The Informer - 7th May 2024

BY PAULINE STEWART

Mervyn James Forbes George was born in Whitianga in 1953 and in his 71 years he packed in what seemed like a century of initiative, service, leadership, organisation, compassion, honest business and love for his fellow human beings – all with the purpose of improving peoples’ lives and their experience of service.

His love was his family, his community and service. His reward was the deep and lasting friendship and admiration of colleagues, firefighters, neighbours, rugby players, golfers, people of all ages across the Coromandel and across this country. Merv lived with the attitude that his ‘cup was full’, and he helped to enable so many others experience that their cup was full.

Close to a thousand people gathered at the Whitianga Fire Station last Saturday morning for the funeral of Mervyn George.

The brigade and their family members had prepared well for a very large crowd. Only the week before, a lesser crowd of over 200 had gathered at the Fire Station of which Merv had been Chief Fire Officer for 34 years, for a very different occasion – the presentation of two 50-year service medals for two brothers, Spida and Grassy Mangin. Merv could not be there for this joyful, unique celebration.

THE REGION FAREWELLS A GOOD MAN

He had only just returned from Waikato Hospital to be with his family for his final days.

His colleagues and regional leaders of the Fire Service spoke of him in a concerned way that evening –all missing his presence.

Just twenty-four hours later, Sunday, 28 April, Merv George died at his home with his beloved family, Greer and his children-around him. The news descended like a dark cloud.

Saturday’s service was deeply emotional for everyone present. Loving appreciation of all that Merv meant to people and all that he had done and made possible was expressed with eloquence and deep emotion by all who spoke. Officiating was Rev Ian Diprose, Chaplain Whitianga Fire Brigade. Ian uplifted everyone with his words of faith and his clear love of Merv, sometimes his voice breaking. He wore the cross on his jacket that Merv had given to him some years before.

Greer, Merv’s wife and one of Merv’s sons, Brayden, paid the first tributes, speaking bravely and poignantly. Greer spoke about their marriage – 48 years, and that he came home from hospital on their 48th wedding anniversary. She shared experiences of their young life in Whitianga, Merv’s working years, and the shared joy of their seven mokupuna.

Turn to page 3

The pall bearers carry Merv to be placed in the early years Fire Truck once used at the station.

Ferry Landing has a bus shelter at last

BY CHELSEA MCLEAN

Whenuakite School children have kindly been donated a bus shelter situated next to the Ferry Landing car park, by the Whitianga Marina Society.

This bus shelter was two years in the making, having had to go through Council, MB Community Board and funding applications before

Whitianga Marina Society kindly offered to fund the project.

Thank you: I would like to take this opportunity to thank the following people for their support: Dave Munday – Whitianga Marina Manager Whitianga Marina Society Committee 2023 Cleanline Building –donated concrete Blair McLean Electrical –

transport of shelter to site and project co-ordination. Builders – Troy Pauling, Jimmy Ryan, Johnny Matson. They are also Dads to the kids) who gave up a lot of their time to put together the shelter. With the rainy days upon us, it has already been put to use on day one. For any further comments please contact me, Chelsea McLean on 021 907 510.

At Chang Keaw massage we offer a professional service of traditional Thai massage along with a number of other options such as deep tissue, sports, relaxation, pregnancy massage and reflexology. Come visit us at 58 Albert Street Whitianga or give us a call on Mobile: 0277776898

STAR and SPACE STATION GAZING IN 2024 – your guide to the night sky

Tuesday, 7 May to Wednesday 15 May. May 6-7 after midnight - meteor shower. Both Venus and Jupiter remain too close to the Sun this week for viewing but the elusive and rarely seen Mercury is at its best for the year and can be seen in the mornings before sunrise along with Mars and Saturn. All are roughly the same brightness, and the Moon can help us easily locate and identify them this week. Around May 6-7 we will have the best views of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower, especially after midnight or preferably just before dawn. These pieces of comet dust were left behind by Halley’s Comet in its 75 year orbit around the Sun and can be seen as very quick yellowish shooting stars. Expect to see about one or two every minute at the peak. Tuesday, 7 May: A tiny crescent Moon sits directly below Mercury before dawn with Mars and Saturn higher up. Keep looking for the Eta Aquarid meteors, preferably after midnight. Wednesday, 8 May: The Moon has now left the dawn sky leaving us with Saturn high up and Mars and Mercury below all lined up on their own before the Sun rises. Tuesday, 14 May: There will be a low Tiangong pass from 6:46pm in the NW passing just below the crescent Moon before disappearing into the Earth’s shadow. Wednesday, 15 May: First quarter Moon tonight and a great time to view its craters with binoculars or a small telescope.

Towering in mana and achievement; great in love and compassion

Continued from the front page

Greer asked the question, ‘How do you share adequately, 48 years spent with the love of your life?’ She concluded with a brief waiata to express her sorrow and deep love. Brayden spoke proudly about how his Dad was his hero and his guide.

Other tributes were made by Joe Davis – kaumatua Ngati Hei, Grant George – Merv’s younger brother, Roly Chaney – Chief Fire Officer, Whitianga Fire Brigade, Brian Hunter – United Fire Brigade Association, David Guard –Australasian involvement in Fire Brigade competitions, Eric Gaskell – Mercury Bay Rugby Club (Merv revived the Rugby Club in 1974, was President from 19791982, coach for many years, and was made a Life Member of the club).

The service Merv loved most was as a volunteer for the Whitianga Fire Brigade for 48 years and five months, and his good friend and current Chief Fire Officer, Roly Chaney, in his tribute, outlined some of Merv’s achievements as a member of the New Zealand Fire Service.

• Chief Fire Officer – 34 years

• Fire Fighter of the year – 1992

• Gold Star – 2000

• Mana Award – 2022

• Judge and Referee Waterway Challenges – CFOA

• Queen’s Service Medal – 2010

The reverent pageantry at the close of the service will be remembered for a long time –The Guard of Honour formed by the Whitianga Fire Brigade – the pall bearers processing military style to place the coffin in the magnificently polished vintage 1934 Leyland Cub Appliance. All firefighters present added to the Guard of Honour to witness Merv’s final farewell procession –fire appliance, 1934 Leyland Cub Appliance, second fire appliance, Fire and Rescue van – through the town he so dearly loved.

• Cottage pie with pea & potato mash.

• Chicken & vege curry with mash potato. • Pork schitznel, roast potato & cheesy veges. • Kumara and bacon soup.

Every fire fighter from across the region formed a Guard of Honour for Merv’s final drive around his beloved Whitianga.

WORDS SPOKEN ABOUT MERV

“We had a beautiful childhood…. He saved my life twice – literally.”

Grant George

“He was a principled and sel�less man…. Merv would take the lead with a strong resolve to do the right thing.” David Guard

• The day of Merv George’s funeral was also International Fire Fighters Day marked around the world, and on a national level in Wellington, was The Firefighter Challenge like an ‘Iron Man’ contest for volunteer firefighters. It’s earned the reputation of being ‘the toughest two minutes in sport’.

“Dad would say when he was being thanked for something, ‘Why all the fuss and the big deal?’ That’s because he was always celebrating and bringing into the light everyone else.”

Braden George

“He was not afraid to voice his opinion. He always got his point across. You have left a huge hole. Stand down Merv. Permission to rest and sleep soundly.”

Roly Chaney

“He was astute…forward in giving his opinion. When it came to dif�iculties, it was never about the size of the dog in the �ight, but about the �ight and the dog.”

Brian Hunter

“I will not forget Merv’s laugh, his smile, his dedication and loyalty… neither will I forget his impassioned speech to the UFBA in Nelson, 2007. “Please do not play politics with Emergency Services in NZ.” He demanded that they “develop and deliver an integrated model for emergency services.” A decade later it happened.”

David MacFarlane

‘I coached along side him. He was Iike a good pig dog when it came to sorting things out.. He got the Rugby Club into shape. He was so dedicated.” Eric Gaskell “Merv would say, ‘Let’s not just have a look at doing this; let’s get it done.’” Walter Rusell CFM radio interview

• Mercury Bay Rugby Club had a scheduled home game at 2.00pm the day of Mervyn George’s funeral. Because Merv was a Life Member, they decided to still play the game – something he would have wanted. The score was even – 13 for MB and Whangamata – a tough game on a day of grief. Merv was a great man to every player in the Mercury Bay Rugby Club.

OPEN TRIBUTES:

“Merv and Greer always knew how much they meant to each other. At the close, nothing was left unsaid.”

“If he wasn’t holding your hand, he was holding your back.”

Merv’s daughter Tyler

Weekly Kitchen Calendar

FUSH ‘N CHUP Meal Deal 2 for 1, that’s right. Buy one meal, get one free. ALL DAY long. She’s worth the drive! (Sorry no takeaways)

Wag’n will pick you up and drop you o in Whiti. Must book just give us a call !! Happy Hour Monday ... 4 - 6pm Why wouldn’t ya !!

Always about homes for kiwis

BY PAULINE STEWART

G.J. Gardner Homes has been operating in the Coromandel since 1999. It is independently owned and operated by Glenn and Kelly Sonntag and Tania and Russell Orr of Paradise Construction Ltd. Glenn is very much the face of this well-loved business and is responsible for its’ operations on the Coromandel. The Informer spent time talking with Glenn about his work and G.J. Gardner Homes.

Glenn remembers always wanting to build things. “I built my first boat when I was a kid. I was born in New Zealand but grew up in Fiji and the Solomon Islands. My father was a mechanical engineer who could fix anything. I was always building things out of whatever we could find. My friends were nearly all on-European.

“I became a qualified builder and worked in Hamilton. Kelly and I always had a love for the Coromandel and felt it would be an amazing place to bring up our future children. I was lucky enough secure a labour only building job with a local Whangamata builder who specialised in high end homes. Peter helped me elevate my building experience to the next level. However, 5 years later I contracted a shoulder injury which set me thinking, ‘where should I be? ‘ I knew I needed to ‘get off the tools’ at least for a period until my shoulder healed. Jeff de Leeuw, was the G. J. Gardiner Construction Franchise owner for the Coromandel. I was lucky enough to be successful in my application for the site supervisors role Jeff had listed. Four years later Jeff decided to move back to Hamilton and offered Kelly and I a shareholding in G J Gardner Coromandel Franchise

“It was a fantastic first few years. I was in the role of Manager of the team and learned early that you had to be a ‘jack of all trades’ – builder, files keeper, sales consultant, builders labourer. We pretty much learned the hard way with everything. We worked hard at success and have weathered

the highs and lows in the building industry and in the general economy. We went through the Global Financial Crisis of 2007 and that didn’t seem to ever want to end.

