The Informer – 30th July 2024

See story page 28

See sports on pages 15, 27 & 28

MANY SUPPORT THE MBBC SUBMISSIONS

BY PAULINE STEWART

nterest is considerable in the outcome of the recently held Hearing as to the Concession Application to relocate the Mercury Bay Boating Club building to Dundas Street reserve, Whitianga. That Hearing was held last Wednesday, 24 July at Aotearoa Lodge, Whitianga. There were a least three lawyers present.

Cyclones and damage

According to the record of history, the Club is simply doing what it promised it would when permission to build at Buffalo Beach was given – that is to relocate the building if circumstances required. Circumstances have definitely required something be done.

When Cyclone Hale came, the destruction to the shoreline was so devastating for the Club as the deck was overhanging the cut gouged by the storm. A few more inches and the building would have teetered over the edge. The people of Whitianga, with the help of Hopper construction, within hours had piled rocks and sandbags to save the building and temporarily stop the erosion.

Back to the issue at handrelocating the Boating Club. DOC declared, “This land does not appear on DOC inventory.” It seemed to fall into a gap. It was always intended for that land to be vested in TCDC as land to stay with the crown as does the marina. Doc did not know they had it. Now they do.

A STRONG CASE

The members of the Boating Club have been very clear that their work to relocate is not driven because they were blocked by Iwi, WRC or Council. “All have been very supportive,” says Grant McDonald. Grant, a member of the Boating Club and a land surveyor, provided the following data to the Hearing and to The Informer.

Based on162 days of monitoring car and trailer parking activity and using photos, it is clear from the evidence presented that the area is not constantly overflowing and that there is room to accommodate the boat club. Certainly, there are a few days where it was congested but only eleven days out of 162.

The boating club used some

of their resources to prepare and demonstrate a Proposed Site Plan showing a possible car parking layout. “The reserve could be utilised much more efficiently than it is now. We can overcome all the objections and we can improve the situation there,” says Grant.

It was stated that the presence of the clubrooms on the site will help bring some focus and resources into that area. The proposed dinghy ramp which they will establish for their young sailors will add to public amenity.

“The DOC reserve provides an excellent alternative to the current site. It offers direct access to the harbour and marina for our keel boat fleet.”

Continued on page 2

The Whitianga Pig Hunt winner, Junior Club member, Harper Goodlet, 7 years, with her Dad and the winning trophy. Her catch, a 49.9kg pig.

Weekend Regatta – little wind but great races

BY PHIL HART

Over the weekend the Mercury Bay Boating Club hosted for the fourth time, the national Elliott 5.9 Traveller Series regatta. This is a group of some of New Zealand’s top sailors that, over the winter, step off their varied, mostly larger, race yachts and sail these very competitive small trailer yachts over half-a-dozen venues throughout the North Island.

Whitianga is often mentioned as their favourite venue because of its beauty, the supreme sailing conditions, the friendliness of the locals, things to do and the efforts of the club’s volunteers.

This year the forecast was for very light winds and there was much conjecture over whether any races could be held at all.

But with patience, race officer Philip Hart and his capable crew of helpers, including many junior club sailors, managed a very impressive six races on Saturday and two on Sun-

Lydia Boyd (rear) and helmsman, Julia Hamilton pack down after the regatta (fellow team member Pierre Harrison not visible). Their boat, ‘Class Act’ is sponsored by the Class Elliott 59 group for development of young sailors.

day, far beyond the initial expectations of the competitors who were very appreciative.

Twelve boats competed, coming from Napier to Opua. With three crew on each with their partners and children enjoying the towns attractions all helps the town and gives it national exposure in the sailing world.

The racing is tight and very competitive with very

little between the identical boats; consistency and crew-work the key to results.

The club appreciates the assistance of the town’s organisations and in particular the Whitianga Marina Society which accommodates the fleet and the support boats both on land and sea. It could not be run without their help and the club and competitors are truly grateful.

Continued from page 1

It was of noteworthy information that the Extract/summary from TCDC District Plan ‘Marine Service Zone’, that on the list under Recreation/Community Facility. permitted activities include ‘sailing school, yacht club ’ These are explicitly provided for in this zone.

It is clear to those involved that sailing and boating are not sunset activities or industries. Sailing is part of the DNA of this country. If anything, from this struggle, Whitianga must focus more on sailing and on the way this environment friendly activity can be more resourced from the community.

We talk about mental health and the way it is impacting young people and young adults. We work hard to raise funds for counselling but activities like sailing create positivity and build skills, friendships and resilience which are key to overcoming some of this social issues.

Right next door to the sailing location is the rugby club and this last

Philip Hart

weekend there would have been at least 80 boys and young men engaged in this great game, both local and visitors. There would have been twice that number present supporting them and cheering them on. This is just one geographical area of Whitianga dedicated to community sport. The opportunity to share and use more efficiently this Dundas reserve area now needs to be worked through by all of the effected adults for the sake of those coming after. This is prime land beside a beautiful estuary, and at times it looks like a disorganised, uncared for, muddy, pot-holed trailer park (the written words of one participant in the survey).

The people have spoken. Of the 116 submissions DOC received, 96 were in support, 16 opposed and 4 neutral.

Chartered Accountant

47 years developing long term relationships with clients.

Specialising in Business Development, Taxation, Farm Accounting, Structuring, Accounting Systems. For an obligation-free discussion and appraisal of your business needs, call me.

Phone 021 960 494 or 07 866 2907

The Mercury Bay Community Board conducted its own survey with the result being 76 in support, 12 opposed and 5 neutral.

The boat club acknowledges those who are opposed to the relocation, particularly residents in the area. It will do us all well to provide some guarantees that their fears will not come about and that there is room and opportunity for them to be part of the boating future of this community.

The judgement and outcome of The Hearing is ahead of us.

„ The MB Boating Club committee: Commodore Phil Hart, Simon Rawlinson, Jonathan Kline (Immediate Past Commodore), Adele Scobie, Kay McDonald, Chris Devenoges and Patrick Stewart (Vice Commodore).

from Wednesday 31 July to Sunday 25 August

Tuesday July 23 to Wednesday July 31

A lot happening at dawn. We have plenty of planets to see now with bright Jupiter and slightly reddish Mars on view at dawn in the east while brilliant Venus and much fainter Mercury are visible low on the dusk western horizon. Meanwhile Saturn rises just before midnight and remains visible all through the night. The passing Moon can help us sort out which of the five planets is which this week. Tuesday, 23 July: The Moon has now moved closer to Saturn around midnight. Wednesday, 24 July: The bright Moon is now just above Saturn in the east. Thursday, 25 July: Mars is now to the left of Regulus after sunset and the Moon lies directly below slightly yellowish Saturn. Friday, 26 July: Bright Venus is climbing steadily higher

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

towards Regulus in the western dusk sky while fainter Mercury is now just above it. Monday, 29 July: The Moon lies above Matariki at dawn with reddish Mars just to the right and bright Jupiter further down. There will be a very low ISS pass in the south from 6:36am passing right through the Southern Cross. Tuesday, 30 July: The Moon at dawn is now almost on top of Matariki which will make it a bit harder to see with Mars to the right, halfway towards bright Jupiter lying lower down. Wednesday, 31 July: In the early morning there will be a low ISS pass from 6:34am in the south and in the east the Moon lies just to the left of Jupiter with Mars above forming a nice triangle. At dusk bright Venus is just below Regulus in the west with fainter Mercury above and to the left.

Whitianga Office (Mon-Wed) 26a Albert Street, Whitianga

We will re-open on Monday, 26 August after our winter break. We look forward to seeing you then.

A pub re-born – not the first time

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

Anybody wandering along Blacksmith Lane recently will have noticed that the Whitianga Pub has gained the appearance of a construction site. Obviously, something is going on so we thought we should tell the community what we know as after all, the Pub is a community asset even though it is privately owned. It has a long history, and the people have a curiosity about its future.

What has initiated the work being done is the departure of the former tenant. His departure creates an opportunity and the current owner is investing significantly to upgrade this revered icon of Whitianga. We have no idea of the level of investment in this project but given the importance of the Whitianga Hotel to this community, and the level of improvement being carried out, I feel it is fair to say that the investment will become recognised as a great legacy for the town from the owner.

The owner does not wish to provide any input to this article for reasons that are his own. We respect his desire to stay in the background and so the information conveyed in this article has been obtained from other sources, all of which are now in the public domain.

