can generate heated debate in every community, including ours. My point is simply this. The book is about the ‘truth’ of the human condition. It deals with issues that are key to a person surviving/coping in any situation. It is not about politics or world forces. It is about helping individuals one at a time of all nations, tribes, ethnicities to find reasons to keep on living and to find their unique contribution whatever their situation. I have heard that some individuals suggest that because the author is ‘Jewish’ it must be somehow tainted. I find any such suggestion despicable. Think of the contribution of Jewish people to science, music, philosophy, medicine, physiciatry and all of the arts. We have all benefited and continue to benefit from the industry and creativity of this people. I need say no more.

I intend to produce my play on ‘Man’s Search For Meaning’ as an acted reading in Whitianga. Details as to when and where are still to be finalized however, it looks likely that the production will be close to ANZAC Day. I am recruiting readers right now and my need is for men to read short parts. ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ has sold over 17 million copies. In the USA the Library of Congress rates it as one of the ten most influential books in the US. Copies of the book can be purchased at Whitianga Paper Plus. The illustration of the bird associated with this article, relates to Frankl’s observation that there was beauty even in the camp. He was referring to the small birds which at times perched on the electrified fence.

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Darts is the winner at Coroglen Tavern

ose Stables came into The Informer to place an advertisement for an Annual General Meeting of the Coroglen Darts Club at Coroglen Tavern but there was so much more to her story than a meeting. If walls could talk, The Coroglen Tavern would have a number of interesting stories to tell. More than a few of those tales would centre on the traditional pub game of darts. The well-known landmark tavern, situated on the corner of State Highway 25 and the Tapu-Coroglen Road, is the home of the Coroglen Darts Club, officially formed on 9 May 1968, almost fifty-five years ago. If enthusiasm could grow a club by 200% then Rose is the winner. “You can’t go wrong with darts,” says Rose. “You don’t need to be very sporty. You can still achieve at darts. However, once you start getting to the point where you care about your scoring, then you need to practise. A person playing darts has to get the hand-eye coordination right. Darts is a skill thing and practising your ability with eyehand co-ordination. It doesn’t matter whether you are male or

“You don’t need to be very sporty. You can still achieve at darts. However, once you start getting to the point where you care about your scoring, then you need to practise.”

Tracy, Rose and Stoney enjoy an after-darts social time at the Coroglen Tavern.

female.” “There are 18-year-olds and we have 80 and 90-year-olds playing and it’s amazing to see their eye-hand co-ordination. Maybe darts really improves that side of things.” Darts are played at Coroglen Tavern every Thursday night. Sign-in is at 7.15pm and play begins at 7.30pm. “When I moved here, says Rose, “My neighbour played and I would have a go. I started to real-

ise that I was actually good at it. I went along to the Coroglen Club and people were very friendly and welcoming. “From there I merged into joining the darts at Mercury Bay Club. They play on a Tuesday at 6.30pm. “I was out on a farm at Whenuakite at the time but when you like doing something, you travel. Now I live in Whitianga but I am still a very active member of Coroglen Darts Club as well.

The clubs are a bit different, says Rose. “Mercury Bay Club is very ‘darts’ oriented and Coroglen is a very social darts club where the darts are a means of having fun,” she smiles. “We have special trips and this year between the two clubs, we are heading off to Rotorua to play their club.” “Our membership is sitting around thirty. We have a lot of casuals, but we are trying to entice people to become members and then they can play in the tournaments. “You have to be a member of our club to play. But its only $20 a year at Coroglen and $30 a year at Mercury Bay Club darts. Players bring their own darts. You can get sets from Whitianga Sports store or The Warehouse – they are not expensive.” What it comes to darts, Rose is a bit of a champion. She is Coroglen’s highest ladies champion which makes her the Women’s

Coroglen Club Champion at this time. There are a number of different competitions. The Gumtown Shield is the club’s biggest competition. It is open to anyone and it is the only one where someone who isn’t a member can enter and play. Made of kauri, the shield was first played for in 1977 at the Coroglen Hall. “We have a hangi pit and do a great cook-up in style at the back of the Coroglen Tavern as part of the programme. Players come from all over, including Waihekeand Australia to enter,” adds Rose. “A huge raffle is part of it and this all comes from the generous support of our community.” There is also a Tadpole Club Shield and a Memorial Day Shield for all those members who have passed. Those who are life members but who may not be coming to the Club regularly come for this Memorial Day. It’s all about remembering them and the names of all those who have died are engraved on the Memorial Shield. See details of the AGM on page 26. If you are interested in joining a Darts Club go to the Coroglen Darts Facebook page.

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New face at funerals

Message from Hon Scott Simpson MP For Coromandel

t’s been a year since our region and other parts of New Zealand were devastated by severe cyclone weather events. The damage done to local housing, roads, small businesses and to our daily lives has left a lasting mark on so many people. Sometimes the worst of situations brings out the best in people and communities. There was a lot of that during last year’s weather crisis turmoil. Looking back now, for me it is one of the most enduring memories as I saw so many examples of people, neighbours and communities working together to help each other out at a time of great need. In terms of politics, the parliamentary year is well underway and we’ve been making our way through our 100 Day Plan. This month we’ve repealed Labour’s grandiose Three Waters legislation. Their plan was deeply divisive and would have been a

bureaucratic mess. It was simply a ‘Wellington knows best’ approach and it took no account that different communities have different needs. Repealing this law is the first step in our Local Water Done Well policy which recognises that local decision making and flexibility is crucial to delivering water services now and in the future. There will be two more pieces of legislation introduced this year to ensure the delivery of safe water services in a financially sustainable way. Importantly, the Local Water Done Well policy will restore local council ownership and responsibility. It won’t be Wellington calling the shots as would have been the case under Labour’s Three Waters. The new legislation is expected to be passed before the next local government elections in 2025. I’m also pleased that we are fulfilling our commitment to establish a medical school at the University of Waikato. Signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the university is the first step in this process and it was part of our 100 Day Plan. Our country, but particularly

rural areas like the Coromandel, are facing a dire shortage of doctors. We’re going to need more and more GPs in regions like ours in coming years. The current schools at Auckland and Otago do a terrific job of training high quality health professionals, but more needs to be done to ensure all New Zealanders have timely access to healthcare. A third medical school will be good for the country and our region. During the last six years there was very little in the way of actual delivery from government and an awful lot of wasteful spending. Now the message seems to be getting through that this new coalition government is focused on delivery, getting things done and doing so in a way that shows a much greater respect for hard earned taxpayer dollars.

There is a new member on the Twentymans Funerals team. Matija (Matt) Michelli trained for the profession in his home town, Trieste in Italy. Italy is a largely Catholic country, and from a young age Matt was interested in the burial ceremonies, which are very important events in the life of the Italian communities. He began working as a grave-digger so attended many funerals. “I was always asking questions about how things were done, and I never lost interest. I saw how important it was to the families to do things properly, to feel they had done the very best for their loved ones.” Matt was 20 when he trained and became a certified Funeral Director. A sense of adventure took Matt to Finland where he continued to practice his profession. “I met a guy from Hamilton, New Zealand and he always talked about how beautiful this country is. So I decided to give it a go.” He moved to New Zealand seven years ago to follow his chosen profession. Early in February Matt moved from Auckland to Thames to

Matija (Matt) Michelli

work for Twentymans Funeral Services. On his first trip to Whitianga, involving the ferry crossing to the cemetery, Matt remarked on the tranquillity of the place. “It’s so different from the city, no traffic, no noise, no crowds. This place is so beautiful. It is an unusual choice of a job, I know,” Matt says. “Those who work in this business are people with passion. My aim is to assist the bereaved family in giving their loved ones the respectful farewell that they deserve.”

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The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024 | 9

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The Warehouse Whitianga turns on solar power

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ast Wednesday, 14 February was a little bit brighter across New Zealand as the first 26 of The Warehouse Group’s stores and sites across the Upper North Island, including The Warehouse Whitianga, are now enjoying the power of the sun. This marked the Warehouse Group’s first step in their transition to solar, following the announcement of their agreement with Lodestone Energy, that will see more than 250 sites across Aotearoa New Zealand switch to solar energy plans by the end of 2026. The Warehouse Group’s Chief Executive Nick Grayston says “Going solar has been an important ambition for us to achieve across our store network. We estimate that today’s switch will reduce our Scope 2 emissions by at least 808 tonnes of CO2e a year - the equivalent of taking 175 passenger vehicles off the road yearly and steers us towards our goal of zero emissions in our operations by 2040.”

