The Informer - 18th Jun 2024

Te Kai Whakarongo

WHAT IF THE SIGNS SAID...

18km to Whitianga Thermal Ocean Village

BY PAULINE STEWART

What if this was the sign on SH25 Dalmeny Corner, right near the signage to Hot Water Beach, 309 Road, and both ends of the Whitianga bypass road?

What if there was a similar sign on SH25, welcoming all travellers, north or south bound, at the town entrance roundabout that said, “Welcome To Whitianga Thermal Ocean Village”.

What difference would that make? What difference would it make to the perception of what is to be found in Whitianga all year round?

At this time the Mercury Bay Business Association is running a survey and information gathering exercise on – How do we describe Whitianga or market Whitianga?

This sign is not up there by the highway yet, but it is something The Informer would support whole heartedly. Very soon, our economic future might demand it.

Suzanne Hansen wrote an article in The Informer, 21 May, 2024 p.13 on the lack of information and lustre regarding the current signage close to Whitianga.

Actually, at the large roundabout at the base of the Coromandel Peninsula at Kopu, there is nothing to describe any of the towns or the beauty, adventure and lure of the Peninsula. The roundabout looks unkempt and like a wasteland.

NZTA (Waka Kotahi) provides information and directions but all other aspects of attracting people with signage are missing. There is a disconnect in terms of attracting travellers. Every town on the Coromandel is affected by this practice. It is not a question of more signs but different signs.

The task of marketing in word pictures, each town on the Coromandel requires action and the assistance of signage experts, to practically facilitate what each town decides as its main message. Destination Coromandel is waiting to hear from the Whitianga community.

Social media and online marketing can enhance and align with what the signs say. We need to rethink. Whitianga needs to face the matter head on.

MY STORY

BY ALAN HOPPING

Some years ago, a geothermal spring was established in the village centre of Whitianga, a small town on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. The town was to become forever, a thermal ocean village; one of only a few in New Zealand.

CAN WE

ATTAIN INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION STATUS?

It all started with a PATA report. (Pacific Asia Travel Association). The year was 1985. Employed and paid for by TCDC, at a cost of $98,000, five international PATA members came with a simple brief:– Would the Coromandel Peninsula ever grow to a point where it would attain international destination status?

The weather during their visit was superb. The beaches and vistas looked just fabulous. They, the five members from PATA, were on the Peninsula for a little less than one week.

Welcome to Whitianga Thermal Ocean Village

Continued from page 1

„ Findings: They presented their findings in all the towns on the Coromandel Peninsula. In essence, they said, “The Coromandel needed an all-year round attraction that was quite unique.

“For example, a ski field with off-season recognising forest weeks (like Abel Tasman, or a geothermal resort town, currently indicating the greatest tourism growth internationally, being able to operate every day of the year.”

My family subsequently took a holiday to the South Island – a first for the Hopping family. This was in the following year.

As we drove the Lewis Pass, heading to Hamner Springs, we came upon a large sign on the roadside, “18km to Hamner –Thermal Alpine Village.”

We were so excited…a Thermal Alpine Village!!

Up the blind alley we drove – happy people everywhere. There was no commercial skiing there in those days – but there were several boutique hotels, seven campgrounds, a swathe of

The Peninsula needs an all year round flow of people

eating establishments, regular entertainment – all built on the strength of a 150mm hole in the ground. That hole was a thermal spring.

I realised soon after our experience that if we could establish a geothermal spring in the town of Whitianga, we could become a Thermal Ocean Village overnight!!

So, in 1989, water was found at 626 metres and then it was lost three years later.

The next drill hole at 645 metres was dry and abandoned. The next drill hole was six years later (a 300mm casing), this time to 669 metres and that was a success.

It sprung to the surface producing 8,000 litres per hour, with a 9-metre head.

We checked out resorts around the world both online and with visitations. Maui Hawaii was the inspiration.

A DREAM, A MIRACLE, REALITY

The Lost Spring opened 22 years after our first test well in 1989.

Many people attended the opening, 8 December, 2008. It was a miracle. We were, and are, so very grateful for the support and kindness shown by so many over the years.

I spoke to those gathered that day, that we (the town of Whitianga and surrounds) had made it to this point (We had opened with 34 staff.).

Now we could indeed promote

ourselves as a Thermal Ocean Village, placing us eventually, alongside New Zealand’s great resort locations, with future international boutique hotels, and an added stimulus for domestic holidayers to spend all-year round time on the Coromandel Peninsula. Simply, any business could include on its letterhead, ‘Whitianga, Thermal Ocean Village’ and that is at no expense to

I submit for your interest, a conservative calculation on income modelled on King’s Birthday weekend, at the beginning of June.

The Lost Spring entertained 712 couples. Average spend at The Lost Spring was $210 per couple.

The Lost Spring benefit per couple $210.00

Town and area bene�it per couple

Accommodation (two nights average) $400.00

Dinners, drinks, over two days average $110 per day) $220.00

Coffee, lunches, excursions, fuel)

$200.00

Multiply this by 712 $719,120 .00

Conservative assessment covering only two nights – some stayed longer.

them. This is about all of us. Over the 28-year build, it was obvious that this vision was not just about The Lost Spring and Alan Hopping, but it was about making a difference in seeing our town and the entire Coromandel Peninsula grow and prosper all year round and into the future. I have been a tourist operator for 44 years. The future of The Lost Spring is certainly an asset which the town needs to embrace, protect and grow. I extend an invitation to the Mercury Bay Business Association to look at placing one of their members on the Directorship of The Lost Spring, thus making a contribution to the ongoing well-being of our town and the business community, long after my years as caretaker of this peninsula asset. We are a Pacific Island. This is a resort town. That’s what we are. We are a Pacific Island resort town! We could model our beautiful sub-region on just that view and provide an option for the many New Zealanders who lose two days (airports and travel time) visiting other

Tuesday, 18 June to Wednesday, 26 June Saturn is rising earlier and earlier each week and now visible after about 1.00am very low in the east appearing to be slightly yellowish. Two other planets can be found near the eastern horizon just before sunrise this week. Jupiter is the brightest and visible from about 7.00am with fainter slightly reddish Mars above it. There will be several Chinese Tiangong and International Space Station (ISS) passes to enjoy this week but, as usual, timings may change, if they have to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above. com for updated timings.

Tuesday, 18 June: We have a long bright ISS pass from 6:39pm in the NW starting just next to Sirius, the brightest

star in the sky only 8 light years from us. Wednesday 19 June: There will be a low ISS pass from 5:57pm in the same part of the western sky. Friday, 21 June: Winter solstice today when the Sun is at its most northern point overhead and thus our shortest day of the year. There will be a very low ISS pass from 6:18pm in the southwest. Saturday, 22 June: Full Moon tonight and there is an early morning bright Tiangong pass from 6:10am high overhead and a low ISS pass from 5:42pm in the SW. Sunday, 23 June: Another Tiangong pass can be seen from 6:45am in the west. Monday, 24 June: There will be an early Tiangong pass from 5:46am starting high overhead next to Saturn. Wednesday, 26 June: Saturn rises about 1am in the east with an almost full Moon high above it. N.B. Mataraki is Friday, 28 June.

Pacific Islands. They are becoming expensive destinations and the savings made on enjoying our very own Pacific Island alternative would be the beginning of a new tomorrow for Whitianga and the Coromandel. Our joint future Prior to covid, our customer questionnaires indicated The Lost Spring was the main reason for visiting the area – 97%. I believe this performance supports everybody and can do so, day in and day out, year in year out. This all-year-round attraction is the only catalyst for an international boutique hotel or eventually, larger. We need to establish other braver steps to image and market ourselves.

A Pacific Island resort town, internationals flying into New Zealand and arriving by vehicle or via 20-minute flights to the resort town of Whitianga. The terminology, “Thermal Ocean Village’ raises tourists’ curiosity to discover Whitianga and all the great things the town and the wider Bay have to offer. With the increasing infrastructural pressures on Hot Water Beach over the year, and its subsequential denigration of the experience, going forward, we need to offer an

additional or alternative option and experience. Bringing attention by signage at or near Delmaney Corner to‘Whitianga, Thermal Ocean Village’ is one important step. Establishing the thinking across the region might take longer.

As caretakers, the team and I need to continue The Lost Spring journey to a safe and healthy future. To be able to continue this journey, TLS is currently developing our Pacifica Day Spa and other support structures on a $4mill investment which should be complete in one year.

Our ambition is to be number one in Zealand in just over a year, and at that point, I see no reason why, as a town, we should not be as busy and prosperous as the top destinations in New Zealand.

We need to face this and step up to a great new tomorrow. If we take the Hot out of Hot Water Beach, their businesses would shrink dramatically. The name and the water draw to the sands up to 10,000 visitors per day at peak.

Every geothermal town in the world becomes wealthy. Thus, my submission – Whitianga Thermal Ocean Village.

• Roast pork, roast potato, peas, carrots & gravy.

• Beef lasagna & cheesy veges.

• Chicken & vegetable chowder.

• Vege quiche & cheesy veges.

Message from Hon Scott Simpson MP For Coromandel

This year’s Budget delivers on National’s core promise to provide New Zealanders with tax relief.

We campaigned on this policy because hardworking Kiwis deserve to keep more of what they earn, especially as households across the Coromandel and the wider country have been battling the cost of living.

When I meet with people in our communities, conversation quickly turns to the struggle local businesses are facing to stay afloat, the pressure on families to pay their weekly bills, and the feeling that it is harder to get ahead.

Our tax package targets relief to low and middle-income households. Families with young children are set to benefit most. It gives average income households up to $102 a fortnight, plus Family Boost childcare payments of up to $150 per fortnight for eligible families.

Since the coalition Gov-

ernment took office last year, we’ve been relentlessly focused on cutting wasteful spending and getting the books in order. This measured approach has meant our tax package does not add to Government debt, because it’s funded through a combination of savings and new revenue measures.

We have also been able to reprioritise spending allocations and direct them to areas which will make the most difference to New Zealanders’ everyday lives. It means giving $191 million to Police to recruit 500 extra sworn officers and

provide them with the tools they need to do their jobs.

It means allocating $16 billion to Healthcare to fund more doctors, more hospital and specialist services, more breast screening, more mental health services, and more medicines. It means making a $2.9 billion investment in Education to deliver more teachers, structured literacy, the healthy schools lunch programme, and charter schools.

Like the rest of New Zealand, communities across the Coromandel will benefit from the responsible

approach taken by the Finance Minister and the coalition Government. This Budget can’t solve every issue we are facing as a country or as a community, but it’s a crucial step toward rebuilding the economy and assuring taxpayers that they won’t be taken for granted by this Government. New Zealanders will experience tax relief for the first time in 14 years when our tax package takes effect on 31 July 2024. Visit Budget.govt.nz/tax calculator to find out how much you could benefit.

Finally, one of the things I enjoy most as an MP is the opportunity to meet with representatives from our many and varied ethnic communities. It was a special thrill to be able to share a wonderful night in Whitinga with members of our local Filipino community as they celebrated the 126th Philippines Independence Day. A wonderful evening of entertainment, dance, colour and culture. Thank you one and all.

Scott Simpson with Filipino Independence Day organisers.

Kitchen Calendar

DARTS NIGHT Best gosh darn night of the week. Courtesy Tav’n Wag’n will pick you up and drop you o in Whiti. Must book just give us a call

Tiki Taane + DJ A-Young, Chance C33Y, DJ Axis- $50

RIBS - YUM !! SPANISH EGGS 9 - 11AM LIVE MUSIC OSCAR LADELL 5PM

Scallop Burger (Add Bacon for Extra Awesomeness) Mussel Fritter Stack (Tav Made Recipe) Bu alo Wings (Spicy Tav Made Sauce) FUSH ‘N CHUP

Fansatic food, Roaring re, Live sports, BEST banter around PLUS FREE POOL SUNDAY! Friday night shenanigans.. Chase the Ace & Meat Raffles 5pm - 7pm

Unsung heroes at Coastguard

63.6 million funding boost for Surf Life Saving New Zealand and Coastguard New Zealand, was announced in last month’s budget.

As the second busiest unit in the Eastern region, The Whitianga Coastguard is welcoming the much-needed investment, which will help them continue to keep the coast safe for up to 40,000 people every summer.

Whitianga Coastguard looks after the body of water stretching from Cape Colville in the North to Boat Harbour in the South and is made up of dozens of dedicated volunteers, with crews on call on a 24/7 basis. It has achieved a remarkable 100% recovery rate.

Given the recent funding boost, this story offers a timely reminder about the indispensable role local coastguard units like Whitianga play.

Graham Caddy, has been a volunteer for the Whitianga Coastguard for 12 years. He is very aware how the Whitianga Coastguards rapid response relies on Kubota.

Despite the beaches being among the best in the world, they can also be the most dangerous.

“We are on a peninsula with our eastern seaboard completely exposed. There’s nothing between us and Argentina so, as you can

imagine, we get some changeable weather,” Graham explained.

“On a good day it’s paradise, but on a bad day it’s treacherous, and that pretty much sums up our coast.”

Graham became a volunteer when he moved into town about 12 years ago. “A couple of friends approached me to see if I would be interested in being a volunteer for Coastguard eastern region. 23 years in the police force had given me some skills in planning, organising and administration. I wasn’t young, 65 years, but I wanted to do something. At the time Alan Jackson was the tutor of the cadet programmee which now bears his name. and he became my mentor.

I soon realised that there was a lot more involved. It was much more than jumping on a boat. So I committed to learning everything I could to get an understanding of all things coastguard.”

I had a passion for my police work and I have developed a passion for the Coastguard; that’s why

I’m still here. There was a group of us who joined at the same time –Stu Brown, Peter Hari, Brent Watts and we are all still here

VOLUNTEERING

“Our programme is different to typical volunteer programmes. We’ve got crews on call 24 hours a day,” Graham said.