“What I have learned is to keep on the front foot of what is happening, follow every single lead and look after every single client.”

Glenn is proud that G.J.Gardner Homes is the second longest operating housing company in the Coromandel region which includes the Hauraki Plains, to the northern side of Western Bay of Plenty and the Coromandel Peninsula.

“G.J. Gardner Homes are known as NZ’s most trusted home builder, and I am part of that - more than 23,000 in 25 years. I’m in boots and all. It’s the journey. We haven’t sought to be number one; that will be a natural progression. The support network provided by the GJ Gardiner company is a big part of that journey. On the Coromandel, we build everything from the $1.5m home to small apartments and the variety keeps us agile with the different requests from people looking for what is right for them as their home for that particular time of their lives.

THE BEST:

“My team is what I love about my job. The team knows and experiences the two favourite things about what we do. The first is signing a contract with a client The second but number one is handing the house over and knowing we have been part of our clients dream of building a new home. I have been lucky enough to experienced that over 550 times and I can pretty much remember everyone.”

CHANGES IN THE INDUSTRY:

Reflecting on that question, Glenn is clear that building is still building – delivering quality, that hasn’t changed. However, regulatory controls have multiplied and pushed up the price and made purchasing that family home unaffordable for some. He related how G.J Gardner Homes creates competitive tension by always having two suppliers. Sourcing materials and getting the supply

when someone in the supermarket says,” We still love our house!

“Sometimes we think about how many mortgages we are paying for because of our business,” says Glenn. Thirty odd businesses benefit from our teams’ hard work. Most of our tradespeople have been with us for over ten years. We support each other. That is great when I think about it. That adds up to about 60 children and 30 mortgages! We are making a difference to the quality of life in our community and I see that nationally through G.J. Gardner Homes’ output and philosophy.”

Glenn spoke about how the head office of G.J.Gardner monitors the business and its financial success. “It is a family business and that is reflected in the full support network through all the highs and lows of the ‘building your home’ industry.”

“What I have learned is to keep on the front foot of what is happening, follow every single lead and look after every single client.” Glenn Sonntag – the face of Coromandel region G.J. Gardner.

process as efficient is very key to client satisfaction. Insulation is now an important factor in building a home and people also consider solar to reduce their outgoings in their new home. “We help with all these decisions,” said Glenn.

“New building products are not cheaper, just another part of the increased choice. What hasn’t changed is the durability of brick and tile. It is incredibly low maintenance and would be 50 percent of our market.” With GJ Gardner Homes there is everything to offer from the standard GJ Gardner design to a plan initiated by the client. “In every build we can add flair to the most basic design or change the floor plans to accommodate the site,” says Glenn.

BASIC QUESTIONS WE ASK:

“When someone comes to us and says,’We are planning on building,’ our first response is –

• Do you have a site currently?

• Do you have an idea in hand of what you would like?

• Do you have a budget?

• If you don’t have any idea, then we can help you with one or all of these.”

Glenn is aware that people go and see a lot of houses, but they don’t realise they could actually build one.

“People love what they are looking at but don’t realise they can have that house! With Leigh Hopper and Hopper developments who are a very big part of housing development and town planning in this region, they do not have any one builder as their priority and that is good for us and everyone. Our clients choose their piece of land and their builder. Our responsibility is to not let anyone down.”

Glenn and Kelly, his wife, are very much a team. “Kelly does the dressing up of a home and is a fantastic support in the partnership. Baylee, our oldest son, 23, has been building with me for long time. He loves it. I still build, quite a bit in the off time actually,” adds Glenn. “It doesn’t leave you. I love Whitianga and I love it best

BEING INVOLVED AND GENEROUS:

The Informer did some local reading on G.J. Gardner and found that they are sponsors of some great events around the Coromandel - the Surf Club Run in Whangamata; the Run Walk Festival, the annual Whitianga Run Fest coming in May, Waihi Rugby Club, Whangamata Coastguard, Mercury Bay Bowling, T-shirts for Ladies Golf Tournament, and a number of smaller local community events and activities.

“Do you know what counts for success?” Glenn asked rhetorically. “The gauge of success is how happy the people are on the day of the handover. Actually, you want to make every home, a dream home, no matter what the size or the style. After all, your home is still your castle and your haven of safety and hospitality.”

„ G.J. Gardner showhome is open every day. Located on the corner of Joan Gaskell and Kupe Drives.

by HOPPER LIVING

Some news on the Cooks Beach storm water retention lakes

Brett Houston of Thames Coromandel District will meet with three representatives of the Mercury Bay South Residents and Ratepayers (MBSRR) next Monday, 13 May, regarding some forward steps to resolve the problems to do with the two lakes at Cooks Beach.

The representatives Paul Hopkins (Chair), Steve Lloyd, and Dave Baardman have expressed frustration and impatience on behalf of their community. The problem or issue is clearing the two lakes of the nutrient rich sediment which has created a visually unattractive and odorous site for residents and holiday makers as well as the sludge taking up a metre depth of the lakes which is not desirable for a storm water region water body. It would be a health risk for anyone thinking of swimming.

TCDC ceased spraying some time ago as the spray had really just killed off the top level and increased the sludge. Post cyclone work took attention away from this issue by TCDC. The MBSRR had prepared a proposal well before the cyclones making some solid suggestions which have been countered by an ensuing number of meetings and emails.

A TIMELINE:

First there was a consultants report almost a year after the Cooks Beach team had put in their proposal. This consultant’s report was not well researched, did not manage to get the correct species of carp to investigate in their report back to council. That would have been a costly exercise. Then there was a diving company from Hamilton whose equipment could not cope with the degree of sludge, and recently, NIWA (National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research), commenced a review of the Report and Restoration Programme provided by Submerged Environment and Scientific Dive Services (the diving company referred to above who spent two days doing investigation).

Before the diving colony and NIWA, the Cooks Beach team did organise a meeting between the MBSRR and TCDC reps with a carp expert Gray Jamieson, Director of NZ Waterways Restoration (NZWRA), and who is the only DOC and MPI approved supplier of the grass (Silver) Carp in New Zealand.

He had not been consulted by the previous commissioned con-

sultants contracted by Council despite other councils and organisations taking up these fish as a solution to the plant over-proliferation and reducing the nutrient levels.

The priority is in the CEO’s recent words, ‘Finalise a Lake Management Plan between –from July to September’ and ‘Continue to engage with the local community on this work.

I have asked our Infrastructure and Community Management teams to follow up.’

All of this has cost a great deal of time and money - all of it ratepayer’s money.

The three representatives have given a huge amount of volunteer time and their expertise.

The luxury of two small lakes requiring so much expense with a lack of decision making over such a long period is hard to justify. No private business could survive. The solution to find a cost-effective means to keep the nutrient levels down and create two cleaner bodies of water remains before the community.

With this background, there is a sense now that things must be resolved.

TCDC staff remain most hesitant as to what would happen to native plants with the carp and are thus resistant to the proposal from the Cooks Beach team on behalf of the residents.

There will be a report following this important discussion to take place on Monday, 13 May at TCDC rooms in Whitianga. A new incoming Project Manager, who is newly recruited to TCDC, will be part of the ‘finding a resolution’ process.

FUN – FOOD – FASHION and

This photo was taken in October 2023 and is worse now.

Steady hand at the helm of Social Services

BY DOROTHY PREECE

Tony Marsters took up his position as Whitianga Social Services General Manager early in January. He might be best known as a charter-boat operator, or as the crew chief of the Waka Kai vessel, or with the Coastguard crew.

With both military and civilian background, he is a man well used to getting stuff done. From NCO in the Royal New Zealand Military Police, Tony moved on to civilian contracting, handling tactical logistics for the armed forces as well as world-wide agencies. Daily challenges, problem solving and organisational efficiency are his stock in trade.

“This job is very different”, Tony says. “Here the problems are on a more human scale. Even so,

every day brings new challenges. It’s all about listening to people. Big social problems often start from small issues that fester if not addressed.” He believes in early intervention, sorting issues before they become unmanageable. “We canvassed our clients and community leaders extensively, to identify the issues that most concern people in Mercury Bay. With 36 percent of residents over the age of 65, care and support for the elderly and their mobility challenges came out close to the top, as did the lack of facilities for our youth.”

Since January, it’s been ‘all systems go’ with restructuring of staff roles to reflect the planned strategies. Jess Khouri has been appointed to the role of Community Facilitator for Elderly Support.

One new initiative to be rolled out immediately is ‘Total Mobility’. Waikato Regional Council has come on board with this nationwide programme to subsidise taxi fares for those who meet the criteria as mobility-challenged.

MALCOLM CAMPBELL

Applications will be handled through Whitianga Social Services and Mercury Bay Whiti Citi Cabs recently obtained the fully licensed mobility van to provide the specialised transport needed. In terms of general support for the community with transport, the Centre has also taken delivery of a new community van, to be used anywhere around town when needs arise. Another new initiative is the Local Care Group alliance, bringing together local health professionals, District Health Board and other groups concerned with aged care, to help streamline delivery of support services. Quarterly huis are planned for this group, with Tuesday, 7 May scheduled as the first of these.

Planned extensions to the Social

Services rooms in Cook Drive are also due to get underway very soon, providing among other things a much-needed dedicated youth space for the Youth Development Programme.

“We hope to put the spade in the ground on 27 May,” Tony says. “The plans also include a water storage tank, available to the community as a back-up in times of drought.”

He says there is a great interaction and a good feeling among the 52 staff and volunteers who are actively involved in delivering a wide raft of community support and counselling programmes.

“I feel humbled and privileged to be working with the support of such a great team,” Tony says. „ See advert on back page for total mobility information.

There have been some, shall we say, lively letters to ‘The Editor’ about poisons, in this instance 1080.

It has now been in use for over fifty years and 1080 has not been successful in eradicating any pests except on some isolated small off-shore islands. The evidence available now shows that over time, the target pests develop resistance to the chosen chemical requiring the development of even more potent chem-

icals to remedy the situation. A number of farm magazines have had articles very recently lamenting the evident fact that farm animals, cattle and sheep and others are carrying internal parasites, that have developed some form of immunity to the current drenches and the said drenches are becoming more and more ineffective.