WHEN WILL IT RE-OPEN?

Well, that is still undecided with many factors effecting the date and it will be opened in stages.

The stages are the bar that you can see from Blacksmith Lane which we understand is to be a sports bar. This should be open in a few weeks.

The other part of the bar is being configured as a family bar and it is intended to be open at the same time.

The external garden bar will be significantly upgraded as an extension to the Family Bar however this will not be opened for some time, hopefully by the time the season opens.

A Chef has been appointed for the Pub, Pam the current head

asian veges & noodles.

• Meat loaf, mash potato & veges.

• Roast pumpkin soup with bacon.

• Roast chicken, roast potatoes, veges & gravy.

chef at Grace O’Malley’s, is taking the position. Don’t worry about Gracie’s though, we understand that a new head chef has been found for that establishment.

The Salt Restaurant is receiving quite a tart up.

If you stroll along the footpath outside you will see that a large deck is being built, doing away with the multiple levels that were so hard on my knees. There is a fair bit to be done at the restaurant and this should open when the family bar section does, so all good to go for the new season. The appointment of a Head Chef has been announced, basically a collaboration with the Church Bistro in Hahei by all appearances. We understand other staff

appointments have also been made but these have not been publicly confirmed.

The work on the Whitianga Hotel heralds another change for the town in that the organisation of the Kubota Fishing competition moves from the Fishing Club to a Company set up for this purpose in early May. Ownership of this company, E Pier Limited, is 80% with the Hotel owner and 20% with Tom Maxwell who has

organised the Kubota Fishing competition for some years. With the hosting of this competition, it can be seen that the Pub is being re-born, not only in its traditional role but also as an event centre. That’s about all we can tell you at this stage but rest assured the Whitianga Pub and Salt are coming back with great improvements to the fare offered and to the ambience of the establishment. We will keep you informed.

The Whitianga Hotel burned down in 1956 and its’ rebuild appearance is seen here, top right; the building as it currently is under renovation, right.

BY GEOFF FURKET

A portrait of Thames and New Zealand’s most valiant son, Sir Keith Park will now be appropriately displayed in the Piccadilly, London RAF club. His portrait which has been commissioned, will hang beside that of Winston Churchill in the Churchill Room. The portrait is being sponsored by the Battle of Britain Fighter Association.

We are grateful to Thames resident, Geoff Furkert who advocated for Sir Keith’s appropriate recognition in the historic London Club Rooms when he visited in 2023. For many years the contribution to allied victory in the second world war of this Thames boy has been overlooked. Churchill knew it and acknowledged it. Now it is being brought into prominence through various memorials.

Sir Keith who was born in Thames, oversaw the tactics and deployment of British fighter planes in the Battle of Britain. The strategies he employed overcame the Luftwaffe and delivered victory to Britain on that fateful day. Sir Keith and his tactics went on to secure victory for allies’ air forces in other theatres of the second world war. This un-assuming, quiet man is now widely acknowledged as the

Weekly Kitchen Calendar

air force tactician ‘who saved the world’.

Sir Keith is honoured in Thames in various locations. The most notable being at the Keith Park Memorial Airport in Thames where a full-scale replica of a Hurricane fighter is displayed.

„ NOTE: Thames Battle of Britain Commemorations, 11:00am Sunday, 15 September at the Thames Air�ield.

BY STAN STEWART

If that three strikes rule applied, my writing attempts would have been finished by age twenty- five.

Strike One: Two weeks after I turned fourteen, my father pulled me out of school. I was glad to leave. This was the earliest possible time when an Aussie child could leave compulsory education. I have no record of my early schooling. I did not achieve any educational milestone.

Strike Two: At age fifteen I was an apprentice electrician in the employ of the SEC (the State Electricity Commission – Victoria, Australia). At that time a new power station was under construction. There were many apprentices in a variety of different trades. For one day a week, all of the apprentices attended a ’trades’ technical college. At the end of five years, we graduated. However, I was one of the few apprentices who did not gradu-

ate with a complete trade qualification. Instead of being an ‘A’ grade electrician, I graduate as a ‘B’ grade electrician. The problem being that although I passed highly in all the theory, I had shown little aptitude for splicing wires together.

Strike Three: At 25 I graduated from a theological college. However, I was passed on ‘personality and ability to communicate’ not based on any academic work. The truth is that I failed all the academic requirements. When I entered the college, after five years working in the power station, I had no idea what an ‘essay’ was. This was a great problem as the college based all their assessments on essays – long essays with huge bibliographies. In my four years in the college, no one explained to me in simple terms the nature of this task. I invented my own definitions of an essay. All of my attempts were wrong. Consequently, at the end of four years I had not satisfactorily com-

pleted one essay.

My brother, older by 13 years, noted with despair my three academic failures – primary school, trade school and college. He reached the conclusion that I was dumb. He believed that before I caused more embarrassment to the family, I should be withdrawn from the college. He told me and others that all I was cut out to be, was a farm worker – not a farmer or share milker – these tasks required too much brain power, but a farm worker (labourer) fixing gates and moving stock would be manageable for me. I was inclined to agree.

But despite these three academic failures, I was not withdrawn from the game of life. I did not go farm labouring. In my early 30’s I met an academic who immediately grasped what my problem was. “You can’t spell, and you don’t understand punctuation and referencing. A good typist can fix you. I bet there’s one who lives near you”. He went on to

SATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

describe how I could find this person. “Probably she is a full-time mother now but her previous profession was ‘typist’. Go find her and pay her by the hour. She is out there in your community”. And she was. That’s how I found Marion and my life changed. My first essay that Marion fixed up was given an “A” mark.

The professor who read the second one Marion typed, said “This should be published”. It wasn’t’. However, it was photocopied hundreds of times.

Marion helped me write many articles, and some of my reports were made into books. I was very thankful that the ‘three strikes and you’re out’ was not applied to my life.

These days ‘Microsoft Word’ does for me what Marion did for me. Now I find there is another communication problem. Young people, and amazingly many adults, find reading very difficult. I’ve seen university qualified individuals stumble reading sim-

Three strikes and you’re out! I hope not

ple paragraphs. Sadly, for many, reading more than a sentence or two of mobile phone text, has probably contributed to reading becoming a dying art. But, that’s another story.

Now I’m in my 80’s, I think about my life. I can confidently say my brother’s assessment of me was wrong. I am so glad that ‘three strikes and you’re out’ was never applied to me.

I’ve met some people of my age who are not concerned about ‘three strikes and you’re out’. Instead, I hear stories of three strikes and you’re a millionaire. They tell of financial/business/ farming success.

Sometimes they allude to marriages, children, relationships that have not been so successful. Despite their positive strikes, the negatives are still part of their/ our lives. Maybe, for all of us overcoming the bad strikes is still possible? There’s a great song which I believe is truthful. “Love Changes Everything”.

Grapefruit Gully has a new patch – Bigger and heaps better

New Location - 57 Albert Street

Karen Meendering blew into Whitianga from windy Palmerston North in 1996.

She’s been here ever since. These days in her gift and novelty store she is serving adults who she served as children and meeting their children. Such fun!

Grape Gully is a gift shop with everything you can imagine and some items you have never thought of. Karen says she still gets a buzz when a customer finds just the right thing.

‘They don’t know what they want when they come in her. Just here to nose around” they say.

“When they find the item that excites them it excites me” says Karen.

Coming from a background of retail, mostly in fashion she was used to working many weekends.

For one year she worked as a staff person in Grapefruit Gully in Monk St. Then in 1998 she purchased the business. In those early days in Whitianga, only Grapefruit Gully and one other premises was open for business on Sundays.

In the past several decades she has worked in the business

seven days a week. The only day she takes off is Christmas Day. Hard work is in Karen’s blood. She is a first-generation New Zealander born to Dutch parents who arrived here in the early 1950’s.

Dutch people are known for their hard work and Karen’s parents were no exception.

Karen’s mother taught her sewing and knitting. Over the years she has expanded her skill set into many more crafts. Her parents were self employed and as is typical of the Dutch, sick days and days off were not on their agenda.

Her father was a baker in Holland. In NZ he learnt cheese making. Finally, he became a very exact and clever painter, decorator.