Lodestone Kaitaia Solar Farm.

To fuel its 26 sites and stores, The Warehouse Group have tapped into Lodestone’s new 64-hectare Kaitaia solar farm, where they will receive the benefit of 25% of the solar power it generates. Lodestone Energy’s Managing Director Gary Holden says, “Completing the construction of our Kaitaia farm was a big feat, thanks to Te Rarawa Iwi, the local community, our construction partners, and the wider Lodestone Energy team.”

Photo supplied by The Warehouse Group

Lodestone’s Kaitaia solar farm has an AC capacity of 23.7 MW and is expected to produce approximately 55 GWh annually, which is enough energy to power over 7,770* households. (*based on the average annual consumption per household as published by �igure.nz.)

Editor’s Note: in a box adjacent to this warehouse press release This news from The Warehouse was read with disappointment by local solar providers as no local providers or installers could be included in this very signi�icant step for our local Warehouse. This is because it is a nationally organised grid operation from one solar farm for 26 sites. However, it is a message to our Coromandel Peninsula businesses and homes to see solar energy as part of their near future. There is a lot of sunshine energy to capture and it seems that outlay is becoming more affordable. We are not in Australia where a rebate is offered to homes when they go solar but please read the Good Energy information on solar installation on page 11.

Scott Simpson MP for Coromandel Contact me anytime

0800 550 330 • scottsimpson.co.nz mpcoromandel@parliament.govt.nz scottsimpsonmp

Authorised by Scott Simpson, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

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energy generated is exported to the grid for credits against your power account. In a single-phase application this means your power bill will go down as you will use less energy from the grid. There are two options for this standard system. First option – String system – where all of the solar modules are electrically wired together and connected to one centralised solar inverter. This type of system is ideal for properties with no shading issues and either a north facing roof or an east/west orientation. Second option – Micro Inverter System – where each solar modules has a micro inverter mounted beneath it allowing the module to perform independently. This type of system should be considered if your rooftop has shading issues or has multiple roof faces. As each solar module works independently you can make the most of your roof area regard-

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Matters to be resolved

BY PAULINE STEWART, EDITOR Cathedral Cove walking access, where to have the Boating Club, dust on and in the houses opposite Allied Concrete on South Highway, Operational Refuse Transfer Station for Mercury Bay; Wahi Tukurua (recycling centre) being more than a name; clearing the ponds at Cooks Beach, Buffalo Beach and Taputapuatea Stream; Water storage plan and a timeline for it, Coastal Protection Project turned into specific plans for specific areas; rubbish bin collection methods that work for the residents. All require work and a change of culture regarding relationships and possibilities between local Government elected members, the staff they employ and the ratepayers and residents who elected them to serve the community. Policies must result in operational efficiency and kindness, serving the community. Local people give their time as well as pay their rates. They believe in their communities and they work to resolve issues. They are often leaders. They know a few things and they are not the enemy. It is overdue for our local government elected members and staff to listen to them and work with them as partners, not keeping them at a distance or being defensive. The future cannot afford the current culture, economically or emotionally.

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The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024 | 11

THROUGH THE PORTAL

TheIdealinvestment

Council Structure – another proficient way of working BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

here was an excellent letter in the 6th February edition of the Informer from Buddy Mikaere of Manaia. Buddy’s letter was in response to letters written along with others re follow up to an article I wrote criticising the process followed by Council when deciding to formalise the formation of Maori Wards for TCDC. Buddy’s letter was written well and laid out his points without resorting to the “shoot the messenger” rubbish on which many unfortunately rely. There were elements to Buddy’s letter with which I disagreed, but there was one point he made that got me thinking and is the basis of this article. I will repeat the point he made so you know to what what I am referring. Regarding Maori Wards, Buddy wrote “What they do is address an inequality in representation and a voice that might require appropriate or specialist knowledge.

For example, for best advice we might look to a Councillor with a Farming background to speak to Council on issues involving farming. Or, for someone with a fisheries background to inform us of marine issues in the Firth of Thames and around our coastline. So why not a Maori voice to speak to Maori issues?” One of the problems that has evolved with our democracy is the ability for the incompetent to become part of government, be it regional or national. You just need to look at the level of idiocy in our Parliament or the Council shambles in places like Wellington to see what I am getting at, but we are not immune in TCDC. The challenge is to get competent people in places of responsibility, and I believe Buddy has pointed the way to this quite simply. Buddy’s point implies a move to a system of representative selection that incorporates cri-

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teria that will enable us to select a far more proficient council. The Council’s decision re Maori Wards sets us on a path to raise councillor numbers to 16, two of which will be Maori, most likely in a North and South ward. So why not split the TCDC into two wards, North and South with eight councillors in each being from specific groupings of competency such as. • Maori • Farming • Rural Business • Urban Business • Hospitality • Tourism • Infrastructure • Miscellaneous Candidates would need to offer proof of their suitability for any council position, after all the aim is to gain competent advice from the various sectors. The result would be diverse representation by competent experienced people. Possibly a council of which we could be proud. Community Boards could be set up with the

same structure so, for example, Maori would have two full councillors with a support team of five community board members. The same depth of representation would be in place for the other groups thereby benefitting the entire region. The risk of such a system is that the various groupings just start concentrating on what they want whereas their purpose is to work together for the community. This should not be a great risk if the council is managed well. After all, no matter what the councillor’s backgrounds, they are still after the same things for their community - water, roads, rubbish collection etc. This is Democracy, but perhaps not as we are used to. It could be argued that it is an extension of what we are used to moving from grouping candidates by geography to grouping by competency, relevance and ethnicity. We could of course move the other way; do away with Wards

and have individuals put themselves forward in one big list for the electorate to select. True democracy, much as New Zealand used to have 30 or 40 years ago, possibly involving a voting system where candidates are ranked by each voter. If we do this however, there would be no Maori Wards but a great chance of Maori representation with the correct voting system in place. As things stand the government is likely to ensure there is a referendum on Maori Wards at the next election which will likely see the status quo retained. If those who want change are to get that change, they need to think about other options and commence selling them to the electorate. Somehow, I suspect that will not happen.

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TCDC clarifies Long Term Plan inaccuracies BY DONNA HOLLAND

he opinion article by Flemming Rasmussen published in the 6 February edition of The Coromandel Informer (“Money does not grow on trees – from a concerned resident and ratepayer”), contains a number of inaccurate statements about the process for developing our Council’s 2024-2034 Long Term Plan (LTP), including the upcoming public consultation process to gather feedback.

HERE ARE THE FACTS ABOUT THE LTP: 1. The early, informal engagement on our proposals for the LTP that’s occurred to date is not part of the public consultation process Council is required to undertake under the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA) before it adopts its LTP. It is additional to this process and has involved not only the informal October 2023 drop-in sessions mentioned in the opinion article, but meetings our Councillors, Community Board members and staff have been holding with iwi representatives and other partners, as well as informal conversations with stakeholders and interest groups. We held the October drop-in sessions and other informal discussions because we wanted to hear about our communities’ priorities early, before we drafted our budgets and work programmes for the next 10 years and in advance of the legally required public consultation process on our proposals. 2. Formal, public consultation on our proposals for our 2024-2034 LTP has not yet started. It will follow the prescribed process set out in several sections of the LGA. Section 93 requires us to use the special consultative procedure set out in section 83. The procedure, along with sections 93A -93G require us to prepare an easily understandable consultation document that includes specific information. As required by the legislation, we will make the consultation document and supporting information publicly available for a month and give people opportunities to provide feedback on our proposals and to present their views to

the Council. 3. We are scheduled to start the required public consultation process in March. At that time, we will publish our consultation document and supporting information for public feedback over a one-month period. People will then be able to present their views to elected members at public hearings scheduled for late April/early May. Our Council will then consider the public feedback and make its decisions on the LTP, which is to be adopted by 30 June 2024. Before it is adopted, an independent auditor (Audit New Zealand), will audit the LTP to ensure it complies with accounting standards, provides a reasonable basis for long-term, integrated decision making and coordination of Council’s resources, and accountability of the Council to the community. 4. We are not developing our draft budgets and work programmes on a premise that rates and fees must increase. However, having considered the early feedback from our communities about their priorities, as well as the costs associated with recent inflation, higher compliance standards and the necessity of repairing storm damage, we don’t see any other reasonable option but to increase rates and fees if we are to maintain our current services. We could ask our community what services they think we could stop or reduce in order to achieve lower rates but given that so much of what we do now is required by law, there is little scope for major reductions in our current services. 5. The best source for information about our proposed LTP (and how to provide feedback) will be our consultation document and supporting documents, which will be available once the consultation starts (expected 8 March – 8 April). These will be available on our Council’s website at www.tcdc.govt.nz/LTP-20242034 or drop into one of our service centres for a hard copy from 8 March.