The same resistance is now showing up in the use of ‘herbicides’ where the weeds are not being slaughtered in a way the

users of these chemicals had hoped for. Indeed, an astonishing statement revealed that the search is on for herbicides effective against, of all things, ‘ryegrass’ one of the basic plants in NZ pasture. Zillions have been spent on research to develop more nutritious, more palatable, more drought tolerant and more vigorous ryegrass, and now we want a poison to kill it. Hard to believe, but true.

Back to the 1080 poison, bear-

Rethink required with resistance to herbicides

ing in mind that poisons do not have a good track record anywhere. There are some very real weaknesses. Firstly, the target pests listed are possums, mice, rats, weasels, stoats, ferrets and cats. The possums, rats, mice and even birds are likely to eat the pellets. However, cats, weasels, stoats and ferrets are more likely after a carnivore type diet with some form of fresh kill favoured. Therefore the 1080 is a secondary poison

via dead rats and mice to tempt the cats, weasels, stoats and ferrets. These critters may or may not be tempted. Another problem

is that owls may eat a mouse that has been poisoned. A rethink is required to solve a very difficult question. No doubt it is a deadly poison and has according to the internet, widespread support from numerous organisations. However, in most situations, there are usually alternatives. Why have no prizes been offered for new methods for the control of these pests? Two ladies in Waihi are interested in developing a group called Predator Free Waihi to tackle pest problems in the Waihi Area. Most of the problem zones on the Coromandel Peninsula are bordered by farmland and trapping is not too onerous a task if enthusiasm could be generated in the farming community. There is an expression, ‘the world’s perfect mouse trap is still to be made’.

In my own case I began trapping for cats using rabbit pieces. Problem number one, I could only trap in the winter because the bait became putrid in the summer. My neighbour Neil Walker (he traps too) told me to use cat pellets. Problem number two - mice ate the cat pellets so the pellets have to be ‘shielded’ in a way that the odour is attractive to the vermin but unavailable to eat. There is room for improvement to the world’s perfect trap and collectively, we need that improvement.

Tony Marsters

Key points made at LTP hearings

Last week at the Thames TCDC chambers verbal submissions were presented in person and by zoom to our elected councillors.

• Warning as to unlimited growth - asking for a pause on this.

• A need to slow down costs during the costof-living crisis to allow time for Council to rethink the current Strategic Planning approach.

• The current topdown and historical approach to planning needs to change.

• The status quo is not working meaning the way Long Term Planning is led and pre-

sented.

• There needs to be equity and fairness in terms of TCDC’s Financial Strategy.

• The average salary of the Management team within TCDC is $130/140 k a year. A salary that is at least double the average income of our households in the peninsula.

• Since 1996 we have had eight cyclones plus numerous weather events all

claimed to be1:250 year events. To do nothing is no longer an option.

• Council is still approving building consents with floor levels below the crown of roads with no overland flow paths.

• To our elected member, please change the culture.

• There is a perceived lack of listening by those who make decisions, to the people who pay their rates.

• It is as if those who prepare the LTP know best and the residents know far less. This may not be the case.

All the submissions are in. The dates are set for councillors to consider the comments and research and hard work of the residents, Comunity Boards, and also the staff of TCDC. The practicality of united team being transparent and frugally spending on essential services for a lightly populated, beautiful and vulnerable region may yet come.

Introducing Mischa, staging entrepreneur

Mischa Evanson is a very busy and competent young woman. She copes very well with two management roles – Peninsula Party Hire, where she is quite involved in the running of the business, and her new and exciting business – ‘Rooms, Home Staging’.

The latter role is a big step but something Mischa has been seeking for long time.

“Ever since I can remember, I have always loved interior design. Reworking a space to make it more beautiful and spacious was something I would do confidently for fun and for a challenge. It has become a passion for me.

One day I saw that ‘Rooms Home Staging’ was up for sale. I said out loud, ‘That sounds like a business I really want to do.’ So, I jumped on it and now I am the owner of a business.

“I have enough furniture to stage six homes. It is all kept in storage, and it is so well set up. There is a lot of storage available for me to be able to procure more staging items. I am keen to build up the range I

have and buy more.”

Mischa has grown up in this area. A real local with understanding of the variety of homes on the Peninsula and what works best to stage them for sale.

“Sarah and Randi, the previous owners, have helped me a lot with the handover,” says Mischa. “I am also studying a Diploma Course through the Interior Design Institute and will then do a specialty course in home staging. This is a longterm commitment for me.”

Recently I have helped renovate our family home and rental cottage. I was given free rein to redecorate and furnish both properties. This was a hit and the feedback has been fantastic.

„ Mischa - Ph: 0273246018

„ Email info@roomshomestaging.co.nz „ Website: roomshomestaging.co.nz

“I plan to service all of the Coromandel Peninsula. I have the resources and ability to move furniture quickly and efficiently”.

Rooms Home Staging offers the following services. Full or partial Home Staging to best present houses for sale. Styling for air B and B properties and assisting clients to furnish their own homes.

“Not everyone knows exactly what they want or have the time and energy to do it well. I am excited to grow my business.”

bank pays the financial advisor.

The evenings are cool now and a warm, ready-prepared meal is a welcome experience. The Crossroads Fellowship in Whitianga hosted a community meal to raise some funds for their Women’s Conference last Friday evening. About 65 came, some from Tairua, and what was so pleasing was seeing a number of iwi, Europeans and migrant women all working and dining together who are well and truly contributing to the wellbeing of our commu-

nity. The hostess Marissa McLachlan organised the flow of people and serving of food. One table was alive with Spanish conversation as two of the diners were from Chile and were delighted to see each other after a long absence in meeting. Susana Joshua, the Women’s Ministry leader will take about 10 women to this conference, called The Gathering, which is a three-day event to be held in Auckland from 23 -25 May on the theme of leadership.

Liquorland Whitianga has new proprietors

BY STAN STEWART

For Lance Popata, Renata Haronga and their family, it has been a big shift from Whangarei to Mercury Bay. Since their arrival on 5 March, they have been coming to terms with the business but also settling into the very welcoming community.

When they first visited the business in the winter months, the weather was overcast. Whitianga on a dull cloudy day is a different space to Whitianga on a sunny day. Since they have been here, the sun has shone.

“Whitianga is beautiful,” Lance exclaims. We are very lucky to be able to call this place home.

Lance says, “We like to participate in the community in which we live. When we see an opportunity, we like to give back to those who reach out to us.”

When Lance’s daughter attended netball and there was an appeal for

Lance and Renata looking forward to meeting you.

a Netball coach, Lance stepped forward and is now coach of the team.

For Lance whose sports interests are rugby, league and fishing, coaching netball was something new. He started a few years ago when his daughter did not have a coach. “It’s a great game and I’m glad to have the opportunity to contribute.”

Lance and Renata have three

children aged 17, 14, and 9 who all attend Mercury Bay Area School.

Working together in various ways is not a new experience for Lance and Renata and in Whitianga, they are joint owners. Lance has 16 years’ experience managing two Liquorlands. Renata has experience in retail, working more recently in the banking sector and currently working part time at BNZ Whitianga.

With enthusiasm Lance and Renata talk about the people of Whitianga. We have already met so many great people. We feel very pleased we have made this move,” says Lance.

The two would like to thank the community for being so welcoming to their family

We are locally owned and operated, please pop in to say ‘Hi’ to Lance and Renata in Lee Street, Whitianga. „ Liquorland Whitianga is on Facebook.

Chilean and kiwi women enjoy the community meal.

Whitianga,

42 Kupe Drive

• Flat section, single level brick home, 3 bdrm 2 bthrm, internal access double garaging.

• All living areas intertwined, open plan or separate. Independent accessed office/ media/formal lounge or 4th bedroom. Equally perfect for a young family, retirees, rental or work from home.

FOR SALE AUCTION 18th May 2024 at 2.00pm on-site (Unless sold prior)

VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L27315165

Kirstin Brown 027 301 1775 Dayle Candy 027 433 6862

Whitianga, 5/86 Albert Street

• 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom ground floor newly refurbished apartment.

• Permanent living, holiday home or rental.

• Stunning property, overlooking the Whitianga Marina, located just a short 2minute walk from town.

FOR SALE By negotiation

VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L27555846

Dayle Candy 027 433 6862 Cavin McGrath 021 080 19154

Cooks Beach, 20 Hardy Place

• Nestled in a highly desirable area.

• 3 bdrms 2 bthrms, rumpus with storage.

• High stud boat garage with a toilet & shower, along with a fish bench.

FOR SALE By negotiation

VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L22537675

Paulette Tainsh 027 241 2001 Hendry Tainsh 022 658 4818

designed indoor outdoor flow.

• Tasmanian Oak and Jarrah wooden flooring with high timber beams and ceilings.

• Separate self-contained chalet nestled in the ferns.

FOR SALE $1,950,000 VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L22541511

Philippa Evans 021 266 9295

Whitianga, 1878 The 309 Road

• Unique lifestyle block with 7.3100 hectares of land.

• Adjacent to one of the most popular freshwater swimming holes in the Coromandel area.

• Plenty of room for grazing, Versatile garage, large covered deck, private rural oasis.

Tairua, 28 Cory Wright Drive

• What a little beauty! 2 double bedrooms, open plan kitchen/dining and lounge. Bonus shed and garage with bathroom with plenty of storage room.

• Centrally located, on a lovely flat section backing on to a scenic water reserve.

FOR SALE Price on application.

VIEW harcourts.co.nz/ L26965338

Philippa Evans 021 266 9295

Tairua, 2 Summer Lane

• 7 bedroom, 4 bathroom, including a 2 bedroom self-contained flat.

• Supersized lounge area with fireplace.

• Prime corner 978m2 site located in a quiet yet convenient area of Tairua.

FOR SALE Price on application VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L26730830

Philippa Evans 021 266 9295 Jo Wardle-Heath 027 470 7883

• 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is future proofed with easy access through to all the spaces.

• Equipped with all modern conveniences & highspec finishes.

• Beautifully low maintenance landscaped grounds.

Tairua, 3 Daphne Road

• 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, rumpus room and huge garage.

• Positioned on 948m2 in the heart of one of the Coromandel’s hot spots.

• An entry level property with so much potential.

• Harbour views, private and sunny.

Tairua, 9 Rewa Rewa Valley Rd FOR SALE $1,325,000 VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L26698082

Philippa Evans 021 266 9295

Jo Wardle-Heath 027 470 7883

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 lounge areas with extra store room.

• Well maintained, beautifully presented 4223sqm lifestyle property.

