JULY CELEBRA
Showtime for the Americana Car Parade – July 6
URDAY 6TH JUL ART LIVE FROM 3 rican Muscle Street & om Club Vehicle Displa zes for Best Dress American Hot Dog -Beef Ribs -Apple Pie -Drink Specials p
BY REG SMITH
Celebrating the 4th July! The cars will gather at Buffalo Beach Reserve at 2.00pm Saturday 6 July. If you have a car to join the parade, come on down to Buffalo Beach Reserve at 2.00m. Car Parade at 2.30pm: it will be a fun convoy down the main street turning around at the end roundabout by Z service station, back up the main street, right onto Monk Street ending up at Grace O’Malley’s on the Esplanade.
Grace O'Malley's Irish Inn 9 The Esplanade, Whitianga
“Please decorate your car, your vehicle, and yourselves – great prizes to be won and it is all part of the fun,” says Reg Smith, co-ordinator of this annual celebration with his wife, Jules.
Prizes and Car Show: Pete Jones, owner of Grace OMalleys will have up to 30 parks coned off for the parade cars to back up near, making a small car show.
“A prize will be awarded to the best dressed, male, female, or couple, so make an effort and you could be rewarded. Then it is time to drop the toy home and come back for dinner,” says Reg. The good time music begins at Gracies at 4.00pm!
Sunday Fun: Cars and Coffee plus poker run!!
This is hosted and organised by Tairua members of the Amercian Muscle Street and Custom Club –come along!!
11.00am – Cars and coffee: It’s a Poker Run, so
gather at Smittys to find out what you need to do!! Cooks Beach and Hahei area is the vicinity of the run and the destination is the Pour house Hahei for lunch at around 12.301.00pm and prize giving @2.00pm.
Organised by American Muscle Street & Custom Club, Whitianga There is no hierarchy or fees to join the American Muscle Street & Custom Club. All the co-ordinators need is an email address.
Phone Reg and Julie Smith 027 493 5822. Email whiticarclub@gmail.com
Sun and now can only be seen in the dusk sky extremely low on the western horizon just after the Sun sets.
Tuesday, July 2 - The Moon has slipped to be below and just to the left of Mars at dawn with Jupiter further down and the Pleiades or Matariki between them. There will be a low but bright ISS pass from 6:37pm in the SW.
Wednesday, July 3 – The dawn sky has the crescent Moon just below Matariki and to the left of bright Jupiter with reddish Mars above and there is an ISS pass from 5:50pm in the SW and then another short one from 7:27pm also in the SW.
Thursday, July 4 – A minute crescent Moon lies on the horizon at dawn with bright Jupiter above
and Mars still further up and to the left and we have a long ISS pass from 6:38pm in the SW. Friday, July 5 – There will be an ISS pass from 5:50pm passing high overhead and right through the Southern Cross. Saturday, July 6 – There is a low ISS pass from 6:38pm in the west. Sunday, July 7 – The Moon has moved to the other side of the Sun and now is a minute crescent just after sunset with faint Mercury above and we have an ISS pass from 5:50pm in the west.
Monday, July 8 – The thin crescent Moon now sits just above and to the right of Mercury low in the west just after sunset
Tuesday, July 9 – The Moon now sits above and to the right of Mercury just after sunset and just below the bright star Regulus in Leo while there will be an extremely low ISS pass from 5:50pm in the west. Wednesday, July 10 – The Moon has climbed to be above Regulus with Mercury close to the western horizon just after sunset.
July 4 celebrations 2022 – Reg and Jules Smith are pictured here on the right.
Celebrating Matariki
Whangamata Hangi and Concert
concert and hangi in Williamson Park were a feature of the Matariki celebrations In Whangamata. This was a generous, well-planned gift to the community. Everyone could buy a meal for $5. An army of volunteers served 500 hangi meals complete with steamed pudding and custard. There were also vegan meals - Kumara curry and rice and another stall with raw fish chowder and other choices – all for $5.00. With entertainment from local artist on the stage, people sat on their picnic chairs and blankets and enjoyed their meal and the extremely calm and clear weather. The blanketed park full of people of all ages was the best piece of scenery. A big thank you to Community Services and all those who made such a community meal for Matariki possible.
30 travelled from Waitara to play pool
The Waitara team are keen for this to lead to an exchange visit as part of their aim to build relationship with other RSA’s around the country.
Even though it was a friendly set of games, careful scores were kept and Waitara won.
Waitara RSA pool players make something very special of the long weekend provided by the Matariki Public Holiday. In 2023 they organised a weekend trip to Picton but this year through common friends, a group of 30 came from Waitara and were the guests of Mercury Bay Club pool players. Sunday was their friendly tournament day but on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning they enjoyed The Lost Spring, Smitty’s, The MB Club, and Grace O’Malleys, water excursions and eating out. “We felt like real tourists,” said Tyrell Crean, one of the Waitara organisers. “We have enjoyed excellent accommodation and service at The Peninsula Hotel and people here have been very friendly and accommodating,” added Tyrell.
Pipi Carr, Fern Evans and Horiana Perawiti enjoying their hangi; 500 servings of steam pudding and custard were served as part of the hangi
The Waitara team of 30, above, visiting Whitianga for a friendly pool tournament; the Whitianga team, below.
Awesome – Summer concert’s back
Sunday 26 January Anniversary weekend, 2025
ur summer concert tour plays in the three best holiday locations in the country – Queenstown, Taupo and The Coromandel Peninsula - Whitianga,” says Dean Calvert of Greenstone Entertainment.
It is a welcome return for the Coromandel to have the Whitianga Summer Concert and a great international line-up.
Greenstone Entertainment will celebrate their incredible 15th year anniversary in 2025. The 2025 all-star, powerhouse bill will feature renowned art-
ists: COLD CHISEL, ICEHOUSE, BIC RUNGA and EVERCLEAR in one mammoth anniversary celebration as Cold Chisel celebrate 50 years, ICEHOUSE 45 years since their first New Zealand tour and the festival 15 years.
Dean Calvert, the operations manager for Greenstone Entertainment says, “We are extremely excited about the Summer Concert coming back to Whitianga. It is a very integral part of our tour. It is great to work again with Peter Abrahamson and with the local Council. We have always been treated
very well and had such fantastic co-operation.
“The announcement of their much-anticipated line-up for the SUMMER CONCERT TOUR in
January, was last Wednesday.”
The 2025 Summer Concert tour will play in Whitianga on Sunday, January 26 conveniently falling on Sunday of Auckland Anniversary weekend.
Queenstown Summer Concert is on Saturday, January 18, and Taupo is on on Saturday, January 25 the day before the Whitianga Concert.
General Public tickets on sale now. Head to Whitianga i-Site, Pauanui Information Centre or online at www.moshtix.co.nz.
Tickets start from $159 plus booking fees.
Weekly Kitchen Calendar
‘The Secret Case of Sherlock Homes’ terrific! Mercury Bay Area School’s production
BY STAN STEWART
This was a student led, and student produced production. The comedy drama, “The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes” was presented on Saturday, 29 June and Sunday, 30 June, In the School Hall. It was amazing. Although the story revolved around dastardly deeds and murder, it wasn’t scary and mostly amusing.
Top marks for the set and the staging. And what’s more, all the audience could see everything. The front stall consisted of two rows of seating on the floor adjacent to the stage. The rest of the audience were seated on stepped bleachers.
It was a pity that programmes were not available. This means that the audience didn’t know the names of all the actors in the play. Clearly the cast was drawn
from across the college forms –not just final year students.
Some of the smaller and we assume younger players made a big impact – speaking out and acting up with verve.