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The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024 | 13

MOTORING

Big flip in new vehicle sales numbers to start the New Year BY JACK BIDDLE

udging by the recent release of the January 2024 new vehicle sales stats, it looks very much like the New Vehicle Distributors of Fully Electric Vehicles (BEV) along with Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) will need to find ways for their vehicles to stand on their own feet moving forward. With the dollar driven Clean Car Discount now gone, the sales of petrol and diesel vehicles surged to a staggering 96.2% of the January figures. According to the sales figures released by the Motor Industry Association (MIA), BEV only managed to secure a rather sad looking 2% market share which equated to just 274 registrations. The top three models were the BYD SEAL (31 units, 12.7% share), followed by Tesla Model Y (25 units, 10.2% share) and the Toyota BZ4X (23 units, 9.4% share). The PHEV range didn’t do much better either gaining a paltry 1.6% market share with their 202 registrations. The top three models were the rather exclusive Porsche Cayenne (24 units, 11.9% share), followed by the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (18 units, 8.9% share) and the Volkswagen Touareg (14 units, 6.9% share). Not surprising then to see the big winners for the first calendar month of 2024, as far as the electrified passenger vehicle fleet went, being the basic Non-Plug in

Top seller for January Toyota Rav 4 non plug-in hybrid.

hybrid. The top three models for January were the Toyota RAV4 (568 units, 24.0% share), followed by Toyota Highlander (297 units, 12.6% share) and the Toyota Corolla Cross (242 units, 10.2% share). In the straight Petrol/Diesel (ICE) registrations, the top three models were the Mitsubishi ASX (438 units, 10% share), followed by the Mitsubishi Outlander (421 units, 10% share) and the Kia Seltos (310 units, 7% share). Light Commercial Vehicles registrations of 3,793 were also very strong as buyers surged back to the diesel fuelled ute market with no “dirty diesel” fee to pay.

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Without doubt, there were orders sitting waiting to be filled once the fee was removed so it was no real surprise to see such a strong month for utes. Ford retained its dominance in this space with a 41.2% market share (1,563 units) followed by Toyota with 25.1% (953 units) and Mitsubishi third with 8.7% market share (330 units). The top three models were the Ford Ranger (1,470 units), followed by the Toyota Hilux (657 units), and Mitsubishi Triton (330 units). MIA Chief Executive Aimee Wiley says that the January result of 12,649 units is comparable to the prior year, coming in 1.3%

higher than January 2023 (12,481 units) but 6.2% lower than January 2022 (13,479 units). So it’s back to the board room and whiteboards for the distributors of the BEV and PHEV fleet to come up with new strategies that will entice potential buyers back over to their side of the fence. Clearly consumers are having second thoughts about their products now that the Clean Car Discount is no longer on the table. Not helping their cause is the upcoming road-user chargers for both the BEV and PHEV vehicle owners which kicks off April 1. Fully electric vehicle owners will be paying $76 per 1000km while the Plug-in Hybrid owners will

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pay $53 per 1000km. Non-plug in hybrids will not be required to pay any further costs and will continue to pay the fuel tax already built into pump prices. One way to try and win potential buyers back is by offering substantial discounts which would also help reduce what may potentially become a stockpile of unsold product sitting in storage around the country. The downside of that of course is upsetting existing customers who could potentially have paid thousands of dollars more for their vehicles initially and would suffer an overnight drop in the true value of their vehicles. Simeon Brown the Minister of Transport, can still beat a drum that says the new Government maintains a goal to see a reduction in vehicle tail pipe emissions by retaining the Clean Car Standard. The Clean Car Standard aims to encourage a greater supply of low and no emission vehicle imports to New Zealand by charging importers for vehicles with high CO2 emissions and giving credits for vehicles with low CO2 emissions. It will be very interesting to watch the new vehicle sales in the coming months to see if the current trend continues or the BEV and PHEV sales can bounce back to similar numbers when the Clean Car Discount was in place. The outcomes of those boardroom meetings may well hold the key.

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CALL 07 866 0606 www.theinformer.co.nz

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AUCTION

Whitianga, 6 Hei Esplanade

• North-facing, low maintenance home of 358.60sqm (mol) on easy grounds. • 5 bdrm,3 bthrm, separate laundry, solar panels, storage galore & so much more! • Fully self-contained1 bedroom ﬂat with,1 accessible bathroom, heat pump & tranquil water view. • Boat ramp and boat park (shared, one other) plus, oﬀ-street, double garaging.

Whitianga, 19 Springbok Avenue, • 4 large bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, modern kitchen with scullery & dbl garage. • Generous 885sqm private section with plenty of parking. • Extra family room, outdoor entertainment area & close to town. • Great location, close to town and all amenities including The Lost Springs. FOR SALE By negotiation VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L26391016 Noelene Bellingham 027 280 8477

FOR SALE AUCTION 9th March 2024 at 2.00pm On Site (unless sold prior) VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L25351998 Katrina Carlyon 021 724 200 NEW LISTING

• 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom free standing house. • Private & right in the centre of Whitianga. • Flat easy care section & plenty of space for additional parking. • Ideal lock up n leave, work from home opportunity or rental investment.

• 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home with large double garage. • Spacious open-plan kitchen with scullery. • 2 covered outdoor entertaining areas & second lounge upstairs.

Whitianga, 22 Aquila Drive

Whitianga, 1 Yankee Lane

FOR SALE By Negotiation VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L26115039 David Frew 027 491 8420 Kirby Faulkner 027 436 9990

FOR SALE By Negotiation VIEW harcourts.co.nz harcourts.co.nz// L22553141 Peter MacGregor 027 224 7332

FOR SALE By Negotiation VIEW harcourts.co.nz harcourts.co.nz// L25993763 Kirby Faulkner 027 436 9990

Whitianga, 24B Albert Street

Cooks Beach, 8 Voyager Place

• 3 double bedrooms and 2 bathroom family home. • Large double internal access garage & outdoor pizza oven. • 2 separate living areas, great indoor outdoor ﬂow.

• Bright and airy 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom. • Situated on a generous 854 sqm land area. • Short distance from the estuary & easy walk to the beach, playground & local amenities. FOR SALE $1,295,000 VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L26198280 Paulette Tainsh 027 241 2001 Hendry Tainsh 022 658 4818

AUCTION

Tairua, 56 Paku Drive

Tairua, 2 Wharf Road

• Beautifully presented, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, cedar cladhome. • 2 decks both with stunning beach and water views. • Properties like this do not come to the market very often.

• 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom upstairs. • Self contained, two bedroom, 1 bathroom unit downstairs. • 200m from boat ramp, central location.

FOR SALE AUCTION 2nd March 10.30am 2024 On site (Unless sold prior) VIEW harcourts.co.nz harcourts.co.nz// L26411783 Adam Fuller 022 018 0856 AUCTION

Tairua, 8 Diamond Drive

• Low maintenance home oﬀering 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 toilets. • Easy walking distance to the water, the Pepe Reserve & town. • Large deck area, open plan living and a modern kitchen. FOR SALE AUCTION 2nd March 2024 at 2.00pm On Site (unless sold prior) VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L25659398 Philippa Evans 021 266 9295

AUCTION

FOR SALE AUCTION 6th April 2024 2.00pm Onsite (Unless sold prior) VIEW harcourts.co.nz harcourts.co.nz// L26282956 Philippa Evans 021 266 9295 PRICED TO SELL

AUCTION

Hahei, 21b Harsant Avenue

• Oﬀering 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom on the beachfront at Hahei. • This is home with vintage style, boasting solid and honest bones. • Skip backwards and forward to the beach as you desire. FOR SALE AUCTION 16th March 2024 at 2.00pm On Site (unless sold prior) VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L25693457 Philippa Evans 021 266 9295 Paulette Tainsh 027 241 2001