Over the last month two months she has moved Grapefruit Gully from Monk Street to the new location in the bigger, brighter shop at 57 Albert St. The shift has been exhausting with so many trips in her tiny car. She could not have done it without the help of her friend, Darren Hartley from Coastal Signs. Darren is a handyman who has made the premises workable, efficient, and effective. He has done this while all the

time working at his own business. The new shop comes with two new bonuses. 1. Ease of set up. Previously Karen had to dress the exterior verandah of her Monk Street shop. This would take 2 hours each day. 2. This premises is much larger all allowing for more goods, and even includes an alley for plants

and outdoor items.

Karen is a creative person, but despite being surrounded by all kinds of craft materials, she never had the time or the space to do any craft herself. In the larger premises this will change. There is a small area where she could pursue her own creative activities. In the quieter trading times of winter this may now be a possibility.

The name ‘Grapefruit Gully’ was given to the business by the previous owner. At first the business operated out of her home named ‘Grapefuit Gully’ where she created various arts and crafts. When the business moved from her house to the Monk St premises the name moved with it.

When it was known that she was to locate her business in a different, spacious premises her friends told Karen, “You wont know yourself”. What they were referring to was the fact that she would no longer have to spend two hours each morning setting up the outdoor space at the front of her store. “They are right” Karen says with a sigh of relief. Two notice boards on the foot path is now the only setting up she has to do.

A sandwich board outside the store now say it all. ‘You will find something for everyone in here. For every budget’ The adjacent poster tells the character of the business - “Affordable eclectic and a little bit silly.”

Karen believes the customers will enjoy the new space which allows her huge amont of stock to be better displayed.

TCDC out of step on openness and transparency

BY GEOFFREY ROBINSON

Thames-Coromandel District Council has gained the dubious distinction of outlier among local government bodies with its recent failure to implement change in favour of open government. Continuation of TCDC’s public-excluded “workshop” practices against the advice of governance experts puts TCDC in sharp contrast to councils big and small, up and down the country.

A CLOSE VOTE AND THREE ABSENT

By a narrow vote of 4-3 at its 27 June meeting, with three members absent or not voting, councillors stubbornly rejected guidance and recommendations from the Chief Ombudsman of NZ and the council’s own governance manager to ensure greater transparency, accountability and openness in council business. With virtually no discussion of the open-government recommendations now widely accepted by other NZ councils, the four councillors voted instead to continue conducting informal Council “workshops” and briefings in closed session without advance public notice, any official minutes, or any record of the proceedings, what was discussed, or even who was there.

Closed workshops and briefings have been a transparency loophole exploited by a number of councils around the country, including TCDC, prompting numerous complaints to the Office of the Ombudsman and resulting in a comprehensive report released on 24 October 2023 recommending changes. The Ombudsman recommended councils adopt a principle of openness by default for all workshops and briefings, with public notice in advance and a range of options for effective record-keeping and/or recording.

TCDC Governance Manager Ariana Hay at the June meeting offered two options for reform of

council policy that would achieve the Ombudsman’s objectives.

But TCDC councillors barely discussed the core issue of transparency, or any aspect of the Ombudsman’s report, or the various options for compliance before torpedoing reform.

In his brief comments urging continuation of the private-workshop status quo, Cr John Morrissey highlighted “the value of full and frank” discussions that can be had out of the public view, and the benefit of “not worrying about what is said”.

Open workshops would be “a noose around our necks,” he added. Without embarrassment, Cr Robyn Sinclair suggested councillors “need a safe space to have difficult conversations …without a lot of scrutiny.” Cr John Grant even suggested it was “healthy” to “not be on the record.” Cr Giri-Percival added little with her comment.

A DIFFERENT VIEW

However, an authoritative review of the Chief Ombudsman’s report published by law firm Tompkins/ Wake takes a very different view of the “full and frank” argument. In an article published in December, a T/W expert on local government explains “full and frank expression of opinions … may be a valid reason for withholding official information” in some circumstances, but it cannot be “used as a reason to exclude the public from a meeting.”

With open-government reform temporarily shoved aside, TCDC is now well out of step on transparency and accountability. Which topics have been “workshopped”, what information has been shared with councillors, what arguments have been made by which councillors, and how and what decisions have been “pre-negotiated” or agreed to for a formal “decision” at a later date in public session … all remain shrouded. For most other New Zealand councils, this practice is no longer acceptable.

OTHER COUNCILS VOTED FOR OPENNESS AND TRANSPARENCY

Taupo District Council CEO Julie Gardyne said her council “is committed to conducting business in an open, transparent manner. It has always been Council’s practice that workshops, briefings and meetings are open by default, unless it is reasonable to exclude the public. We welcome anyone interested in Council business to attend Council meetings, workshops, and committee meetings around the district, and our Council meetings and recorded workshops are also available to view.”

And while the Chief Ombudsman noted that many local councils, like Taupo DC, were already following best practice in openness and transparency, other councils that fell short were quick to reform their policies starting late last year.

Horizons Regional Council on 28 November 2023 voted to “adopt a principle of openness by default for all workshops (and briefings, forums, etc), including a commitment to record a clear basis for closure, where justified on a case-by-case basis, as per Local Government Act guidelines.”

Bay of Plenty Regional Council on 15 February reaffirmed its “adopted principle of openness by default for all workshops (and briefings, forums, etc), and additionally, resolved to look for opportunities to expand “recording and upload of significant workshops.”

Closer to home at Matamata-Piako District Council, “Council workshops are open to the public to attend.” Workshops are publicly confirmed one week prior, as well as the schedule of items to be covered.

And on the very same day that TCDC slammed the door on transparency and accountability, Auckland Council voted exactly the opposite way, accepting its governance manager’s recommendations, doing away with workshop secrecy, adopting a policy of

AEROVIEW GARDEN CENTRE

openness by default, and accepting recommendations to enhance open government best practice.

THERE IS STILL TIME TO RECONSIDER

Despite their embarrassing, short-handed 27 June vote to “do nothing” and retain “the status quo” for its closed workshops, TCDC councillors, preferably with all 10 members at the table, are free to properly reconsider the Chief Ombudsman’s report and the recommendations of senior council governance staff to increase transparency. All it would take is for the mayor, or any councillor, to file a Notice of Motion to put the item back on the agenda.

Following the cost concerns of fellow Mercury Bay Cr John Grant, Cr Deli Connell said, “the extra layer of bureaucracy would come at an extra cost to ratepayers and put additional pressure on staff.”

Cr Connell acknowledged the possibility of changing her vote against reform if “there was strong evidence to suggest there would not be the aforementioned burden on staff and cost to ratepayers.”

As for any administrative “burden”, a survey of large and small councils indicates that the additional staff time and costs involved do not present an obstacle and are routinely managed to achieve the desired outcomes for transparency.

Cr Robyn Sinclair, who abstained without explanation, could be expected to familiarise herself with the Ombudsman’s and governance manager’s recommendations, as well as the positive changes adopted by

other councils, and cast a vote next time around.

MAYOR’S

VIEWPOINT

Most important would be the opinion and leadership of Mayor Len Salt, who missed the June vote due to illness (his first absence since taking office). Mayor Salt confirmed, “No decision has been taken to put this back on the council agenda at this time.” However, he also said, “If this issue comes before Council again, there will be further discussion and debate… I will not pre-empt the discussion, however I do expect, all going well, to be in the chair if the topic is raised and discussed again and will participate in the discussion along with all other councillors present.” The mayor also noted, “Councillors look forward to hearing the views of the public who present at the public forum.”

Deputy Mayor Terry Walker, Cr Martin Rodley, and Cr Peter Revell voted against the current closeddoor workshop policy, indicating their support for the recommendations of the Chief Ombudsman for openness, transparency, and accountability if reconsidered. Cr Gary Gotlieb, who missed the last meeting, responded to a request for comment by confirming, “Yes I do support more openness.” Councillors, as well as interested members of the Thames-Coromandel community can access the Chief Ombudsman’s full “Open for Business” report at https://www.ombudsman.parliament.nz/resources/ open-business-report-chief-ombudsmans-investigation-local-council-meetings-and-workshops.

Invercargill tournament for Mercury Bay bowlers

BY CHERYL HENDERSON

A group of bowlers from Mercury Bay recently made a trip to Invercargill. The purpose was to participate in the 40th Clubs NZ Woman’s Indoor Bowls Championships held from 15-18 July at the huge Southland Indoor Bowls Centre, hosted by the Invercargill Workingmen’s Club.