The two-act play told the story of Sherlock Holmes and Watson being transported by some kind of time machine, (similar to the BBC’s ‘Doctor Who’) to the cur-
rent era. They landed in a mental hospital where patients were all suffering identity delusion, believing they were characters from history – cinema and/or literature – e.g., Queen Victoria, George Washington, Marilyn Munroe, Count Dracula. Sherlock was considered he was a patient suffering the delusion of being the famous detective of yester-
year. Throw in a incompetent Police Inspector, a practice psychiatrist a time machine transported ‘Tarzan’ and you have a great setting for murder and mayhem
Well done Mercury Bay Area School students! Special accolades go to the Producer, Samuel Ribet.
Thanks go to Mr Dave Mulholland for his sound expertise and operation.
The cast and assistants: Summer Acke, Charlotte Allen, Stella Baldwin, Zhyrra Jumapao, Tom Lamason, Tyler Marsh, Marlene Martin, Abbey McLean, Connor McLean, Liam Morgsn, Gabriel Noble, Antonin Ribet, Elliott Ribet, Heiden Seath, Bella Van Vlerken , Leni Whale, Isabella Whale, Billy Wisdom, Jade Wooten Murphy and Dylan Cotterell.
Qualified Arborist
Chocky’s Corner
BY RICHARD-SHELFORD WOODCOCK Chair, Whitianga Residents and Ratepayers Association
Chocky, is my nicknamebut my real name is Richard-Shelford Woodcock. For the purposes of sharing some news and thoughts once a month with Coromandel Peninsula readers, Chocky is fine.
WHITIANGA SIGNAGE – ‘THERMAL OCEAN VILLAGE’
The front-page proposal in the June 18 2024 issue of The Coromandel Informer makes a lot of sense to me. When I was travelling to Wellington from the South Island last yearr, I noticed that no matter where you drove, there were signs pointing to Hanmer Springs. The marketing and signage have significantly benefited that area. I can only imagine what Hanmer Springs would look like today without their strategic signage and marketing efforts.
This initiative will benefit everyone. Visitors don’t just come for a spa or massage; they stay longer, requiring accommodation and food, and seeking additional activities. I encourage our Business Association to look at the positive
Coastcare planting bee and weed swap
Cooks Beach & Hot Water Beach
Help plant native dune species and/or bring a pest plant (or many) to exchange for an ecosourced native plant.
Waikato Regional Council is holding two weed swaps for residents of Mercury Bay South, with a selection of eco-sourced native plants from Mercury Bay Environmental Trust to exchange for your weeds.
Thames-Coromandel District Council is providing native species for planting at Pukaki/Cooks Beach and along Taiwawe Stream at Te Puia/Hot Water Beach.
A biosecurity officer will be onsite to provide advice about pest plants.
Whitianga Thermal Ocean Village
impact this has had on Hanmer Springs. I am excited to be part of this project.
RECRUITING FOR RESIDENTS AND RATEPAYERS
On King’s Birthday weekend, a small team from Whitianga Residents and Ratepayers spent time at the Saturday Whiti City Markets, talking to people and recruiting new members. They were very pleased with the morning’s results, welcoming 19 new members.
Thanks to the team of Flemming, Geoff, and Caroline. Our
next Whitianga RRA meeting is on Thursday, 4 July at 5:00pm.
THE ALLIANCE AND TCDC
Not every Residents and Ratepayers group is part of the Alliance, which represents multiple associations across the Coromandel Peninsula in discussions with the council. Each member of the Alliance speaks on behalf of their committee and paid-up members. This principle holds even for those not in the Alliance. If you are a Chair, you represent your paid up members. There are 12 Associations out
of 17 in the Coromandel Peninsula that are members of the Alliance. The Alliance’s role is to clearly communicate with TCDC and request accountability on issues that concern all of us. I invite any resident or ratepayer who is not part of their local association to join and become a paid-up member.
BOATING CLUB HEARINGS
The hearing regarding the relocation of the Mercury Bay Boating Club building to the Dundas Street estuary area will be held over two days, Tuesday, 23 and Wednesday, 24 July. If you would like to make a verbal submission, please contact the Senior Permissions Advisor at apaget@ doc.govt.nz to request a time slot.
A CABARET
On Saturday, 20 July at the Mercury Bay Club, there will be a cabaret featuring local talent—singing, instruments, and various dance performances. About eight years ago, I stopped singing and performing to spend time with my new son. Now that he is older and stronger, I’ve been persuaded to start rehearsing for this cabaret. It took some convincing, but I am looking forward to it. Entry is free, so mark your calendars for Saturday, 20 July. E: Whitiangarra@gmail.com
Wanted - dead or alive. Reward - native plant.
Lantana
Restricts access and robs native habitat and pasture.
Boneseed
Hardy, excluder of native plants, prolific seeder.
Agapanthus
Prolific, dominant species causes biodiversity loss.
Wilding pine
Rogue thief of scenic views, invader of native ecosystems.
Moth plant
Suffocates/strangles native species, prolific seeder.
Wild ginger Tall, prolific and a smotherer.
Cotoneaster
Lords over/vanquishes shrub species, robs native habitat.
Sydney golden wattle
Forms dense stands in bare sites, prevents native species from establishing.
Ice plant
Aggressive on dunes, replaces native ice plant.
Sweet pea shrub
Fast growing, shades out coastal shrubs, many long-lived seeds.
Yucca
Because... well you know why.
Climbing asparagus
Smothers forest floors and understoreys.
Mile-a-minute
Quickly smothers low shrubs and regenerating native forest canopy.
(Wanted pest plants are suggestions only, and there is a limited number of plant rewards for swaps.)
Celebrating Matariki
Made By Hand Artists exhibit
It was almost overwhelming – the range of craft work and the degree of skill, artistry and intricate hard work presented in one exhibition. The artists for this really impressive display all live in Mercury Bay. They came together for the threeday exhibition, Made By Hand at St Andrews By the Sea Community Church in Whitianga.
This kind of Exhibition happens all over The Coromandel Peninsula – there is clearly a larger number of accomplished artists of all kinds per head of the population working at their art on the Coromandel Peninsula.
Inside the door of St Andrew’s By the Sea was the Barbie extravaganza, all dolls decked out in an array of knitted themed costumes; the work of Helen and Linda Stephenson.
Helen said, “We worked for weeks – every night we were knitting something.”
Next to that was a display of fine work with pine needles; – seemed impossible to create such beauty out of pine needles.
EVERY SPACE WAS FILLED
Embroidery by Whiti Stitches, patchwork by Diane Hinds, Wood and Bone art by Glenn Schach, Crochet by Debbie Gordon, Mosaics by Anne and classes being offered in Mosaics, Whitianga Scrapbags
Quilting group had a huge display in the church sanctuary area and the Creative Fibre Group illustrated in last week’s The Coromandel Informer also displayed their creations in Barry Hishon’s
Annie Lynch and Madeline Saunders were hostesses for the Made By Hand exhibition. Next to them is the Barbie Doll display with knitted outfits by Helen and Linda Stevenson; luxury artisan soaps by Tiffany Jane Soaps, Coromandel.
blacksmith work from the forge contrasted with the more feminine crochet and embroidery. Something a bit different to the variety of finger craft work was the luxury Artisan Soap display – Tiffany Jane Soaps. They looked good enough to eat.
There were a number of items for sale such as the soaps and these can be found online.
Helen Otto is an enthusiast for knitting, sewing, embroidery and quilting. She can put her creative mind to anything and then turn her vision into something to be admired and often used. Her display at the Made By Hand exhibition at St Andrew’s By The Sea community church in Whitianga over Matariki weekend was a testament to this.
Her crochet vegetables delighted many children – carrots, peas in a pod, cauliflowers. Her international quilted squares told a story.