The training and commitment required makes the role a number one priority and why Graham coined the term, ‘professional volunteer’.

“We might not get paid, but there’s a lot of work that goes into being a coastguard. Our training alone is quite a structured regime, and it can take up to 18 months before a volunteer becomes qualified crew,” he said.

Since 2019, the Whitianga Coastguard has also run a cadet programme which teaches valuable survival skills and rescue techniques to local teenagers. “The 12-week programme offers a window into life as a coastguard vol-

unteer for students aged between 15 and 17 years. This includes a lot of practical work on the boats,” says Graham.

“It’s not designed to make recruits of cadets, it’s to give them life skills and teach them the value of teamwork.”

The invitation to be a part of the Coastguard is open to all walks of life. Anyone can become a volunteer. “We take people from zero to hero with our training, so they don’t need a background in boating,” Graham noted.

“It can be challenging conducting a search under extreme pressure and coordinating all the aspects that come with it, especially with the vastness of the ocean and the urgency of time,” he reflected. “A successful outcome is always the best part of our job and what we work so hard for.”

The Whitianga Coastguard Unit has a strong community, with 25 wet crew, 12 radio operators and four dry crew volunteers as well as the ten cadets coming through the programme each year. It is a fantastic and capable team, but it’s critical we have the right equipment to support our operations.”

KUBOTA AND EQUIPMENT:

In a job where there is no room for error, Kubota has been essential for their operations due to its reliability and efficiency when towing ensuring a swift rescue operation.

“We don’t leave our boats on

the water. The Kubota tractors allow us to quickly launch and retrieve the boats safely,” Graham explained.

“The tractor tows the boats to and from the marina ramp, it’s all about the launch and retrieval. The ramp is steep; we need that power and Kubota delivers.”

When it was time to invest in their second tractor, the Whitianga team turned to Central Motors dealership. “We told them what we needed, and they produced a tractor with the necessary equipment, including custom made tyres,” Graham recalled.

“Both of our 9M Rescue vessels have a different type of trailer with different requirements. We basically gave a shopping list to the Central Motors team, and they delivered the goods.” Kubota is the major sponsor of the annual Kubota Billfish Classic – the largest Billfish tournament in the world and it is in Whitianga right near the Coastguard. Each year people from across New Zealand enter for their chance at more than $1.5 million in prizes.

Reflecting on his time as a coastguard, Graham sees the community of Whitianga as his biggest inspiration for continuing.

“Using the skills I’ve built over the years, alongside a team of committed volunteers is amazing.”

Water meters –some have them and some don’t

Anumber of concerns have been raised with The Coromandel Informer regarding water meters and an imminent new system re charges for water usage. Many residents received a letter informing them of the upcoming changes in water charges.

The key change is that everyone who has a meter will be charged on the basis of the amount of water they use.

For a long time, instead of user payers, there has been a “fixed charge”. From 1 July 2024, that fixed charge will be reduced by about 50%. The other 50% will pay for the water treatment plant and process. The other portion of the charge which is no longer a fixed charge will be what you use. Water usage will be measured through existing meters. The new process commences 1 July. The cost per cubic metre is $1.62 for 1,000 litres.

COMMENTS FROM RESIDENTS REVEAL CONFUSION AND CONCERN AS TO THE FAIRNESS OF THE RATES REGARDING WATER

• “We don’t have water meters on every property, or in some cases, there are several dwellings on one property and only one meter. What will happen to those without water meters, those in complexes or stand-alone houses?”

• “According to the letter that we received, the average household will pay an extra $360 to what they are paying already.”

• “It is hard to work out what we are actually paying. We should not be paying under a new system until every dwelling has a water meter. If you only have one water metre and there is a leak somewhere and that meter is serving four or five houses, there is the potential for tension – one house

might have one inhabitant and another three or four or more people. Each house can hardly pay the same.”

• “Water meters are not the problem – storage is. If we put extra storage in, then we haven’t got enough filtration; our filtration plant is not big enough. It is hard to follow the thinking of the council on this matter. We have had a drought in the recent past. I just happened to be in Pauanui with very tight water restrictions. We stopped at the swimming hole at Coroglen Pub in that period and the water was flowing through at a good pace.”

• “Even after so much rain last year in 2023, coming into Whitianga township in late October, we were greeted with a flashing sign, “Conserve water”. Rain had been recent and the busy season had not yet started.”

The concerns and questions from residents were raised with the Communications Team at TCDC and we received a helpful and prompt response. The issue of water storage and filtration

are bigger and more long-term matters and a response to these was not requested. These will be addressed in the future. The Informer has been assured that there is a plan for future storage.

FROM TCDC –THURSDAY, 13 JUNE.

Coromandel Town, Pāuanui, Thames have water meters. Whitianga and Whangamata have water meters but some dwellings do not and some properties have one water meter for more than one dwelling. Tairua does not have meters.

The new development off Discovery Drive, Wharekaho had water meters installed but the rest of Wharekaho does not have a Council water supply, so there are no water meters there.

We have unbundled the majority of water connections in our communities with water meters. However, as we carry out normal network and meter maintenance work, we are aware of cases where further unbundling is required. Most of the sites where unbun-

dling work is required are where one connection is shared by a lot of properties, These sites will be unbundled, and each dwelling will have a separate water meter. It is a catching up process. Whitianga is catching up as is Whangamata.

In Whangamata, there are a number of places that require unbundling and the same applies to Whitianga. Water meters will be installed to properties that require unbundling in Whangamatā beginning in the 2025/26 financial year if the funding in the 2024-2034 Long Term Plan is approved. For Whitianga, it will be 2027.

„ Charges: The properties without meters will continue to pay the full fixed charge until the unbundling occurs. This year it was $803.90 and it will go up a little to about $820 per annum.

Property owners in our district with water meters will be charged a fixed charge for water supply on their rates account as well as a separately billed water account which covers the water consumed as measured by their meter. The charges together, cover

maintenance and upkeep of water supply infrastructure and running of water treatment plants, as well as the cost of the actual treated water consumed. Properties that do not have water meters do not have a water account, but pay for water use instead through a slightly higher fixed charge on their rates account.

“Water metering has been proven to be a valuable tool for tracking down water loss, and accurately measuring water volumes reaching consumer properties,” says our Council’s Infrastructure Group Manager Mo Imtiaz.

“We can make savings through locating major leaks, knowing who our biggest water users are, and working with them to look at ways to better manage and conserve water.”

Our Council has developed a water supply strategy for Whitianga, which includes reducing water use through repairing leaks and managing demand, while looking for potential new supply sources to meet long-term growth in the area”.

World’s first full-scale seaglider is being built!

Ocean Flyer is producing the glider with Regent as manufacturer.

REGENT successfully flew the first seaglider – the quarter-scale prototype – in 2022, proving its unique design and technology. Soon REGENT will

conduct tests of the full-scale Viceroy seaglider prototype with humans on board..

Ocean Flyer and MONTE have signed a $145 million deal to finance the acquisition of REGENT’s all-electric seagliders to operate in New Zealand.

NEW SEASON ROSES

• Hybrid teas

• Floribunda

• Climbers

• David Aus�n roses

• Standard roses

(Over 100 varie�es available)

• New 2023 Ma�hews rose “Hokey Pokey”

(Pictured le�, while stocks last)

The newly installed water meters. There are still a number of properties in Whangamata and Whitianga that don’t have unbundled water meters. Photo credit Colin Andrew

Huge life adventure begins for Whitianga football player

A few weeks ago, I interviewed Olivia McDonald, the young woman that Whitianga Lions helped sponsor to an international soccer competition in Dallas, Texas last year. Since then, Olivia has won a four-year scholarship to study in Nebraska. She leaves in July. It’s inspiring.

BY CYNTHIA DALY

Who would have thought that a trip to Texas for the Dallas International Girls Cup could lead to a scholarship for tertiary education in the USA?

In July, Olivia McDonald will head to Norfolk, Nebraska to take up a four-year scholarship at North-East Community College and represent them in soccer.

It’s the kind of dream so many sports talented and bright students hope will come true. For 18-year-old Olivia McDonald of Whitianga, the opportunity is beyond her dreams, and it all began when she joined a football team as the only girl player.

In 2022, Olivia was selected to represent New Zealand in an international football tournament as part of a team of players selected from schools around the country. To help her get there, Whitianga Lions Club donated $1000 towards her trip. “The trip was only partially funded, so the Lions Club members were an

incredible support for me and my family,” says Olivia.

“The trip was 16 days in total and the tournament was five days, so all the time leading up to the tournament, we played practice games. it was so cool to be over there playing high level teams.”

The NZ team played in the Dallas International Girls Cup, but they just missed out on making the quarter finals. Olivia explains, “It was a shame because we were so close, but it was by one goal. Up until then, we were doing really well.

it was still a good opportunity for the team and a highlight was playing a number of warm up rounds with local teams in Dallas, as the NZ team hadn’t played together prior to the trip.

“Part of Olivia’s intention of the trip was to get exposure to the American level of soccer where ‘scouts’ are known to seek out ‘rising sports players. That’s exactly what happened.

“The coach for the college that I have signed up for, was at that tournament,” says Olivier. The

“You build a bond through sport that doesn’t come from a lot else. It’s just such good fun.”

tournament gives coaches a lot of footage at a high level of football that the American coaches know and can recognise. “So, I definitely think it helped me get an offer from a college. To be able to put that opportunity on your resume and that you competed at that level, makes you stand out a little more, I suppose.”

While in Dallas, Olivia was billeted by a host family. “Being immersed in the American culture was something that settled my desire to go over to America for college

To truly understand where Olivia’s big adventure all started, we go back to a 12-year-old Olivia who had moved from Dunedin to Whitianga with her family and she wanted to play football. It’s known as soccer in the USA. I joined the boys’ football team,

the Mercury Bay Football Team but I was the only girl in the grade.” Olivia kept working her way up, and in Year 10 started playing club football.

“Mum was driving me to Hamilton once a week for training and then for the game on the weekend, on top of my school football.”

In Year 12, Olivia moved to Cambridge and went to boarding school at St Peters to play football for the Hamilton Wanders.

“I want to carry on playing up until I leave, to keep my skills up.”

There are lots of reasons I play football.

“Ultimately, I love winning. I love the feeling when you score a goal, but I also love the people you meet through it, the team environment and just having a whole group of girls around you. You build a bond through sport that doesn’t come from a lot else. It’s just such good fun.”

On 31 July Olivia will head to Nebraska and will decide whether she will study agriculture or biology.

The scholarship will cover most

of her costs, but she has to pay for her visa application, flights and her accommodation.

“I’ll be in the halls of residence and that is a large portion of the cost. I’m hugely grateful for the scholarship though, and my family is a massive help.”

Olivia is pretty determined to earn the money she needs.

“I’m working for a native tree planting and weed control company outside all day. It’s quite good fun and cool to make a bit of a difference, but it’s hard work cutting down weeds and prepping it to be planted, mainly on unusable farmland.

“I’m just trying to save as much as I can. I’m so looking forward to the football over there and getting exposure to the high-level coaching.

“The facilities that they have are just incredible, but also going into such a tight-knit team environment which will be amazing.

“Regarding the friends that I hope to make, I’m really looking forward to that. I’m looking forward to everything really.”

Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret, 18 Coghill St, Whitianga

ENTERTAINMENT

Tiki Taane supporting Coro Youth Mentors Inc

NZ Music Legend Tiki Taane brings his one-man band show to Whitianga for two nights this weekend, which is perfectly suited to the intimate venue that is the Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret. There is also a fantastic variety of local support acts including Let’s Go Descarrego (Sat night), DJ A-Young (Fri & Sat night) & Chance C33Y (Fri night).

Having sold out his Saturday show, a second

show has been added for which Tiki and Rachel Taane are very generously donating 50% of the ticket sales to Coro Youth Mentors Inc, so you can head along and celebrate for a great cause!

Coro Youth Mentors’ mission is to empower young individuals to reach their full potential through guidance, encouragement, and skill development. The charity has mobilised quickly from

inception in early 2024, to the first mentor training in April 2024 and they will be matching mentors to mentees very soon. The organisation’s kaupapa aligns so well to Tiki’s and this is a great fundraiser for them. Last remaining tickets for Friday June 21 can be purchased at www. tikidub.com.

Also, for more information, please do check out www.cym.org.nz or on social media.

Mark Wright holds drama workshop in Whitianga

BY PAM FERLA

Popular actor Mark Wright is running a drama workshop in Whitianga on Sunday, July 7 at Mercury Bay Area School. He is one of New Zealand’s top dramatists and the workshop is for all interested in drama and acting. The area is privileged to have mark doing this local workshop.

In his remarkable solo show, “The Gallipoli Monologues” performed at Whitianga’s Monkey House jus last Friday night,14 June, Mark takes on nine different characters and explores the origins of the ANZAC spirit. His performance is said to put the humanity back into the history book, making audiences across New Zealand laugh and cry.

Mark is best known for his character roles in TV series, including “Nothing Trivial”, “Terry Teo” and “Go Girls”.

He is already familiar with the Coromandel area, having MC’d Tairua’s Cocksy Classic Charity Fishing Competition several times.

Mark is looking forward to his Whitianga workshop and says it will focus

on characterisation.

THE WORKSHOP

“I’ll be giving some tips and devises to help actors identify and grow their characters, as well as tools to make their work more successful and more enjoyable.”

Mark likes to do workshops in every town he goes to and also visits schools.

“I remember that at school I was told drama was not a real job. But I think drama is an important subject in schools. Drama classes are not to produce world class actors, they are to give students confidence. Communication is a key

asset in business – to talk to staff at meetings or to pitch an idea, you need the confidence to communicate with everyone and drama can do that.”