Tairua, 10 Gallagher Drive

• 2 double bedrooms upstairs, teenagers retreat downstairs with separate entrance, bathroom and a covered outdoor patio. • Spacious kitchen, dining area and lounge which leads out to deck and large covered outdoor area. • Separate from the house is an additional oﬀice/conservatory which could be used for a multitude of things FOR SALE $845,000 VIEW harcourts.co.nz/ harcourts.co.nz/L22600782 L22600782 Philippa Evans 021 266 9295

Call now for your private appointment or see advertised open homes and view all our listings at www.harcourtscoromandel.co.nz

Ann Hamilton Noelene Bellingham Katrina Carlyon Paulette Tainsh Philippa Evans Peter MacGregor Dayle Candy Adam Fuller 027 488 6675 027 280 8477 021 724 200 027 241 2001 021 266 9295 027 224 7332 027 433 6862 022 018 0856

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Harcourts Whitianga • 71 Albert Street P 07 866 4981 The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024 | 15

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR After

grown bananas. We thought about frost. But we took these up the hill and they take the lady fingers very well. This bunch started to shape twelve months ago and has taken till now to mature into yummy fruit. I pick them separately as ripening as a whole bunch at once would mean banana cake. David Finch Whitianga

Before

BEFORE AND AFTER TREES I wish to share ‘before’ and ‘after’ photos of an arborists work on our property. It’s difficult to get the real result through the eye of a cellphone. The visits will improve once the regrowth begins and we can see a little already. We have been living there for three and a half years. Things were very bushy. We noticed one of the trees wasn’t looking so well. A lot of pieces were dried out and dying. We were not 100 per cent sure what kind of tree it was, but we knew it was sick. We called Andrew Noakes who does a monthly column in The Informer – “For the love of trees.” He came, looked very carefully examining the tree and noticed the one next to it was on the same trajectory as its sick neighbour. The outcome is, he has cut out all the dead wood and trimmed

the branches carefully. Andrew doesn’t just chop. He works on what he feels is good for the tree and its future. They were very big trees, but they were sick at their centre. We have been very impressed. He is more than an arborist. He is a specialist and professional to say the least. He really cares about trees. Already they have started to improve. I am sure The Informer won’t mind my placing his contact details at the base of this letter. We are all concerned about trees. Andrew Noakes, of NZ Arb Consultancy, is a local Qualified Arborist and TRAQ Certified Assessor. 0204 163 5486 nzarbconsultancy@proton.me Yes we have bananas! On another note. To remind you that climate change is a myth, a picture of my bananas. This is the third time we have

DON’T GLOSS OVER ICE VEHICLES While it’s great Peter Blank enjoys his classic car, his recent letter about electric vehicles (EVs) contains many inaccuracies. EVs offer cheaper costs on long trips because you start the trip with around 400 km of range from home charging at cheap overnight electricity rates. A sensible driver on a 655 km journey would stop for at least a couple of half-hour breaks anyway which double as charging stops. Peter glosses over how 95% of EV charging is done at home overnight very cheaply, saving the owner $1000’s a year. Eight years is the time the batteries are guaranteed, not their total life. Many EV batteries are recording 500,000 kms with minimal battery degradation. The reuse of older tech Nissan Leaf batteries as electricity storage devices is already available, and recycling solutions within New Zealand are actively in development. The new car market is already 20% EVs, and the used EV market is growing apace, EVs offer total cost of ownership over 5 years at substantially lower rates than ICE vehicles. That includes the initial purchase cost (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority NZ) EV purchase price parity with an equivalent ICE is already avail-

able on some models. Ford is actively producing electric vehicles, including the F150 utes with production forecast to rise from 70,000 in 2023 to 83,000 in 2024. (Ford USA) On-street charging stations for UK apartment dwellers are widespread making up about 25% of the total.

EVs perform substantially better than ICE in cold climates. (Norway survey) What’s pushing the public demand for EVs is that once people drive one, they realise they are simply better cars. Maybe Peter should take a test drive? David Gibson Whitianga

A LITTLE THOUGHT FOR WAITANGI DAY Maybe I’m dumb. Just as dumb as can be. But we are all equal, It does seem to me.

If your skin is a colour, That’s different from mine, Does that make you greater, Or less than I’m?

We all have to eat, To sleep and take care. We all defecate, And breathe the same air.

Yet there is such a thing As experts at their art, Like a surgeon at work Who can replace your heart!

If someone’s more clever, Or better at things. We tend to admire them, For what their fame brings.

Or the giants at playing Whatever they play That get our spines tingling And talking all day!

Are the wealthy the greatest? But how could that be? That, because you have money, You are better than me?

I look up to them For the skills that they display Yet are they not equal In ev’ry other way?

And when people have power To give and to take, What we are in need of, Does that make them great?

And so we could question, This dichotomy. Do attainments or fame make you-more -important - than me?

Sometimes we confuse, The person with law, But the laws we may fear, Are not persons at all!

A: A person’s a person, A MARVEL to be. But perhaps, if you’re proud, Then that, YOU WON’T SEE!

Should we think that our leaders, Are of higher class, Because they pass laws And mix with ‘top brass’?

B: A person’s a person, A MARVEL to be, The more I discern that, The more I see!

And what does ‘respect’ mean, To bow and obey? Or should it be “Hello,” And, “are you OK?”

C: A person’s a person, A MARVEL to be. It’s lovely to be one, Especially ME! Peter Merz, Whitianga

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TIC - TONGUE IN CHEEK AILMENT Dear Trevor I sincerely hope you are convalescing sufficiently from your recent and most difficult operation, when you had your tongue removed from your cheek. You obviously severely suffered mentally as you went thru the portal, as your column is actually making sense, which is most unlike your previous pontifications. I congratulate you on this most difficult journey and wish you well as you progress to a full and total recovery. All the best for the future. Brian Morrell (another TIC sufferer) NATIONHOOD – THE MAGIC OF DEMOCRACY Democracy often clambered for but never fully realised and never always applied into a society that claimed to be democratic when choice was denied. Slaves have no word. In New Zealand, we have no slave mentality or lawful placement of slaves, therefore we are all free thinkers and obedient to the law of the land and to our God. For all. All are equal. The dilution of democracy by the denial of peoples’ choice by removal of referendum is the

most corrosive process to democracy that exists. The Labour Party of New Zealand passed a law that removed the referendum opportunity and permitted a secular appointment of non-elected persons to govern the populace, to be elite amongst us all. The recent TCDC election to apply Maori Wards, was a surprise and yet Catherine Delahunty writes that she supports a wrongful law, which denied referendum on a Peninsula Populations choice of having Maori Wards or not having Maori wards. But where were you Catherine, when the question was asked, or was it asked of you? Obedient to the law, we now must endure the costs of the process; all the while represented by an advocate for the denial of democratic processes and equal representation for all. Question to you all: Do you want that person to represent you? David Yeomans ELITE PAKEHA Re: Response to Mr Church’s response to my response to his letter to the editor. I strongly recommend Mr Church spend more time broadening his knowledge of Te Ao Māori, Te Tiriti, colonisation and

his role as tangata Tiriti. To comment on things you only have one world view on is disingenuous and disinformation. I question if your willingness to only participate in the colonial view point is revealing your belief that pakeha and pakeha ways are elite. If you took the opportunity to participate in both sides, you’d have chuckled at Kingii Tūheitia’s comments and not been triggered. You’d understand the nuance of Willie Jackson’s comment vs Julian Batchelor’s and you’d have a deeper sense of the concept of Mana to be able to make sense of the Boyd Massacre for that time in our history. Resorting to google and quoting the ACT party is not going to give you the knowledge and experience you need to bring a well-rounded perspective to the broader discussion about Te Tiriti. Maybe this paper would like to publish more information, not just opinion, on Te Tiriti, the role of Tangata Tiriti in Aotearoa to bring a balanced perspective. It’s up to the reader though to be willing to receive new perspectives. Democracy and Te Tiriti go hand in hand. #Toitūtetiriti Fiona Gates

The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to allow members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest. Please keep them to 200 words or less. Hopefully this will encourage discussion, however the editor reserves the right to decide what is published. WE ARE ALL EQUAL Buddy Mikaere’s letter (6 February) is racist and promotes the specialisation of the maori race as a result of the formation of Maori wards. To address some of his extensive comments: The Treaty says we are all equal citizens under the law so why am I denied, because of my ancestors, the right to vote for someone who will make decisions relating to my life? If we are equal, then any

person who is aNZ citizen can stand for Council seats, ( or parliament). So why should Maori be given special rights over the rest? That is apartheid which I thought NZ was against. Our leaders do not have a god-given right to decide for us because of accident of birth. Kings and chiefs are an anachronism. We have a democracy now. The TCDC and WRC have both avoided public consultation when implementing race-based