At first they were the decorations on a huge Christmas tree which won a Waikato Hobby Tree Award at the Meteor Theatre Exhibition in Hamilton. But now they make
up three extraordinary quilts, one each for grandchildren in England, USA and New Zealand. For the English grandchild, each square is about a country in Europe depicting a Christmas tradition, for USA the squares are about different American traditions and for the Kiwi grandchild, the blanket is smaller for the base of the Christmas tree.
Helen, left, with an exhibition visitor holding up the Christmas quilt.
Announcing proven organisation working on the Peninsula – Pathways
BY PAULINE STEWART
Meet Don Hamblyn, Team Coach of the Pathways Hauraki Coromandel team. He was with two of his colleagues on a visit to Whitianga and they popped into The Coromandel Informer to make themselves known.
Don was accompanied by Julie Holden, the Service and Relationship Manager for Pathways, and Dita Donaldson, one of Pathway’s Social Workers.
Pathways is a national service organisation, supporting people with drug, alcohol, and mental health concerns. It is a mobile service that takes referrals from the person concerned their family, the GP or other local organisations. Pathways has been operating for over ten years in the Hauraki area, and has expanded to cover the Coromandel Peninsula, from Waihi in the east, up both coastlines beyond Colville and as far west as Ngatea.
Pathways has a staff of six support workers in Thames, and three based in Waihi.
“We have a new service for people aged 12-24 – Whetu Marewa,” says Don.
“It is a youth and young adult service for those who are experi-
encing mild to moderate mental health issues. They work alongside schools and other health organisations. It is important to enable the young person to reengage with their community, school and the support networks there. They can liaise with the guidance counsellor teams in the schools.”
Pathways is mobile and Julie explained.
“We have an adult mobile service which means we can meet people in their homes and can sit with them and listen to their understanding of their situation in a trauma informed manner.
This service enables us to support people in their community environment.
“A number of adults suffer anxiety and isolation especially if “family are not around.”
Julie described how Pathways mobile workers can help them get to see a doctor and walk alongside people to go to necessary medical appointments.
“Doctors’ appointments are just 15 minutes, and we can help them work focus on what is important
for them and how that plays out in their lives – getting prescriptions or taking on a small exercise programme.”
Dita explained we can assist with Work and Income – a person may not be sure he/she is on the correct benefit, and this is very important. “There are often
phone interviews, and we can sit alongside someone to make sure they ask the appropriate questions. Some of our clients have struggled with connecting with family, and we can enable this at their request,” adds Julie. When a person needs a referral to other secondary mental health
services, Pathways can help facilitate that. “We do quite a lot for work around anxiety management helping people with strategies,” says Dita.
“We are seeing a lot more people with generalised anxiety.”
Pathways can be in touch with medical centres for a client as the priority is to improve overall wellness and wellbeing. “The culture is shifting; anxiety and depression are being voiced and talked about more,” says Don.
ALCOHOL AND DRUG ISSUES
A person may not meet criteria for Te Whatu Ora, but we can work with them on harm reduction of their alcohol and drug intake” says Don who is a registered Alcohol and Drug Practitioner.
“However, we are not a counselling service; we take more of a trusted friend and neighbour approach.
“We have a long way to go as a society, but the aim of Pathways is to do ourselves out of a job. We believe people can become stronger in their coping skills and enjoy wellness and become connected in their communities. This keeps up going.”
For Pathways, contact phone 07 868 0532. Email: hauraki@ pathways .co.nz
Dita Donaldson, Social Worker; Julie Holden, Service and Relationship Manager; and Don Hamblyn, Teach Coach – all from Pathways.
Hollie Smith at Monkey House for Matariki
She was quirky, her comments on relationships were biting but honest and at times, wise. Her music and her ability to express these things in melody and easy flowing lyrics was outstanding. People laughed, became silent and reflective, they understood her empathy for life situations and entered into her music and her narrative in between the songs. You had the feeling that whenever Hollie Smith repeated a song, it would be different – adding and moving the melody and even some of the lyrics each time.
The Monkey House was packed with a very appreciative audience for this amazing artist. Hollie is actually
a painter as well as a nationally acclaimed soul music performer and one of the best.
The concert was a part of Hollie’s ‘Bones’ Tour of New Zealand and Whitianga was her first night of the tour. So well done to the artist and the Monkey House! To have Hollie for Matariki was a coup!
Mercury Bay Art Escape New Artists
As the Mercury Bay Art Escape turns its focus to 2025, those new artists who joined in the 2024 season have added intrinsic value to the existing strength of the Art Escape with their exciting different mediums and approaches.
Three of the new artists have shared their impressions as new members of the Mercury Bay Art Escape.
recycled materials. Barry described his first Open Studios experience, “Opening weekend was absolutely stunning. We had over 90 people come up to the studio. We set up a tent outside the smithy and most of the weekend I was doing demonstrations which people enjoyed. Many were curious to know how a smithy worked”. As a new MBAE member, Barry highlights the uplifting and confidence boosting that positive feedback received from both artists and the public gave him. He also appreciates the mentoring and support he has had from established MBAE artists and identified the opportunity to be in the Showcase Exhibition at Hot Waves Café as expanding his horizons.
or
This area includes; Pauanui, Hikuai, Tairua, Hot Water Beach, Hahei, Cooks Beach, Flaxmill Bay, Ferry Landing, Matarangi, Whenuakite, Coroglen, Whitianga,Wharekaho, Kuaotunu, Otama, Opito Bay, Matarangi and Whangapoua. We are currently
Please email your Expressions of Interest to:
Annemieke Kregting, Upcycled Mosaics, Kuaotunu, is known to many through her wildlife work in the former Kuaotunu Bird Rescue and she uses her keen knowledge of bird anatomy, feather structure and facial expressions to create mosaics from recycled materials. Annemieke is often to be found sourcing plates, cups and saucers from local opshops.
Annemieke feels she is lucky to have observed wild birds so closely and that this enables her to make her mosaics as real as possible. As a new MBAE artist, Annemieke says, “I’m so grateful and honoured to be part of such a great organisation as the Mercury Art Escape, I’ve met such interesting diverse artists and will definitely be learning along the way from all of them.” Annemieke’s first Showcase Exhibition at the Art Escape Opening Gala night was successful with her pieces selling quickly.
Barry Hishon, Forged in Barry’s Shed, Hahei. Barry previously worked in the electrical industry and today he swings a hammer to move steel, working from a purpose made studio in his home in Hahei, as a full-time artisan blacksmith. This creative spark was fuelled after a half day course with a blacksmith where he found working with red hot steel mesmerising and fulfilling. Barry has a strong sense of the tradition of hand forged steel artistry and works with both new and
Kate Beauchamp, Kate Beauchamp Photography, Whitianga, is inspired by the landscapes and nature around her to create beautiful colourful and artistic images. Her hope is that her photographic skills will inspire others to see the beauty around them. From her talent, this appears a given. As a new MBAE member, Kate says she has felt fully supported with her art as well as being promoted in local media. The MBAE artists ‘meet and greet’ in November gave her the opportunity to chat with fellow artists and ask for best practice tips, which she deemed really useful. Another advantage Kate mentioned was having the support of another local artist (Anne Bowden), who came to look at her studio prior to opening weekend and gave tips about the flow and layout of the studio. For Kate, it’s a great benefit to have her work featured on the MBAE website and her canvas print sold quickly at the Showcase Exhibition Opening Night. Kate sums up that she is greatly enjoying being part of a collaborative group that encourages participation from members and she intends to be more involved by stepping up to a Trustee role within MBAE.
The Mercury Bay Art Escape is richer for its new members and welcomes applications from local artists and community involvement in MBAE.
To register as a NEW ARTIST or GROUP, or as an EMERGING ARTIST (between the ages of 18 to 25) please email artists@mercurybayartescape.com or apply on the website www.mercurybay-artescape.com/new-artists-applications by 31 August 2024.