SALE By negotiation

Fuller 022 018 0856

Tairua, 91 Pepe

Whitianga, 6 Hei Esplanade

Don't miss out again

• Freehold going concern with easy care well-established business model

• Opportunity for lifestyle and income

• Motivated vendors due to family commitments

A change in circumstances, prioritising family, has led to the decision to place 'Container It Whitianga' on the market shortly after its recent purchase. 17 Moewai Road not only provides a substantial and stable income but also offers strong underlying land value. Comprising 138 containers and 450sqm (approx.) of warehousing, maximizing site coverage.

bayleys.co.nz/2201401

Commanding corner

• Tenanted investment - two tenancies

• Commanding corner with an excellent profile in Thames

• Strengthened to 80% of NBS

• Returning $128,500pa +GST/OPEX

2201452

5,084

BY STAN STEWART

II follow the daily news in three countries, Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines. Almost every day, in all of these countries, there is something in their news about drugs – injectables, smokable and increasingly drugs in pill form. Governments, customs, police and/or military in all three countries, at huge expense, are trying to combat the importation and distribution of these illegal substances.

Fifty years ago, USA President, Richard Nixon, launched ‘the war on drugs’. Currently costing the US $50 billion annually, this is a war the USA is not winning. Why? It’s because throughout the western world, more and more people like taking drugs; poor people, rich people, media people, film stars; they really ‘like’ drugs.

This war is failing for the same reason Prohibition failed. Whatever people say in public, in private, they want the buzz drugs bring in their parties, and then

eventually, disastrously, in their daily lives.

Some of the glamorous, rich and famous of recent times have died tragically at an early age. Only later do we learn their death is related to substance abuse –drugs.

When it comes to hard drugs, I have read many accounts from users that the drug highs are better than sexual experiences. It seems that once you go down this pill popping trail, is it possible, probable(?) that drugs will become more important than sex.

In the last few years there has been a decline in sexual activity in the United States, and the trend in Australia appears to be similar. Declining sexual activity has reached alarming proportions in South Korea and Japan. Is this related to pill-popping etc?

Maybe?

I’m enthusiastic about babies. All over the western world and in South Korea and Japan in particular, the number of babies born is declining year by year.

We used to fear over-popula-

tion. Now for many countries, for example, central European countries, the threat to their society comes from de-population. Bulgaria, with its streets of empty houses, is a clear example of this.

Am I just a grumpy old man complaining about younger people having fun? I don’t think so. I want to be an advocate for the joy of sexual activity. I am especially enthusiastic about sexual relationships where there is the possibility of making babies. Why? Because we need more babies. The western world needs more babies, our communities need more babies.

CLARIFICATION

(1) I realise a small portion of the decline is represented by those couples who, despite years of trying, even with medical assistance, cannot have children.

(2) I know that poor people in poverty-stricken countries are having too many babies. They need contraceptive help that provides alternative life opportunity.

(3) Exploitive sex and non-consensual sex is criminal and as such should be punished under law.

However, in this piece I am talking about ordinary people in developed western nations. These are the very countries in which birthrates are declining and de-population is looming or is already a fact. I think consensual sexual intercourse is the most pleasurable of all human activity. I detest the thought that it could be displaced by some substance or pill or an injection.

As a citizen of the developed world, I would like to see more babies and so do the governments of all these countries.

If pills are better than sex… will humans keep on making babies?

When babies and children are loved, they change societies, making them more gentle, more playful, and more hopeful.

And here’s a biggie – less likely to want to wage war. This proposition is not easy to grasp but it is true.

However, I wish to make clear that I am not saying the only reason to have sex is to conceive children.

What can I do about dethroning pills and drugs as the source of most pleasure? Well, I could write about the obvious – the homeless addicts on the streets of western cities.

They didn’t start out to be addicts – just party-goers looking for a buzz. Instead, I have chosen to write about the joy of sexual relationships with my bias towards sex in committed relationships. In the face of the enormity of the problem of drug – taking and pill popping in our culture, my few paragraphs may seem a bit lame. But, it’s a my personal protest. I sense it’s better than saying nothing.

Some of the Lions Club team with Woolworth’s staff on Pink Bun Day in 2023.

This has got to be the sweetest, easiest to organise, Mother’s Day gift for children to give to Mum this Sunday. Yes, the Pink Buns are back!

WHITIANGA AND COROMANDEL

You can grab a pack outside Whitianga Woolworths (Countdown) on Saturday, May 11 with all money raised going to Whitianga Lions Club Project Mammogram. Woolworths has kindly donated the freshly baked buns in support of this community initiative.

And for Pink Bun fans living further up the coast, grab your Mother’s Day Pink Buns at Coromandel Four Square, who love the support their community continues to give to Project Mammogram too.

Love isn’t easy.

Loving is the hardest thing we’ll ever do.

Sometimes love is fun

Sometimes it’s a laugh.

Most times love’s a grind on the long haul.

It demands everything of us.

But usually we are not prepared to risk everything for someone else.

Most of the time, we protect ourselves; We guard our personal security; We fortress our personhood; And our life is a

series of short engagements that never amount to anything.

We are left with an empty feeling that haunts us.

We feel there should be more.

And there is more.

There is love.

One day, if we can stop �ighting and come out from behind our defences, Love will �ind us.

Yes it will!

And we will feel glad and relieved.

Love will help make our lives

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

BOTTOM TRAWLING MISUNDERSTANDING

Warren Maher who I think is a good bloke, is also a keen fisher who by the sounds of it is not happy with his, or his associate’s fishing experiences and quickly blames the quota management system along with destructive fishing methods.

Concentrating on bottom trawl and Danish seine.

In reply to a similar article in this paper about “sediment plumes”, “re suspension of sediments” and basically digging up the oceans seafloor with bottom trawl and seine gear, I pointed out then that this gear skims the sea bed, it doesn’t plough it, the storms do that and proof of that is the good fishing after a storm event.

Trawling and seining requires forward motion, in the vicinity of 2.5 to 3.5 knots to catch fish, if your gear is digging into the bottom you won’t go anywhere.

Examples of bottom trawling impacts in NZ inshore waters can be seen on the YouTube link https//youtube. /4YnUAFgF6eM also, you can go online and find information about the “light touch” and fuel efficiency of the

Danish seine method.

Overcoming misinformation on the effects of coastal trawling and Danish seine is important as these methods not only bring in export dollars but supply fish to people in our communities and cities who don’t have a means of catching it themselves and this supply of protein is delivered twelve months of the year.

These people’s voices are never heard in the diverse views around trawling and seining.

Fisheries NZ (MPI) carry out frequent stock assessments of important species like snapper, trevally, gurnard etc and adjust catch levels for all extractive users up or down depending on biomass, mortality’s (both fishing and natural like milky fleshed snapper).

What seems to be missing from articles commenting on commercial fishing is the presence of sedimentation in most coastal areas of NZ which undoubtedly has effects on the security of juvenile estuarine species of which snapper is one along with shellfish such as scallops.

Our country is undergoing a change in fisheries management to include the ecosystem (eco-

„ 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.

system-based fisheries management). As can be worked out this is a “mountains to the sea” approach and is supposed to take into account land-based stressors. We have a land-based stressor affecting most of the east coast Coromandel Peninsula’s estuaries with short rotation plantation forestry as just one example. Perhaps Warren as the WRC Councillor for the Thames Coromandel constituency, will look seriously at the risks to our estuaries, inshore waters and indeed our fishing grounds from a severe weather event and associated sediment loading during his term.

Often, I have found people thinking that trawlers and Danish seiners working in our local waters operate throughout the entire coastal area, so I have included a chart showing that out of the entire Hauraki Gulf Marine Park waters only approximately 40% contains fishable ground to trawling and Danish seining.

Yours faithfully Phil Clow President, Whitianga and Coromandel Commercial Fisherman’s Association

“KISS”

Succinct (brief and to the point) “Letters to the Editor” may be appreciated by many.

Roger M Simpson Mercury Bay

THANK YOU FROM THE BOATING CLUB

A big thank you from Mercury Bay Boating Club for the ongoing and vocal support of our community in Whitianga. Over the last two weeks the Mercury Bay Community Board hosted 2 public drop in sessions to gauge local opinion on the Club’s proposal to relocate to Dundas St. While the first session in the Community Board Room was heated and divided, the second, at Saturday Market, showed just how much our Community

supports the Boat Club.

Boating and sailing are very much part of the fabric of our society in Whitianga. They contribute significantly to our cultural identity. Who doesn’t love seeing colourful sails out on the water and the grins on the faces of our children as they learn to sail, their confidence building every time they get on the water?

It appears many of you agree with this sentiment.

The Club gathered 58 submissions in favour of our Dundas St proposal at the Whiti Citi Markets last Saturday. Most of those submitters went on to complete submissions to the Department of Conservation process which closes this Thursday.

Thank you Mercury Bay. With your ongoing support, Mercury Bay Boating Club will continue enhancing the backdrop to our town with the flash of colourful sails on the water.

Simon Rawlinson Commodore. Mercury Bay Boating Club

BUILDING PEACE, NOT MONUMENTS

As I understand it when the soldiers returned from the First World War, they were asked by the government how they wanted the horror to be commemorated?

They said they wanted libraries so young people could be educated and learn about other people and how alike we all are so that sons and daughters do not blindly follow military leaders,

and never have to go to war again. Sadly, the government didn’t listen and chose instead to build stone monuments in towns throughout the country. Twenty-one years later the Second World War killed millions…one of our allies – Russia, sacrificed 26 million people to defeat Nazi Germany.

At the simple respectful ceremony in Hahei 2014, the atrocities of the Vietnam war were also mentioned regarding the ongoing effects of Agent Orange on our soldiers. Shockingly, today there are still Agent Orange deformed and disabled babies being born in Vietnam.

Project Renew, an organization run by an American Vietnam veteran Chuck Searcy helps not only to de-mine the Quang Tri region, but they also support work programmes for seriously deformed Agent Orange victims born without limbs, without eyes. You can support Project Renew at renewvn.org

Peace takes a huge effort and without an independent foreign policy, we are struggling uphill to ensure peace for the future. As individuals, we do what we can to end Palestinian genocide at the hands of the Zionist war machine supported by our government. As citizens of Aotearoa, we have no enemies. In the spirit of the Anzac soldiers, let’s keep educating ourselves so our nation can become a peace leader.

Reihana Robinson Moehau

THROUGH THE PORTAL

We are becoming more corrupt

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

The release of the 2023 International Corruption Perception Index in January saw New Zealand continue its slide down the list, now scoring 85 points out of a possible 100 lowering us to third place, down from those heady years when we were top ranked on 96 points, now lower than Denmark.