Our team consisted of Judy Cullinane, Sue Webb, Lee Pudney and me, representing the Bowls section of the Mercury Bay Club. Although it’s the same people as Thursday night bowls, it is a separate club associated with the Mercury Bay Club, Cook Drive.

There were 160 women competing over the four days with Singles, Pairs, Triples and Fours. Section and post section games down to the last eight were played at the centre and the last eight semi-finals and finals were played back at the Invercargill W.M.C.

There was a high standard of play and while we didn’t make any finals, we enjoyed playing against so many other teams and when watching the finals, we realised that most of the teams in the finals were ones we had played in section play and had even won against them earlier.

We certainly felt it was a worth-

while experience for us and will help our bowls.

We thank the Mercury Bay Club, Bowls Adjunct for providing us with the opportunity to take part

in this tournament. The southern hospitality was great, the weather was very frosty mornings but blue-sky sunny days, no wind or rain we had an enjoyable week.

Petition to commerce commission re overpricing of fuel

Why this petition is important

BY JOHN GRANT

On behalf of distressed consumers who feel the weight of unreasonably high fuel prices in the Hauraki and Thames Coromandel district, we call upon the Commerce Commission to take action.

Our local community is suffering, with locals in some areas paying up to$400 more annually for petrol than in other parts of New Zealand. This high cost of fuel is driving locals to travel outside the area for cheaper fuel and necessities—a significant drain on time, resources and is hurting local businesses.

Petrol prices at some locations, such as Thames, Coromandel, and Waihi are amongst the highest in New Zealand. At times prices have

been as much as 44c per litre of 91 Octane more than other competitive outlets.

Fair pricing is a basic consumer right, and we urge the Commerce Commission to scrutinise this matter thoroughly. Take a stand for the residents of Hauraki and Thames Coromandel district. Sign this petition to demand the Commerce Commission perform an immediate and thorough investigation into pricing of fuel locally.

„ GO TO CFM FACEBOOK PAGE TO SIGN THE PETITION

bayleys.co.nz/2180720

The Mercury Bay team – Cheryl Henderson, Judy Cullinane, Sue Webb and Lee Pudney; the bowling venue, Southland Indoor Bowls Centre, below.

25 years of helping people live, work and play on the Coromandel Bayleys Awards Dinner

Over 60 people sat down to dinner at the Bayleys annual Coromandel Awards Dinner at Basker restaurant, Whitianga on 5 July. “It was a night to celebrate excellence, dedication and the unwavering spirit of our team,” says Shaun Paterson, one of the Bayley’s Directors. “It was also a chance for us to thank each and every one of our staff for their support. Our entire business is our people and we wanted to say thank you. We are a 50-yearold national business and we have 25 years of operating on the Coromandel.”

Part of the celebrations was welcoming new Bayleys staff and their partners as well as new Directors.

In his welcome to the partners Shaun said, “Real Estate is not an easy game - late nights, weekends and a roller coaster of emotions, especially in a tough market. With a young family at home, I appreciate that the support of our families is key to what we do, so thank you to you

all.”

Shaun then shared a little bit of memorabilia. He held up a little green book as part of his speech. “Every deal done out of Whitianga office since 1999 is in this book,” said Shaun. Everyone recognised that green book.

Shaun went further to point out the first deal went unconditional on 5 July,1999, exactly 25 years ago to the day of the celebration dinner they were enjoying.

Then to quote Shaun. “The Initials are MW and GP being Mary and my father. It is in my father’swriting; so it is more than an awards night. It is also a birthday party.,” he smiled.

“For those who don’t know the story, 25 years since Mary walked out of Coastline to start Bayleys and a handful of people followed her down the road nicknaming her mother hen and MH or ‘Mother Hen Realty’ was born.”

Shaun reminded everyone of Chris Bayley’s words about resilience at the previous years

dinner, and that there was no doubt that 2023/ 2024 was one of the more challenging years of those 25.

“Despite the market, we have continued to grow the team, grow market share and grow our family and community-based culture,” said Shaun. “With 2 new offices opening last year in Whangamata and Tairua, to add to Whitianga and Thames, we are better equipped than ever to support people with their real estate needs on the Peninsula”.

Along with the various award winners, there was a special thank you to Chris Bayley who is stepping back from the day to day running of the business:“Not only are you one of the wisest heads in Real Estate but you are also a great carrier of culture.”

Shaun concluded by sharing a video with the audience remembering some of their successes and a special thank you was made to Basker for hosting a fantastic event.

bayleys.co.nz/2180719

Thames 620 Pollen Street

Chris Bayley Award for Collaboration. Neil Kember with Bayleys Directors.

Overall top Salesperson. Belinda Sammons & Kylie Pullen (absent) with P.A Lauryn Tucker & Bayleys Directors.

RURAL LIFE COUNTS

Nothing new under the sun – Part One

BY MALCOLM CAMPBELL

The title is a saying very familiar with most -‘Nothing new under the sun’. Shakespeare wrote ‘Macbeth’ in 1606 and in this play, the phrase, ‘The Poison Chalice’ was written. A ‘poison chalice’ is described, “Something that seems very good when received, but that may be in fact be harmful to the person who receives it.”

The poisoned chalice I would imagine is where the guest or visitor is offered a drink as any good host would do and unbeknown to the guest, the wine is poisoned. There are ample examples in Government Legislation to mirror the Poisoned Chalice, the Resource Management Act would be the classic example where promises of ‘Promoting Development’ and ‘Safeguarding the ‘Environment’ are clearly not true. In other words, quite simply lies.

The agencies offering the Chalice are openly blatant about their offering. They print it in the Public Notices columns just as Department of Conservation have done 18 June 2024 edition of The Informer. DOC intends to inflict poison onto the land. In this present age, where we have access to instant everything, there are times that the thought arises, ‘I wish I had paid more attention at the time’. In my experience, I now wish

I had studied physics at school, and I also wish a great number more students had studied physics, because one of the principal rules states; ‘for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.’

In a practical field of operation, if we keep sloshing poison around, there is going to be casualties and not necessarily the target species. The action of poisoning brought about a deadly reaction. Actionpoison and reaction - death. The death toll has gathered speed at an alarming rate since 2000. Up until the year 2000, particularly, the waterfowl were still visible in numbers, not huge numbers, but visible. Less than a month ago, some young people were asked when they had last seen a frog and unfortunately, but unsurprisingly, they replied, “We have never seen a frog.”

Unbelievable, but true, when there were literally millions of them, in every decent puddle, anywhere and everywhere. Whenever there is a problem, there is usually more than one way of dealing with the problem, and a solution is sorely needed now on how to keep our environment tidy without poison.

In past times, farmers kept their own patch tidy. Further back still, there were no herbicides and people used other methods to deal with weed infestation. Has any

council anywhere asked the public to suggest solutions to the current problems? There are many people now, who have no faith in the chemicals as a long term ‘fix it’. There is no evidence to show, that the people who avoid chemicals, are untidier than anyone else. There must be knowledge out there, waiting to be broadcast to save the situation. The Waihi property was seriously infested with ragwort. My diary notes that the blitz on ragwort began 29 August and the blitz continued until the following February. No herbicides were used and I learned with weeds, do not let them seed and if a certain weed is flourishing, it is doing so because it likes the soil where it is flourishing so the core action is to address the fertility issue. To be continued.

„ American Indian proverb. ‘Only when we have cut down the last tree, caught the last fish, poisoned the last river, will we realise we cannot eat money.’

MBAS - Planning a “Through The Ages Quiz Night”

Mercury Bay Area School is seeking sponsorship from the community for their Quiz night.

“This is going well,” says Kathy Moy Low. “We very much appreciate the support we are receiving from our local businesses and wider community.

This year our theme is Through Time but we will be having a general all-round quiz rather than questions based around our theme.

Well Stocked Deli are sponsoring our savoury and sweet platters this year and the savoury platter for each table is included in the ticket price.

Our committee works on behalf of the Friends of Mercury Bay School, is raising funds to replace shade sails in the Junior school and for new outside seating in the Senior school.

“We invite any business who can sponsor a product or service to be a part of this important fund-raising night,” says Kathy Please set aside Friday night 6 September.