Kuaotunu Matariki Event
BY ALASTAIR BRICKELL
Residents and visitors of Kuaotunu on the Coromandel Peninsula were out in force for yet another successful Matariki event early last Saturday morning.
Despite the 5am start, what is rapidly becoming an increasingly popular ‘must do’ annual gathering was attended by well over 80 people meeting together for a common cause in the dark.
Everyone enjoyed a catch up with friends and neighbours while munching tasty sausages and Mars bars over cups of hot coffee and MILO in the dawn gloom.
As in previous years, the event was sponsored by the Kuaotunu Dark Sky Trust which is in the process of establishing an internationally recognised Dark Sky Community over much of Kuaotunu and its surrounds.
The goal is to preserve the uniquely dark skies we all enjoy but which are gradually being eroded by excessively bright and increasingly numerous exterior lights. Simple actions like tilting these down so they don’t spill
light upwards which leads to ‘light pollution’ and keeping them not too bright and ideally of a warm, white colour all help.
Among the faces dimly recognised in the dark were local TCDC staff – area manager, Heather Bruce and elected members Deli Connell and Bess Kingi who were joined by Hadley Dryden, the head of Destination Hauraki Coromandel who had made the early morning trip to be part of the gathering.
Pauline Stewart from The Coromandel Informer was there with the camera.
Destination Hauraki Coro-
mandel has managed to arrange access to funding of $50,000, to get the project through the council process and all levels of TCDC staff have been supportive and encouraging, from the Mayor downwards.
We have a lot of local support. I thank all of them and particularly Paul Cook, Sec. of Opito Ratepayers, Ed Scorgie from Opito with his telescope and his son, Tom, who every year hands out news sheets and graces us with a Mars bar. and Cara Jordan as the other trustee... and of course all the locals (and local media) who support us every year.
Despite a rather cloudy sky for much of the event, everyone enjoyed looking through the large telescopes set up for the morning. We had Edward Scorgie’s telescope, and one from Stargazers. People lined up for a brief view through the lens and caught brief views of our closest star apart from the Sun, Alpha Centauri, a lovely half Moon, Jupiter, Saturn and Rigel. This star is also known as Puanga and is used by many South Island iwi to start the New Year as their equivalent to our Matariki stars which are hard to see so far south. We even got to see a rare morning pass of over a dozen of Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites all following the same track across the dawn sky moving at 8km a second – speedy centurions, and we could also examine a piece of his unusual, exploded, launch pad material that I had brought back from my recent visit to USA to experience the complete eclipse of the sun recently. A small meteorite from one of my travels to Russia was also a point of interest to our community gathering. The organisers thank so many adults and children for making the early start and helping to support the Kuaotunu Dark Sky Trust in their endeavours.
World Heritage status – What does it mean to us?
BY ADY COLE-EWEN
Increasing concern over the continued decline in the health of the Hauraki Gulf and the lack of a positive plan to address the largely unchecked human impact on our marine ecosystems dictates the need for urgent action.
We may not be able to dictate the future of the entire Hauraki Gulf but it is time to set a standard and protect the greater Mercury Bay Area. “The Great Bay of Hei”. Hopefully, our actions may be followed by others.
DETERMINED to move forward, to protect and preserve our heritage for future generations, we returned to the UNESCO World Heritage Convention New Zealand website.
Globally there are 1,121 World Heritage Sites, both Cultural and Natural.
Each has had to satisfy at least one of ten possible selection criteria, adjudicated by the World Heritage Committee. That selection criteria must determine the site possesses “OUTSTANDING UNIVERSAL VALUE”.
With each such listing comes global recognition, cultural pride, economic rewards and protection from commercial exploitation. World National Heritage Sites are protected by law through THE COMMONWEALTH ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION ACT. It offers us the protection we need
without interfering with recreational fishing, diving, and other water based activities, including our tourist attractions. A Rahui can be applied as required.
(NB. The above ACT forms the main environmental law for Australia. It gives them a legal framework to protect and manage unique plants, animals, habitats and places. These include World Heritage Sites, marine areas and some wetlands. The ACT also protects listed threatened and migratory species. Why has N.Z. not followed this path?
WE CAN BE A CANDIDATE
We are confident that the greater Mercury Bay area is a candidate for this international honour. It meets many of the criteria. It is a place of magnificent natural beauty, with notable landforms, seascapes and biodiversity. Many species of marine mammals and birds (many on the endangered
spectrum) are found here. Just as notably, it has been the scene of some of the most important events in this country’s history; the feats of navigation and endurance, remarkable in the history of the world, that brought the voyagers Kupe, Toi and Hei 3000ks across the Pacific Ocean to Mercury Bay using an extraordinary understanding of ocean patterns, air currents and astronomy. Successfully navigating this vast body of water in ways that would not be replicated for hundreds of years.
That Captain James Cook’s visit to Wharetaewa Pa in Mercury Bay was the first sanctioned powhiri between Maori and European is also extremely significant in the history of Aotearoa New Zealand. Cook, who charted the area (his maps are still used), they were so accurate) made important contributions to scientific knowledge with his observations of the transit of Mercury.
SOMEONE WHO CAN HELP US
I introduce Professor Gordon Maxwell, FRSB, FLS a N.Z. scientist who has carried out many coastal ecological and resourceuse projects in many countries. He has been closely associated with a substantial scheme that has seen World Heritage Status achieved for a large coastal ecosystem in Southern Thailand. Professor Maxwell commented that:-
“Mercury Bay has a quality and special character which gives it a status in a World Heritage context under UNESCO guidelines. This Bay has ecological, landscape, historical and cultural attributes which are equal to some I have had first-hand experience of in my work with UNESCO and World Heritage projects.”
Professor Maxwell is very supportive and enthusiastic about this proposal.
He also adds that the arrival of World Heritage Status to Mercury Bay would bring a much needed boost to our national will to take care of the world class environmental assets that bless Aotearoa, encouraging all Kiwis to value their land and their sea.
WHS would ensure that our Marine Reserve will not fall prey to the death and destruction happening elsewhere in the Hauraki Gulf. Given a chance, Nature will restore, revive and thrive.
Continuing as we are, with intensive fish and shellfish farming, we will condemn and destroy.
The mussels in the Hauraki Gulf are dying which means the ocean that used to support them is dying.
Let’s stand together and make a difference. Let’s show the rest how we can restore our ocean and celebrate our land together.
COMMENTS FROM OTHERS WHO HAVE HAD PAST EXPERIENCE WITH UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES; 1. World Heritage Status offers protection in perpetuity of natural, cultural and historic sites which are being lost forever in a rapidly developing world. 2. This would serve to put Ngati Hei, their culture and heritage on the global map and bring huge mana to their iwi. 3. World Heritage Sites are a Mecca for Tourism and could open up great opportunities for the entire Coromandel Peninsula. We need to be thinking in much broader terms about how we value our heritage, and utilise World Heritage Status to protect those areas where humans first touched these lands, and preserve for future generations where they left some mark or record of their presence.
Prof Maxwell has agreed to front a Public Meeting when he arrives in New Zealand. He will be happy to discuss all aspects of WHS and answer all questions.it will be a local meeting. Watch this space!
Email: adyewen@xtra.co.nz
The beauty and pristine nature of the coastline and waters of the Hauraki Gulf are key in the effort to attain World Heritage status.
Alastair Brickell adjusts his telescope to focus on Alpha Centauri; Paul Cook, Secretary of Opito Ratepayers, was a fine sausage chef; one of the 60 early-risers enjoying the heavens through the telescopes.