We are getting worse and this is a concern as we all have to pay for this. When, for example, a power company must pay many millions that they should not have to pay, purely to get a project approved, who eventually pays those millions? We do of course.

Corruption is defined by Oxford Languages as “Dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically involving bribery”. The prime element of this definition is power and this can come in many forms. The introduction of the Resource Management Act many years ago opened us up for an increase in corruption by expanding the number of groups that have power over any project to include anybody that has a desire and is organised enough to exert what power they have. The

ways they exert this power may be to gain money from the other party or it may be, without merit, to simply delay or force cancellation of a project. The groups mentioned can be varied, being commercially based, ethnically based, environmentally based or even be single individuals.

There are many examples of this behaviour, such as Progressive Enterprises delaying the building and opening of a supermarket by Foodstuffs in Auckland’s Wairau Valley by 15 years. Many court cases and appeals were lodged by Progressive to delay this project with the apparent reason being they did not want competition

in that area. This was not corruption in terms of bribery but was for gain in terms of keeping competition at bay. How would you describe the conduct of those in power? Honest? The conduct certainly ensured Foodstuffs incurred much unwanted cost.

Some months ago, the Informer printed a letter from Mr Dal Minogue (ex Waikato Regional Councillor and ex TCDC Councillor) describing how corruption works within local authority regions, allowing Iwi to use privileged positions and the RMA, or Council positions, to gain benefit for themselves.There are many localised forms of such corrup-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

WINSTON DEFENDS NEW ZEALAND?

tion and I have personally witnessed such practices. This was with a sporting club in Auckland being forced to pay two gentlemen $1000 and two jugs of beer (there were two of them and the meeting was at a pub) to gain their sign off and assurance that the Taniwha in a non-existent creek wouldn’t be upset by our plans.

National politics is also exposed to corruption. The Sunday Herald on 5th May reported on Willie Jackson refusing to sign off the 2022 budget until Maori Ministers were allocated an extra billion to be used for targeted funding. Was this honest?

Do you believe it was fraudulent or do you argue it was just good negotiation skill? He used a position of power to gain a financial advantage, to be used for a select group of our society. What would you call it? There are many other examples of politicians dabbling in corrupt practices, many of these in the area of jobs or contracts for family members. They all cost us.

The use of the RMA as a weapon of gain for your group is quite prevalent when any large project is mooted. For example, Genesis

and Meridian recently reported that they were spending 180 million to “smooth the path of re-consenting the Waitaki Power Scheme”. They reported that they had obtained the support of 3 Ngai Tahu Hapu for 100 million and the rest was intended for conservation groups and some smaller Iwi. This was just for re-consenting but should have just been a rubber stamp. However, the entities that use the RMA weapon were queuing up with their hands out and the cost is ours.

It is good to see that the Government is not only intending to improve the Resource Management Act but is introducing a Fast Track Approvals Bill to be used for consenting major projects. The Fast Track process removes the ability to obstruct using the RMA with any appeal being on points of law only. It looks to me that this will certainly speed up the redevelopment of our country and it will also derail a very lucrative gravy train.

So hopefully we will start moving back to the top of the list but before we get too upset; just bear in mind that Australia is in position 14. We’ve got a long way to go to be as bad as the Aussies.

When asked if he’s “in for a legal fight” he says: “I’m not a coward, I’m standing up for the rights and principles of our society.” When asked what hat he’s wearing, he says: “The hat of a New Zealander. We’ve got a right to be proud and make up our own mind.”

Think that we need to remind Winston that we are waiting on an “investigation” into the Labour led government’s Covid19 Public Health Response Act and how it treated NZers and forced, yes forced despite what Hipkins has said since, thousands of people to unwillingly take an experimental poisonous jab. That Act needs to be destroyed.

K. Thompson, Whitianga BOATING CLUB MOVE A WIN/WIN

About our famous boating club. Did you know that since Johnathan Kline threw his positive energy into the club (6-7 years ago) they have purchased suitable training yachts, run excellent holiday learn-to-sail programs for our kids, and held many successful yachting regattas?

Each year the Whitianga special needs kids and their carers are taken for a sail on Hobie cats. The smiles on the faces of everyone involved says it all. One year a group of at-risk foster kids and their carers from Rotorua came and sailed and left feeling confident and inspired.

After reading the complaints of individuals about the proposed repositioning of the club house to the scruffy piece of land at the end of Dundas Street. I went and looked for myself and realised this is an ideal spot. First it will tidy it up no end and make far greater use of this community space than the dismal place it is

now. As aerial photos show, the parking is now chaotic and random. This would be greatly improved. The security would be improved. Rugby is a large part of our culture so is sailing, thus to bring the two together in a spirit of cooperation is a win/win.

The Tairua Skatepark was held up for over 30 years thanks to a couple of objectors empowered by the outdated RMA. As the town grows, facilities such as our community built boating club become essential.

R.Harwood, Whenuakite

LETTER RE WATER METERS WRONG

I recently received a letter from TCDC Water Services telling me that my water consumption between 5 Dec 2021 and 19 April 2024 was “above average,” and went on to say that average usage over the district is $160 per cycle, or $320 yearly. This worried me, so using the figures provided in the letter, I did some simple calculations and here is what I found.

1. A billing “cycle” for TCDC appeared to be 6 months. 2. The time elapsed as above was nearly five billing cycles. 3. To quote TCDC, “the average usage is $160 per cycle.” 4. My usage over the period TCDC quoted, would be billed at $392.15 for five billing cycles. 5. Therefore, the “average user” that TCDC quoted would pay $800 not $160! The inference that I had a leak too was not based on fact. 6. So, I am not “above average consumption”. Also reference to usage in kilolitres is unusual, and could confuse, a kilolitre is a cubic metre. I am concerned that this mistake might be replicated. I hear others asking the question – will water metres being used reduce the amount of rates proportionately or is this another addition? John Henson, Whitianga

dundas street reserve beware! do we need this?

Whitianga community is possibly losing a special place near the centre of its town.

Despite being man made the area of reclaimed land at the Dundas Street entrance is being proposed as the new site of the Mercury Bay Boating Club building. The Club has a Resource Consent Application in to the Department of Conservation for total control and use of the whole area marked (2374m2). This is presently DOC administered land available for the use of the whole community.

The boaties who use and pay for the Marina boat ramp also use this area (mainly at weekends) for parking of cars and trailers.

Ask why the Marina is in favour of this proposal therefore losing a large area of the Dundas Street reserve for which their customers have pre-paid.

Of course the Boating Club will need to keep raising funds and in the past that has been by function hire and community use. That will continue, mostly night activities, and the wildlife that has returned will be badly affected with this proposal.

Sailing is a great sport. There is no one in Whitianga who does not like sailing but the position of the boating club is a different matter. They had a good site – but the erosion with no rock wall caused the boating club to be at risk as well as the rest if the community with the incursion of the sea. Its current position on stilts is because they cannot get clear permission to place it back further. Highway 25 is very close,

not being protected by Waikato Regional Council or Transit NZ. The lease conditions for the Boating Club meant they had to pay to protect their club from the ocean and they could not. Cyclone Hale and Gabriel cut into their leased land.

Earlier in 2023 it was reported that “Entities including Waikato Regional Council and Ngata Hei were open to discussions, and Jonathan Kline says, the process is off to a good start.” What happened there? They now have to move off that site. Dundas Street is not the place.

Putting the Mercury Bay Boating Clubhouse in this area of major tidal flow is foolhardy and will put their young sailors at risk not only out on the water but on this reserve which will have a higher traffic movement, with trailers being parked into parking spaces.

We don’t need to fill every space. Haven’t we learned from the past?

Trevor Jensen 2 Dundas Street, Whitianga

Any person or organisation may make comment in writing to the Director-General for or against the proposal or make any other written submissions on the proposal. Objections or submissions should be sent to Email: permissionshokitika@doc.govt.nz

Subject Line:112555-OTH, Submissions Re: Mercury Bay Boating Club Attention: Ange Piaget, Senior Permissions Advisor

Submissions will be accepted up to and including 5.00pm om 9th may 2024. Once and may be released under that Act submitter’s information is subject to the Official Information Act 1982

Two huge semi-trailers put the boating club up on stilts late January 2023; a profile map of the proposed position of the boating club.

Provided by the boating club

Mercury Bay Athletics Club

The Athletics Club is on the lookout for a new club President and Treasurer. If you want to get involved with a great community activity, please reach out to our club secretary Felicia: festylenz@gmail.com

Their annual prize giving for 2023 2024 was a well done to all our athletes. The season is over but begins again in Term Four following the September School Holidays. Our Mercury Bay Athletics Club Prize Giving 2023 -2024 was a WELL DONE to all our athletes! We look forward to seeing you all again next season!

AWARD WINNERS:

„ Senior Girl: Sharna Proctor

„ Senior Boy: Riley Flynn

„ Junior Girl: Sophie Jack

„ Junior Boy: Kip Fountain

„ Rookie of the Year: Neela Sacault

„ Mercury Bay Athletics Cup: Boh Boyd

„ Multi Athlete: Dominic McKenzie

„ Senior Sportsperson of the Year: Carter Werakiho

„ Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Marley Anderson

THANK YOU

We would like to say a special thank you to our wonderful sponsors and supporters, we couldn’t do it without you:- The Coromandel Informer, The Warehouse Whitianga, Aotearoa Gaming Trust, Countdown Whitianga (Woolworths), Philip Hart from Hart and Associates

ANZAC DAY MISHAP

PUT RIGHT

Our soldier who was in East Timor but has now returned requested The Coromandel Informer to adjust a couple of aspects of what was reported to us of his story. The details provided for our previous report were incorrect. This is the corrected information.

• He was Private while deployed in East Timor

• His recent visit was as part of a veteran’s care association called Timor Awakening a welfare programme for mental health for veterans. run by Australian, Mick Stone.

• While in East Timor he attended the ANZAC parade

(last week P5)

alongside Australian and Timor-Leste veterans.

• Part of that was the laying of a greenstone on the memorial site of a soldier (friend of his family) who lost his life in Timor-Leste on Batt Two.

A mixed martial art, incorporating Judo, Jui Jitsu, Muay Thai, TKD, Karate, Thai Chi, Wing Chun and Boxing. Aims: Self-defence, Self-control, Confidence and Discipline. Suitable for children and adults.