From the Quiz Organising Committee

Friends of Mercury Bay Area School

Contact Kathy kathy@moylowconsulting.co.nz

The history – animal poisoning

BY JOHN VEYSAY

The history of animal poisoning on our peninsula began over 30 years ago and has “evolved” into the slap-dash helicopter drops we are witnessing today. How we got here is a tortuous trail of corruption and carnage which I will get back to but I have just this week been contacted by some anxious landowners; 1080 is raining down next door what can I do? How do I explain that I can’t help them? How do I tell them that no one can help them so long as the animal poison industry continues and while this poisoning persists it will continue to dominate our lives. Every caller has seen some of the egregious effects of 1080 close up. They feel a very real fear for their families and animals but mostly for their birds. They can keep their animals locked up, close down all the local water outlets and bring drinking water in from outside, fence off all streams prior to heavy rain, survey all stream-side paddocks every morning before letting the dogs run; they can take all kinds of precautions to protect their

domestic creatures but they can do nothing to protect the birds ... and herein lies the great sadness of the real bird lovers.

In the Informer (June 18) we received notice of 1080 drops in our hills beginning July 1st. These notices used to be signed by DoC staff members who were designated ‘managers’ of the coming drop. Today DoC no longer sign those notices. Every aspect of Coromandel’s 1080 drops is now managed by the contractor,

ECOFX. After five previous drops over the Coromandel the staff at ECOFX, know their way around better than our present DoC manager who only arrived in 2017 after the previous manager had tried to buy a helicopter-launching site from the Mahakirau enviro-group. Who has taken the money this year and given the contractor permission to load and launch 1080 from their land? And what is the cost of this courtesy in 2024? DoC staff used to make

all these arrangements, sign the notices, distribute the publicity as well as manage the correct procedures. All these 1080 drop-related safety activities which used to be managed by DoC staff are now in the hands of the contractor. DoC staff have become irrelevant and the contractor does not appear to have studied very deeply the 1080 handbook of ‘best practice’ and might have failed to carry out some of the usual precautionary steps which locals rely on for their own safety.

Nick claims: “Contractors delivering these operations will personally visit all neighbouring landowners to explain what the work will entail, the important safety measures in place, and answer any questions.” According to Nick Kelly all landowners whose properties lie next door or downstream from these latest 1080 drops will have received a visit from either Ian Cutler or Lance Pucket of ECOFX or from Nick Kelly himself but, in reality, has anyone received one of these visits?

“We work closely with landowners to identify water takes” claims Nick Kelly. How many of the hundreds of affected land-

owners have had their water up-takes “identified”?

Such care used to be taken when 1080 started on the peninsula but for many in 2024 the first indication of a 1080 drop will be the sight of helicopters actually dropping baits next door. The current operation will ’treat’ every square inch of the Mahakirau river catchment. More than two tonnes of 1080 baits will be scattered round on land waiting for the first rain to wash the poison out of the baits and into the river. The flow funnels the poison downstream and into Whitianga’s drinking water. The toxin in the river will be diluted and so, should not be lethal. There will be two flushes of strong poison; two occasions when 1080 will be flowing in measurable quantities out of your taps. When will this happen? No one is monitoring it. Who is still around to care - the contractors are not expected back for another four years.

„ Footnote: For a more detailed account of the chicanery in NZ’s animal poisoning industry go to Reihana Robinson’s book ’The Killing Nation” available from Amazon or in your local library.

pallets.

BY MARIA BALAN

WExciting developments – much to look forward to

e all share in the pride of the accomplishments achieved by The Lost Spring Day Spa. It is an honour to get this award.

In our continuous effort to enhance your experience, we are building a brand-new reception entrance with elevator that takes you directly to the ‘Tree-Top” designed specifically to welcome you with warmth and elegance. But that is just the beginning. This is one exciting addition reflecting our commitment to present New Zealand at its best in Day Spas.

ON-LINE STORE:

We are thrilled to announce that The Lost Spring is going live with its brand-new online store!

In just a few days, you will be able to shop your favourite Pure Fiji products from the comfort of your home.

This exciting launch marks a new chapter in our journey to bring the finest natural skincare products directly to you.

I am very proud of our team, and it is so appropriate that this award should come at the same time as we launch our direct on-line store, but also as our

Tree-Top Fiji-Pacific village takes shape.

TREE-TOP

PACIFIC VILLAGE:

This very wonderful addition to The Lost Spring is due to be completed in March 2025. By that time, we will have 25 therapists and in fact they will be with us by Christmas this year.

When completed, the Spa will have 28 stations as well as the Clamshell pool and adjacent luxury lounge. This is all done to such excellence in quality to enhance

our guest experience.

We hope to be operating seven days from January 2025 with our team of 30 in the ‘Tree-Top’, plus 40 in the restaurant, pools, and grounds.

My thoughts and aspirations are not only about The Lost Spring, but with all our young adults and our service providers who deserve reliability in employment. We have the ability as a town to offer throughout the entire year, busy, thriving hospitality to an all-year-round visitor

flow.

We are look forward to the grand opening of our Pacifica Day Spa Tree-Top Village. We will share and celebrate this accomplishment and milestone of The Lost Spring with our whole town and region.

For more information and to book an appointment, please visit www.thelostspring.co.nz or contact 07 866 0456.

„ Maria Balan is Chief Executive Of�icer, The Lost Spring

International Award for The Lost Spring

“Pure Fiji Clinic of the Year”

From The Beauty Assembly (Pure Fiji):

“A huge congratulations to your team taking the title and award of being our Pure Fiji Clinic of the Year”

The Lost Spring exemplifies Pure Fiji’s ethos by offering an authentic Fijian experience from the moment you step into their beautiful day spa. They consistently provide exceptional customer service and deliver outstanding treatments, offering a blissful experience to enhance your wellbeing. The Lost Springs is committed to empowering their team through ongoing professional development, which translates into an enhanced client experience.

This Spa recently invested in its team members participating in a two-day intensive training course on hospitality and the special nature of day spas. TLS has always been open to investing in their team as they know this keeps their team passionate & ensures high quality, generous service.

The Lost Spring has experienced substantial growth in collaboration with Pure Fiji over the past few years, a testament to their unwavering dedication and commitment to delivering excellence.

The Lost Spring, renowned for its luxurious Spa & Geothermal experiences, holds the distinguished status of a Diamond customer with The Beauty Assembly. This exclusive designation is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and excellence, ensuring that their clients receive only the finest in tropical spa products. By leveraging Pure Fiji’s premium offerings, The Lost Spring continues to enhance its reputation as a leader in the beauty industry”

Sincerely,

Amy Ama Territory Manager The Beauty Assembly

The therapists at The Lost Spring are very proud of their Clinic of the Year 2024 award from Pure Fiji.

Sravanthi Kunja, Maria Balan, Lucy Lalitte and Emi Vunidakua with their certificates of achievement; Emi, right, is a qualified therapist in the day spa.

THROUGH THE PORTAL

When is it time for us to go?

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

The other day I commented to my good lady that I was feeling tired when I felt I shouldn’t be, so she suggested I check my blood pressure. A good idea I thought, so I grabbed the monitor, connected myself up and pressed the button, and waited. To my horror it came up with an empty battery symbol alongside the word “Pulse”. I didn’t feel that bad I thought, but this was a worry; sweat started to pour from my brow.

My good lady noticed I was in distress and came over to view the monitor; I couldn’t speak and just pointed at it. She muttered about me being a silly bugger and scurried off to the battery cupboard, returning with four new batteries. I wasn’t sure where I should put them but with her guidance

eventually put them into the monitor. I was much relieved when numbers flashed and displayed, indicating I was back to normal.

This situation did cause me to start thinking about when it is time to go and in particular, why cannot Green Party politicians recognise such times.

The most recent event that initiates such thoughts is that of Darleen Tana. For those who are not sure of the background, Darleen has not been at work for over 100 days as the Green Party exhibited their version of transparency and did something that they will not tell us about.

They did conclude that Darleen was lying to them (Chloe Swarbrick stated this on the radio on 9th July) and decided she should resign from the Green Party, which Darleen did.

This process did cost us taxpay-

ers a fair bit, almost $50K for the Greens to publicly obscure their version of transparency and full pay for Darleen, even though she was doing nothing.

The pay was probably fair enough though as Darleen’s output during this period would have matched any other Green Member of Parliament and at least she wasn’t crossing the house to scream at people. The costs will continue however as Darleen was not intending to resign from Parliament (at time of writing). The question is; should she?

WAKA JUMPING

We have the so called “Waka Jumping” law which could be invoked by the Green Party leadership where they dump a member from parliament in situations where that member resigns from a party, possibly joining another.