Councillors. Since when were’Maori Issues’ different to New Zealanders’ issues when it comes to what we spend our rates and taxpayers’ contributions. If we see a prison or health problem, why list it under race as it belongs to all of us? By using the word Maori, Buddy unwittingly splits a group of citizens off by race. Note: Maori issues, etc. This is divisive and acts like Nationalism. Peter H Wood

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A busy tool and machinery sale and an unclaimed World War 11 box BY LYNETTE GEE

The Whitianga MENZSHED’s raised over $2000 toward their new shed last Sunday, 18 February at their Tool and Machinery Garage Sale. It was busy and profitable and the space of their existing shed was a clear message to the community of just how much more space the MenZshed needs. It is estimated that the new shed will cost around $300k. The current shed is 70 square metres the new shed will be 360 square metres. “We need to raise a third of the cost ourselves before we can approach Lotto and other groups for funding,” said Glenn Schache, President of Whitianga MENZSHED. The group has raised $65,000 toward their $100,000 target. “Everything we make here is for sale and all proceeds go toward the new shed. We have a stall at the Whiti Citi Markets most Saturdays,” he said. The Whitianga MENZSHED, now in its sixth year, opened in 2018. Mem-

www.theinformer.co.nz

bers are passionate about the shed and the community there. “Not least, our Patron Richard Vetter. He is helping me with compliance and consents for the new shed, which is greatly appreciated,” said Glenn. There are currently 35 members. When the new shed opens, there are plans for a huge membership drive. There are also plans for ladies’ days where women can go along with their projects and will be taught how to safely work on them. Continued on page 21

10 Belmont Road, PAEROA / PH: 07 862 8715 Bryan Parker 021 909 957 / Brian Trebes 027 291 5288 429 Pollen Street, THAMES / PH: 07 868 9591 Clayton Blundell 027 603 0960 www.linncars.co.nz The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024 | 17

GUEST EDITORIAL

Government Risks Billions BY DENIS TEGG

have a sense of wonderment as I drive up the Kauaeranga valley through the lush native forest to a pristine swimming hole, a stark contrast to the feeling of dread as I read dispiriting reports of gross environmental backsliding by our government. The multi-billion-dollar fair trade deals (FTA) with the UK, and the EU, both heralded for their strong environmental commitments, are now jeopardised by government policies intent on sacrificing our natural heritage for short-term gain. The FTAs contain the strongest environmental pledges New Zealand has ever negotiated, including commitments to take steps to eliminate fossil fuel subsidies, promote sustainable agriculture and address climate change. They have clear mandatory obligations that the Parties must comply with. For a government prioritizing economic growth, jeopardizing trade deals promising a combined $4.2 billion annual GDP boost is incoherent policy making. The UK deal alone could bring $1 billion in GDP, while the EU deal offers

potential increases of $1.4 billion and $1.8 billion to GDP and exports respectively. This isn’t just about trade; it’s about who we are. Are we a nation that values and protects its natural heritage, that honours its international commitments, and that prioritises the well-being of future generations? Or are we willing to sell our souls for a temporary economic boost? The government’s assault on our environment is relentless. Gutted environmental laws leave us vulnerable, while sidelined biodiversity protection endangers our unique wildlife. The government is sacrificing clean water for commercial gain and fast-tracking risky projects with minimal oversight. Weakened climate efforts will mean we will fail to reach our promised emission reduction goals. The reopening of oil exploration is stupidity on steroids when the international advice is that using any new oil discoveries will overshoot the world into dangerous unlivable climate change. They discourage electric vehicles with new charges and halted public transport initiatives while redi-

recting climate funds to tax cuts. Delaying agricultural emissions pricing and questioning methane targets with dubious science further undermines our obligations to take climate action. They’ve rushed through repeals of key environmental laws, ignoring evidence-based policies, and replacing them with ministerial approvals that bypass public participation safeguards. This isn’t about efficiency; it’s a race to the bottom that sacrifices our environment and future for cheap exports. But this is unsustainable, as overseas consumers demand change, and our damaged reputation will hurt our exports in the long run. This isn’t just about upholding a trade agreement; it’s about upholding our values. The UK and EU deals aren’t pieces of paper – they’re a promise to future generations, an assurance that we take seriously the climate crisis and the delicate balance of our ecosystems. It’s a promise we’re rapidly breaking. Our government’s “war on our environment” isn’t just bad for the environment; it’s bad for democracy. They’re shutting the

public out, silencing your voice on decisions that impact your neighbourhood and the very thing that attracts visitors to the Coromandel – our environment. They’re rushing through changes without proper assessments, bypassing crucial checks and balances. No more impact statements, no time for public input or from experts. They claim efficiency, but this is a power grab, concentrating decisions in the hands of a few ministers, vulnerable to lobbying and corruption. By backsliding on our environmental regulations and kicking the can down the road on climate action, we’re also shooting our primary producers and businesses in the foot. The Government is not only wreaking havoc on our natural world, but it’s also trashing our international reputation and putting the economy at risk. Don’t be fooled by the rhetoric of “cutting red tape” for industry. This isn’t streamlining; it’s dismantling the safeguards that protect our land and water. It’s a downward spiral, where “competitiveness” is measured in the amount of environmental

damage we can tolerate. But the world has moved on. Consumers are demanding sustainability, and weakening our environmental protections will only backfire. We’ll be left with tarnished exports, a damaged reputation as a tourist destination, and an ecosystem on the brink. The choice is ours. Fight for a transparent, democratic process that protects our places and your voice. Demand better from our leaders and hold them accountable. We can be the generation that turns the tide, the one that chooses a future where prosperity and our protected natural heritage co-exist. Further reading: https://wwf. org.nz/news/our-planet/environment-chapter-nz-uk-freetrade-agreement. Important: Unless speci�ically by-lined as The Editor or Editor’s Note; all columns and editorials in The Informer are not the thoughts, opinions or beliefs of either of the Editors. Sometimes the Guest Editor’s content aligns or a column does, but we do not alter or suggest.

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SENIORNET

BY BOBBIE PRESTON, SECRETARY

ew Year’s Resolutions are being put into action as seniors join SeniorNet to work on their technology skills. SeniorNet, Whitianga held a very successful “Drop in Day” on Wednesday, 14 February at our classroom in the Social Services Building on Cook Drive. Five seniors joined the club in order to learn how to improve their use of email, create spreadsheets, and organise their files and folders. If you made a New Year’s resolution to hone your skills on your devices (mobile phone, laptop/ computer, etc.) get in touch with our Admin, Sheryl, to get signed up for membership and classes. (You need to be a member to access our classes. Annual sub: $25.) Contact Sheryl by email: seniornet. whitianga.admin@gmail.com or by phone: 021 0226 2504. FEBRUARY 20 – MARCH 6: One-on-One Sessions: Meet with one of our tutors for an hour in which you can cover anything pertaining to using your devices. Duration: One hour. Cost: $6 February 20, Tuesday: Starts 9.15am, 10.30am, 11.45am February 21, Wednesday: Starts

1.00pm, 2.15pm February 27, Tuesday: Starts 9.15am, 10.30am, 11.45am February 28, Wednesday: Starts 12.30pm March 5, Tuesday: Starts 11.15am, 12.30pm March 6, Wednesday: Starts 11.30am, 12.45pm Group Sessions: Cover specific areas in a group setting. Duration and cost vary. Genealogy on Line: Tuesday, February 20; Starts 2.15-4:15pm, $8 Wednesday, 6 March: Starts 2.154.15pm, $8 Android User Group: Wednesday, 21 February: Starts 10.15am-12.15pm, $8 iPad & iPhone User Group B: Tuesday, 27 February: Starts 2.15-4.15pm, $8 iPad & iPhone User Group A: Wednesday 28 February: Starts 2.15-4.15pm, $8 Files & Folders: Wednesday, 28 February (lst Session): Starts 10.15am, $16 Wednesday, 6 March (2nd Session): Starts 10.15am, free For more information please get in touch with our Admin, Sheryl, at seniornet.whitianga.admin@gmail.com or check us out on Facebook or at allaboutwhitianga.co.nz under “Community, Whitianga/Mercury Bay Clubs and Groups/Senior.”