He is a National Theatre Sports Champion and represented NZ at the International Improv Festival in New York and Amsterdam. Mark is best known in NZ for his award-winning comedy work and is a regular cast member for all of New Zealand’s top theatre companies. His awards include TV Guide Television Award for Best Performer in an Entertainment Programme, TV Guide Best Actor Award and two New Zealand Film and Television awards for best performance. He has hosted live and televised events, including The New Zealand Film Awards, The Comedyfest Gala, Inside New Zealand, The Radio Awards, The ALAC Sports Awards, and The Smokefree Stage Challenge. Come along to Mark’s Workshop at the Mercury Bay Area School, 9.30am-4.00pm Sunday, 7 July. Cost is $35. „ For information and bookings phone 027 6105 933 or email morcshar@ xtra.co.nz.

Actor Mark Wright

Literary Corner

“Written.here” is a group of local writers and lovers of books. We would like to create a Literary Corner in The Informer every fortnight.

We would welcome any short stories, prose or poetry of less than 400 words.

“Written.here” is about encouraging and inspiring our local writers to be known and acknowledged as they write about their dreams, their life or a story (fiction or non-fiction) and we hope to publish two pieces of writing each fortnight. We are looking for and would love to hear from any businesses or individuals who would like to support the column

every fortnight, to cover costs of publishing in The Informer. Your business name will be acknowledged and your contribution in making a difference is highly appreciated. Please email written.here.group@gmail. com your submission and we will choose one or two submissions for each publication (every two weeks).

Beverley Sheppard – Convenor written.here.group@gmail.com

Life in the Trees

He reaches for his phone more than he reaches for me, He wouldn’t even notice if I was sitting in a tree.

Days go past and I wander around, Working in the garden and only hearing a bird sound.

Phone calls from Louise from a life distant past, She’s a bestie that will certainly last.

FaceTime video is my fave, Seeing her gorgeous face has me rave, Girls need each other and I miss my few, Fleur, Michele and Christine were my crew, Andrea, Anna and Heather, They are as pretty as a feather. My dear cousins are so funny, Our old childhood stories with an

outside dunny. Francesca was my ouzo or coffee chick, Her house sat high on Quinn St made of brick.

Onwards and upwards life is what we make it.

M and M are my Sydney �it. Next week I’ll be disco dancing, I’ll be having fun watching Maryna prancing.

Rob and Ms M are having a birthday celebration, They happily live near Bondi station. Onwards and upwards life is what you make it.

Lucia and my Garden Club will go on forever, Making it to Heaven someday is what I endeavour.

Equestrian Memories

And possible future developments in Whitianga for horse riders

BY STAN STEWART

Talk of horses and equestrian events and their eyes light up. The Informer recently organised for Ron Cooke and Ady Cole-Ewen to meet each other. This was the first time they had met for many years. In the early 70s, Ron was a client of Ady’s ‘Ewen Equine Clinic’. They both knew the NZ equestrian and horse event scene from way back.

At their meeting, once on this subject, their enthusiasm is obvious and details of equestrian events and horse shows are bright in both their memories. An additional link shared was the fact that both Ron and Ady have been involved with Riding for the Disabled. At this reunion, they strongly agreed on two things. 1. Their involvement with horses and all things equestrian was a most enjoyable part of their life. 2. Being around horses and competing in events is very beneficial for young people.

Ady and Ron care about

the young people of our time and of our district.

Despite the fact that so much has changed in youth culture, they are convinced that young people still love to be around horses. More than just being fun, horses are a unique source of calm for troubled persons of all ages. They would love to see the development of a facility in Whitianga which would enable young people and horses to meet, mingle and work together.

Here they are obviously talking about Equestrian opportunities but also of other contact, with horses, learning to ride, grooming and befriending.

This led to a focus on what has already been proposed to the ThamesCoromandel District Council. Ron and the Informer with the backing of around 40 interested persons have approached the Council for the allocation of piece of land from the Sherrif Block. This large piece of land now owned by the Council has been reserved for recreational purposes. A number of projects have already been suggested. However, there is still room on the Sherrif block for more projects. Ron and The Coromandel Informer have suggested that 10 acres of the block be allocated for the purpose of establishing 1. A permanent equestrian facility, and 2. Space for beginner horse handling and riding and Riding for the Disabled.

The TCDC has yet to comment on this proposal. However, they will meet shortly with interested persons to discuss this concept.

„ Interested? Contact Ron Cook 027 498 4447

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Boundary lines are indicative only

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Ady Cole-Ewen and Ron Cooke.

Conscious Energy Healing Workshops

Verna Carr is a facilitator of Conscious Energy Healing.

Energy Healing is not some new age concept but has been practised in various forms in nearly all cultures for thousands of years. The Informer is aware of this from stories of Australian practitioners in this field and asked Verna to explain more.

Conscious Energy Healing works on the premise that we are soul, mind, and body working together in unison – everything is connected. When these are in balance and harmony, then the physical body is healthy and vibrant and doesn’t usually get sick. The idea of conscious healing is not difficult to understand. It requires only one who wishes to receive and one who wishes to facilitate. Both agreeing not to stand in the way of what is to occur and both allowing the energy to flow. Verna can see and feel the physical and emotional causes of illness/ pain in someone’s physical body. Everyone

has emotional baggage, stories, past experiences, beliefs that show up in their bodies in diverse ways. Verna directs the flow of Universal energy to enable the flushing of energy and the releasing of blockages. That process, plus the intention of the one who has come to her for assistance, brings about the healing. She is just a support and guide for people to bring about their own healing. Verna’s expansion, passion and spiritual journey have given her many

joyous years as an energy healing facilitator. She expects the unexpected and just allows the process to flow.

Verna says, “I often experience the most amazing things as do the recipients of the healing.” Verna wishes to offer her gifts and talents to teach others her healing modality in a weekend workshop format. Workshops are open to anyone wanting to learn powerful and effective energy healing techniques to facilitate healing for

themselves and their loved ones. Participants will be given step-by step instructions to learn basic hands-on healing techniques, as well as experience first-hand the different roles of the facilitator – receiver and observer. Participants will receive a manual to take home with them, plus a bonus gift of Verna’s book, Metamorphosis Wisdom, for a Changing Consciousness.

Everybody who has taken this workshop has had an extraordinary experience. They leave feeling empowered to live in ways that bring them more joy and excitement because they are now more aligned to who they truly are.

Energy Healing works on very deep levels, and normally brings about balance, harmony, clarity, understanding, changes.

If you would like to be a participant on the next available weekend workshop, then please contact Verna phone 0273200079, vernacarr@gmail.com

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New President at Penultimates

Following the recent AGM for the “PENS” group, John Berryman has been voted in as our new president. Our group, as stated above, is about enjoying each other’s company and having fun.

We have a monthly meeting with a speaker, for example Jon Jesson and his wife Marilyn who have spent their working lives refurbishing vintage caravans and have written several books. A very interesting talk as are all of our speakers.

The meeting is followed by lunch at one of the cafes in town enabling members to chat to each other while enjoying good food.

Once a month we play mini golf {depending on the weather} with lots of camaraderie and teasing, and sometimes a little showing off. Those who want to have lunch at a local cafe, but playing mini golf is not a requirement, could be just an outing for fellow-ship.

We have outings to different places; the next one is to the Troubadours in Tairua, to enjoy the latest show. Other trips will be arranged throughout the year. A monthly news-

John Berryman

letter keeps all members informed of club activities, guest speakers, and information about the committee.

This group is aimed at people who are a little older, perhaps retired, who may be widowed or just on their own, as well as couples. Of this age group a range of both men and women are „ Members. The meetings and outings are a great way to make friends and get out and about. Having transport is not always necessary as carpooling is offered to out of town events. Everyone is welcome to come along to a meeting at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club held on the 4th Monday of the month; or even just make contact with John Berryman, Joan Rosman 027ltimatesltim

Let the facts be a part of the solution

You would consider yourself lucky if you were found alive 24 hours after falling overboard from a boat.

In January, a Tairua local, Will Fransen, was fishing solo out behind the Alderman Islands. Somehow he fell overboard and in little over 24 hours drifted in the currents to Mayor Island, over 55 km away. Incredibly for him and his family, he was found alive. If the currents and tides can carry a human this far, imagine the distance a small fragment of invasive seaweed can spread on the same currents, particularly because the tides and currents flow day in and day out.

It may be easy to point the finger at boaties and blame vessels and marine equipment for Caulerpa’s rapid infestation across the Hauraki Gulf, from Kawau to the Mercury Islands, but we need to take a holistic look at the issue. While human behaviour undoubtedly makes a difference, our impact pales in comparison to the impact that billions of gallons of water travelling up and down the coast have on the spread of Caulerpa.

Caulerpa eventually settles on the seafloor, posing a danger to benthic sea life in the warmer parts of New Zealand, in waters

40m or less, and is toxic to many fish and critters.

This raises an alarming question. What will happen to fish relying on the seafloor ecosystem for their food if it is smothered by an invasive seaweed?

Exotic caulerpa was first found in New Zealand in July, 2021at Aotea Great barrier Island which is a Hauraki Gulf island. It has since been discovered at Ahuaha Great Mercury Island, Te Rawhiti Inlet in NOrthland, Kawau Island, Waiheke Island, Mokohinau Islands, Rakino Island and Fantail bay, Coromandel Peninsula.

The secret to Caulerpa’s ability to spread over such vast distances is pretty simple.

Caulerpa relies on the currents and tides to determine where it settles. In suitable conditions, wave action breaks off small fragments which are deposited in new areas where it then establishes. This natural reproduction process is called fragmentation. Interestingly, it is nearly identical to how juvenile scallops ‘spat’ disperses. It is strange that MPI’s previous recommendation under the previous government was, to ‘throw it back.”

In areas once occupied by scallop beds, Caulerpa can now be found as it benefits from the

same currents for dispersal. Great Mercury Island is a prime example. Where the vigorous currents once facilitated the settlement of scallop spat. Today, these historic scallop beds are now home to Caulerpa.

Craig Thorburn, a member of the Waiheke Marine Project Steering Committee and Trustee of Kelly Tarltons Marine Wildlife Trust, has been actively involved in the Caulerpa scene. He was one

of the first people to notice that the facts were not adding up.

“After frequently surveying the main anchorages at Waiheke and not finding Caulerpa, we researched its [Caulerpa] natural dispersal processes. We realised that the weed spreads along the currents similar to scallop spat. Applying this logic, we dove in a historic scallop bed at Waiheke and found Caulerpa immediately”. This means places like Opito Bay

History of poisoning on the Coromandel

Part Two

BY JOHN VEYSEY

As the area of 1080 poisoning expanded, more and more people came face to face with the effects of 1080. The initial hurdle came from the hunters and hikers who noticed the dead bodies of native birds after 1080 drops. This needed explanation.

An explanation team was set up – an ever-expanding staff of scientists charged with finding the best way to spread 1080. They were based at “Landcare”. Later university professors jumped on the bandwagon and 1080 “experts” emerged from all of our universities.

Their first challenge was to find an explanation for the dead native birds which was given to Eric Spurr. Eric did some “research”.

His research showed that the poison would kill a lot of possums and rats which meant that the surviving birds would not be hassled by rats or possums come next breeding season so they would breed up so much more easily that we should expect to see their numbers bounce back better than ever.

On the basis of his ‘science,’ 1080 drops were made just before the birds’ breeding season. Among the Landcare group Eric enjoyed a career for life as the “bird expert”.

Explanations like this formed ‘the science’ behind the spreading of 1080. The system was well-established by the time DoC began poisoning on the Coromandel.

In the 1980’s large areas of NZ lay still to be poisoned and many of those involved in the 1080

strategy set up private companies making their own poison baits in the hope of sharing some of the profits being made by the government owned 1080 factory (GOF).

The GOF had a monopoly on the 1080 baits.

It was illegal for any other company to make 1080 baits, so the private companies had to come up with something different.

In 1990 ICI (Imperial Chemical Industries) developed a rat poison called Talon and offered it to DoC to spread aerially around DoC-managed lands. One of the Landcare “scientists” took up the offer – David Towns. David led the drive to drop Talon over the outlying islands which were now under DoC’s care.

In 1991 DoC dropped Talon over Stanley and Red Mercury Islands ostensibly to eradicate rats and

are also at risk of infestation.

Ngāti Hei and the wider community have consistently led the charge in Coromandel, establishing rāhui for scallops then Pink maomao when the Ministry of Primary Industries failed to take action.

But we can’t face this alone. It will take a village to combat Caulerpa, and without support from the government, efforts to control the invasive weed will fall short.

Continuing to present incomplete or misinformation is also frustrating the community’s valiant efforts. Little progress to combat or even appropriately monitor the spread of Caulerpa has been made. Monitoring efforts need to be refined and the main currents and tides need to be a bigger part of the consideration. Where do we start? Easy, with historic scallop bed sites. Finally, it is still important that we all play our part in preventing further spread and respect restrictions and Controlled Area Notices (CAN) on anchoring and fishing in areas infested with Caulerpa.

If you find yourself out diving, fishing, or walking along the beach and spot Caulerpa, please bag it up and report it to phone 0800 80 99 66.

rabbits. Talon was banned in other countries because it was known to spread through every species of wild life and stay there.

A search for dead rats after the drop over Stanley Island found more dead birds than dead rats.

Six months later, live birds were taken from the island and rat poison was found in all of them.

The Talon had behaved as expected.

Next thing DoC spread Talon on the mainland. DoC had complete authority over public land and Waikato Regional Council supplied the authority to spread poison over private lands.

Between them they could poison the entire peninsula. A 1,000 ha property in Kennedy Bay was selected and subjected to a ground-based spread of this Talon.