Photo credit Pauline Stewart
Poison - Today’s danger – taking a break from the history of poison
Issue Three – Environment Matters
BY JOHN VEYSEY
PAST PRACTICE
When DoC first began dropping 1080 poison over Coromandel, the DoC staff were involved. They told us ‘1080’ was ‘safe’ and they had to make it look safe. Stringent safety precautions were already in place.
Poisoned baits land in a stream, the poison leaches out and the waterways downstream will flow with 1080. Landowners rely on that water which they drink, which their animals drink, and with which they water their veggie gardens.
They would get a visit prior to the drop from DoC to warn them there would be a flow of poison through their land following the drop. All the water up-take taps were turned off prior and water samples were taken after the drop until the water showed clear of 1080. The taps were then opened. During a 1080 drop, the downstream waterways will be contaminated with measurable quantities of 1080.
To ensure no humans got poisoned, DoC provided alternative water supplies to residents
The precautions taken for those involved with a 1080 drop are considerable – clearly exposure to 1080 is harmful to humans.
downstream until the water was deemed drinkable again. If you lived within a short distance of the poison zone, a tank was put in place and kept full of potable water for weeks after the drop.
Local residents living further downstream were visited to make sure their taps were turned off before the drop and to take water samples afterwards until the water was once again drinkable.
Prior to the drop they counted the number of possums and rats to demonstrate that there was a need for some animal control and afterwards they cleared the toxic carcasses of possums and birds off any public walkways through
AVAILABLE NOW
the poison zone.
All safety measures would be in place before a drop could go ahead. That was then.
TODAY
Today they take none of these safety precautions. In fact DoC staff are hardly involved at all. In 2024. they have contracted Ian Cutler and Lance Pucket from ECOFX to carry out the up-coming 1080 operation for them. The drop will cover an area called Papakai which is on a four-yearly drop list. The ECOFX team could not tell me why it is now only 3 years since the last drop.
Prior to the last two 1080 drops
over Papakai, hardly any possums could be found. Their numbers remain low because the native forest is inhospitable and offers very little food to possums. There is no longer any pretence that the possums are a danger. They are poisoning for the sake of poisoning; to keep the business going.
This time the baits will land in the Mahakirau river which supplies Whitanga town’s water.
Small amounts of 1080 will be drunk by Whitianga residents after this drop. (How this poisoning will affect humans, whether 1080 will accrue in the body like other rat poisons and what effect 1080 is having has so far, been completely ignored.)
Have any of those dwellings beside the Mahakirau been offered alternative water to drink while their river is poisoned?
Will the town’s water up-take be turned off at the right time?
The months following a 1080 drop are a nightmare for those who live and farm alongside the poisoned waterways. While precautions used to be taken to avoid human poisoning from the first flush of poison in the water, DoC has never cared about future poisonings as rain leaches out more
1080 from the baits which are left lying around on the ground. A dead rat or possum or bird could wash up in the paddock and still be deadly to a dog as much as a year later.
This year of anxiety would be avoided if only the pests were controlled by trappers at a fraction of the cost; but then the enormous numbers of those involved in this particular form of poisoning would be out of a job!!
Before DoC arrived the public land on the Coromandel was not in any danger from possums. Stoats were rarely seen. Myrtle rust was unheard of as was Kauri die-back. The public tracks were all open, the camping grounds were free and the kiwi ran wild like all the other birds and there was no poison anywhere in our forests - everything was safe to eat or drink; not just for humans but for all the creatures who lived there.
Today we have more possums and rats, stoats and weasels, wild cats and ferrets and less birds than ever we had before DoC arrived. The kiwi has become a very expensive zoo creature and the campsites cost.
I’d say DoC’s job is done here.
Thievery on the streets of Whitianga
BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN
There is thievery in Whitianga; thievery most foul. Most foul because it is a direct attack on the ability of our older community members to enjoy their weekend working on and completing the various puzzles delivered every Saturday to NZ Herald subscribers in the Canvas magazine.
The Canvas magazine provides the reader with Sudoku, Code Crackers, Crosswords and various other delights.
This thief, or thieves, make their move under the cover of darkness; steal our Canvas magazine and shove the rest of the paper back into the letterbox in an untidy fashion that makes it obvious this illegal action took place after the paper was delivered.
We have had enough of this thievery and feel we must do something about it.
Our first move was to narrow down the pool of suspects. The thief is obviously keen on playing number and/or word games. In school terms this means mathematics and English, so school students are immediately ruled out because they can’t do this stuff. Teachers are also ruled out for the same reason.
Our second move was to narrow down the time of the crime, to help the police with any stake out.
By setting the alarm at 15 minute intervals so that I could send the wife out to the letterbox at a defined time over a number of weeks, we have been able to note the consistent time of disappearance. We now know if the wife is
on top of her game we get to keep the Canvas but if she is a bit slothful, it is lost.
Further analysis leads us to believe the miscreant is an elderly dog lover. Why a dog lover you ask? Because most people wandering around at that hour are dog lovers. Another reason is that there is an unwritten code amongst dog lovers where if one of them is doing something suspicious, all other dog lovers look away. The reason is obvious, most suspicious activities involving dog lovers are just giving a pretence of picking up doggie droppings while really ignoring them. No point in dirtying a perfectly good plastic bag. Not many people know of this rule because
dog lovers will deny its existence, but if you take the time to observe them, you will see this is true.
It is therefore relatively straight forward for an elderly dog lover to start pilfering our letterbox as every witness in the vicinity will immediately look in another direction. Once the theft has been completed, the innocent dog lovers will even wish the thief “Good Morning” as they pass by.
The Police seem to be reluctant to hold a stake out, muttering about the lack of seriousness of the crime. I have argued with them; asked them to observe my wife being forced to do housework because her puzzles are not there before they claim the effects of the crime are not serious. They didn’t even write that bit of evidence on the complaint form. The Sargeant told us they needed a few more clues as to the identity of the thief before they could hold a stake out; an activity which could potentially evolve into a high speed chase as the try to run down a speedy Chihuahua with thieving owner in tow. Apparently they are not allowed to use spikes on Chihuahuas so the chances of escape are quite high. Therefore an ID is preferable.
Our next move is therefore to identify the thie,f so to that end we are installing some stealth cameras. One will be hidden in a wellplaced pohutukawa, probably the only well-placed pohutukawa in town, and another in the neighbours feijoa tree. Between the two of them we are sure we will get the evidence we need to enable the full force of the law to be hurled at this local crime wave.
Richard HalbertChrisp
– a friend of lm
BY STAN STEWART
Richard, who is world travelled chose to take a break here in Whitianga. Over his life he has sampled many things in the world of art and culture. One of his most constant sources of employment has been as a Film Critic for daily papers in New Zealand. The French Film Festival held fro 29 may to 12 June was the reason he was in Whitianga. He saw almost all the films. “This was a feast of film excellence. What better way to spend a winter break! And apart from the films there was the beauty of Whitianga and so many restaurants to enjoy”.
Richard is living in Coromandel with his partner Uli and he spends much time caring for Uli who is now wheelchair bound. This time in Whitianga was for Richard, a holiday respite. Richard is also a prolific artist and his work adorns many walls on the Coromandel and overseas.
He was full of praise for our local cinemas and the proprietors, Anne Marie and Matt McDougall. “They are warm and generous and their willingness to use their facility to promote important cinema productions is to be commended” says Richard. The Informer agrees with this assessment. In our view the Mercury Twin Cinemas are one of our town’s greatest assets.
Richard Halbert-Chrisp
SOMETHING TO PONDER.
The Film Festival is a straw in the wind
Whitianga could/should become a Festival Town –hosting all kinds of significant cultural, musical and educational events.
What the Mercury Bay Cinemas is doing could be part of the attraction to this town and district. Richard chose to come here in the bleak mid-winter for a Film Festival. Along with many others, we at The Informer would like to make Whitianga a weather-proof location. That is, to give people reasons for coming to our town and district which are not reliant on ‘beach’ weather.