WANT

• Native • Ornamental • Big Trees • Fruit Trees • Citrus • Hedging • Palms• Hire Plants • Bagged Products • Bulk Mulch • Bulk Compost and more...

Open Thurs-Sun 8.30am-4.30pm; others days by phone appointment

Political leaders are reluctant to use this, and I would suggest that a prime reason is that it is a badly constructed law.

It does in effect allow a party leader to sack a member from their party and then dismiss them from parliament as they are no longer a member of their party. The problem is that it allows this to happen to both constituent and list MPs.

An MP represents an entity; a constituent MP represents his/ her electorate and a list MP represents his/her party. If a list MP leaves his/her party, then he, or she, quite clearly no longer represents that party and should leave parliament. This should be automatic; hence Darleen Tana should go.

If, however, the MP represents an electorate then it is up to the electorate to decide whether that

MP should go or stay and this is done though the election process, so the Waka Jumping law should not apply in this situation. A tidy up of the Waka Jumping law is really needed, and perhaps a tidy up of the Green’s politician retention programme is also needed.

Just consider recent failures of this programme; Darleen Tana for something obscure; James Shaw for recognising that a woman would beat him for the position of male leader; Golriz Ghahraman for being a thief; Elizabeth Kerekere while being investigated as a bully. The list could be extended but we don’t want to go back too far.

Perhaps the Green Party should start doing some work on the environment because in their present form, it really does look like it is time for them to go.

MERCURY BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC

Robert Lindsay Dip Phty(Otago) ADP(OMT), Dip.MT. Co-author of ‘Treat Your Own Shoulder’, ‘Treat Your Own Knee’ & ‘Treat Your Own Hip’ and Associates Rebecca Wood BHScPhysiotherapy Crystal Vause BHScPhysiotherapy, Post Grad Cert Acupuncture

Manipulation / Back and Neck Pain / Work Injuries Sports Injuries / Post Surgery and Fracture Rehab Acupuncture Hand Therapy / Women’s Health Clinic

WAITAIA NURSERY

Waitaia Road, Kuaotunu Phone Colin or Cam 07 869 5910 www.waitaianursery.co.nz

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

Physiotherapists with the qualifications to provide excellence in physical health care

24b Lee Street, Whitianga (Next door to Pathlab) Kuaotunu & Hahei Clinics 0800 868 9579

4 Yankee Lane, Whitianga www.teatimequilts.co.nz

Shop hours for Term 3:

Authorised

Monday- ursday 9.30am-3.00pm Friday & Saturday by arrangement. If the ag’s out we’re open, parking in the driveway.

Now in stock: Quality knitting yarns by Lana Grossa, Blue Sky Fiber, Rowan & Tea Time hand-dyed yarn.

by Scott Simpson, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

Top award – 11 years in a row

Bayview Valley Lodge has been awarded yet again – Travellers Choice Best of the Best. This is the 11th Year win in a row. Along with this huge accolade, Dave Hall, owner and host of Bayview Valley Lodge is excited to also report being awarded top 1% of Hotels in the World. This is a huge step from the awarded 10% in 2021,” says David. “We feel very proud but also very aware we must keep our high standard. “

David Hall, owner and host of Bayview Valley Lodge.

With a nearly full season last year, Bayview Valley Lodge is a testament to good old-fashioned service being the key to tourism success.

SPORTS

HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB

Mahurangi Pairs Four

Tuesday, 23 July

Now celebrating 18 years in Whitianga, David has seen this region grow and bloom into a top traveller destination for visitors to New Zealand, and he sees that they select the Coromandel as a ‘must’ place to stay and explore.

“Tourism was hit very hard by COVID-19, especially with the long time shut down of our country, “ says David. But then enduring the cyclone of January 2023, was more than devastation on the Peninsula, with our Highway 25a damaged and closed along with our beloved Cathedral Cove access shut for nearly 2 years. There were fewer tourists to our region causing yet again hardship for so many in tourism. Now we have the promising delights of 2024, improved visitor numbers and the return of our Summer Concert in January 2025.

“Reviews are everything for your business to be successful, and I’m always mindful that I need to ensure moving forward. I give my very best and will continue to do so.

North/South: 1, Val Dwight & Dave Dylla 63.02; 2, Anne Knowles & Sue Gill 52.60; 3, Jean Myles & Philippa Hall 52.08. East/West: 1, Myra Hoogwerf & Maggie Urlich 65.88; 2, Don Barry & Johanna Bonnar 55; 3, Lee Hughes & Carol Henwood 53.13.

MERCURY BAY CONTRACT

BRIDGE CLUB

July Competition Round 3

Wednesday, 24 July

North/South: 1, Augusta Canegallo & Val Dwight 60.4; 2, Kate Palmano & Gavin Hedwig 55.7; 3, Jan Hawkins & Sue Gill 50.5.

East/West: 1, Hillary Scott & Terri Lipanovic 58.1; 2, Susan Swan & Dave Dylla 56.9; 3, Pat Doube & Norma Hart 53.8.

Cathedral Cove Pairs Round Three – Thursday, 25 July

1, Faith Stock & Kate Palmano 69.0; 2, Norma Hart & Gavin Hedwig 66.6; 3, Geoff Jervis & Kathy Moy-Low 54.7.

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB

Round Four Shoe Pairs.

North/South: 1, Chris Death & Robyn Waters 60.63. 2, Sue Poland & Peter Clark 57.86. 3, Heather Buffet & Nolene Kirkpatrick 52.90.

East/West: 1, Ron Baker & Rob

Stewart 63.77; 2, Liz Young & Jocelyn Taylor 59.40; 3, Lee Hughes & Jill Huston 50.83.

MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER

Wednesday, 24 July

Best of three frames: Ten players on Wednesday and it was Luke Trainor, Brian Codyre and Peter Challis with two straight wins each to challenge the finals. Peter won the alley drawn bye and Brian and Luke battled out the semifinal with a close win to Luke. Luke then met Peter in the final frame but a past Club Champion Peter took a very narrow victory to win the cash prize. Luke Trainor runner up and with two wins were Brian Codyre, Doug Pascoe and Wayne Rattrick. No high break recorded.

Saturday 27 July

Best of three frames: Eight players on Saturday and it was Wayne Malcolm and Peter Schultz with two straight wins to challenge the final third frame. Peter took a comfortable win and the cash prize. With two wins Wayne Malcolm (runner up) and Bob Haase. Highest break Peter Schultz with 25.

MERCURY BAY DARTS CLUB

We played doubles this week and had another player joining us all the way from Wellington.

Despite challengesFiji is still paradise

BY LIZ SIMMS

Fiji is special for me (Liz). My beautiful daughter Talia was adopted from a children’s home there thirty years ago and fourteen years have passed since our last visit.

My husband Mike and I travelled there with Talia, her husband and my son to celebrate a significant birthday of mine. My desire was to return to the Children’s Home with my family and to one of my favourite places, Levuka, on the Island of Ovalau.

Sadly, there are still too many children in the Children’s Home. Some await placement and others are there temporarily until their families sorted some big issues. Even though some were rhythmically rocking in their cots, the children appeared well looked after in spotlessly clean facilities. For Talia it was both reassuring and poignant, and also very special to show her husband where she spent the first chapter of her life. Her last visit as a teenager, had been hard for her with so many unanswered questions. She was trying to make sense of her place in the world. For my son it was a trip down memory lane to go back to the place where, as a nine-year-old, he met and held his little sister.

I do need to mention the scourge of methaphetamine in Fiji. This was headline news in the NZ media. It certainly came up especially in Suva, Fiji’s biggest town and the nation’s capital (population 100,127 in 2024). Taxi drivers warned us to be careful and to cross the road if there was a group of young men looking spaced out.

Apart from an edgy feeling around Suva market, it was no more apparent to us than in parts of NZ. However, taxi

for this week were Warren and Peter.

No women’s high finish, but the men’s high finish was 76 played by Rex.

An impressive 180 played by Peter and Rose got a 162.

MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

Thursday, 25 July

Winners: Keith Denney and Cheryl Henderson. Runners-up: Alan Henderson and Lee Pudney

Good Sports: Wayne McNeill, Joy McGregor and Glynne Jackson

THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB

Mens Nine-hole Net

Monday 22 July

1, David Ellis; 2, Steve Airey; 3, Harry Karl.