I asked the owner why he would spread this stuff all over his land knowing what carnage would follow and he replied: “They told me I had a possum problem and they had university degrees so they must know what they’re talking about.

“They had a mandate to control the possums on my property, a job they would do for free with their poison but if I wanted to control the possums without the use of their poison I would have to pay for the work myself.

“Possum trappers they told me might cost $30 per hectare.

“Well I didn’t have a spare $30,000 did I”.

This procedure survives to this day whenever DoC/WRC want to spread animal poison on your property. And so the poisoning of our peninsula had begun.

The feather-like Caulerpa quickly smothers the sea floors.

A world away but a problem Whitianga and other towns on the Coromandel face

Community beachside building has to go

This week in Geraldton, West Australia, a Marine Rescue building which had been built in 2016 at the cost of $AU800,000, had to be demolished. The problem was high tides and beach erosion.

At high tide, the water encroaches two metres from the structure.

Last year, 2023, volunteers were out in force sand bagging the building – 2,000 bags. Their efforts were in vain and it was clear the

building on that site was not viable. Residents with beachside properties in this same area

COROMANDEL

face similar problems. It is expected that some of these homes may also have to go.

RESCUE MISSIONS

For the Auckland & Coromandel Westpac Rescue Helicopters

1-31 May 2024

01.05 Whitianga Assist a baby suffering a medical complaint. The baby was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

03.05 Coromandel Peninsula

Assist with a motor vehicle accident. Crew were stood down enroute and returned to base.

05.05 Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 70s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.

07.05 Whitianga Crew tasked by the Rescue Coordination Centre to Whitianga assist with the search for a vessel after receiving a mayday call. Crew were stood down by RCC after contact was made with the vessel.

07.05 Whitianga Assist a male patient in his 80s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

08.05 Hikuai Assist with a motor vehicle accident. Crew were stood down enroute and returned to base.

08.05 Whitianga Assist a male patient in his 70s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

10.05 Whitianga Assist a female patient in her 30s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

14.05 Coromandel Assist a male patient in his 60s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition.

17.05 Whitianga Assist a male patient in his 50s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.

17.05 Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 60’s involved in a motorcycle accident. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.

19.05 Coromandel Assist a male patient in his 20s suffering a medical complaint and in a moderate condition. Transportation to hospital by helicopter wasn’t required.

19.05 Great Mercury Is

Assist a female patient in her 50s suffering a medical complaint and in a minor condition. Transportation to hospital by helicopter wasn’t required.

22.05 Tairua Assist a female patient in her 60s suffering injuries from a pack dog attack. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

25.05 Thames Due to technical difficulties, crew were stood down enroute and returned to base.

25.05 Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 70s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

25.05 Kūaotunu Assist a male patient in his teens suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.

Supporting the work of Hato Hone St John

BY GILLIAN REID

There is a high probability that someone in your family will need to call on our St John ambulance services. Every call is regarded as potentially life-threatening until determined otherwise, so an ambulance and crew are despatched as soon as available, to bring the best possible diagnosis, treatment, or hospital referral the situation needs.

This is made possible by a variety of means. Every ambulance in our Area is double-crewed. Namely, there is a fully trained Paramedic, and a trained Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or First Responder-trained Volunteer, on board. The funding provided to support both the cost of running the ambulances and the critical human resources staffing them, includes govt contribution of 82% of ambulance running costs. The balance needed for St John to provide the service expected by our community, comes from money earned bySt John itself, plus availability of its volunteer resources.

The St John Shop is probably the largest contributor to the St John support work in our area, funding both the Health Shuttle, local training courses such as First Aid and Mental Health,

plus maintenance work on ambulances and the station. Income from the St John Supporters’ scheme is another significant factor in the ability to maintain the services offered to the community.

BEING A MEMBER:

Membership carries a double benefit. Membership of the St John Supporters’ Scheme means free ambulance assistance which includes hospital transport as well as skilled paramedic support on site.

It also contributes towards other costs born by St John, including Volunteer training to ensure both the EMT and First Response crew members are fully capable of carrying out any necessary clinical support when attending a callout. Without this income, St John would struggle to meet its commitments to callout responses.

Availability of appropriate ambulance staff is key to ensuring the right response to every call. The core of this work are the ambulance volunteers. They are financially supported through their necessary training, so they are able to provide important first-level response to calls, and other community-based activities such as information courses, free blood pressure tests, and attendance at community

events. They also provide support and back-up until an ambulance arrives, as well as moving to being support crew on the ambulance itself. Equally important are the volunteer Health Shuttle drivers, who enable clinic patients to get to and from hospital without the stress of self-driving.

BECOMING A VOLUNTEER IN ST JOHN:

Being a St John volunteer in any of the roles St John provides to the community is critical, so that when called, St John will respond with the best available help. A rural community like ours means that the distances to be covered by callouts or hospital trips, brings both travel and clinical health pressures. Becoming a St John volunteer is a significant contribution to the health needs of our community. The ability to respond to callouts is dependant on the availability of these people, with a real need by our growing population, to have more of them.

If you would like to know about becoming a volunteer for Hato Hone St John, either as an ambulance officer or a health shuttle driver, please email di.taylor@stjohn.org.nz.

Gillian Reid is the St John Chaplain in this region.

The need for the work of St John has increased on the Coromandel in recent years.

STAN’S STUFF

My journey – relating to other cultures

Misstep,

mistakes and downright disasters

BY STAN STEWART

MISSTEP: – THE GERMANS

When I was fifteen, I worked in a large engineering workshop. Most of the workers were ‘New Australians’ – men who had just emigrated from countries devastated by the second World War. Three young men caught my attention. These handsome, blond men were Germans.

They noticed me perhaps because I was also blond and blue eyed. For a month or so we looked out for each other at brew time. Then it stopped. They avoided me and I never knew why.

My guess now is they were offended by my boasting about the courage of Australian soldiers. Probably they couldn’t stand to hear the smart-arsed Aussie kid put down the German people.

MISTAKES: – THE KOREANS

The first Asians who befriended us after our coming to New Zealand in 1992 were Koreans. They liked us, but clearly, they felt they could improve us.

Food: Koreans loved Kimchi –fermented cabbage. They can’t imagine life without it. They assumed that Kiwis or Aussies in NZ would love it too. They went to enormous lengths to introduce us to this delicacy, but they didn’t realise that our palate had been somewhat numbed by a diet of meat, potatoes and veg, fish and chips and tomato sauce and that we were beyond redemption

Beauty: The mother and daughter thought my wife was very beautiful but not quite up

to beauty by Korean standards.

One Saturday afternoon, mother and daughter worked on Pauline to make her ‘really beautiful’, Korean style. They never knew it, but after they had completed their ‘painted-doll’ treatment my wife spent an hour in a service station restroom restoring her appearance to her own Kiwi/ Aussie style of glamour and comfortable appearance.

Table tennis: Their teenage son lived with us for a year. In that year we often played table tennis. I gained the impression I was a top-gun player as he never beat me. Later in a university break he visited. We played table tennis, and I scarcely won a point. I asked how come he had improved so much? “There is no improvement,” he said. “At university I decided to live like a Kiwi,” he explained. “As a Korean, my culture dictated that I should never beat you because of your age. Now I am a Kiwi, I can play normally, and you are not very good!”

DOWNRIGHT DISASTERS

British colonisers relating to Aboriginal people. The lack of knowledge ordinary Australians (including me) had of what really happened to the Aboriginal inhabitants of the Great South Land is almost unbelievable.

It was beyond the Brit’s understanding that people who wore no clothes and who could carry all their belongings in one hand could be a cultured and educated people.

In fact, Aboriginal history went back at least 40,000 years and their culture and history were

enshrined in paintings, songs, dances, implements and mystic rhythms. Their stories unfolded a drama of mystery and mastery between nature and humanity, a web of thousands of years.

For my first 35 years, I lived in Victoria, the small, prosperous southeastern state at the bottom of the Australian mainland. I was in my 20s before I saw an Aboriginal person. As far as I knew, there were no Aboriginals living in the city of Melbourne. I knew some Aboriginals lived in an out-ofbounds, isolated reserve a hundred kilometres from Melbourne.

Victorians explained this absence of Aboriginal people from their state in this way. Aboriginals prefer a warm and dry climate. For this reason, they lived in the sunny north of the country. Aboriginal tribes chose not to live in Victoria. I now know this was not true. What alerted me was testimony given by the Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan to the ‘Truth-telling Enquiry’ in April of this year.

I read she was moved to tears by the evidence she had to consider. So was I. Murderous white settlers, hungry for land, massa-

cred whole communities - men, women, children, and babies. I had heard of such things happening and felt loathing and condemnation for it, but never for a minute, did I imagine that anything of this kind happened in my state of Victoria.

The truth is that rather than Victoria being an empty space just waiting for the British to colonize and farm, the state was occupied by peripatetic communities (tribes) of Aboriginal people. It is estimated that when the British arrived, there was a minimum of 12,000 living in communities across the state.

In a few years, this number was depleted down to 4,000. Some of this decline was due to British diseases. But much of their disappearance was due to massacres of Aboriginal tribes – men, women, children, and babies by land-hungry British settlers.

These days, through my Queensland family, I am related by marriage to several Aboriginals. My brother in-law is a rare treasure, being 50% Aboriginal and 50% Thursday Islander (Kaurareg). Together, we are proud of the place our family has come to; the heavy work we have done on our attitudes to be a real family in terms of understanding and tolerance. This is something for which I am so very thankful.

However, the treatment of Aboriginals in my home state of Victoria, which was replicated in other parts of the country, was a downright disaster for the nation and destroyed many of the most ancient people on this planet. This disaster fills me with shame.

Australian Aboriginal family, Victoria 1800s. Photo taken with permission.

Photo credit Wagga Wagga Library

THROUGH THE PORTAL

Where is New Zealand Governance going in the forseeable future?

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

Apolitical poll came out shortly after the budget that showed nothing had changed much in the political popularity game. Both the conservative and socialist sides were scoring roughly what they were scoring at the time of the election, the government mix we got was still the one we preferred now. The real interest was in the flavour of the conservative and socialist sides.

In the past, the government of the day has tended to increase its popularity initially and its supporting parties have generally been pushed down, found it hard to get attention and progress their policies and desires. This has not been quite as obvious on the opposition side as being in opposition provides you with more room to stamp your foot and push whatever it is you wish to push.

The change we are seeing is that the minor parties are becom-

ing more stable in terms of support and as such their policies and views are becoming more effectual.

This is especially relevant on the government side where the major party, being National, still cannot break the 40% support barrier whereas from 2008 until 2018 they were permanently at that level.

A major reason they cannot break this barrier is because their coalition partners are maintaining their support basis meaning any gains National has to make really have to be from the small numbers of Labour voters that could be persuaded to shift. That will be a hard shift for National as they and Labour are fighting for the same pool of centrist voters. Some prefer National’s self-proclaimed economic expertise while others prefer Labour’s self-proclaimed ideological vision. Any swing between these two pools will not be large.

With this stagnation of our two major parties, the minor parties

gain in importance and relevance. What this will see is a gradual push to the right in economic direction as both NZ First and Act agree on this. We will see a push to put our county on a path towards increasing wealth and productivity, back to being a first world economy.

All of the major areas such as Education, Health, Infrastructure and Law and Order will see improvements, many of them driven by the two support parties. If we didn’t have this stability of support parties we would once again be relying on a lazy populist government such as those of Jacinda Ardern, John Key and Helen Clerk. We would be in an increasing depth of manure.

On the opposition side a similar trend is emerging. Labour is struggling to pull itself back up, its current political performance just confirming to most the perception of incompetence which leads to them being turfed out at the last election. The minor parties in opposition are however

consolidating their positions, they are becoming confident, so much so that the Greens new co-leader has stated that they expect to be the major party on the left at some stage in the future. If the trend we are seeing continues it appears that the next socialist government in this country will be strongly influenced by Maori and Green interests.

The problem for the socialist group is that our bunch of politicians have virtually killed off MMP in this country as they have now solidified into two blocks. NZ First was the last party that was prepared to dance with left or right but now they appear to be firmly on the right side. In years gone by, we had parties such as United Future and The Maori Party that were also prepared to partner with either side but United Future has since died and The Maori Party has cemented itself to the left. The Greens, who should logically be supportive of any government if they wish to promote environmental causes,

continue to stay to the left, rendering themselves ineffectual as defenders of our environment.

So we are left with two sides; on one side we have the conservative and pragmatic, sprinkled with common sense. If a voter wants this type of government they will vote for whichever of the three parties they feel “flavours” a government more to their taste. On the other side we have those that want to benefit but do not want to create; a diverse bunch promoting everything from Maori Parliaments to massive reduction in our countries income. Pick your flavour and vote accordingly. So I can see our governance not changing too much. The diverse bunch of socialist activists to the left will find it difficult to beat a well organised pragmatic incumbent government. The challenge for our present government is that they need a few significant wins for the people so that they are widely seen as being well organised and effective. Easy to say.

ENTERTAINMENT

The Big Kiwi Party Night – great success

Last Saturday night’s Big Kiwi Music Party offered terrific music performed by Kiwis free of charge at Mercury Bay Club.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD KIWI MUSIC PARTY?

• The number of people up dancing,

• The level of banter and interaction between the party goers

• The enthusiasm of the dancers and listeners in their appreciation of the music.

These would be indicators easy to observe.

Then there’s the preparation so that everything people need to have a good time is there – quality food with choice, a ready supply of drinks – alcohol, mixers and soft drinks, comfortable atmosphere with ambient lighting and places to sit and talk without shouting. The cost of food and drinks was left to each person to decide what they wanted. People loved the model and were generous in their purchases. That all helps the above.

Then, there’s the programme. This is the clincher and this party clinched it with excellent music. Two bands made such music a reality.