Tuesday and Wednesday Whitianga Town Hall 6:00 – 7:30 pm

Instructor: Tony 0273335146

MERCURY BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC

Robert

Highly Commended Rookie of the Year: Carter Werakiho; Highly Commended Senior Boy: Cooper Fletcher; President Alana Baker presents Volunteer of the Year: Nicola Mahoney.

Highly Commended Senior Girl: Noa Jensen ; Winner Senior Girl: Sharna Proctor; Highly Commended Senior Boy: Louie Jensen; Highly Commended Junior Girl: Mia Jowsey; Winner Senior Boy: Riley Flynn; Winner Junior Boy: Kip Fountain; Winner Multi Athlete: Dominic McKenzie

Calling all artists for Art Expo – new student competition too!

BY CYNTHIA DALY

Whitianga Lions Club is pleased to announce that their Art Expo is returning this year to the Whitianga Town Hall on King’s Birthday Weekend (May 31 opening night – June 3) with all profits going to Project Mammogram.

“The Art Expo committee is pleased to provide this fabulous opportunity for artists to showcase their work. Its central location makes it very accessible to the public, and we hope with SH25a now open, that there will be lots of visitors to our area over the long weekend. Entry is free and that encourages people to come and have a look at the talent we have in this community, and

hopefully buy something to take home,” says Art Expo committee chair Mike Brown.

The artists who have previously

exhibited at Art Expo have been invited to the 2024 exhibition. Contact will also be made with artists who have expressed an

interest in taking part.

“We know that there are so many talented artists in the Coromandel community and rather than risk missing them with an invite, we’d like them to contact us by emailing us at whitibrown4@ gmail.com and we will send them an entry form with details of the event.

“Whether you paint, sculpt, work in mixed media, are a potter, jewellery artist, wood turner or wood carver, photographer…basically if you create visual art then this expo is for you.

“This year we also have an exciting new competition for Coromandel Peninsula school students in years 11-13 with $500 as the first prize for the winning artwork (2nd $250 and 3rd

$100) which will be judged by the Whitianga Art Group committee. Student Competition

“We’re asking students to create a visual artwork that depicts life on the Coromandel Peninsula either ‘past or present’. If this sounds like something you could do, either talk to your school art teacher or email us at whitibrown4@gmail.com and we can send you the entry details. The winners in this competition will be announced on opening night and all student entries will be on display on that night and for the duration of the Art Expo. If students want, they can even sell their artwork at the event.

We want artists to have as much opportunity as possible to sell their artwork.”

Is that a national Gold Award pie?

BY CYNTHIA DALY

For pie makers round New Zealand autumn signals the time for considering which pies they’ll enter in the Bakels NZ Supreme Pie Awards. The stakes are high and many bakers say customer feedback is a major part of the decision-making process of entering.

Last year Michelle Liddell of Chill Café in Whangamata entered the Pie Awards for the first time as a way of honouring her husband who had recently passed away. He had loved the pies she made.

Little did she know that her business was about to get a huge boost. And then the phone rang… “He said (NZ Bakels managing director Brent Kersel) we’d won an award but he didn’t say it was the gold and when it came through on the computer I said, ‘guys we’ve won the gold! He must be joking. We thought this can’t be for real and we were all laughing,” says Michelle.

“And you, the pie fans of New Zealand can help. Encourage your local baker to enter the competition this year at www.pieawards.nz”

Michelle had won the Café Boutique category gold award. Her chicken, cranberry sauce and camembert pie named the best in New Zealand.

The Café Boutique category is designed to encourage cafés, small food outlets and restaurants to enter the Pie Awards and has special entry conditions.

“We just thought we would enter and see how we go, but we didn’t think it would win us gold, that’s for sure.

“The impact on the business was absolutely massive. Probably for the first four months we had people coming from the South Island, up North, just everywhere coming through town just to try the pies.

“There was a cruise ship that

arrived in Tauranga and it was announced on the cruise ship, so they all came through town wanting the pies. And I still have my friends in Auckland saying ‘when you come up can you bring up 20

pies,” laughs Michelle.

Her friends even tried to convince her to set up online selling, but she felt she had enough to keep up with.

“We can’t do that yet with our

little business but maybe one day.”

Michelle says her biggest concern was running out of pies and letting her customers down. Demand for her pies has just kept growing.

Along the way she added new flavours to the pie warmer. “And even those are going really well. People would say ‘we’ll try this one while we’re here’.”

NZ Bakels managing director, Brent Kersel says: “It’s fantastic visiting our award-winning bakers and seeing the difference their award or awards are making to their business.

“The Pie Awards are about celebrating our bakers. They work incredibly hard and we want to acknowledge that.

“And you, the pie fans of New Zealand can help. Encourage your local baker to enter the competition this year at www.pieawards. nz”

„ Entries open on May 13, and your encouragement tells your baker that they make great pies.”

Art Expo 2023 was held in the Whitianga Town Hall.

A chicken cranberry and camembert pie baked by Michelle Liddell, owner of Chill Cafe, Whangamata won the Gold Award.

MOTORING Transportation on the move –

Minister walking the talk and delivering on a promise, but is he heading in the right direction?

BY JACK BIDDLE

Whether you agree or disagree with the way the coalition Government is tracking in regard to its transport policies, it’s pretty clear the current Transport Minister Simeon Brown is not sitting on his hands or taking the long road to announce change.

He seems energized to get on with implementing the coalitions promise of doing a U-turn on many of the previous Governments Transport agenda. He is also looking like a minister not afraid to stand up and answer his critics with a no nonsense and direct approach when questioned or challenged.

I can’t say I fully agree with some of his comments and actions to date, especially the handbrake being applied to many local authority projects moving forward, designed to encourage cycling and walking especially. As a keen cyclist, I have seen the benefits of safer and far more enjoyable cycling with the introduction

of dedicated cycle lanes, trails and pathways already in place throughout the country, many of which have been supported by NZTA funding. Sadly, that doesn’t include the greater Coromandel by the way.

So where are we at currently?

What are the benefits and disadvantages of the Minister’s swift change of direction in regard to our passenger fleet?

First up and as promised, was the removal of the ‘Ute Tax’ and the Clean Car Discount rebate for vehicles registered after 31 December 2023. The big plus with this change was those that needed and relied on operating a diesel ute were no longer penalised for their purchase, when there were no current alternatives. This applied especially to commercial businesses such as forestry, farming and tradies.

The Clean Car Discount on the other hand was offered as a monetary incentive for motorists to move into the electrified passenger vehicle fleet in some way. The scheme, when introduced initially,

was an almost overnight success and created a huge demand and no doubt profit windfall for new and used vehicle distributers but came with a massive financial cost to the Government.

The scheme was designed to achieve fiscal neutrality, with the ‘Ute Tax’ charges supposedly covering the rebates and administration costs of the electrified vehicle incentive. However, in reality, millions of dollars more were paid out in rebates than were ever received in the ‘Ute Tax ‘charges, with taxpayers at the end of the day having to foot the bill.

The big downside for many with these recent changes is utes are back in demand big time while the sales of many fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles have basically fallen through the floor. Worst, is the current resale value of many of these vehicles with reports of some owners looking to lose almost 50% in depreciation in the first year of ownership alone.

As new updated models come to market, most new vehicle dealers target existing customers to trade

up to the all-new and improved models. The trade-in price of a current fully electrified or plug-in hybrid vehicle will no doubt be a very hard conversation to enter into, but the question is maybe more about those dealers actually wanting to trade such a vehicle at all.

Utes on the other hand currently rule the roost when it comes to the purchase of a new passenger vehicle and it’s not just the commercial sector that are putting up their hands to buy especially now the ‘Ute Tax’ has gone.

What our Minister of Transport has created by removing the ‘Ute Tax’ is a potentially massive increase in the numbers of these vehicles on our already crowded main arterial roads and motorways for the foreseeable future. These vehicles will not be hard to sell on the used market either, so owners can expect to receive healthy trade-in prices when it comes time to update.

Next move by Minister Brown was to announce the introduction of Road User Charges for all

Who was Von Luckner?

PART THREE

BY RON MORGAN

Last week, Von Luckner captures many WWI allied ships -keeps all prisoners on his own ship. Everyone is looking for his ship, The Seeadler

There was a major problem for Von Luckner having to feed close to 300 prisoners although his supplies had been supplemented from such cargoes as chickens and pigs from a British cargo vessel.

Consequently, when a French barque was captured, he put his prisoners aboard, but much reduced the rigging, so the Seeadler could escape before being reported.

The Royal Navy were obviously intent on sinking the Seeadler and had cruisers and armed merchant cruisers in the area of operation while the captures continued with the sinking of several American ships as they had since entered the war.

Von Luckner required his ship to be laid up so the hull could be scrapped clean, so headed for a coral atoll in the Society Islands. It was here that disaster struck as the ship drifted and ran aground and was wrecked. Some of the 46 American prisoners later stated that this occurred when they were having a picnic ashore, but Von Luckner states a tsunami struck his vessel. However, the group managed to salvage two of the ship’s lifeboats, firearms and provisions.

Von Luckner, after some time ashore, set on a mission with five

crew in one of the 10 metre open boats hoping to sail to Fiji and capture a sailing ship and return to pick up those left behind. After a long trip to the Cook Islands where suspicions were aroused as to the make up and intentions of this group, they departed for Fiji (3700 kms).

Von Luckner was intercepted here by a police party and surrendered to this group not wishing to cause any bloodshed, although he had a cache of arms that could have overpowered the police party. His group evidently was not in military uniform, and he made the decision not to engage the boarding party because of this.

Meanwhile, a French trading ship anchored near the remaining party and the armed shore party captured this vessel putting ashore the crew and departed with all the German crew. This mission ended when the vessel struck unchartered rocks off Easter Island and the crew were interned by the Chilean government for the remainder of the war.

A small American party took the remaining open boat and sailed 1600km to Pago Pago to arrange for the rescue of the remaining 44 sailors on the atoll.

PRISONER AND MASTERFUL ESCAPE IN NEW ZEALAND

Meanwhile Von Luckner was transferred, after a trial, to Motuihe Island in New Zealand, an internment centre for higher ranked personnel where there was minimal security, although

80 were employed for this purpose. His group cunningly planned an audacious scheme to capture the commandant‘s fast motorboat, the Pearl. They created a diversion by setting alight one of the barracks and cut the telephone wires connecting the island to the mainland. With the guards all involved in the fire, the group set off with previously stashed supplies which included a machine gun. Von Luckner was dressed in the commandant’s best dress uniform after one of the crew stole it just prior to leaving. The commandant was evidently dismissed after the escape. They headed for Red Mercury Island for two days after escaping the large number of vessels searching for the party, and then decided to seize two sailing vessels. One, the Rangi, escaped

electric vehicles including plug-in hybrids from the 1stApril this year. Sounds like a sensible plan as shouldn’t all road users contribute?