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WHAT'S ON If you have an activity or group or the existing information is incorrect, let The Informer know. Call 866 2090, email info@theinformer.co.nz or send a message on Facebook.

Cooks Beach Care Group

REGULAR ACTIVITIES/EVENTS

Coroglen Farmer's Market

Haere mai! We invite you to join our friendly team and learn about coastal conservation. Come weeding and planting while enjoying our beautiful environment. Thursday mornings. Register www. cooksbeachcare.org.nz

OP SHOPS

Every Sunday 9.00am – 1.00pm. Coroglen Gumtown Hall.

Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Monday – Saturday from 10.00am – 2.00pm. St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am-4.00pm and Saturday 9.30am-2.00pm. St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen Street, Whitianga. 9.30am to 1pm Wednesday to Saturday. Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill Street (west of Albert Street), Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday 9.30am-2.00pm. Donations welcome and can be dropped off at this address. SPCA Op-shop – 2/Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Monday to Saturday 9.00am-5.00pm and Sunday 9.00am-4.00pm.

DANCING

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop

MONTHLY

AA Driver Licensing

Second and forth Friday of every month. In the Mercury Bay Service Centre Community Board Room in Monk Street, not at St. Andrews by the Sea Community Church, Owen Street.

Cooks Beach Garden Circle

Last Thursday of every month 11.15am – 2.30pm. New members are welcome. Phone Anne on 07 866 0268 for more information.

Kūaotunu Dune Care

Every third Wednesday of the month. Protecting the dunes by removing weeds and rubbish and planting native dune plants. To get involved, please email kuaotunudunecare@gmail.com to get on the emailing list.

FORTNIGHTLY

Knit for a Purpose

The first and third Fridays of the month, 10.00am to 12.00pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. Gillian Reid on 021 781081 for further details, or just turn up.

Mercury Bay Creative Fibre

Spin, knit, weave, crochet. First and third Wednesday every month, 10.00am-1.00pm, supper room of Town Hall. Phone. Vanessa 027 896 5037 Email. - vandoo555@gmail.com.

Whitianga Tramping Group

Every second Sunday at 8.30am. Phone Wally on 021 907 782 or Lesley on 021 157 9979 for more information.

WEEKLY OR MORE Alcoholics Anonymous

The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.

Al-Anon Serenity Group

For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info.

Chess Club

Monday nights 6.30-9.30pm. Bowling club. Players of all levels welcome. Come along and enjoy a game or two of chess. Cost $2 to go towards room costs and supper. Contact Brett Soanes 0272117195 or brettsoanes16@hotmail.com

Chinwag Café

Every Friday from 10.00am-12.00pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. A place for over 50s to meet other people, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a chinwag.

Coffee and Discussion Group

Every Sunday, 2.00pm-4.00pm, at The Lost Spring. Topics are open and respect shown. No charge. Convener. Peter H. Wood.

Mercury Bay Dance Club Recreational dance lessons. Thursday 6.00pm7.00pm. Please book with Kathleen 022 154 1702 and/or check out the Facebook page. facebook. com/mercurybaydanceclub/. LINE DANCING – Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club Commencing again 30 January, Tuesdays, beginners 11.15am-12.15pm; seniors 12.302.30pm. Starting 8 February, Thursdays, absolute beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, improvers 12.452.45pm. Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Phone Margaret 027 463 8850 or Glynis 021 1099 155. Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes Town Hall, Monk Street, $5 per session. Intermediate classes Wednesday,12.00pm-1.30pm; Beginner / Improver classes Monday 10.30am -11.45am. Contact Cecily 027 294 1750 or Kathy 027 4321 353 Belly Dancing Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran.com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm. SALSA/Merengue/Bachata and Cha Cha Contact Molly, events@beatfairy.com Every Monday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Monkey House. $20 per class which includes a drink. Zumba Contact Carly, book at www.infinitefitness.nz Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm, 86a Albert St. Free 7 day trial. Dog walking group EVERY Thursday at 2.00pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to a very sociable group where great friendships are made. Phone Jenny on 021 186 5797. Grey Power Mercury Bay Coffee Morning Meeting 10.30am, Thursday 15 February at the Lost Spring. All members and friends are welcome. Living Well Within Oneness Meditation Centre OM Centre focuses on the meditative art of going deeper within. Learn how to meditate, breath, calm the mind, relieve stress, anxiety and be a calm, peaceful, courageous, dynamic human being. Every Monday, 9.30-11.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881or email linda_c@orcon.net.nz Meditation Stress Reduction Circle – Whitianga Mondays from 7.30-9.00pm at the Embassy of Friendship, 5 Coghill St. More info. Steffen Lindner (Counsellor, Therapist & Mindfulness Facilitator). Ph 022 0853 121 or email steffen@eof.nz Thursday Evening Meditation Classes Spiritual, Heart, Soul Development. Sacred Energy, Chakra Activations, Working with Spiritual Guides, Open forum conversation, Thursdays, 6.30pm at Flat 1, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga. Cost is $10. Contact Verna 027 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com. Mercury Bay Athletics For information contact alana.baker@ bayleyscoromandel.co.nz. Mercury Bay Badminton Club Thursdays 5.00pm-7.00pm, 4 courts - All levels welcome with coaching available. At the school gym (adjacent to swimming pool). Mercury Bay Area School. Contact: Steve 027 211 3568 Mercury Bay Badminton Every Wednesday from 9.00am-11.00am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, ages 16+. Phone Carol on 027 474 7493 for more information. Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club Cook Drive, Whitianga. Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.

Mercury Bay Community Choir

Mondays 6.15-8.15pm, Music Room Mercury Bay Area School. Starts 5 February. Inclusive, open, friendly choir – no prior singing experience needed, no auditions. Contact Kate 027 2709 058 for details.

Mercury Bay Environmental Trust

Every Tuesday and Friday from 9.00am-11.00am, location advised prior. For more information, please email mbenvironmentaltrust@gmail.com or go to www.mbet.co.nz.

Mercury Bay Pickleball Club

Every Tuesday 5.30pm – 7.30pm and every Sunday 4.00pm – 6.00pm at the Mercury Bay Area School gymnasium, Whitianga. Outdoor sessions every Thursday 4.30pm – 6.30pm, Matai Place courts, Matarangi. $5 per session, includes equipment and training. Contact Tony Minto on 021 426 150 for more information.

Mercury Bay Quilters

From 10.00am-4.00pm on the first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. 2 Cook Drive (Social Services building). Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016.

Mercury Bay Table Tennis

Every Tuesday, 9.00am – 11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Phone Anne on 07 869 5162 or 027 565 5575 for more information.

Mercury Bay Tennis Club

Social tennis at Lyon Park is on from 6.00pm on Thursdays. All welcome. Ph. Jason - 022 186 7992 or Steve - 021 256 6865.

Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club)

Fourth Monday of every month, 10.00am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Joan on 07 866 3801 or 027 275 1372 for more information.

SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated

Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games

Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, from 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info.

Whiti Stitchers

Embroiderers meet every Tuesday at the Social Services Centre, 9.00am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome.

Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga

Wednesdays 5.00-6.00pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Learn portion control, eliminate processed sugar, eat well at meals, eat well for life. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.

Whitianga Gun Club

For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Graham Sutcliffe on 021 846 655.

Whitianga Community Patrol

Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, phone Gary 027 391 3043.

Hahei Contract Bridge Club

Every Tuesday 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. We welcome learners and casual players. Contact Don Barry 021 741 959 or Robyn Hogg 021543015.

Mercury Bay Contract Bridge Club

Every Wednesday at 1.00pm and every Thursday at 7.00pm at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. For more information, phone Gavin on 07 866 2343 or 021 146 9203.

Tairua Contract Bridge Club

Every Monday at 12.30pm at the Tairua Bowling Club, 44 Hornsea Rd. Contact Lynnette Flowers 021 252 4709 or Johanna Bonnar 027 466 3726.

Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers on 021 022 62504 or email seniornet.whitianga.admin@gmail.com.

Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club

Spiritual Coffee Mornings

Usually on a Monday night. In recess at present. Several levels offered.

Every Tuesday and Wednesday, 10.30am-11.30am, 19 Monk Street, the Starlight Centre. Grab a coffee and join in some great conversation where we talk about topics and subjects that have meaning. Gold coin donation. Contact Verna 027 320 0079.

Strength, Balance and Mobility classes for Seniors – men and women

Every Thursday morning from 10.00am to 11.00am at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. $2.00 per session. Contact Lisa Jury on 027 351 7110 for further information.