These two bands will attract crowds to future events after what they presented last Saturday night. They were made up two groups of friends.

The first band, Owen Spooner, Earl Adams, Wanda Brljevich (Earl’s younger sister) and Dean Carter from Auckland. All were excellent vocalists and instrumentalists. Wanda’s voice was a

BY STAN STEWART

every community for its own health’s sake needs all age interaction, energy with loads of fun.

The Big Kiwi Party Night was this kind of great night shared by 150 people in an excellent venue. Congratulations to Roger and Betty Simpson and their team for the decision to make it

and the preparations with music and promotion. Congratulations to the Mercury Bay

committee and management team.

Look out

The Cabaret at Mercury Bay Club coming up on Saturday, 20 July.

highlight. They were very professional and so at ease with their audience.

Then there was the Kiwi Filipino party band made up of two locals and two from Auckland. Bong who works in local hospitality at Espy Café brought together the band of four with two friends from Auckland. They were four

seasoned and polished musicians. These two bands were different in style. The Kiwi Filipino band perhaps presented a more energetic and youth-oriented style. However, both bands were the same in the way they got people up and dancing, in their excellent vocal harmonies, and in the relaxed interaction and relationship with their audience. A feature that could not be ignored was the ‘family’ nature in that teens and young adults were on the floor with dancers well past retirement. We have young adults-oriented places or ’events for oldies’ but

Voices from Gallipoli’ a one man show

Mark Wright, New Zealand actor, writer and raconteur kept a full house at the Monkey House transfixed for nearly two hours with his one man show ‘Voices from Gallipoli’. His presentation was perfect. His glimpses into Gallipoli, confronting, amusing, gut wrenching. I left feeling the whole town should see this – no - the whole of New Zealand and Australia should see this.

The small set was perfect. The centre piece being a hat rack with the hats of the characters Mark would play. The songs before the show and interspersed in the show were popular songs from the World War One era. Against the background of the impossible, murderous, suicidal assault on the Gallipoli terrain Mark confronted us with

the people of the Gallipoli conflict. The toffee-nosed commanding officer from Sandhurst, the raw and

courageous kiwi country boys, the brash Aussie, the matron, the nurses, the Turks. He took us into the trenches and onto a hospital ship. Our stomachs soured as we were confronted with rations in the trenches. My heart broke for young men whose lives were ended before they had begun. On one level we had heard it all before. But the way Mark told it I felt it was all new, painfully, achingly

Grant Haua Explosion

BY KASPUR FRANKE

Thank you Mark for conceiving this project. There is a danger that with the passing of the years Gallipoli will be remembered in form but through familiarity the impact of the event will become ho-hum. Your production of ‘Voices from Gallipoli’ awakened us. Gallipoli will never be the same because of you work and artistry. Thank you.

„ See also the Letter to Editor Harriette Brickell

The aptly named Grant Haua Explosion exploded on to the stage at the Monkey House last Saturday night. Bringing his signature mix of electrified and acoustic guitar blues, Grant Haua (who performs internationally and hails from Tauranga and has been named by Rolling Stone France as one of top 25 best blues musicians in the world) entertained and gave a masterclass performance in rockin’ blues to a near packed house. From the very beginning, when Grant saw that audience members had arrived early, he took to the stage for an impromptu thirty-minute acoustic set

before bringing on the band for another two hours. It didn’t take long before everyone was on their feet dancing. After the show Grant stayed, signed autographs and vowed to come back again soon. “Man, this is my first time playing in Whitianga. What a beau-

tiful spot you got here and what a wonderful audience. It’s been a pleasure. That was fun. If you’ll have us back, we’d love to do it again.” Judging by the audience’s overwhelming response and request, that would be an enthusiastic and resounding, “YES!”

work

Club

for

Grant Haua, left, with his band playing electrified and acoustic guitar blues.

The Kiwi Music Party night was enjoyed by many. What marvellous talent we have in our community.

Wanda Brljevich and Dean Carter performing on Saturday night, supported by Earl Adams and Owen Spooner (not pictured).

The Kiwi Filipino band – Bong, Vener, Josef and Jerome.

Mercury Bay Area School Ball 2024

It was a night of high fashion, beauty, style, cool dudes, great fun and food. The Year 13s had the best time for their final year of school ball. The committee of parents, teachers and students organised a very well run Year 13 ball.

Thames Music Group

Free Friday Lunchtime Concert Friday 28 June at 12:15pm at St Georges Church Thames

THAMES TALENT - A fun variety concert by the Richmond Villas choir directed by Dylan Lajunen; Locals from Tararu Village, Dusty & Rosalie Miller and Dawn & Barrie.

Koha appreciated

Our next Sunday Concert will be on Sunday, 14 July and it will be by the Danish Female ensemble UNGKLANG who will be in NZ for the World Choir Games in July.

www.thamesmusicgroup.com

Coromandel Our

News from Thames-Coromandel District Council

LTP close to adoption

Our 2024-2034 Long Term Plan (LTP) is closer to being formally adopted later this month, pending the formal independent audit process now underway.

Following the deliberations on 21-22 May, our Councillors and Mayor Len Salt made some final decisions on the five key issues we consulted on as they sought to balance keeping rates affordable and including some of the key works projects that our communities asked for.

“We’ve had some pretty tough calls to make,” says our Mayor Len Salt. “It’s fair to say it’s not been an easy path so far. We’ve had to walk that challenging tightrope between fine-tuning spending on the essentials and ensuring that we also make realistic provision for our future growth and resilience.”

WHITIANGA WATER METER CHARGING STARTS 1 JULY

Water meters have now been installed on almost all properties in Whitianga. From 1 July, Whitianga property-owners will have two water charges instead of the current one.

The set charge that property owners currently pay for water supply will drop by almost 50 per cent. In addition, after 1 July property owners will be charged for water depending on the volume that they use as measured by their meters.

Please note, we still have some properties which do not yet have water meters installed. In the meantime, these properties will continue to be charged the full 'water serviced' set charge ($803.90 in the 2023/24 year, due to rise slightly from 1 July). tcdc.govt.nz/watermeters

Applications are open for The Richardsons Hauraki Coromandel Business Awards. The awards are delivered biennially by Hauraki and ThamesCoromandel District Councils and supported by members of the business community.

The awards celebrate excellence and creativity in the business sector, and offer an opportunity to gain recognition for your organisation and to get expert advice on prospering your business.

Award categories and application information are at www.hauraki-dc.govt.nz/community/businessawards

We’ll be sharing the final LTP, including the rates for the 2024/25 financial year and our key decisions, at tcdc.govt.nz/LTP-2024-2034

AA SERVICES EXTENDED TO END OF 2024

A word from our Board Chair

Krissy Robinson

“The final LTP is due for adoption on 27 June. Managing the rate spike is a significant concern, and our Council has explored ways to mitigate the increase in the first year. The necessary budget to replace the current Whitianga Refuse and Recycling Transfer Station is subject to the LTP being adopted. This will be a significant improvement for our area, and it will be even better when we get the Wāhi Tukurua – Mercury Bay Resource Recovery Centre alongside it. Lastly, we are looking forward to Matariki and Whānau Day at the Mercury Bay Museum on Friday 28 June and the Dark Sky event in Kūaotunu by the tennis courts from 5am7am on Saturday 29 June. Both will be worth checking out.” krissy.robinson@council.tcdc.govt.nz

There’s good news for our residents of Whitianga and Whangamatā. Waka Kotahi has announced that its twicemonthly mobile AA services in the two centres will continue for the rest of 2024. AA’s mobile unit can complete all the transactions that are done at the Thames counter except motor vehicle registration and plate transactions, including:

• All driver licensing transactions (except overseas conversions)

• AA Membership renewals and new joins

• RealMe Identity verification

• IRD personal number applications

• SuperGold – image request for card

• International Driving Permits

• Passport Photos

Both the Whitianga and Whangamatā Community Boards submitted letters of support for the extension. aa.co.nz

News in Brief – At its last meeting, the Board recommended that Council approve that the Whitianga Information Centre Charitable Trust continue to run the Whitianga Visitor Information Centre for another three years, from 1 July. Funding to run the information centre is allocated through the 2024-2034 Long Term Plan, which is currently being independently audited and scheduled to be formally adopted by Council on 27 June. The trust’s expression of interest scored very highly on our rating system.

The Board’s next meeting is on Wednesday 24 July 2024, at 9am, at the Mercury Bay Service Centre, 10 Monk St, Whitianga. Agendas are at tcdc.govt.nz/meetings

MATARIKI KERBSIDE COLLECTIONS

On the Matariki public holiday, Friday 28 June, Rubbish and Recycling Transfer Stations will remain open as usual (from 8.30am-4.30pm).

Red week kerbside collections of rubbish and food waste will take place on the usual days from Monday 24 June – Thursday 27 June. Pāuanui’s collections will be on Saturday instead of Friday. The week after Matariki, the usual yellow week schedule for recycling bins, glass crates and food waste will resume. Check the schedule for your area at tcdc.govt.nz/bindays

Photo by Mike Hill

Breaking of the ground for new extension

BY PAULINE STEWART

It was a crispy cold experience standing in the side grounds of Whitianga Social Services, Wednesday morning, 12 June. Three tree stumps with painted pink crosses on their bark, stood like cold sentinels (the council had cut their trunks and branches down in preparation for the build).

About twenty-five people gathered for this symbolic beginning – turning the earth with a shovel to begin a new extension to the existing buildings of the Whitianga Social Services Trust (WSST).

The current premises of Whitianga Social Services for some years have not been able to accommodate community groups who seek a place to meet their clients and to have clinics from out of town. “We have had to turn away people on many occasions due to not having room available,” says Peter Van der Putten. This project started in 2018 with a feasibility study done by an independent organisation establishing the need for extra space. Funding was raised from Trust Waikato of $220,00 but the then Manager

and Board of Trustees decided to postpone the extension. Thus, the funding was returned and the project on the extension stalled.

In the next period, the need for more space did not go away. It was decided to recommence the extension project, ably supported by the new Manager, Tony Marsters. Peter Van der Putten was appointed Project Manager. There were a few challenges with the building permit being conditional on some redesigning of the existing plan. Part of the courtyard needed to be utilised to accommodate two clinic rooms and the

toilet facilities. “The extension is a little smaller than first planned, says Peter. “The Resource Consent to increase the footprint has been approved and a building permit has been obtained. Thee building will proceed. The work of designer Susan Watters was especially acknowledged by Peter. This project received funding from Trust Waikato – $290K, Lotto New Zealand – $400K, Board of Trustees $150K (selffunded), and a Westpac Loan of $171K.

Joe Davis, Kaumatua Ngati Hei gathered everyone together for a

mihi whakatau. He spoke warmly of the history of the land on which the WSST stood and acknowledged the valuable work of the Trust over many years and that he had been a part of its journey as it had grown serving the people of this district.

Deputy Mayor, and Councillor, Terry Walker spoke in Mayor Len Salt’s absence due to illness. He welcomed everyone and affirmed the importance of the project.

The chair of the WSST, Mark Ambler acknowledged and thanked the organisations that had granted funds and supported

this much needed project. He spoke of Peter’s great work in managing the project and sorting out the many challenges. The builders of the extension, Richard and Hannah Warwick, of HAMR homes were both present to see this beginning.

Joe Davis’words of blessing of this organisations work, past, present and future and his assurance of partnership were taken up by Peter in his speech outlining the history and details of the Social Services Trust. Peter responded forthrightly, “We appreciate so much this blessing as we go into the future, our partnership with you is vital and important to this town.”

Peter shared the honour of breaking the ground for the new extension with Chrissie Roe, one of the longes serving volunteers at the WSST.

Another milestone has been reached for the Whitianga Community Services Trust.

Whitianga Social Services; top right, Peter Van der Putten, Project Manager, and Chrissie Roe, long time volunteer, together break the soil.

NZCT funds new Skiffs for Coromandel Youth Sailing

A $15,197 grant from the New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) for four O’Pen Bic Sailing Boats and four safety helmets was awarded to Coromandel Youth Support Association (CYSA), will enable CYSA to offer exciting new sailing experiences for the community’s young people based in Coromandel Town.

CYSA strives to provide a professional and affordable pathway into the sport of yachting for the northern Coromandel community. Youth Sailing Administrator Glenys Carr says “The O’pen skiffs will advance our students through Yachting New Zealand’s Level 2 and 3 ‘Sail Fast’ courses and help foster a life-long passion for sport sailing.”

Parent Lucas Evans commented, “Acquiring the new skiffs is very exciting for our young sailors. We can now extend their sail-

ing opportunities and retain their interest and engagement when they’re ready for the next step.”

Young sailor Kahu Evans shares, “It’s going to be a bit scary to sail in a bigger boat after the small ones, but I know our instructors will help us to learn how to handle them.”

Sailing student Ariana Wake

MALCOLM CAMPBELL

adds, “It’s truly awesome that we’re getting some faster boats. I have enjoyed learning to sail, now I really want to get into racing.”

NZCT’s GM of Grants, Marketing and Communications, Ben Hodges adds, “Providing pathways in sport is crucial for retaining young people’s engagement. These O’pen skiffs should do the

trick! NZCT is grateful for the responsible gaming fundraising partnership we share with the Star and Garter that made our grant possible.”

Some history: Coromandel Youth Sailing (CYSA) began in the 2022-23 summer season with a small group of keel boat sailors and four old Delta sailing dinghies

A rundown on the slow removal

freedoms that we once had

BY MALCOLM CAMPBELL

As said before, in 1952 we began development of the 200-hectare peat block. I drove onto the land and began clearing. No resource consent, we never talked to a single soul about what we were doing. Later, we established the airfield and again the only requirement was to have a smooth enough strip for aircraft to land and take off.