Twos: Mark Deutsch.

Ladies Nine-hole Stableford

Tuesday 23 July

1, Maree Cabaret; 2, Merrin James; 3, Glenda Philpott.

Twos: Maree Cabaret.

Mens Eighteen-hole Stableford

Wednesday 24 July

1, Peter Mathias; 2, Quentin Francis; 3, Graham Harrison; 4, Brian Tomlinson; 5, Tracey Mulligan; 6, Tony De Coek.

Twos: Steve Moss, David Ellis, Quentin Francis, Mike Friis, Norman Gilbert.

Nearest the Pin#18 - Norman

drivers told us of murders of their colleagues in recent months and each one we spoke to now refused to drive at night. They expressed dismay that the extensive coastlines of Fiji had been caught up in the drug trade. It was now clear that these coastlines were now serving as dropping off places between Mexico and the intended drug markets of New Zealand and Australia.

One driver reminded me that the average wage is only $4 an hour and that many people are tempted to make big money (by Fiji standards) from being caught up in this appalling trade. The tragic spinoff is the amount of local people and even school children addicted. Once addicted, these young people turn to crime to support their addiction.

This is all desperately sad for this gorgeous country and its beautiful people.

The rest of our stay continued to be wonderful. Our Airbnb accommodation was charming and the little town, Levuka soothed and embraced us with its beauty, charm and friendly locals. This is of course typical of Fiji itself and despite the challenges, Fiji is facing, it’s still paradise and tourism is thriving.

Our memories linger. “Moce and vinaka vaka-levu” beautiful Fiji. Until next time… Liz and Mike Simma are well known locals in Whitianga.

Gilbert.

Ladies Eighteen-hole Stableford – Thursday 25 July

1, Mary Coughlan-Mason; 2, Shivani Hall; 3, Bev Gwyn.

Saturday Haggle Stableford

Saturday 27 July

1, Peter Mathias; 2, Kim Primrose; 3, Quentin Francis; 4, Tracey Mulligan.

Twos: Allison Drake-Wells, Kevin Verner.

Nearest the Pin - Kevin Verner.

MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB

Nine-hole Women - Putting Tues 23 July

1, Audrey Vickers; 2, Alison Goodlet; 3, Jenny Layton. Nine-hole Mixed - Stableford

1, Garry Morton; 2, Peter Chaffin; 3, Roger Pheasant.

Eighteen-hole Women – Par and LGU – Wednesday 24 July

LGU: Anita Elmers. PAR: 1, Joanne Geoghegan; 2, Anita Elmers; 3, Janine Hayde.

Closest to Pin #4: Diane Eccles.

Closest to Pin #18 & Longest Putt #9: Debbie Holmes.

Eighteen-hole Men - Stableford

1, Alan Henderson; 2, Sam Murphy; 3, Roger Pheasant.

Gross: Mark Boe.

Twos: Sam Murphy, Mark Boe, Kevin Wallace

Nine-hole Mixed Scramble –Stableford Friday 26 July

1, Jeff Dixon; 2, Roger Pheasant;

3, Kelvin O’Leary

Twos: Roger Pheasant

Eighteen-hole Men - Stableford - Final Round Winter Cup

Saturday 27 July

Winter Cup Winner: Matty Menzies; 2, Trevor Hayde; 3, Andre Fleming.

Twos: Vegas Brown, Wayne Kearney.

Div 1: Gross: Matty Menzies, Nearest to Pin - Sam Murphy, Longest Drive -Sam Murphy.

Div 2: Gross - Trevor Hayde, Nearest to Pin - Roger Pheasant, Longest Drive - Tony Foster.

PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

Nine-hole Stableford and Putts

Tues 23 July

Stableford: 1, Steve Borlase; 2, Jo Geoghegan; 3, Wayne Morrison; 4= David Young, Sandy Grigg. Putts: 1= Catherine Borlase, Annabel Wharton; 3, David Young. Nine-hole Screen Trophy Nett

Thursday 25 July

1, Annabel Wharton; 2, Jo Geoghegan; 3, Brian Keucke; 4= John Hamilton, Steve Borlase, Callum Murray.

Eighteen-hole nett

Saturday 27 July

1, Ryan Cochrane; 2, Jo Geoghegan; 3, Sandy Grigg; 4, Richard Agnew.

4BBB Nett - Ryan Cochrane and Jo Geoghegan.

Winners

BREAKING NEWS!

Scotland celebrates - The Flow Country granted Unesco World Heritage Status

BY ADY COLE-EWEN

It joins a very exclusive list of natural Unesco World Heritage Status Sites including the Grand Canyon in the US and Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Due to the nature of the site, the listing is expected to bring new opportunities for local people through the creation of green jobs in landscape restoration and conservation.

Reacting to the news on Friday, Scottish Govt. acting Net Zero secretary Gillian Martin stated it was a “momentous day” for Scotland. The Flow Country is one of truly natural beauty and its diverse ecosystems a vital part of efforts to combat climate change and nature loss. This global prominence will help preserve the area for generations to come. I want to congratulate the Flow Country Partner-

ship and everyone who has worked so hard towards this tremendous achievement. Their passion has not only elevated the Flow Country to Unesco World Heritage Status but has ensured its protection far into the future.

This will be the 7th Scottish site to achieve World Heritage Status; sites which attract hundreds of thousands of people to Scotland every year.

The Flow Country is home to a wide range of wetland and moorland species, including many birds, including the golden eagle and red throated diver.

COULD THIS BE US? COME TO THE MERCURY BAY WORLD HERITAGE STATUS MEETING ON SUNDAY 4TH AUGUST AT MERCURY BAY BOWLING CLUB

2.00PM - see our advertised details elsewhere on this page.

mercurybayworldheritage@gmail.com

ENTERTAINMENT

Thames Sunday Afternoon Concert

JOHN WELLS ‘BACH AND BEYOND’

Sunday 4 August at 2pm St Georges Church Thames Adult entry $20; TMG Members $15; Under 18yrs Free

John Wells is a graduate of Cambridge University, where he was Organ Scholar for the famous Chapel Choir. He subsequently established himself in NZ as a freelance performer, recording artist, broadcaster and composer. He gained his doctorate with high distinction from Indiana University.

He was organ tutor and University Organist at the University of Auckland from 1992 to 2012. As Auckland City Organist he spearheaded the campaign to rebuild the Town Hall organ; the new instrument has won international acclaim since its debut in 2010.

He has given concerts throughout NZ, and also Australia, the UK, USA and Europe.

John Wells is no stranger to Thames audiences, having given a number of concerts in St George’s Church. On Sunday August 4th at 2pm he will play the first half of Bach’s famous Goldberg Variations on the piano and works from France, Germany and NZ on the organ.

Coastal Spring Ball

Saturday, 31 August

7.30pm -11.00pm

Tickets $25

Mercury Bay Club Whitianga Get your tickets Now!!

MERCURY BAY WORLD HERITAGE SITE?

Public Meeting to be held on Sunday, 4 August at 2pm at Mercury Bay Club

Professor Gordon Maxwell, FRSB, FLS, scientist who has carried out many coastal ecological and resource-use projects in many countries, will discuss World Heritage designation and what it would mean for Mercury Bay.

Your questions will be welcomed. Contact mercurybayworldheritage@gmail.com for further information

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

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

Instructor: Tony 0273335146

Quirky front and backyard paradise

BY PAULINE STEWART

Meet Bert and Jeanette. They have lived in Whitianga for 12 years. Their years in this town they call home started with finding their section and cleaning up the buildings on the section.

Now they have transformed the property through their industriousness; a gracious hospitable cottage surrounded by a large garden of fruit, vegetables and herbs; a plush sleep out for guests; a grand castle like home for doves, and a very stylish green house.

The organiser and maintenance man is Bert, there isn’t much he can’t fix. The garden, however, is a partnership achievement.

“Bert has not always been a gardener,” says Jeanette.

“When I turned 65, I thought what am I going to do?” says Bert. “I was afraid of being bored. So, I started cleaning and fixing things – turning what was there into a green house was my first project.”

Once the greenhouse was built, Bert and Jeanette (when she wasn’t working at New World) were busy putting their green house to good use.

“We ended up with so many seedlings, so many different varieties, that we started a little home business to make them available for others.”

Bert calls his business ‘Opa’s Backyard. Opa is what his grand-

children call him (Dutch).