Tai Chi for beginners

Town Hall, Mondays 6.00pm-7.00pm. Gold coin donation. Ph. Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.

Tai Do Martial Arts

Town Hall, Tuesdays and Wednesdays 6.00pm7.30pm. Ph. Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.

Whitianga Art Group

Feature artist Marianne Moyes. Sunday 25 February 10am-2pm. Every Thursday and Friday 10am-4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.

Whitianga Bike Park

144 Moewai Road, Whitianga. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, barbeques and walking trails. Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact John 027 366 4606.

On summer break now. Phone Alan or Cheryl on 07 866 4024 or 027 452 7887 for more information.

Mercury Bay Squash Club

Mercury Bay Model Railway Club

Monthly meet. Contact. Damon 0273551650

Greeting Card Making

The second and fourth Fridays of the month, 10.00am to 12.00pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. All materials provided. Contact Rev. Gillian Reid on 021 781 081 for further details, or just turn up.

Craft Group

Meets first Saturday of the month 10.00am-3.00pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. Car park end. Work on your own craft (stitching, colouring in, scrapbook, card making anything goes). Bring your lunch and enjoy mixing with other crafty people. $2 per visit. Any queries phone Marilyn 021 1806 530 or Kim 021 1200 469.

American Muscle Street and Custom Club Whitianga

Club meetings first Sunday of the month, 11.00am at Smitty’s for cars and coffee. Phone Reg and Julie Smith on 027 493 5822.

Coroglen Darts Club AGM Thursday 29 February at the Coroglen Tavern, 7pm

Whitianga Menz Shed

Open every Tuesday and Thursday, 9.00am – 12.00 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway, past the diesel truck stop. All welcome.

Whitianga Playcentre

Every Tuesday and Friday 9.00am-12.00pm,1F White Street. Contact. whitianga@playcentre.org.nz or 027 880 3947.

Coroglen dart club members celebrate at the Gumtown Shield Competition

YOUR LOCAL TYRE EXPERTS. 65 COOK DRIVE, WHITIANGA. 20 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024

CALL 07 866 0606 www.theinformer.co.nz

SPORTS Nolene Kirkpatrick 67.00; 2 David Wilkinson and Robyn Waters 49.50; 3 Diane and David Hayes 47.50.

MERCURY BAY CONTRACT BRIDGE CLUB Handicap Pairs Round One Wednesday, 14 February North/South: 1 Gavin Hedwig and Kate Palmano 61.7; 2 Sergio Valle &Giorgio Allemano 58.8; 3 Rose Tegg & Val Dwight 46.7. East/West: 1 Pete and Robyn Hogg 62.2; Susan Swan & Jan Autumn 57.6; Johanna Bonnar & Sheryll Roberts 50.6. Kupe Pairs Round One Thursday, 15 February North/South: 1 Alison Gibson and Debbie Cragg 62.2; 2 Kathy Moy-Low and Pam Churchill 61.1; 3 Norma Hart and Kate Palmano 51.1. East/West: 1 Amy Hyde and Geoff Jervis 69.4; 2 Ischelle Stevenson aand Jenny Layton 61.1; 3 Steven Knowles and Paul Bradley 41.7.

HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB Cummings Pairs Week One Tuesday, 13 February North/South: 1st Peter Clark and Don Barry 65.00, 2 Peter and Robyn Hogg 58.33, 3 Lee Hughes and Bev Dickie 49.17. East/West: 1Ngaire O’Brien and Myra Hoogwerf 62.08, 2 Dave Dyla and Anne Carter 55.00, 3 Maggie Urlich and Sally Bush 47.5. MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB Tuesday, 13 February 9 Hole Mixed – Gross Stroke Play Division 1: 1, Audrey Vickers; 2, Jennifer Layton; 3, Pam Voigt. Division 2: 1, Juanita Dinicola; 2, Judy Hindrup; 3, Jean Hancock Wednesday 14 February 18 Hole Women – Kaimarama Cup Net Medal: 1, Jane Deadman; 2, Julie Rutledge; 3, Debbie Homes Friday 16 February 9-Hole Mixed - Scramble

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB Opening Day 12 February North/ South: 1 Jill Huston and Tony White 62.50; 2 Jocelyn Taylor and Ho Feasey 52.50; 3 Lee Hughes and Donna Harvey 50.50. East/ West: 1 Celia Young and

1, Sally Yoakley; 2, Jennifer Layton; 3, Paul Bradley. Nearest Pin #18: El Camino Wade. Saturday 17 February 18 Hole Men – Wiseman RD1 1, Brett Proctor; 2, Wayne Kearney; 3, John Bow Twos: Paul Gibson, Wayne Kearney, Michael Carr Gross Division 1: Dave Enright Gross Division 2: Brett Proctor Nearest Pin: Murray Weld Longest Drive: Division 1, Cameron Goodger; Division 2, Tony Foster

THE DUNES MATARANGI Tuesday 13 February – Ninehole Ladies – Stableford 1, Glenda Philpott; 2, Merrin James; 3, Ruth Fisken; 4 Sue Karl. Wednesday 14 February – Eighteen-hole Men – Stableford 1, David Gaskell; 2, Rowan Toms; 3, Peter Mathias. Nearest the Pin - Chris Palmer Thursday 15 February – Ninehole Men - Stableford – 3 Blind Mice 1, Noel Rogers; 2, Mark Deutsch; 3, Dave McDonald. Friday 16 February – Twilight

Golf - Stableford 1, Barry Titchmarsh; 2, Ann Dale; 3, Michele Swainbank.

PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Saturday 17 February Cooks Beach Store Trophy 4BBB: David Young and Neil Vowles. Net: 1, Neil Vowles; 2, John Hamilton; 3, Al Sims; 4, Jeff Bright; 5, Kevin Milroy. Nearest the Pin: Ryan Cockrane Twos/ Net Eagles: Donna Dinsdale MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS 18 Players this week. 501 singles were played. Was good to play singles again. Winner this week was last year’s club champion, Rex Donaldson. Highest finish for the ladies was 51, scored by Nan Giri and for the men, 70, scored by Frank Holcroft. No 180s scored this week. MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER Wednesday, 14 February Best of three frames: 11 players on Wednesday and it was three

Mystery box unclaimed at Menz Shed garage sale Continued from page 17

MENZSHED is a charity which focuses on men’s health, particularly their mental health. “The aim is not for men to have to work and make things and produce goods. It’s all about mental health. Those that want to come down and have a coffee and just chat are welcome. Our smokos last at least an hour with banter and conversation filling the

space,” said Glenn. “We help the community in any way we can. For example, we completed a big job making shelves for the Cancer Society book shop,” he added. WORLD WAR 11 TOOL BOX When emptying the container to sort stuff for the weekend’s garage and machinery sale they came across a WW11 box, with the name Capt. E.H Fowke on the side of it. “We were excited to find

it, but nobody knew anything about it,” said Glenn. He was interviewed on CFM about the box and a response came from a woman in Port Waikato who said the box belonged to her great grandfather. She and her husband arranged to purchase the box. When they arrived on Sunday, there was great disappointment when they discovered that the spelling of Captain Fowke’s name was different to her family’s spell-

ing. “We would like to discover more about the box. If anyone knows of Captain E.H. Fowke or if the person who donated the box to the MENZSHED could you get in touch, we would be delighted,” said Glenn. Donations toward the new MENZSHED’s fundraising campaign are welcomed and can be made to bank account number 02-0496-0124241001.

veteran Club players, Peter Challis, Wayne Malcolm and Brian Codyre with two straight wins each to challenge the finals. Brian won the drawn bye and Wayne and Peter fight out the semifinal with a win to Peter to meet his old adversary Brian in the final frame. However, it was Brian, a many times Club Champion, who took a comfortable win over Peter and took home the $25 cash prize. However, Peter didn’t miss out and won $11 with the highest break of 23. Others with two wins were Wayne Malcolm, Ken Gibson & Jason Smith. Saturday, 17 February Best of three frames: Eight players on Saturday and it was only Doug Pascoe and Peter Schultz with two straight wins to battle out the final third frame. However 2021 Club Champion Peter was too good for Doug and pocketed the $25 cash prize. Runners up with two wins were Doug Pascoe and Greg Murphy with a high break of 20 but Wayne Malcolm was the winner with the highest break of 26.

Glenn Schache, President of the Whitianga Menzshed with the box owned by Captain E.H. Fowke, yet unclaimed.