Today, all councils have myriad controls over any number of operations and noise limitations. Literally any development is choked to death at huge cost to the developer, whether he/she is allowed to proceed or not. Worse, the cost is siphoned off into the hands of councils, consultants, lawyers, judges, all waxing rich off the backs of people who simply wish to improve their lives.

THE LIST

• After the Second World War New Zealand had three tiers of Local Government. Catchment

Boards, Borough and County Councils. Local people elected local people to these bodies.

• Branch railway lines cited as uneconomic were pulled up for scrap in the 1960s and 1970s. Those lines had been a lifeline and including bridges and emba ‘were’ once economic.

• First sign of outright change, in 1980 a revamped Town and Country Planning Act unleashed council plans imposing controls on subdivisions and a raft of restrictions.

• In 1989, a number of counties were amalgamated, whether the people in those areas were in favour or not. Forced amalgamations by the State.

• Immediately after, in 1989 Catchment Boards, Counties and Boroughs were swept away by Government and replaced by Eleven Regional Councils and 78 District Councils.

• In 1991 the Resource Management Act was passed into law. The State, ‘using’ the new Regional and District Councils seized con-

trol of your property. Sec.9 RMA

• The RMA instituted a system of bribery to force the payment of fees to the councils for property holders to have any enjoyment of or on their respective properties.

• The State via the Councils and Courts ordered prosecution of any spill of natural waste and functions, while allowing the release of deadly poisons.

• The State already has control of your vehicles and in 2012 seized control of your livestock through the National Animal and Identification Tracing system by registration.

• Health and Safety at Work Act in 2015 enabled the State to fine employers through courts for any personal employee carelessness or any death by misadventure.

• Your right to ‘issue a promise to pay’ as in, write a cheque, was taken in May 2021. Did you ask for any of the above actions?

• Banks were also closed in many rural towns. Driving to larger centres was your inconvenience.

from Coromandel Area School, aiming to teach youngsters how to sail. Partnering with the CYSA, the initiative quickly garnered enthusiasm and support from the community. As they transition to faster and more responsive boats, the 2024-25 season promises to be an exciting time for all involved.

The New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) is one of the largest gaming societies in New Zealand. In 22/23, NZCT awarded over $40 million in grants for a wide range of community services, including sports, rescue services, youth development, the Arts, and cultural activities.

More information contact glenys.carr.nz@gmail.com of CYS.

NZCT - Jo Salisbury (Marketing and Communications Advisor) –jo.salisbury@nzct.org.nz

of

without controls

• Next Post Offices were closed and relocated as Post Shops in order to have you queue behind book and lotto buyers.

• Climate Change. Who says so, where is the concrete proof, undeniable proof of significant change, other than parroting the words of some attention-grabbing pseudo scientist.

• Then the carbon credits, plant the land in pine trees to save the planet. One tree can make a million matches, one match can destroy a million trees. Where does the carbon go?

• Replacing rural employed and productive people with pine trees to save the planet which is being destroyed by hundreds of tons of poison released annually by the authorities.

• Dams of a specified height and holding certain volumes of water to be inspected for safety reasons after May 2024. Another imposition restricting freedom to farm.

• Quickly followed by ‘Fresh Water Farm Plans’ by July 2025 at farmers expense, and why?,

The authorities regularly poison water with every poison known.

• Without sunshine soil and water, there is nothing; nothing at all. The authorities poion the soil and water, fortunately they have not been able to destroy the sun as yet.

FARMING, FISHING AND MINING:

Your comfortable lifestyle is underpinned by only, three sectors of the community; namely, Farming, Fishing and Mining. 1. Farming supplies food, wool, cotton, leather, wood ad infinitum. 2. Mining supplies iron, aluminium, coal, fuel, and gold ad infinitum. 3. Fishing supplies food, stock food, fish oil, gelatine and pleasure ad infinitum. Ask your parliamentarian which sector or sectors should be wiped out to save the planet? They should know as they are only too happy to prosecute anyone in those three sectors, literally biting the hand that fuels them, shelters them, and feeds them.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

SAVE THE TREES? NOT HAPPENING.

The Council has erected a number of signs like this one saying, ‘Save our trees”. You can see them at different points along Buffalo Beach Road and in other places along the coast.

However, TCDC is not doing what they are asking of the public. They are not saving the trees as you can see in the photo, and they haven’t really kept an eye on the safety of their own sign as it is ready to topple over because of erosion. The Council has had 18 months to do something about this situation.

Our trees keep the vegetation and the soil intact. Signs don’t do anything but make people mock or be mad, if the message stands right next to a situation where the opposite is occurring.

The photo of the tree lying down is right near the end of the

rock wall. It is so very close to Buffalo Beach Road and people still have to go round an unsafe section of the footpath. All could be fixed in a couple of days. Why hasn’t it been addressed?

I know the council is trying to keep rates down but delaying it costs more and has people questioning the capability of the Council to do even the smaller jobs.

As a farmer, I follow so many rules re Resource Consents and ensuring all practises are done when needed. I am disappointed that TCDC is not being responsible with the environment we have entrusted to their care. This is a basic service and a basic use of rate payer’s money.

I have planted thousands of trees on my land and though I am not ‘a greenie’, I know we have to look after land and the coastline and then it will look after us. The sign in the photo is near the Boat-

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ing Club currently on stilts. That is an issue that needs addressing. In the next storm, this sign which asks us to save the trees, will be washed away. The reserve was planted up some years ago by the community, but now it looks like we are watching it wash away.

B. Luxford Whitianga

NO TO MORE MINING ON THE COROMANDEL

The article titled $2 billion export goal for mining in The Informer, June 4, states that doubling mining export value is a great goal. No, it isn’t.

The points I wish to raise and call attention to in this article are:

• “It will be good to see the government invest in upgrading geological modelling and resource potential by mapping our mineral resources. Not only do these mining consortiums want to take and make profit on the natural resources that belong to the people, they also want the people to pay for the privilege through taxes paid for government funding of mining activities.

• The Fast Track Approval Bill allows three ministers from the same political party to have all the decision-making ability to approve or disprove a resource consent application. In effect, this means there is no consultation with interested or opposing parties, no discussion, no debate, no negotiation, and no due process, enabling government officials to run roughshod over the opinions of the people they claim to represent. It is no coincidence that big corporations and mining companies contribute to politicians’ campaign funds in return for favours.

• The word ‘our’ implies common ownership. If these resources belong to everybody, then there should at least be consensus about their usage and a fair distribution of profits.

• Mining only takes place on a

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small percentage of conservation land. The point is that it is still conservation land – land set aside for its beauty and conservation attributes. If it is designated for conservation purposes, then it should be off limits; no exceptions to all activities that are not this. Its fate shouldn’t be decided by the whims of whatever political party happens to hold office. There is a much bigger picture here.

• Yes, minerals are needed in the manufacturing processes of modern society. Resources could be allocated for more sustainable and natural ways of living so we, as a collective, do not have to rely on mining. Mining companies should be obligated to allocate a percentage of their profits for this purpose.

• Consenting conditions require mining companies to restore sites when mining ends, so they can be enjoyed by surrounding communities. Mining never ends; it will continue as long as there are profits to be made. Communities can already enjoy the untouched version; why would they want an outsider, overseas profit-making company to come into their area and take what does not belong to them because “it is sitting under our feet “waiting for them to take advantage?

New Zealand, especially the

Coromandel, is a place of natural beauty and wonder, but it is too precious to be mined. What legacy are we, the people, leaving for future generations?

Verna Carr Whitianga

FROM A WAIKAWAI RESIDENT WHO LIVES DEEP IN THE BUSH

There was a NZ Defence Force exercise in the Waikawau area recently. A local resident reported that she saw soldiers in swampy ground near her home. She heard gunfire from this area and said, “it sounded like a BB gun going off”. She was not concerned about it as she had heard from a neighbour that this exercise was going to take place.

When asked if she had received any official notification, she responded that on the day she saw the soldiers, she found a flyer in her letterbox about this event. She also remarked that it may have been there for a couple of days, as she doesn’t check her mail very often. She was quite happy for this exercise to take place and said she was happy for the NZ Defence Force to use this area occasionally for training. She had heard via the local grapevine that a few people were concerned, but they were not people she knew.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

If you missed the well attended event “Voices from Gallipoli” at the Monkey House Theatre last Friday then it was your great misfortune.

On a rather wet night Mark Wright, who wrote and performed his own play, gave the audience a compelling insight into the Gallipoli campaign fought in 1915/16.

It was a solo performance but Wright portrayed 9 characters within his staggering one and a half hours on stage without an intermission. An interval would have broken the mood of the transfixed audience.

The occasional silences during the play gave people a chance to reflect on this terrible time in history. There is power in silence.

He brought to life the history of that famous disastrous theatre of war where thousands of young lives were lost, both men and

MOTORING

women, Maori and Pakeha.

The play should be compulsory viewing for all senior school students. This event is part of our history and history is now part of the new school curriculum.

His outstanding performance cleverly combined the craft of acting alongside the portrayal of this historic event.

Despite his masterful depiction of the Gallipoli tragedy Mark Wright managed to weave brilliant moments of humour into his script.

He gave us an evening to remember.

The intimate venue of the Monkey House theatre was perfect, thank you Kaspur and Molly

Many of us would like to extend gratitude to Sharon Morcom and her team who work hard to bring performances to our town.

Live performances are to be cherished and if we want actors and musicians to come here then

„ The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to allow members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest. Please keep them to 200 words or less. Hopefully this will encourage discussion, however the editor reserves the right to decide what is published.

we need to turn out and support them - even on a wet night!

Harriette Brickell, Kuaotunu

REF: “QUESTION WHETHER THE EARTH HAS MOVED”, 11 JUNE 2024

The Informer published an article about the formation of an “Alliance” (21 May), a potential opportunity for co-operation of Residents and Ratepayers Associations across the Peninsula. The article reflected the information made available to The Informer at the time and it was clear to the reader that the formation of such an Alliance would be work in process.

Ever since this article appeared The Informer has come under constant, utterly unjustified attack by individual letter writers. It appears that the ‘formation process’ of the Alliance did not run quite as smoothly and KRRA and other associations were eventually no longer willing to participate.

Such changes could have been communicated to The Informer in a factual, civilized, transparent and informative manner by those responsible for the decision to not participate (relevant committees). Steps of the decision-making process could have been explained including whether members (ratepayers) were provided with an opportunity to vote on the decision or whether it was a ‘captain’s call’.

There was ample opportunity to clarify the situation for everyone without the need for pointless, and frankly pathetic squabbles with the editors of The Informer who generously provide the forum for these confrontational letters.

Elisabeth Resl, Kuaotunu

MINDLESS PURSUIT OF A FAILED IDEOLOGY

Six elements of the new government’s policy agenda with its obsessive focus on “economic growth” expose a callous indifference to more deaths and much worse health outcomes that will inevitably result.

Repealing smoke-free laws that would have prevented youth smoking is outrageous. Now, more youths will start smoking, increasing future rates of cancer, lung disease and premature deaths.

Raising speed limits in urban areas and school zones will result in more fatalities and serious injuries. All for the sake of 27 seconds saved on a typical urban commute (Wellington study).

Allowing increased agricultural pollution of drinking water is a huge public health risk. Higher nitrate levels from cow urine are linked to bowel cancer and preterm births that will now spike.

The Fast-Track Approvals Bill bypasses environmental and health protections and ‘green lights’ projects that will cause

more air/water contamination worsening public health outcomes.

Their inaction on climate change will inevitably lead to more deaths, injuries and displacement from the worsening impacts of extreme weather events.

Incentivising diesel over electric vehicles while we already suffer 3,000 annual premature deaths mostly from fossil-fuelled air pollution is unconscionable and will directly cost more lives and hospitalisations.

In their mindless pursuit of a failed ideology, these policies expose a government terrifyingly indifferent to more deaths and much worse health outcomes; all at a multibillion-dollar cost. We didn’t vote for this.

David Gibson, Tairua

DEMOCRACY IS KEY

In this wonderful land we are free to take our part in a democracy where the representatives of everyone make the rules to live by. The authority we give them is part of our freedom.

For freedom does not mean ‘no rules’ but a shared responsibility for citizenship and mutual support. Freedom also means not having the excuse for wrongdoing by saying, ”I was ordered to do it.” Freedom is inseparable from responsibility.

Peter H Wood, Whitianga

New light passenger sales continue steep yearly decline

BY JACK BIDDLE

There are fears of more dealership closures looming due to the sales of new light passenger vehicles continuing their downwards spiral in 2024. May registrations marked the fifth straight month of steep decline. At 10,186 registrations, the May 2024 figures are 23.7% lower than May 2023 (3,168 units) and 23.6% lower than May 2022 (3,151 units).

Year-to-date, 2024 is 13.3% lower than 2023 (8,198 units) and 23.8% lower than 2022 (16,703 units).

Toyota continue to be the leader overall year-to-date with 23.3% market share followed by Ford (14.4%) and Mitsubishi (10.8%).

If the current sales slump continues, there are fears within the industry that some dealers around the country will simply not survive. There have already been reported closures and restructuring across the country and with

little to no reprieve in sight, it appears there is every chance more drastic change will follow according to reports and rumours within the industry. For many of those who have been in the motoring game for a while, the current new vehicle sales decline is as bad as it gets.

While the overall slowing of the economy combined with the hardship many consumers are currently facing has had a significant negative impact on the industry, so too has the recent Governments policy changes such as the removal of the Clean Car Discount incentive scheme followed by the introduction of road user charges for EV’s and Plug-in hybrids. Sales of these vehicles have

dropped to a point where some distributors must be looking closely at their short- and longterm options as the predictions for the remainder of year do not look overly promising.