Currently motorists contribute to the Governments roading programme mainly via:

• Vehicle relicensing

• Road User Charges (examplediesel vehicles)

• Petrol excise duty

The future plan is to remove the fuel excise duty and change all vehicles over to the Road User Charge (RUC) model. On the surface it gets my tick of approval as motorists will only pay for kilometres travelled and vehicle weight rather the amount of fuel consumed. The big winners should be lower income households who traditionally own older and less fuel-efficient vehicles. But does the coalition Government along with our Minister of Transport have an actual plan to reduce the number of vehicles on our already heavily congested towns and cities? Just as important, is there a plan to improve air quality?

and alerted authorities, but they boarded the Moa, a coastal scow carrying timber. A course was set to the Kermadecs where the government had a cache of provisions for castaway sailors which was gratefully received on arrival. The group lost the Pearl which they had been towing, but had the crew of the Moa with them. The Iris, an auxiliary ship armed with a cannon, was dispatched in pursuit and intercepted the Moa. Von Luckner and his crew were prisoners again.

Their capture created huge interest in Auckland when the Iris returned with the Moa in tow. They were jailed in Mt Eden for 21 days, then sent to River Island in Lyttelton Harbour. Before being sent back to Motuihe, another escape plan was being worked on, but the Armistice came a week too soon for this to be implemented.

Von Luckner, during his postwar years, wrote a book and sailed on a goodwill world trip being a popular entertaining speaker to numerous groups. His trip to New Zealand from February to May 1938 created incredible interest and controversy being funded from the German government. He claimed to be just a sailor and was not a Nazi member knowing nothing about their politics. Later informants noted in a report that Von Luckner had ordered hundreds of propaganda books be thrown overboard near the Panama Canal. He was accused of treating this trip as private pleasure cruise rather than the primary motives intended and

outlined by the governing regime. The case against him was shelved with the start of World

WAR II

He passed away in 1966 after a particularly eventful and colourful life and the cove at Red Mercury Island has been named to mark the area where he sought refuge prior to boarding the Moa.

FELIX VON LUCKNER

He was a child of aristocracy who ran away to sea. He fought in the biggest naval battle of the First World War.

He captained the last square rigged sailing ship ever to be used in combat. He sailed three thousand kilometres across the Pacific in a lifeboat.

He single-handedly saved his hometown from destruction during WWII. And he punched a member of the Gestapo straight in the face.

He was also responsible for what probably ranks as the most embarrassing prison break in New Zealand history.

Von Luckner’s ship the Seeadler from WWI.

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.

REGULAR ACTIVITIES/EVENTS

OP SHOPS

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every MondaySaturday from 10.00am-2.00pm.

St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert Street, Whitianga. Open Monday-Friday, 9.30am-4.00pm and Saturday 9.30am-2.00pm.

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

MONTHLY

AA Driver Licensing

Friday 10 May, Monday 27 May. In the Mercury Bay Service Centre Community Board Room in Monk Street (behind the council offices). 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.

K

ūaotunu 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.

Mercury Bay Shooting Federation

Muzzle loader, rimfire, centre fire, military, pistol. For more info mbsfsecretary@gmail.com.

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.

Cooks Beach Care Group

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

DANCING

Argentine Tango Dance Class

Fridays, Town Hall, Whitianga, 5.30-7.30pm. No prior experience or partner necessary. Text Sergio for questions 027 410 2454

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

Tuesdays, beginners 11.15am-12.15pm; seniors 12.30-2.30pm; Thursdays, absolute beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, improvers 12.45-2.45pm. 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.

Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling club

Every Wednesday 1.45-4.30pm approx, Cooks Beach Hall. One month free trial (4 times). Contact Coral Strong 021 2303 944.

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

Will be holding a luncheon at the Mercury Bay Club following their 11.20am AGM on Thursday 16 May. Any queries phone Merle 867 1737.

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

Meditation Classes – Thursday Evening 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 Indoor Bowling Club

Every Thursday evening, Whitianga Town Hall, 6.45pm. New members and visitors welcome.

Phone Cheryl or Alan on 027 452 7887 for more information.

Mercury Bay Community Choir

Mondays 6.15-8.15pm, Music Room Mercury Bay Area School. 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 4.00pm-6.00pm and Sunday 9.0011.00am weather dependant, Matai Place courts, Matarangi. Equipment and training provided. Contact Tony Minto on 021 426 150.

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 – 022 378 0648.

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

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

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

Spiritual Coffee Mornings

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

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.

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.

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 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, ph Gary 027 391 3043.

Hahei Contract Bridge Club

Every Tuesday 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Learners and casual welcome. 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. Mercury Bay Squash Club

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

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 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. 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.

Sorry for Your Loss

If you have lost a close friend, whether recently or in the past, gather with understanding people for a drink at The Lost Spring 4pm Friday 20th May. For more information ph Michelle 027 231 6788.

JUSTICES OF THE PEACE

Kim Abrahamson: 07 866 5896 or 027 478 2232

Peter Bould: 021 923 198

Barbara Blair: 07 866 5181 or 021 310 351

Heather Bruce: 021 132 8878 or 07 866 5873

Derek Collier: 07 866 5893 or 027 436 8444

Bess Kingi Edmonds: 022 158 9782

David Harvey: 0274 878 363

Patricia Hynds: 021 935 780

Mary Kedzlie: 07 866 4096 or 027 290 4940

Whitianga Pighunters Club

BY DENISE ALLEN

The Club held their Annual Patrons Shield Hunt. It was the first hunt of the season with the opening of the pines for members. There were five pigs weighed in and a great afternoon with a barbeque and a good catch up. Thanks to everyone involved.

Results were: First Place – Adam Novis; Biggest tusks – Steven Prescott; First pig out of the pines – Roger Brown.

MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB

Nine-hole Women – Stableford

Tuesday, 30 April

Div 1: 1, Gaylene Imms; 2, Audrey Vickers

Div 2: 1, Judy Hindrup

Nine-hole Mixed - Stableford

1, Peter Chaffin; 2, Jeff Dixon; 3, Patrick Gonthier.

Eighteen-hole Women –Matchplay semis

Wednesday, 1 May

Twos: Diane Eccles, Anita Ellmers

Eighteen-hole Men-Stableford 1, Ron Campbell; 2, Steve Geach; 3, Ron Watson.

Twos: Greg Peterken

Div 1: Gross - Steve Geach; Div 2: Gross - Steve Collins.

Nine-hole Mixed Scramble –Stableford Friday, 3 May

1, Alison Goodlet; 2, Audrey Vickers; 3, Phil Drane.

Nearest Pin #4: Phil Drane Kiwi Shade 200 Mixed Open Saturday, 4 May

Gross: 1, Mark Boe; 2, Dave Enright; 3, Noble Mita.

Net: 1, Cameron Walls; 2, Cameron Goodger; 3, Roj Campbell.

Stableford: 1, Marg Maher; 2, Connor Mullin; 3, Richard Street.

Twos: Jim Dunseath, Neal Robinson, Grham Dun, Roger Pheasant.

Longest Drive: Men Under 59 - Connor Mullins; Men Over 60 - Mark Hellyer, Women - Saki Mosen

Nearest Pin: All Men - Mark Lewis.

PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

J Bonner Trophy Round One of Three

Nine-hole nett

Tuesday 30 April

1, Wayne Morrison; 2, Richard Duckworth; 3 = Catherine Borlase, Jo Geoghegan, Neil Gollan. Cooks Beach Buildlink Monthly Medal

Nine-hole Stableford, Thursday, 2 May

1, Wayne Morrison; 2, John Hughes; 3, Brian Keucke. Buildlink Monthly Medal

Saturday, 4 May

Net: 1, Steve Barlase; 2, Grant Webster; 3, Jo Geoghegan; 4, Caleb Mahoney.

4BBB Net: 1, Frank Geoghegan and Neil Vowles.

Nearest the Pin: Neil Vowles. Twos /Net Eagles: Jo Geoghegan.

THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB

Nine-hole Men – Stableford Monday, 29 April

1, Barry Titchmarsh; 2, Mark Deutsch; 3, Paul Dixon.

Twos: Lance Croawell.

Nine-hole Ladies – Waltz

Stableford Tuesday 30 April

1, Glenys Wilson; 2, Maree Cabaret; 3, Glenda Philpott.

First equal Glenda Philpott & Ruth Fisken; Maureen Moss & Joanne Nicholson

Twos: Glenys Wilson. Monthly Medal Net Gross Wednesday, 1 May

Motorcycle Club event fantastic!

Over 120 trail bikes and cross-country bikes came, plus many motorcross bikes and their riders. The event was the opening of the Motorcross Track just outside Whitianga the last weekend in April.

“It was fantastic turnout,” said President Garth of the Mercury Bay Motorcycle Club. “It was so good that the track caters for all the disciplines of riding i.e. trail and motocross,” added Rata Drum, committee member.

Congratulations to the motorcycle club which is run by a team of volunteers who formed a committee that organises the roster to run the track. The motorcycle track is open every Wednesday afternoon to cater for the school kids and local riders, and then every second weekend to cater for out-of-

Nett: 1, Doug Smith; 2, Pet Mathias; 3, Mark Hall; 4, Tony De Coek; 5, Murray James.

Gross: 1, Raymond Fanning.

Twos: Tony De Coek, Hamish Cradock.

Nearest the Pin: Hamish Cradock.

Jack Daniels TournamentAmbrose Net Saturday 4 May

1, Fairburn C; Richard F, Brooks N, Trevathan J; 2, Brooke R, Walton R, Huitema R, Watton M; 3, Wright D, Shaw A, Smith G, Burgess T; 4, Chilwell C, Nicholson T, Allden G, Batty C; 5, MacCormick M, Bayly A, Bayly T, Bayly C; 6, Clark P, Edwards M, Leonard B, Heapy R.

HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB

Purangi Pairs Week 5 Tuesday, 30 April

North/South: 1 Dave Dylla and Sheryll Roberts 58.5, 2 Robyn Hogg and Alison Tichbon 55.50, 3 Robyn Waters and Peter Hogg 54.50.

East/West:1Jean Myles and Ann Scott 57.00, 2 Bev Dickie and Ngaire O’Brien 52.50, 3 Denise Knutson and Lee Hughes 49.50.