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GAMES AND PUZZLES

Crossword 1093 Puzzle Issue

Proudly sponsored by

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Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver, mail, or scan/photograph and email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World check out manager directly.

Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, or scan and email your entry to The Mercury Bay Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly. The prize can only be redeemed if allowed under the Covid-19 restrictions in force at the time. Sudoku Puzzle Instructions Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of nine boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.

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ACROSS

1. Student’s written assignment (5) 7. Dig (8) 8. Bay (5) 10. Cabbage dish (10) 12. Forsakes (8) 14. Non-alkali (4) 16. Gallivants (about) (4) 17. Lecturers (8) 20. Logos (10)

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Last week’s solution

Last week’s winner - Debbie Holmes 22 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024

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CALL 07 866 0606 The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024 | 23

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raptwhitianga@gmail.com The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024 | 25

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26 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024

BUSINESS FOR SALE

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PUBLIC NOTICES

WHITIANGA PIG HUNTING CLUB AGM

SUNDAY 3 MARCH – 12 NOON Coroglen Pub Bring you kiwi aversion certiﬁcate.

Coroglen Darts Club AGM Thursday 29 February at the Coroglen Tavern, 7pm

Seniornet, Whitianga Inc AGM Thursday 14 March – 2pm Social Services, Community Room 9, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga

Mercury Bay Junior Rugby Club

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting will be held at the Mercury Bay Rugby Club rooms, Lyon Park, Albert Street, Whitianga on Monday 26 February, 6pm. All parents, caregivers, volunteers welcome. Looking for volunteers to fill the positions of: President, Club Delegate, Secretary, Treasurer, Coaches, Managers & Committee Members. Expressions of interest for coaching and managing Grades Rippa, Yr3, Yr4 ,Yr5, Yr6, Yr7& Yr8. Enquiries to: Damian Percival mercurybayjuniorrugby@gmail.com Phone number: 0277499011

www.theinformer.co.nz

A new way to deliver your news We’re so pleased to have launched our new Informer website. This year we’re going to be providing new ways for us to bring you the latest news and events from around the Coromandel Peninsula. The new website might look a little different, but it now provides an easy way to read our latest content on both desktop and mobile devices. From this week you can once again read out our complete paper, and previous editions online. We’re also investing in our social media channels and have a few other exciting things in the pipeline. Check out the new website at www.theinformer.co.nz

CLASSIFIEDS DEATH NOTICE

For our latest screening schedule and trailers go to www.mercurytwincinemas.com

SITUATIONS VACANT

MANGIN: Nila Tully

Peacefully on 13th February 2024 aged 94. Dearly loved wife of the late Eric. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Gary and Karen, Peter and Loraine. Gran to Sarah and Tim, Richard and Stephanie, Rebecca and James, David and Evelyn; adored great-gran to Brodie, Eli, Miles, Darcie, Corban, Brianna, Sadie, Heidi and Bonnie. A private family service has been held. Messages to the Mangin family C/Broadway Funeral Home, 10 Short St, Matamata 3400.

SITUATIONS VACANT

Seeking Work?

Join our Team! We’re giving away over $30,000 worth of prizes to our kiwifruit harvest seasonal workers this season Seeka Peninsula 1416 State Highway 25 Whenuakite 027 227 2052 penemp@seeka.co.nz

Over

4,000 jobs available

Kiwifruit Main Harvest starts

March 2024

Visit seeka.co.nz/work for more information www.theinformer.co.nz

Scan barcode to take you directly to our website

234 Main Road, TAIRUA 3508. Ph 07 8648582

BAKERY

2 DAYS PER WEEK Are you looking for a part time job that allows you the freedom to have some work/life balance? If you are a morning person and enjoy a role with autonomy, we have a permanent part time position in our bakery that may be right for you. The duties include: - Baking high quality goods, following set guidelines - Ensuring pre packed/delivered goods are well presented; - Cooking BBQ chickens; We are looking for someone who is: - Well organised with good time management skills - Able to work autonomously - Dedicated to keeping the bakery department, clean and tidy (follow set cleaning procedures to adhere to Food Safety regulations); - A team player with a good sense of humour. You don’t need to be a qualified baker but you will have an interest in baking. Training will be provided to the successful applicant. Contact Erin on 07 8648582 for a confidential conversation, if this sounds like you. You will need to complete an application form and return it by Friday 01 March 2024.

234 Main Road, TAIRUA 3508. Ph 07 8648582

OFFICE ASSISTANT

1a Lee Street, Whitianga Phone 07 867 1001 The home of

BIG SCREEN

entertainment on the Coromandel

The Coromandel Informer is published weekly and distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of them are entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name, telephone number or residential address. Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. Published by The Mercury Bay Informer Limited.

Editors: Pauline and Stan Stewart (027 271 6182) Editorial: Jack Biddle, Michelle Dellabarca, Suzanne Hansen, Stephen Holmes, Dorothy Preece, Trevor Ammundsen, Lynette Gee.

Guest Editor: Denis Tegg Business Manager: Emma Gaunt Newspaper Layout: Diane Andrew Social Media: EMD Agency Circulation: 9000

Office: 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Telephone (07) 866 2090 Editorial: info@theinformer.co.nz, Advertising: sales@theinformer.co.nz Admin: office@theinformer.co.nz After hours: 027 271 6182 Follow us on social media @theinformernz | ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online), © 2023 Mercury Bay Informer Limited

PART TIME

We are looking for an Office Assistant to join our team. This is a great part time role for somebody who enjoys administration work. The days and hours of work are Monday to Friday 8am to 11.30/12pm. Some weekend work is required. The Office Assistant will carry out general office duties, including banking, payroll administration, filing & produce pricing. We are looking for someone who is: • Well organised and takes pride in their work • Has an eye for detail • Ability to work with confidential information • A team player with a good sense of humour • Flexible with hours & duties While you may already have had office experience, all training will be provided to the successful applicant. If you are interested in the above position and are keen to be a member of the Four Square team please contact Erin on 07 8648582 or call into the store to complete an application form. All applicants are required to complete an application form and return it no later than Friday 01 March 2024.

What’s that Number? Emergency (Ambulance, Fire, Police) 24 hours ....................................................111 Police (Whitianga) .......................................................................................866 4000 Police (Tairua) .............................................................................................864 8888 Police (Coromandel Town) ..........................................................................866 1190 Fight crime anonymously - Call Crime Stoppers ....... .........................0800 555 111 Dog and Noise Control ............................................. ..................................868 0200 Civil Defence ..............................................................................................868 0200 Mercury Bay Medical Centre (Whitianga) ......................... ..........................866 5911 Medical Centre (Tairua) ................................................................................864 8737 Need to talk? Call/text anytime for support from a trained counsellor ..............1737 Harbourmaster (Waikato Regional Council) ........................................0800 800 402 Coastguard Radio Operators .....................................................................866 2883 Whitianga Social Services .................. ........................................................866 4476 Whitianga Locksmith Services ............................................................027 446 6921 The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024 | 27

FACTORY BONUS S A L E O N N OW

Take up to $3000+# off the advertised price of a new MG

CORE

20490

FROM

+ORC

FACTORY BONUS + $ OFF

1,000

CORE

990 27

FROM

+ORC

FACTORY BONUS + $ OFF

1,000

VIBE

* Hurry! $ 990 O F F E R S E N D S O O N FACTORY BONUS FROM

+ORC

3,000#OFF

To book a test drive contact Bentley Catran - MG Sales Manager 021 258 3738 bentleyc@farmerautovillage.co.nz Farmer Autovillage Coromandel 6 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga

+ $1,000 Factory Bonus is available on MG3, MG ZS, MG ZST and # $3,000 Factory Bonus is available on MG HS and MG HS PHEV at participating MG dealers on new stock vehicles purchased and delivered between 1/02/2024 & 29/02/2024. While stock lasts. + # The Factory Bonus will be applied at the point of sale as a reduction from the purchase price but is not otherwise redeemable for cash. Not available to fleet, government, or rental buyers, or with any other offers. MG Motor New Zealand reserves the right to modify or extend this offer. *Recommended retail price (RRP) inclusive of GST and excludes On Road Costs (ORC). ^Warranty & roadside assistance T&Cs at https://mgmotor.co.nz/owners/warranty/. Not available to fleet, government, rental, hire car or chauffeur buyers.

farmerautovillage.co.nz 28 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 February 2024