What The Lost Spring is proposing, is a main menu item to which events and festivals would be an added attraction to stay for longer periods. Let’s think about, talk about, other cultural events, educational events which could take place here that are not weather dependent. We have heard whispers of a ‘Writers Conference’. That sounds like a great idea! What do you think? Suggestions! Letters to the editor. Always glad to talk – Stan Stewart 021 362 489
The Weekend Herald without its Canvas magazine – who is the intrepid thief?
The scariest photo I have seen this millennium
BY STAN STEWART
The picture went around the world. They knew it would. Vladimir Putin, the ruler of Russia, embracing Kim Jong Un, the supreme ruler of North Korean.
In doing this they were giving the finger to the West, in fact to every country in the rest of the world. Through their photo, I hear them smugly saying, “If you’re not on our side you are on the wrong side of history.”
Anyone who reads or watches documentaries will know that North Korea is a terrible country – probably the worst in the world, when it comes to human rights. It is a one-party state cut off from the rest of the world. The elite, a small portion of the population, are window dressing for large events such as Putin’s visit. The rest of the population exist in very difficult, oppressive circumstances.
Over the years many have risked their lives attempting to escape from this regime.
For two days this month, Putin visited North Korea. He was feted by Kim Jong Un. His picture on huge banners adorned the main thoroughfares. They signed mutual defense pacts and vowed lasting friendship and co-operation. They hugged and beamed for the cameras. The principal motivation for this encounter was that Putin needs arms and munitions for his
war in the Ukraine, and Kim needs two things: 1. International recognition and, 2. Russian rubles.
WHY WAS I SCARED?
The world already knew Putin is driven to achieve his goals, no matter what. Over the last two years, his oligarch friends (?)
Have got his message(fatal) –
“Cease your good life in the West or you might just jump out of the window of a multi-story hotel or succumb to an ailment you didn’t know you had.”
The message is, don’t stand in
the way of Putin’s ambitions and Putin’s ambitions are boundless. He is clearly saying, “Nothing will stand in the way of my achieving my goals. Nothing!”
The picture of his embracing Kim Jong Un says it all.
To what can I compare this?
Imagine if you can visualise Greta Thunberg being crowned Miss Queensland and feted in huge parades. I know my Queensland coal miner and rancher friends would boil with irritation at the thought. Greta and coal rich Queensland and the beef growing
“Cease your good life in the West or you might just jump out of the window of a multistory hotel or succumb to an ailment you didn’t know you had.”
capital of Australia just won’t fit. This combination doesn’t work.
Putin’s ‘bromance’ with Kim Jong Un was just as unlikely but power and convenience made it work.
In my mind I add into all this confusion the almost unbelievable spectacle of the up-coming election in the US.
I feel like we are entering a time of great instability. To say I feel like we are standing on the edge of a precipice is not to stretch things too far.
What am I to do about this? Nothing! I’ve lived most of my life span. I may have been buffeted a bit by global developments but compared with storms that are brewing, I’ve had a great ride.
Talk about a good life, in human history none have had it better, easier, more peaceful than my generation in Australia and New Zealand.
However, I am thinking of people who are now in their prime, and today’s young people and children.
With Putin and Kim Jung Un holding hands, the up-coming US elections and sea levels rising, I sense there is trouble ahead.
What am I to do about it? What can I do about it? Nothing! All life asks of me now is to bow out gracefully, with as little fuss as possible and make sure the funeral expenses are paid. That may make sense, but it doesn’t feel satisfying - at least not to me. I do feel a responsibility to do something to help those who will inevitably move into the coming storms.
Helping young people is a good idea but it’s not as easy as it seems.
For many of us, family are far away. What about the young people around us here and now? They walk our streets to school, they serve us in supermarkets and cafes. But, try to show friendly interest in a young person, especially young women and their defenses rise.
Their service-training teaches them to be courteous. Wider life, their phones, the internet and TV tend to make them suspicious.
Older men making friendly advances may have other motives. I like the saying “Keep calm and carry on. From my experience of life’s ups and downs, I have found that perseverance and trustworthy friendships are powerful coping tools.
Putin and Kim Jon Un obviously have their dreams and schemes. I will try and encourage the young people around me to have their own dreams and goals. I know they can be courageous. Maybe I can help with that.
Friends of convenience and power embrace each other for the world to see.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
LET’S GET THE SIGNS UP – MORE PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW
I loved the front-page article in The Coromandel Informer about The Lost Spring and having big signs out there.
Why don’t we have a sign on the highway that says something about Whitianga and where to find it? I hadn’t thought about that before.
It is actually amazing when you go to The Lost Spring pools. I notice people are amazed by them. Some didn’t know about them before and they heard about TLS from others.
Some locals have never been.
I notice that the Asian people just love natural, warm thermal water. You could have busloads coming if more knew about it. It is beneficial to you. It really helps my health and my outlook.
I am part of Super Soakers group and we absolutely love The Lost Spring. One of our members said to me that he doesn’t know what he would do if the pools were not in Whitianga. Sometimes when it’s busy I wait a while and when I’m not well, I use a mask – but I don’t like to put people off with my mask.
My final thought is The Lost Spring saves you going to Fiji. It saves you all that money and its just like the Pacific Islands. We are a Pacific Island, aren’t we??
Lee Rawlings, Whitianga
A DESTINATION THEY FLY TO EXPERIENCE
I have had the pleasure of working at The Lost Spring reception for eleven years. In this time, I have seen enormous growth and been a part of The Lost Spring become a destination for travellers.
I have been at reception receiving calls and email from all over New Zealand and overseas, checking on availability at The Lost Spring prior to their booking accommodation in Whitianga.
People would alter their international travel dates if they couldn’t get in.
The Lost Spring is not a theme park with slides, rides etc as Hamner Springs or AC Baths in Taupo and we would not like it to become one. There are many family oriented attractions for Whitianga beyond The Lost Spring and our region could provide more.
The Lost Spring is run as an adult oasis, where adults can enjoy the unique experience offered with pools and spa treatments without children. Parents deserve their own time occasionally. For this policy we are thanked so often by guests.
I feel The Lost Spring is a real asset to Whitianga – it brings people to the Coromandel Peninsula. Locals are not forgotten in this either – as the Locals Monthly Pool Pass is available and utilised by many locals.
Lyn Murphy, Whitianga
RIGHT AMOUNT BUT WRONG SPEND FOR KUAOTUNU
There has been $280,000 allocated for the Kuaotunu public toilet block in the TCDC’s Long term Plan. This is scheduled for the 27/28 year and can be considered for more detail at a future date.
Whilst I am very happy for the council to improve the public services available for travellers and local events; I am certain we didn’t want a new toilet block but wanted the three toilet bowls replaced. The toilet structure is in good condition. We have also had a lot of input in recent history into the mural on the side of toilet block. It looks good and is not ready for redoing.
Three compost toilets would also be very fine. The iron content in the water has caused the bowls to be stained brown and that could be addressed with new bowls. or a different sytem
more environmentally friendly They are not fit for the public in that condition. But I reassert the structure is good.
We need a good portion of these allocated funds to be redirected and spent on a footpath for the children.
I would prefer to help paint the existing toilet block for free and I am sure local trades people would help put the toilet bowls in place for a fair price. Then, there would be a lot of money left over from what has been allocated to Kuaotunu and then finally, we could spend the remaining $200,000 (approximate) on a footpath which is essential for the children to be safe to walk into the village.
The Kuaotunu Residents and Ratepayers are aware of this situation. I am not the only one. I am trusting that some degree of consultation with TCDC will bring about a renovated toilet and a footpath without any extra spend of LTP funds but a simple reallocation of the same amount of funding - simple solution, cost effective, and community driven.