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB

Fourth Round Tairua Pairs

North/South: 1 Jocelyn Taylor and Peter McNeil 64.29, 2 Jill Huston and Lynnette Flowers 58.57, 3 Judy McKenzie and Jenny Prince 53.81.

East/West:1 Robyn Waters and

town visitors as well as locals. Rata says, “We would love to emphasise that the events we run encourage people from out of town to come. This last trail ride event brought riders and their families and friends from

Peter Clark 67.22, 2 Robyn Hunter and Chris Death 56.67, Gillian Martin and Liz Young 55.00.

MERCURY BAY CONTRACT

BRIDGE CLUB

Championship Pairs Round One

Wednesday, 1 May

North/South: 1 Bob Schibli and Susan Swan 62.0; 2 Pete Hogg and Alison Tichbon 56.0; 3 Johanna Bonnar and Denise Knutson 49.0.

East/West: 1 Giorgio Allemano and Robyn Hogg 68.0; 2 Jan Autumn and Jenny Layton 48.5; 3 Terri Lipanovic and Rose Tegg 46.5.

Buffalo Pairs Round Three Thursday, 2 May 1, Julie Rutledge and Kathy Moy-Low; 2, Ian Hogg and Pam Churchill; 3, Paul Bradley and Kate Palmano.

MERCURY BAY DART CLUB

20 players this week, 501 singles were played. Everyone played to the new handicap system which seemed to work well. Two players won four straight games. They were Frank Holcroft and Richie Neighbours. Frank Holcroft came out the winner of the one game shootout. Highest finish of 79 for the men was scored by Mike Gillett. No finish higher the 50 scored by any of the ladies this week. Two people scored 180’s this week, they were Stoney and Rex Donaldson.

Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Matamata, Tairua and Whangamata.

Anyone is able to join by signing up online via their website www.mercurybaymotorcycle.co.nz. The track is closed in Winter as it is too wet. The next event will most likely be in Spring.

Thank you to the local service providers who sponsored their time and resources to help with the event: Land owners of the track, Committee, Hot Water Beach Surf Lifesaving Service, Christensen Group Ltd, Bobs Takeaways and Mercury Bay Diesel.

All updates are on Facebook page Mercury Bay Motorcycle Club. Garth is contactable for anyone interested in joining the Club.

MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER

Wednesday, 1 May

Best of three frames: Seven players on Wednesday and it was Wayne Malcolm and Ian Baumgren with two straight wins to challenge the final third frame. However, it was Wayne with two tournament wins in the last month who again showed form and took this win over Ian, also achieving the highest break taking home the high break Pool. With two wins were Ian Baumgren (runner up), Ken Gibson and Peter Challis.

Saturday, 4 May

Best of three frames: Eight players on Saturday and it was Doug Pascoe and Wayne Malcolm with two straight wins to battle out the final third frame. A very close match with Doug snatching the win on the final black. With two wins were Wayne Malcolm (runner up) and Ian Baumgren. Highest break Wayne Malcolm with 20.

MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

Thursday, 2 May

Winners: Ken Lack, Judy Cullinane and Wayne Fisher

Runners-up: Merle Ward, Ian Marshall and Pat Fisher Good Sports: Alan Henderson, Ian Sanderson and Marie Denney.

First XV Mercury Bay Area School lined up with Thames honouring Merv George with a minute silence at Lyon Park before Saturday’s game. Final score 13-12 MBAS. Photo Leisa McCleery

Colin Harris (Patron) presents Adam Novis with the Patrons Shield.

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Theme: CYCLING

TRADES AND SERVICES

French Film festival in Whitianga

films Thurs 30 May to Wed 12 June

 A DIFFICULT YEAR

Mercury Twin Cinemas

Book your tickets and be in to win a trip to New Caledonia

THE THREE MUSKETEERS D’ARTAGNAN

121 mins Rated M Adventure – 3 screenings: Thurs 30 May & Sat 1 June & Sat 8 June Time: 7.00pm

THE THREE MUSKETEERS: MILADY

114 mins Rated M Action

– This is the second part. Watch D’ARTAGNAN first

PUBLIC NOTICES

120 mins. Rated M Comedy – 3 screenings: Thursday 30 May & Mon 3 June & Sat 8 June. Time: 11.00am

A wildly entertaining new comedy starring two compulsive spenders who get much more than they bargained for when they try and scam their way out of trouble. A DIFFICULT YEAR delivers both laughs and pathos in spades, thanks to the directors’ ongoing faith in humanity’s desire to change. It’s a must-see entertainment.

TONI

96 mins Rated M Comedy –Fri 31 May Time: 11.00am

Toni has spent her entire life putting other people’s needs before her own. When 20 years old, she was pushed by her mother to join a TV singing competition, becoming a national star. Twenty years and five children later, all her time and effort is raising her teenage kids. She begins to imagine what her life could be if she did what she really wanted. But the ghost of her hus-

WHITIANGA SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB INC NOTICE OF THE 38TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

To be held on Monday 27 May, 2024 at the Whitianga Town Hall at 12.00pm Followed by a nger food lunch BLONDEEZ MEDICINAL HERBALS

Would like to thank all my wonderful clients and customers for all your support over the last 5 years, from starting with the “Made with Love Collective” to opening “Sacred Garden”. I have now moved from Whitianga. My balms are available at Soap Plus 63 Albert Street, Whitianga

Please direct any enquiries to blondeezmedicinalherbals@gmail.com

LUCKY WINNERS

103 mins. Rated M Comedy – 2 screenings: Fri 31 May & Sat 8 June Time: 8.00pm

The chance of winning the lottery is one in 19 million, but for the characters of Lucky Winners, this dream quickly turns into an explosive and hilarious nightmare. This rollercoaster of a black comedy explores themes of sudden fortune and its unexpected consequences.

SIDONIE IN JAPAN

93 mins Rated PG (Sexual

DEATH NOTICES

HUMPHRIES, GLORIA JOY

Passed away peacefully in the company of family on 2nd May, 2024; aged 83 years.

Dearly loved wife of Roy Humphries, loved mother of Tanya, David and Monique, cherished Nana of Nathan and Harriet, Ryan and Jess, Georgia and Jake.

‘A very special lady, forever in our hearts’.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Gloria’s life to be held at Crossroads Fellowship Centre, 36 Cook Drive, Whitianga on Friday 10th May at 11am, followed by interment.

TWENTYMANS

SITUATIONS VACANT

SALES ADMINISTRATION ROLE

Malcolm Carr Insurance is looking for a person with sales and admin experience who has either and insurance background or something similar, and is prepared to work around four days per week to start with.

The ideal candidate would need to:

• Have good communication and telephone skills.

• To be prepared to undergo ongoing insurance training to keep up with industry minimum standards

• Have computer skills to a high level.

• Be reliable and trustworthy.

• Be able to work in a small friendly office. Please send your CV to malcolm@malcolmcarr.nz

references) Drama – 2 screenings: Fri 31 May & Wed 12 June Time: 5.45pm

The beginning of love, the meeting of two characters who embody France and Japan... Sidonie Perceval, an established French writer, is mourning her deceased husband.

Invited to Japan for the reedition of her first book, she is welcomed by her local editor who takes her to Kyoto, the city of shrines and temples. As they travel together through the Japanese spring blossoms, she slowly opens up to him.

NENEH SUPERSTAR

97 Mins Rated M Comedy – 2 screenings: Sat 1 June & Sun 9 June Time: 11.45am

This inspiring family-friendly film resonates with everyone who has ever refused to compromise their dreams and stood up against those who

said no. Set within one of France’s most prestigious cultural institutions – the Paris Opera Ballet School –12-year-old ballet dancer Neneh discovers that her extraordinary natural talent and focused discipline may not be enough to win the approval of the school’s harsh and discriminatory headmistress. This charming feel-good film is a must-see for families and ballet enthusiasts of all ages.

THE PRESIDENTS WIFE

93 mins Rated M Drama – 2 screenings: Sat 1 June & Mon 10 June Time: 4.45pm

Bernadette expected to finally get the position she deserved when she arrived to the Elysée Palace because she had always worked behind her husband’s back to elect him president. She took revenge by becoming a major media figure.

IRIS AND THE MEN

98 mins Rated M Comedy – 2 screenings: Sat 1 June & Wed 12 June Time: 7.00pm “They’re not”. This is how Iris (Calamy) quietly answers her chiropractor when asked how things are going with her husband (Vincent Elbaz). The words slip from her mouth. And she thinks - How long has it been since they made love? Yet

1a Lee Street, Whitianga Phone 07 867 1001

The home of BIG SCREEN entertainment on the Coromandel

everything else is going great. The couple love each other, they have two happy daughters, she runs a successful medical practice and has the best friends one could hope for. But soon Iris wil be turning 50….

THE EDGE OF THE BLADE

101 mins Rated M Drama – 2 screenings: Sun 2 June & Mon 10 June Time: 11.00am

Prepare yourself for a film that deftly weaves drama, romance and duels - promising an edgeof-your-seat experience where every sword clash heralds change. Legendary swordsman Clément Lacaze becomes entangled in an illegal fencing bout between his nephew and a far more experienced army colonel.

„ There are 14 more movies to come in the next week or two.

„ mercurytwincinemas.com

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band follows Sidonie: she will have to finally let go of the past.

Personable, Practical & Professional

GEOFF BALME

Chartered Accountant (FCA)

28 Lee Street Whitianga

P +64 7 866 5891

M +64 27 495 8923

E gbalme@xtra.co.nz

Personal and Business Accounting Solutions

Trevor & Raewyn Hildreth

P. 07 866 5799

M. 027 677 4930

M. 027 487 1978

9 Austin Drive Whitianga 3510 E. theframeplace@xtra.co.nz

• Total Mobility is a nationwide scheme aimed at giving people with disabilities mobility options. Whitianga Social Services administers Total Mobility in Whitianga.

• The scheme provides financial assistance, giving registered users up to 75% discount on taxi fares up to a maximum subsidy. The user pays the balance of the fare to the taxi driver. People who use the scheme must carry a valid Total Mobility photo ID card to get the discounted fare.

• You can only apply through Whitianga Social Services. They are responsible for ensuring that the membership and photo ID card applications are completed correctly and returned to the Waikato Regional Council. The assessor will take a photo of you and collect information from you about your mobility situation.

To register for your assessment contact us on phone 07 866 4476 or register online – visit www.wcst.org.nz or print off the online form, complete it and drop it to us at 2 Cook Drive Whitianga