There is now a major swing in direction with consumer focus turning back toward the nonplug-in hybrid and the more conventional internal combustion

engine powered vehicles (21.1% and 72.8% of sales respectively).

Even then they continue to take a back seat in comparison to the commercial sector where the top selling diesel ute numbers remain relatively strong and healthy. The industry as a whole is definitely on its knees currently and must be looking at every opportunity to make a sale including offering large discounts. Those consumers still in the market would be wise to look beyond s prices however, with extended warranties, service plans and roadside service just some of the other benefits to be considered long term along with purchasing a vehicle fit for purpose.

The bottom line is to still look at the big picture and seek sound independent advice as required.

TOP 10 NEW CAR/SUV MODELS FOR MAY:

„ Toyota RAV4 766

„

VOICES OF GALLIPOLIMARK WRIGHT MASTERFUL

Mark Wright performing one of the many stories in Voices from Gallipoli. See review page 16.

SPORTS

FOOTBALL

Mercury Bay Junior Boys vs Rototuna High School Junior Boys Premier Reserves. 5-1 win to MB Bay arrived in Rototuna, Hamilton on a rainy morning mixed with cloudy weather with a very boggy football pitch at Rototuna High School ground. Mercury Bay boys were lethargic from a 3-hour travel and had trouble warming up in these conditions, plus we were missing four key players from illness and injuries. The first half was very hard. Mercury Bay scored a quick goal through Noah Palmer 1-0. But Bay boys were struggling and Rototuna was pressuring the Bay defence again and again.

Bay defender Valo Gray swooped in to clip the ball off the attacker but he accidentally cleared the ball into Bay goal for an own goal to make the score 1-1. This first half finished with Mercury Bay in the lead at 2-1. But after half time, Mercury Bay started hitting their straps and shaking off that 3 hours travel. Great work by Bay defenders Valo Gray, Cameron Johansen, Yugoslav Kauai, Leo Renall, Liam Robinson and midfielders Ben Collins, Noah Greenfield, Tylar Cornwall, and Joel Iggulden brought about a final score of 5-1. This was a great result to carry on a strong start to the season.

8th Grade Football

Saturday. 15 June

We travelled to Whangamata for the MBFC 8th Grade games on Saturday. As the season progresses a lot of players are continuing to improve making it very difficult to pick our players of the day. This week our players of the day were Sebastian SarichDunn and Jasmine Jones who have both improved so much over the past few weeks. They both got very involved with the games and showed how their effort at trainings is paying off -

Kylie Phillips

„ Shane Comber represents WaiBOP Football Development

Eastern Coromandel combrz72@gmail.com

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB

Round One Coromandel Pairs

North/South: 1, Ron Baker & Rob Stewart 57.94; 2, Sue Poland

& Peter McNeil 53.17; 3, Robyn Waters & Jean Myles 52.38.

East/West: 1, Peter Clark & Jocelyn Taylor 65.87; 2, Chris Death & Sonia Botica 61.90; 3, Celia Young & Nolene Kirkpatrick 54.37.

HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB

Bright Pairs Week Two Tuesday, 11 June

North/South: 1, Alison Tichbon and Peter Hogg 57.00; 2, Robyn Waters and Dave Dylla 55.00; 3, Myra Hoogwerf and Sue Gill 50.50.

East West: 1, Denise Knutson and Robyn Hogg 57.50; 2, Anne Knowles and Peter Clark 54.00; 3, Ngaire O’Brien and Lee Hughes 49.00.

MERCURY BAY CONTRACT

BRIDGE CLUB

Championship Pairs Round 7, Wednesday 12 June

North/South: 1, Augusta Canegallo & David Dylla 63.19; 2, Alison Tichbon & Pete Hogg 55.21; 3, Giorgio Allemano & Robyn Hogg 50.87.

East/West: 1, Rose Tegg & Terri Lipanovic 60.63; 2, Ian Hogg & Geoff Jervis 57.71; 3, Jenny Layton & Jan Autumn 57.29. Whiti Champ Pairs round 3, Thursday 13 June

1, Julie Rutledge & Ischelle Stevenson 65.0; 2, Rose Tegg & Faith Stock 63.3; 3, Paul Bradley & Steven Knowles 53.3

MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS

20 players this week so 501 singles were played. Four players went through four rounds undefeated. They were Rex Donaldson, Greg Healy, John McGregor and Stoney with Rex Donaldson coming away victorious. Highest finish for the men was 79, scored by Greg Healy. No finishes over 50 for the ladies this week. One player scored 180 this week and that was Frank Holcroft. The extra 2 boards are allowing us

to get through the games a bit quicker, so any new players are most welcome. Tuesday nights at 6.15pm at the Mercury Bay Club.

MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER

Wednesday, 12 June

Best of three frames: Seven players on Wednesday, and it was Greg Murphy and Wayne Rastrick with two straight wins to battle out the final third frame. A comfortable win to Greg to take home the cash prize and with two wins were Wayne Rastrick (runner-up), Doug Pascoe and Ken Gibson. Highest break Greg Murphy with 27.

Saturday, 15 June

Only 5 players on Saturday, so a round-robin competition was held with Bob Haase having three wins and taking home the cash prize. With two wins were Phil Jones, Ian Baumgren and Doug Pascoe who had the highest break of 18.

MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

Thursday, 13 June

Winners: Ian Pudney, Judy Cullinane and Joy McGregor

Runners-up: Cheryl Henderson and Lee Pudney Good Sports: Merle Ward, Shirley Marshall and Sandie Morris.

COOKS BEACH BOWLING CLUB

The Club has commenced their seasons competitions and on 12 June played their pairs championship tournament.

Colleen Hunt and Keith Wright were the winners, Garry Oppert and Judy Leabourn were runners-up.

Tom Riddle and Bill Bartlett, Frank Coulton and Sumer Bartlett, Phil Costello and Brian Hill also played however each pair had one win and two losses in the pairs tournament, everyone had some great bowls on the day.

Ben Collins (7) with the ball; Cameron Johnansen (8) fighting for the ball; Yugo Kawai (5) advances with the ball.

Players of the Day - Sebastian Sarich-Dunn and Jasmine Jones.

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS

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

1. Contract killer (8)

5. Cowl (4)

7. Flamingo’s hue (4)

8. 12-month-old horse (8)

9. Aircraft landing ground (6)

12. Sentence structure (7)

15. Oddly (7)

19. More avid (6)

21. Sprightliest (8)

22. Soprano’s solo (4)

23. Wish (4)

24. Anticipation (8)

DOWN

1. Have ambitions (6)

2. Lopsided (5)

3. Coyly (5)

4. In closer proximity to (6)

5. Lighter-than-air gas (6)

6. Short pointed knife (6)

10. Wearing nothing (4)

11. A distance (4)

12. Anchoring rope (3)

13. Helper (4)

14. Most important (4)

15. Slake (thirst) (6)

16. Able to be eaten (6)

17. Tiers (6)

18. Invent (6)

19. Flying toys (5)

20. Fill with joy (5)

Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly.

Word Search Instructions Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally. Circle the letters not used and that is your answer. Last

Sharon Porteous

Theme: MOVIE TYPES

Last week’s word search solution – “gold and silver”

TRADES AND SERVICES

Hoey Carpet Laying

Phone: 022 3123 241 Email: mikehoey66@gmail.com

LOTS OF FUN TO BE HAD PLAYING PICKLEBALL

Mercury Bay Pickleball Club’s courts were filled with competitive play over the weekend as they hosted an open Pickleball tournament, which called on teams of four to head to Whitianga and compete, to represent their club, and get their hands on a medal!

The play format for teams of four is highly enjoyable. A team consists of two females and two males, and they compete against other teams by playing a women’s doubles game, a men’s doubles game and two mixed doubles games.

The support from fellow team members on the sidelines over

WHAT'S ON

the weekend made for atmospheric and passionate gameplay!

With 32 players participating – two thirds from the surrounding areas, 12 from Auckland and Northland – the competition was bound to be fierce. There were plenty of tough games over the two days of play, with surprising

OP SHOPS

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust

Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.

St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat 9.30am-2pm.

St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen St, Whitianga. 9.30am-1pm Wed-Sat. Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-2pm. Donations welcome.

SPCA Op-shop – 2 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 9am-4pm.

MONTHLY

AA Driver Licensing – Mon 24 June. In the Mercury Bay Service Centre Community Board Room in Monk St (behind the council offices).

Cooks Beach Garden Circle –Last Thurs of the month 11.15am-2.30pm. New members welcome. Ph Anne on 07 866 0268 for more information.

Kūaotunu Dune Care – Every third Wed of the month. To get involved, please email kuaotunudunecare@gmail.com.

Mercury Bay Shooting Federation

– Muzzle loader, rimfire, centre fire, military, pistol. Email mbsfsecretary@ gmail.com

BI-MONTHLY

Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc – We meet bi-monthly for either coffee mornings or luncheons. Learn more about us by phoning Merle 07 867 1737.

FORTNIGHTLY

Knit for a Purpose – First and third Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. Ph 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, 10am-1pm, supper room of Town Hall. Phone Vanessa 027 896 5037. Email vandoo555@gmail.com.

Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. Phone Barb 0274 075 268.

Whitianga Tramping Group – Every second Sunday at 8.30am. Phone Wally 021 907 782 or Lesley 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 6.309.30pm, MB Bowling Club. Players of all levels. Cost $2. Contact Brett Soanes 0272117195 or brettsoanes16@hotmail. com

Chinwag Café – Every Friday from 10am-12pm 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, 2-4pm, at The Lost Spring. Topics are open and respect shown. No charge. Convener Peter H. Wood.

Cooks Beach Care Group – Join our friendly team and learn about coastal conservation. Come weeding and planting. 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. Thurs 6-7pm. Book with Kathleen 022 154 1702 and/or check out the Facebook page. facebook.com/ mercurybaydanceclub/.

Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Tues, beginners 11.15am-12.15pm; seniors 12.30-2.30pm; Thurs, absolute beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, improvers 12.452.45pm. Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Ph Margaret 027 463 8850 or Glynis 021 1099 155.

Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes – Town Hall, Monk St, $5 per session. Intermediate classes Wed, 12-1.30pm; Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.30-11.45am. 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 6.30-7.30pm 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. GROUPS

Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and values based ministry for boys. For boys aged 5-13 years old. Tues 5.30-7pm For information contact Robyn 020 409 39674.

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.

Cooks Beach Table Tennis – Every Thursday night. Juniors 6-7pm $2pp/ night; Seniors 7-9pm $5pp/night. Cooks Beach Community Centre. All levels

defeats and exciting triumphs. The feedback on the tournament has been extremely positive. It was great to bring out-of-towners into the beautiful place we call home, and show them what Mercury Bay is made of! The Mercury Bay Pickleball Club are excited to start planning the next open tournament.

A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MEDAL WINNERS: Gold Medallists: Matarangi Cruisers – Diane Moffitt, Kevin Zeng, Elaine Moore & Tony Minto Silver Medallists: Mercury Bay Marlins – Sarah Woolley, Justin Woolley, Andrea Williams & Hakan Nedjat Bronze Medallists: Sorry Not

Sorry (representing Auckland) – Justine Delport, Reece LeRoy, Linda Mee & Kevin Worrall. For those interested in giving Pickleball a go, all are welcome to head along to their social Sunday sessions, 4-6pm, at the MBAS Sports Hall. Check out their website for more info www.mercurybaypickleball.co.nz

welcome. Contact Leanne Barnes 021 468 533.

Dog walking group – Every Thurs, 2pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to a very sociable group. Ph Jenny on 021 186 5797.

Meditation Stress Reduction Circle –Whitianga – Mondays from 7.30-9pm 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 $10. Contact Verna 027 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com.

Mercury Bay Athletics – For info contact alana.baker@bayleyscoromandel.co.nz

Mercury Bay Badminton Club – Thurs 5-7pm, 4 courts – all levels welcome with coaching available, at MBAS gym. Contact: Steve 027 211 3568

Mercury Bay Badminton – Every Wednesday 9-11am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, ages 16+. Phone Carol 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 MBAS. Inclusive, open, friendly choir – no prior singing experience needed, no auditions. Contact Kate 027 2709 058 for details.

Mercury Bay Environmental Trust –Every Tues and Fri from 9-11am, location advised prior. For more information, please email mbenvironmentaltrust@ gmail.com or go to www.mbet.co.nz.

Mercury Bay Pickleball Club – Every Tues 5.30pm-7.30pm and every Sunday 4-6pm at the MBAS gymnasium, Whitianga. Outdoor sessions every Thurs 4-pm and Sun 9-11am weather dependant, Matai Pl courts, Matarangi. Equipment and training provided. Contact Tony Minto 021 426 150.

Mercury Bay Quilters – 10am-4pm on the first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016.

Mercury Bay Table Tennis – Every Tues, 9-11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Ph Anne on 07 869 5162 or 027 565 5575 for more info.

Mercury Bay Tennis Club – Social tennis at Lyon Park is on from 6pm on Thursdays. All welcome. Ph. Jason 022

186 7992 or Steve 022 378 0648. Oneness Meditation Centre – The 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, 10am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Joan on 07 866 3801 or 027 275 1372. SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated –Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet.whitianga.admin@gmail. com.

Spiritual Coffee Mornings – Every Tues and Wed, 10.30-11.30am, 19 Monk St, 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 Thurs 10-11am at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. $2 per session. Contact Lisa Jury on 027 351 7110 for further information.

Tai Chi for beginners – Town Hall, Mondays 6-7pm. Gold coin donation. Ph Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.

Tai Do Martial Arts – Town Hall, Tues/ Wed 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146.

Whitianga Art Group – Every Thurs/Fri 10am-4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.

Whitianga Bike Park – 144 Moewai Rd, Whitianga. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, BBQs 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 Tues/ Thurs, 9am-12 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway, past the diesel truck stop. All welcome.

Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/ Fri 9am-12 noon, 1F White St. 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, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274

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 1pm and every Thursday at 7pm at the MB 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, 10am-12pm 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 10am-3pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr, carpark 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 ph Marilyn 021 1806 530 or Kim 021 1200 469.

American Muscle Street and Custom Club Whitianga – Club meetings first Sunday of the month, 11am at Smitty’s for cars and coffee. Phone Reg and Julie Smith on 027 493 5822.

JUSTICES OF

TRADES AND SERVICES

CLASSIFIEDS

– Whitianga based –covering surround areas. Phone 07 867 1361, 0274 958 033

AVAILABLE

Coromandel/Thames & Whitianga area. Phone: Tony 027 494 7692

CLASSIFIEDS

PUBLIC NOTICES

“Calling all model hobbyists”

Do you have an exhibit available to show at this year’s event – Model Show 2024?

Saturday 6 July-Sunday 7 July – 10am-4pm

Contact at MBMRC.org

Please call Damon 0273551650

Protecting native species from introduced predators in Southern Coromandel Forest

The Department of Conservation (DOC) in Thames is going to control possums, rats & stoats over 24,300 ha. This is scheduled for the first clear weather window after 1 July 2024. Native wildlife and forests need protection

The Southern Coromandel has large and rare native forests that are valued for their diverse flora and fauna.

These forests have mixed podocarp and broad leaf trees, remnant kauri, coastal pōhutukawa, and kanuka shrub land. Coromandel brown kiwi live on the Peninsula along with many other endemic and threatened native species including invertebrates, bats, birds, frogs and lizards. Why we are controlling introduced predators

Native species are fighting for survival due to predation from rats, stoats and possums. Without protection, we risk losing the unique natural heritage and biodiversity within the Southern Forest.

Through sustained predator control using 1080, there is a big increase in breeding success for native birds, their food source is more abundant, and the forest canopy is healthier.

Our plan to protect native species

The safest and most effective method we have to control possums, rats and stoats over large areas is to use biodegradable cereal bait pellets containing 1080. This bait targets rodents and possums. Stoats are also controlled through secondary poisoning as they feed on the carcasses of the dead rodents.

Helicopters distribute bait pellets across the forest area along pre-determined and monitored flight paths using technology that enables accurate placement. This is the only viable method to control predators in this area due to the vast and rugged terrain.

This operation begins with the distribution of non-toxic pre-feed bait pellets (sandy coloured). This prepares possums and rodents to eat the toxic bait (dyed green) that is applied afterwards. Both baits are about 16 mm in diameter and cylindrical shaped.

Consultation and permissions

DOC has consulted with hapū, iwi and key stakeholders including landowners adjacent to the treatment area.

DOC is delegated authority by the Environmental Protection Agency to decide applications for permission to use 1080 on land administered or managed by DOC. EcoFX is in the process of obtaining permission from DOC for this operation. EcoFX is obtaining the required permission from the Ministry of Health. DOC ensures that all legal and policy requirements are met, and that any potential risks of the operation are managed.

Managing risk

1080 is poisonous to humans, domestic and game animals. In areas where the toxin has been applied, dogs are highly at risk until poisoned carcasses have disintegrated. This takes four-toeight months or longer.

There will be warning signs placed at entrances to the treatment area immediately prior to the operation.

Risks can be eliminated by following these rules: DO NOT touch bait

• WATCH children at all times

• DO NOT EAT animals from this area or within the buffer zone outside the treatment boundary. The buffer zone is 2 km for deer and pigs, 200 m for rabbits, and 1 km for hares and possums.

• Poison baits or carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS

Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. These signs indicate pesticide residues may be still present in baits and poisoned carcasses. When signs are removed, normal activities can resume. If in doubt, check with your local DOC office. Please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs.

This map shows the area we are controlling possums, rats & stoats to protect native species. You can also see operational updates and detailed maps of predator control on public conservation land on the DOC website. www.doc. govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/pesticide-summaries

If you suspect poisoning, please contact:

• Your local doctor or hospital OR The National Poisons Centre: 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248 OR dial 111

Seek veterinary advice for suspected poisoning of domestic animals. For more information

Please contact: Operational planner Biodiversity Ranger, DOC Thames Office, 3/66 Ngati Maru Highway, Thames 3578, 07 867 9180 OR EcoFX Aerial Operations Manager, 32 Huiputea Drive, Otorohanga 3900, admin@ecofx.co.nz , 07 873 8130.

Visit the DOC website: More information about DOC’s National Predator Control Programme is available on our website www.doc.govt.nz/our-work/national-predator-control-programme

MERCURY BAY MOTORCYCLE CLUB NOTICE OF AGM

Thursday 27 June at Espy Cafe, Whitianga, 5.30pm All welcome.

We will be looking to fill the roles of President, Treasurer, Secretary.

If you are interested in contributing to the ongoing running of this awesome club, please join us or feel free to get in touch privately.

MERCURY BAY CLUB NOTICE OF AGM

To be held at the Mercury Bay Club Inc

Cnr Campbell St and Cook Dr, Whitianga on Sunday 23 June, 2024 at 10am

Protecting native species from introduced predators in the Papakai Ecological Area. The Department of Conservation (DOC) in Whitianga is going to control possums, rats & stoats over 11,750 hectares. This is scheduled for the first clear weather window after the 1st of July 2024. Native wildlife and forests need protection

Papakai is a nationally significant habitat for Coromandel brown kiwi, Archey’s frog, and Coromandel striped gecko. It is also an important conservation area for kākā, kererū and ruru/morepork, as well as a variety of rare and unique plants. This includes lowland podocarp to sub-alpine forest of kauri, tawa, and northern rātā.

Why we are controlling introduced predators

Native species are fighting for survival due to predation from rats, stoats and possums. Without protection, we risk losing the unique natural heritage and biodiversity within the Papakai Ecological Area. Possums are browsing large amounts of native vegetation. This significantly impacts the health of the forest. Northern rātā, kohekohe, kāmahi, and Halls tōtara are favoured by possums and will die if possum numbers are not periodically controlled to low numbers. Possums, like rats, raid nests for eggs and chicks and compete with native animals for food. Reducing predators helps native forest habitats to recover.

Through sustained predator control using 1080, there is a big increase in breeding success for native birds, their food source is more abundant, and the forest canopy is healthier.

Our plan to protect native species

The safest and most effective method we have to control possums, rats and stoats over large areas is to use biodegradable cereal bait pellets containing 1080. This bait targets rodents and possums. Stoats are also controlled through secondary poisoning as they feed on the carcasses of the dead rodents.

Helicopters distribute bait pellets across the forest area along pre-determined and monitored flight paths using technology that enables accurate placement. This is the only viable method to control predators in Papakai due to the vast and rugged terrain.

This operation begins with the distribution of non-toxic pre-feed bait pellets (sandy coloured). This prepares possums and rodents to eat the toxic bait (dyed green) that is applied afterwards. Both baits are about 16 mm in diameter and cylindrical shaped.

Consultation and permissions

DOC has consulted with hapū, iwi and key stakeholders including landowners adjacent to the treatment area.

DOC is delegated authority by the Environmental Protection Agency to decide applications for permission to use 1080 on land administered or managed by DOC. EcoFX is in the process of obtaining permission from DOC for this operation. EcoFX is obtaining the required permission from the Ministry of Health. DOC ensures that all legal and policy requirements are met, and that any potential risks of the operation are managed.

Managing risk

1080 is poisonous to humans, domestic and game animals. In areas where the toxin has been applied, dogs are highly at risk until poisoned carcasses have disintegrated. This takes four-toeight months or longer.

There will be warning signs placed at entrances to the treatment area immediately prior to the operation.

Risks can be eliminated by following these rules:

• DO NOT touch bait

• WATCH children at all times

• DO NOT EAT animals from this area or within the buffer zone outside the treatment boundary. The buffer zone is 2 km for deer and pigs, 200 m for rabbits, and 1 km for hares and possums. Poison baits or carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS

Visit the DOC website: More information about DOC’s National Predator Control Programme is available on our website www.doc.govt.nz/our-work/national-predatorcontrol-programme This map shows the area we are controlling rats, stoats & possums to protect native species. You can also see operational updates and detailed maps of predator control on public conservation land on the DOC website. www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pestsand-threats/pesticide-summaries.

Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. These signs indicate pesticide residues may be still present in baits and poisoned carcasses. When signs are removed, normal activities can resume. If in doubt, check with your local DOC office. Please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs.

If you suspect poisoning, please contact:

• Your local doctor or hospital OR The National Poisons Centre: 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248 OR dial 111

Seek veterinary advice for suspected poisoning of domestic animals.

For more information

Please contact: Operational planner Biodiversity Ranger, DOC Whitianga Office, PO Box 276, Whitianga, 0800 275 362 or EcoFX Aerial Operations Manager, 32 Huiputea Drive, Otorohanga 3900, admin@ecofx.co.nz , 07 873 8130.

SPORTS

MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB

Nine-hole Women – Net

Tuesday, 11 June

Div 1: 1, Alison Goodlet; 2, Glennis Drane, 3 Audrey Vickers.

Div 2: 1, Christine Godden; 2, Jean Hancock; 3, Rose Tegg.

Nine-hole Mixed - Stableford

1, Don Maquire; 2, Micky Henderson; 3, Peter Chaffiin.

Eighteen-hole Women – Nash Cup, Wednesday, 12 June 1, Alison Bryson & Dianne Gilmour; 2, Anita Elmers & Chris Van Veen; 3, Fiona Gardien & Faith Stock.

Eighteen-hole Men – Stableford

1, Willie Jones; 2, Greg Peterken; 3, Osman Emer.

Twos: Mark Boe, Ed Gardien, Alan Henderson.

Div 1: Gross - Dave Enright.; Nearest To Pin - Micky Henderson; Longest DriveDave Enright.

Div 2: Gross - Patrick Gonthier; Nearest To Pin - N/A; Longest Drive - Rohit Ranchhod.

Eighteen- hole Men -Stableford Saturday, 15 June

1, Paul Lupton; 2, Ken George; 3 Patrick Gonthier

WHITIANGA

Twos: Carl Mitchell, Justin Wilson, Micky Henderson, Alan Henderson

THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

Nine-hole Men Haggle – Stableford

Monday 10 June

1, Steve Airey; 2, Lance Croawell; 3, Noel Rogers.

Eighteen-hole Men Strokeplay

Round 1 – Wednesday 12 June.

1, Glenn LeLievre; 2, Geoff Atmore; 3, David Gaskell; 4, Gary Bancroft; 5, Graham Harrison.

Twos: Glenn LeLievre 11th, Allan Dickenson 18th

Nearest the Pin: Mark Hall

Nine-hole Men – 2 Man Ambrose

Thursday 13 June

Winners: Steve Airey & Noel Rogers

Eighteen-hole Ladies

Thursday 13 June

Gross: 1, Diedre Mear; 2, Chrissie Smith; 3, Mary Sharp.

Stableford: 1, Mary Sharp; 2, Diedre Mear; 3, Bev Gwyn.

Hidden Partners: 1, Mary Sharp & Diedre

Mear; 2, Bev Gwyn & Brenda Riggs.

Twos: Chrissie Smith

Saturday Haggle – Stableford

Saturday 15 June

1, Tony Nicholson; 2, Polly Lambert; 3, Geoffrey Hill.

Nearest the Pin: Tony Nicholson

Twos: Tony Nicholson 18th

Sunday 16 June - Hole in one #11 by Adrian Keane. Congratulations!

PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

L Haycock Trophy Round Two

Nine-hole par – Tuesday 11 June

1= Mark Bell, Steve Borlase; 3= John Hamilton, Wayne Morrison.

Nine-hole Stableford

Thursday 13 June

1, Mark Bell; 2, John Hughes; 3, Wayne Morrison; 4= Catherine Borlase, Neil Robertson.

Eighteen-hole Stableford

Saturday 15 June

1, Brian Keucke; 2, Ryan Cochrane; 3, Jo Geoghegan; 4 = Al Sims, Tim Bartlett.

4BBB: Brian Keucke and Mike Farrance.

MERCURY BAY PICKLEBALL CLUB

Tuesday, 11June 2024 Q2 Rounds 9 and10

1, Hakan Nedjat; 2, Justin Woolley; 3, Daniel Emmott.

PIGHUNTERS CLUB

Founding members Pig Hunt

Our Annual Founding Members Hunt was held on Sunday at the Coroglen Tavern.

The Whitianga Pighunters Club was founded on the 11th of February 1988 so we are now in our 36th year and have close to 100 members. Three founding members are still current members. Another great turnout for the annual Club hunt. Seven pigs were caught over the weekend with some nice fat pigs weighed in.

The Club used this hunt as an opportunity to raise funds for Ossian a friend of the club who has stage 4 cancer and is needing funds for cancer treatment which is not funded. Close to $1000 was raised both through entries into the hunt as well as raffles. Thank you to all sponsors, the staff at the Coroglen Tavern and all others involved. Results were

Heaviest Boar: Peter Fisher and Debbie Reynolds 49.2kg

Biggest Tusks: Luke Findlay, Kane Harris, Terry Howard -18 3/8

Next Hunt: Take A Kid

RUGBY

Saturday 15 June

„ MBAS Girls 1st XV 10 V HPC 79

„ MBAS Youth Boys 65 v Te Aroha 12

„ MBAS Boys 1st XV 5 v HPC 15

First IV Boys fought a hard game with Hauraki Plains College. The tension and play seemed even thought the results should a HPC win.

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What’s that Number?

Winners of the Nash Cup – Dianne Gilmour and Alison Bryson.

Debbie Reynolds and Peter Fisher – winners of the Founders Pig Hunt.