Marguerite Muellers,
Kuaotunu
WATER WATER – IT’S A CONCERN
Take any one of these situations, the block of apartments right next door to the Rugby Club – Marina Apartments, and Marlin Waters. Add in Sovereign Pier.
Many of the residents come down to Whitianga only a few weeks in the year.
Is TCDC really going to put water metres on every apartment? How does that unbundling work? Who pays for it? Until then, how is the cost of water usage shared fairly because sharing it equally is definitely not fair. Some apartments have only one resident; others house a family. how will TCDC do this justly and efficiently? Could I have a response on this because it was not answered in The Informer’s coverage recently where TCDC gave an official response to concerns and queries.
Gwyn Howell
REITERATING IN A DIFFERENT WAY WAS WHAT I WAS TRYING TO SAY
It would appear that both your paper and Alan Hopping have totally missed the point of my letter published in last week’s The Informer. And before I go any further, is it usual to have the response to a letter BEFORE the letter itself, thereby influencing people’s opinions?
The title of my letter was a very neutral ‘Last Week’s Headline’.
I shall reiterate in a different way what I was trying to say. Yes, we really need to market Whitianga to attract more visitors, especially in wintertime. But you cannot do so in a such a misleading way as suggested by Alan Hopping. Imagine a bus load of tourists arriving in Whitianga on a Monday in winter for a two-night stay. They have been drawn to the ‘Thermal Ocean Village’ just as others are drawn to the Thermal Alpine Village of Hanmer Springs. The said tourists find that the local thermal spa is closed until Thursday and the weather is not desirable for enjoying Hot Water Beach. I agree we cannot do anything about the weather, but I can imagine these tourists leaving Whitianga feeling disappointed that the town didn’t come up to their expectations of a thermal area. The resulting
negative reviews on social media doesn’t bear thinking about.
For such a small town, Whitianga is unique in all that it has to offer. As I said in my previous letter, the Lost Spring is a truly great asset to the town and I know that some of our visitors come here purely to enjoy what this establishment has to offer (but only Thursday to Sunday).
And, no, I don’t want the Lost Spring changed to be like Hanmer Springs. It’s that it doesn’t seem right to compare the two places to support the idea of calling Whitianga a Thermal Ocean Village. The town has many other great assets such as the cinema, the Monkey House, restaurants, sports bar, great shops, art gallery, clubs, sports facilities, fun activities, etc.
Whitianga’s greatest asset is its location. The town makes a great centre for exploring the area. So, another suggestion for marketing our town - WHITIANGA - THE HEART OF BEAUTIFUL MERCURY BAY - SO MUCH TO ENJOY. Rose Barrett, Whitianga
ATTENTION ALL RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF OUR DISTRICT
We are facing an imminent threat that few are aware of, and this threat is not just local, but nationwide.
I urge all Resident and Ratepayer groups, as well as individual residents to consider organizing and attending public meetings to ensure everyone becomes informed and prepared.
Please respond by sending your letters to the Editor of our beloved Informer.
It is crucial that we act NOW. Together we must address this. D. Allen, Whitianga Editor’s Note: The writer preferred not to detail the imminent threat but had information and research to enable this letter to be creditable regarding debt.
WHAT'S ON
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 – Fri 12 July and Mon 22 July. In the Mercury Bay Service Centre Community Board Room in Monk St (behind the council offices).
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.
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.
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.
Kūaotunu Dune Care – Every third Wed of the month. To get involved, please email kuaotunudunecare@gmail.com.
Mercury Bay Model Railway Club – Monthly meet. Contact. Damon 0273551650
Mercury Bay Shooting Federation
– Muzzle loader, rimfire, centre fire, military, pistol. Email mbsfsecretary@ gmail.com
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.
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
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.
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 Quilters – 10am-4pm on the first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016.
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. 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.
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
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 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. 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.
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.
Meditation Stress Reduction Circle –Whitianga – Mondays from 7.30-9pm at the Embassy of Friendship, 5 Coghill St. More info Steffen Lindner (Counsellor,
If you have an activity or group or the existing information is incorrect, let The Coromandel Informer know. Call 866 2090, email info@theinformer.co.nz.
Our What’s On page is not guaranteed to run every week as often space is restricted. Consider paying for a classified advert if you want to guarantee your activity runs every week.
Therapist & Mindfulness Facilitator) ph 022 0853 121 or email steffen@eof.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 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.
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 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 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 Squash Club – New members/enquiries to Dawn Thurgood mercbaysquash@gmail.com
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
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.
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.
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 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 6964 for more info.
Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome.
Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss
Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.
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
Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@ catherinecorcoran.com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm.
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.
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.
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 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. GROUP INFO
Mercury Bay Athletics – For info contact alana.baker@bayleyscoromandel.co.nz
Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club
– Cook Drive, Whitianga. Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.
Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. Phone Barb 0274 075 268.
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated –Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet.whitianga.admin@gmail. com.
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 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.
JUSTICES OF THE PEACE
Kim Abrahamson: 07 866 5896 or 027 478 2232
Peter Bould: 021 923 198
Barbara Blair: 07 866 5181 or 021 310 351
Heather Bruce: 021 132 8878 or 07 866 5873
Derek Collier: 07 866 5893 or 027 436 8444
Bess Kingi Edmonds: 022 158 9782
David Harvey: 0274 878 363
Patricia Hynds: 021 935 780
Mary Kedzlie: 07 866 4096 or 027 290 4940
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GAMES AND PUZZLES
Crossword Puzzle
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. Proudly sponsored by
ACROSS
1. Absconded (7)
4. 52-week intervals (5)
7. Relapse recoveryin(7)
8. Diary record (5)
9. Reimburse (6)
12. Edge of highway (8)
15. Port vesselsworking (8)
17. Egg-yolk shade (6)
18. Not sleeping (5)
21. Took tiny bites from (7)
22. Corroded (5
23. Drained contents of (7)
DOWN
1. Person leaving native land (8)
2. Boulevard (6)
3. Small measure of spirits (4)
4. Ox harness (4)
5. Refrain (from) (7)
6. Put to the sword (4)
10. Fantasy (5)
11. Viola flower (5)
13. Wound together (8)
14. Tropical lizards (7)
16. Expressive (6)
18. Slightly open (4)
19. Resentful longing (4)
20. Reed instrument (4)
Last week’s winner CONGRATULATIONS
Shane Lander
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.
Last week’s word search solution –“The spirit of the wild west”
Dot Cavanagh
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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.
“We’re localand can meet you on site.” Coastline Pool and Spa Ltd
Sales
Service / Repairs
info@spapool.co.nz
0508 4 SURVEY
www.rusurveyors.co.nz
68 sq m comprising studio, kitchen, WC, and waiting/dressing room. Available 1st August. Email: jhs@xtra.co.nz Mob: 0274375321
CATS 2679 Tairua-Whitianga Road, KAIMARAMA 021 0283 0515 kaimaramacats@gmail.com
FIREWOOD
DRY PINE – SHED STORED
$150 a cube – Whitianga based –covering surround areas.
Phone 07 867 1361, 0274 958 033
DRY GUM FIREWOOD FOR SALE
$180 a cube delivered. Phone James 021 063 2037
PUBLIC COMMUNITY MEETING AND LIAISON
Summit Forests invites interested parties to attend a Community Liaison Meeting. Thursday July 4th 2024 at 5.30pm
To be held at the Kuaotunu Hall, Black Jack Rd, Kuaotunu
MERCURY BAY ATHLETICS CLUB
24/25 SEASON
To be held on Tuesday 6th August at 5pm at Stoked Restaurant. Come along and find out how you can help our club this upcoming season. We are needing coaches, committee member roles fulfilled.
FARRIER AVAILABLE
AND HOOF TRIMMING SERVICE
Coromandel/Thames & Whitianga area.
Phone: Tony 027 494 7692
7 Dundas Street, Whitianga ALL WELCOME Enquiries phone 021 781 081 www.anglicanchurchwhitianga.org.nz
10am ALL WELCOME 22 Coghill St – Whitianga www.c3whitianga.co.nz
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The Coromandel Informer is published weekly and distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of them are entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name, telephone number or residential address. Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher and can be cut if too big. Published by The Mercury Bay Informer Limited.
Editors: Pauline and Stan Stewart (027 271 6182)
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SPORTS
MERCURY BAY PREMS
Mercury Bay Premieres played Thames on Saturday at Lyon Park. It was a victory game for Mercury Bay – 43-24. The speed and agility of Connor McCauley and Colville Green backed by their team strategy, earned them three excellent tries.
MERCURY BAY INDOOR
BOWLING CLUB
Thursday, 27 June
Winners: Keith Denney, Ian Sanderson and Jan Harvey
Runners-up: Cheryl Henderson, Maureen Lack, Lionel Lawrence and Pat Fisher Good Sports: Wayne McNeill, Judy Cullinane and Judy Adams.
TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB
Final round Coromandel Pairs
North/South: 1, Jean Myles and Robyn Waters 60.48; 2, Jenny Prince and Judy McKenzie 53.81; 3= Donna Harvey and Lynnette Flowers, Sue Poland and Peter McNeil 53.33.
East/West: 1, Peter Clark and Jocelyn Taylor 67.22; 2, Celia Young and Nolene Kirkpatrick 53.33; 3, Lee Hughes and Doreen Wernham 51.67.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Bright Pairs Week Four
Tuesday 25 June
North/South: 1, David Dylla and Robyn Waters 58.70; 2, Denise Knutson and Robyn Hogg 52.08; 3, Myra Hoogwerf and Sue Gill 49.58.
East/West: 1, Don Barry and Frank Geoghegan 55.00; 2, Lee Hughes and Ngaire O’Brien 54.78; 3, Johanna Bonnar and Philippa Hall 53.33.
MERCURY BAY CONTRACT
BRIDGE CLUB
Championship Pairs round 2, President’s Pairs
Wednesday 26 June
Robyn Hogg & Bob Schibli 63.49; 2, Don Barry & Pete Hogg 62.70; 3, Val Dwight & Anne Knowles 54.17
MERCURY BAY 1ST XV VS WHANGAMATA AREA SCHOOL
Whiti Champ Pairs round 4, Thursday 27 June
1, Norma Hart & Geoff Jervis 63.3; 2, Paul Bradley & Steven Knowles 56.6; 3, Pat Doube & Faith Stock 51.6
MERCURY BAY CLUB
DARTS
19 players this week, so 501 singles were played. A lot of very close games this week with two people going through unbeaten, so a one game shootout final was played. The finalists were Greg Healy and Stoney. Stoney just couldn’t seem to get going in the final, allowing Greg Healy to come away with the win. No ladies had a finish greater than fifty this week and the highest finish for the men was 80, scored by Malcolm Cryer. Only one 180 scored this week and that was by Rex Donaldson.
MERCURY BAY CLUB
SNOOKER
Wednesday, 26 June
Best of three frames:
Nine players Wednesday, and it was Brian Codyre, Ken Gibson and Doug Pascoe with two straight wins to challenge the finals. Doug won the alley drawn bye and Ken took a narrow win over Brian to move on to meet Doug in the final frame. What a great match this was to the last ball with the black being re-potted and Doug putting it away to win and take home the cash prize. Runner up Ken Gibson and with two wins
Brian Codyre and Peter Challis. No high break recorded.
Saturday, 29 June
Seven players on Saturday and it was Bob Haase and Phil Jones with two straight wins
GIRLS FIRST XV
to Challenge 3rd frame. A close tussle but Bob grabbed the win and the cash prize. With two wins Phil Jones ( runner up) Ian Baumgren and Peter Schultz. No high break recorded.
PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
Tuesday, 25 June
Nine-hole Stableford
1, Callum Murray; 2, Jo Geoghegan; 3, Richard Duckworth; 4, Mark Bell, Neil Robertson.
Fairways: Catherine Borlase
Nine-hole Stableford
Thursday, 27 June
1, Wayne Morrison; 2= Catherine Borlase, Frank Geoghegan; 4, Jo Geoghegan.
4BBB: Frank Geoghegan and Catherine Borlase
Eighteen-hole Stableford
Saturday, 29 June
1, Jo Geoghegan; 2, Lauchie Phillips; 3= Kevin Milroy, Richard Agnew; 5, Tim Bartlett.
4BBB: Jo Geoghegan and Bob Walker.
MERCURY BAY GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
Nine-hole Women - Putting
Tuesday 25 June
Div 1: 1, Jenny Layton; 2, Glennis Drane.
Div 2: 1, Noelene Boardman; 2, Jenny Cotterell.
Nine-hole Mixed - Stableford
1, Bob Holliday; 2, Don McGuire; 3, Peter Chaffin.
Eighteen-hole Women
Area Stableford
Wednesday, 26 June
1, Joanne Geoghegan; 2, Sharyn Smith; 3, Marg Maher. Closest to Pin #4: Debbie Holmes; #18: Kim Allan. Longest Putt: Lynne Butler.
The First XV Girls Rugby is organised by Mercury Bay Area School but it is essentially a Coromandel Peninsula wide team.
This is their first year as a girls only team and their training is on Monday and Tuesday nights with their games
Eighteen - hole MenStableford
1, Ron Campbell; 2, Dom Szparagowski; 3, Roger Booth. Twos: Steve Geach
Div 1: Gross - Dave Enright. Div 2: Gross - Patrick Gonthier. Nine-hole Mixed Scramble –Stableford – Friday, 28 June 1, Phil Drane; 2, Les Walbridge; 3, Eddie Lyle
Twos: Les Walbridge Eighteen-hole Mixed Stableford
Saturday 29 June 1, Dom Szparagowski; 2, Rohit Ranchhod; 3, Steve Geach.
Twos: Mark Kilgour, Marg Maher, Richard Clarke, Neal Robinson.
Div 1: Gross - Steve Geach; Div 2: John Bradshaw.
THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB
Nine-hole Men – Stableford
Monday 27 June
1, Rob Fisken; 2, Paul Dixon; 3, Steve Airey. 18 Hole Ladies – Net & Putting – Tuesday 25 June
1, Merrin James; 2, Glenda Philpott; 3, Merrin James.
Eighteen-Hole Mens Tony Cotton Memorial Shootout Quali�ier – Net Medal
Wednesday 26 June 1, Tony Banham; 2, Mike Friis; 3, Geoff Atmore.
Twos: Brian Tomlinson.
Nearest the Pin: Chris Palmer Nine-hole Men – Stableford
Thursday 27 June
1, Lance Croawell; 2, Steve Airey; 3, Barry Titchmarsh. Eighteen-hole Ladies Par 3 & Par 5 – Stableford Thursday 27 June
Winners: Sandra Bowen, Chrissie Smith, Sheryn Parry and Margaret Stevens.
on a Thursday. There is a lot of travel involved but the girls are very committed. Thank you to Chris their coach and to Montana Toagaga, Assistant Coach and organiser of the girls schedule. Recently they played Te Aroha and won 25-17.
McLeery catch the ball for the lineout.
Photo credit Rebecca Usal
Colville Green, above, on his way to score a try; Connor McCauley, below, runs away from the pack to claim a try.
Nandita Giri, Kare McKenzie and Rose Stables enjoying Tuesday night darts at Mercury Bay Club
Trevor & Raewyn Hildreth