“When they visit, they call this place ‘Home,’” Opa smiles. “I love gardening and I often have more seedlings than I can handle. I do sell them for a minimum fee, and it is mainly for residents of the Coromandel. I do mainly veggies and companion plants. Always I am more than happy to help a family finding it difficult to purchase veggie seedlings.”

Whitianga, 155 Kupe Drive

Bert’s herbs and seeds wagon will soon be situated out on the footpath for passers by.

“They just need a little more growth before they are ready,” says Bert.

It was the herb garden wagon that The Informer came to see initially, but I experienced so much more.

Bert spent a number of years working at Peninsula Roofing in

• Stunning 2021 cleverly designed 4 bdrm, 2 bthrm, 2 lounge, double internal access garage, family home. Sunny open plan kitchen/dining/family area with superb indoor/outdoor living sun-drenched deck with barbecue/dining & spa area.

• Separate butler’s pantry, great storage, bathroom heated floors, ducted heat pump.

FOR SALE Auction, 10 August 2024, 12.00pm. On-Site (Unless Sold Prior) VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L29266453

Kirstin Brown 027 301 1775 Dayle Candy 027 433 6862

027 436 9990

Whitianga, so he has used that skill and knowledge.

Every part of their suburban lot reveals Jeanette and Bert’s hard working and creative nature. The deck of their homely cottage is adorned by Bert’s magnificently crafted poker table sporting a themed card playing top, all his own artistry. Nine other poker players come once a month and enjoy sharing the table and the

Whitianga, 9 Landel Place

• Outstanding 180 degree sea views, full deck with indoor/outdoor flow from open plan living, dining, lounge.

• 2 story, 3 bed, 2bath, 2 lounge, 2 garage, off street parking.permanent rental. • A great opportunity, tightly held quiet cul de sac.

game with Bert as well as the mini pizza oven bricked in the wall just nearby.

“I enjoy sourcing recycled materials, “says Bert.

“Even the bricks for the garden and path are recycled. I also make all my own fertilizer for our garden. It is very satisfying to be able to do this.”

Of all the things Bert loves about his home, it is his doves he loves the most.

“My grandparents and parents in Holland were into pigeon racing and on my fifth birthday, I was presented with my first pair of doves. I don’t race them, I just love them.”

As Bert is from Holland I did ask about the threat of flooding and if he had experienced the protection of dykes in a time of flood. His answer was simple. “I grew up with dykes. My home region is Zierikzee, pronounced ‘Zeeland’. We didn’t have the option of retreating. Most of Zierikzee is two metres below sea level.”

Bert and Janette’s love for each other has not always known this sense of paradise. They met in Auckland and developed a relationship, but Bert had to return to Holland to help his ageing parents. It was years. Jeanette spent some time in Oamaru but visited Bert in Holland. He cared for them until they passed away.

Finally, they could be together and build a life in Whitianga. It is a life from which many benefit.

Coromandel,

Whitianga, 1878 The 309 Road

Jeanette and Bert in the front garden developed from open space; Bert’s dove house, right; this is what Bert made into a green house, top right.

ENTERTAINMENT

RED HEAVENS – An amazing oneperson play set to wow Whitianga

BY MOLLY FRANKE

Get ready for an unforgettable eve ning at the Monkey House in Whitianga this Sunday, 4 August, starting at 6.00pm (doors open at 5.30pm) as Arts on Tour and Beat Fairy productions present “Red Heavens,” an exceptional one-person play that promises to captivate and inspire theatre lovers in Whitianga and Mercury Bay.

Following the stunning successes of recent productions such as Mark Wright’s extraordinary “Gallipoli,” the world-class “Te Tupa” by John Davies, and Stan Stewart’s community-driven active reading “Man’s Search for Meaning” the Monkey House is thrilled to host this powerful new piece.

Written, directed, and performed by the immensely talented Martine Baanvinger, “Red Heavens” tells the compelling true story of Angelina Moleta, an Italian

immigrant on D’Urville Island. Born on the volcanic island of Stromboli and betrothed at a young age, Angelina’s journey to the remote D’Urville Island in the Marlborough Sounds unfolds into a tale of resilience, friendship, and transformation. Inspired by Gerard Hindmarsh’s bestselling book “Angelina,” which chronicles the life of his grandmother, this play is a bitter yet beautiful portrayal of womanhood and survival against the forces of nature.

Don’t miss this chance to support live theatre and experience a story that will move you deeply. Your attendance also helps ensure that more incredible theatre productions can continue to enrich our community.

“Red Heavens” awaits – come and be part of something truly special! Tickets are $20 and available from www.eventfinda.co.nz or from Whitianga isite.

How to live your best life

“Holistic health practitioner Libby George is Back”

Those who remember and loved Libby’s massage, you are now in for a treat as from the month of August onwards Libby is back in the marketplace. Nurturing “Sacred Spaces” is for those wanting to heal and create greater well-being and wholeness in their lives physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

TREATMENTS AND TRAINING PROGRAMMES INCLUDE:

1. Relaxation massage and Osmosis facials for women.

2. 40-day intensive inner healing coaching programmes.

3. Dream interpretation, consultations and group training.

4. Gut health with microbiome testing with specialised liver and gut detoxification programmes.

5. 21-Day “BE WELL RESET”

Weight loss. An anti-inflammatory diet and mindset “Reset Challenge”. Libby is a fourth generation local. “My grandfather came from New Chums.” I am an ex-broadcaster having worked in Hong Kong for several years. I have been a practitioner in Whitianga since 1997. Libby is trained in Chinese medicine as a herbalist and

massage therapist with over 30 years of experience in wellness. She is passionate about the whole person.

“You are not just a body, you are spiritual and emotional. All aspects of your being were created to be aligned in wholeness and health, as part of your gift of life and purpose. I have helped hundreds of people live healthier and happier lives. This is my calling and I would love to walk alongside you if you are looking

for a coach or a practitioner for additional support.”

Go to her website and download the 40-day wholeness programme and her free pdf on how to reset your health in 21 days.

Libby George is available online and offering in-person appointments. „ Contact 0272152009 or email nourishone@gmail. For more details visit edenclinic.co.nz

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Sudoku instructions

Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of nine boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.

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 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, 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. Start date 5th August 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.

Whenuakite Area Playgroup –9.30am-12.30pm every Wednesday morning at the Hahei Community Centre. Ages newborn-5years. We invite all parents, carers, visitors and grandparents. Contact whenuakiteareaplaygroup@gmail.com

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.

Two join forces to reopen Carnegie Library, Thames

Two iconic heritage institutions are joining forces to reopen the historic Carnegie Library at 705 Queen Street, Thames. Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Thames School of Mines, and The Treasury Heritage Research Centre & Archive/ Te Whare Pātaka will share the Carnegie Library, creating a unique heritage hub. This collaboration aims to revitalize heritage operations within the Carnegie Library and inspire future generations with the rich history of the Hauraki-Coromandel region.

The Carnegie Library, a category 2 heritage-listed site, is a treasured landmark in Grahamstown, Thames, and has housed The Treasury Heritage Research Centre since 2009.

Due to a public funding crisis, The Treasury temporarily suspended services at the end of 2023, as the charitable trust could no longer pay administration and specialist staff. The Carnegie Library will reopen from Wednesday to Sunday in early August when the Thames School of Mines relocates its operations there. Their retail shop will occupy the reception foyer, and an education room will be set up in the current meeting room. Future tours of their historic school and museum will begin from the Carnegie Library, and restoration efforts will commence on the historic Electricity Room at the Thames School of Mines site.

The Treasury will continue operating the Library’s Reading Room, which houses paper-based records from the Hauraki and Thames-Coromandel districts. The Board of The Treasury/Te Whare Pātaka is working with volunteers to reopen the Reading Room for part of the week, welcoming visitors to explore the stories of those who shaped the region.

Anne-Louise Robertson, Interim Chair, comments “The taonga cared for The Treasury tell the post-colonial stories of our region’s rich

industrial, economic, and trading history. Most are the records of European settlers but we also have someextraordinary records that give us a glimpse into how the relationships between Tangata Whenua and Pākehā shaped this area. We hope to grow these collections so we can tell a fuller history of our unique rohe.”

Alongside the 1905-built Carnegie Library is the Trust’s ultra-modern state-of-the-art Archive facility.

The Archive’s strict temperature and humidity controls and fire-suppression system safeguard the region’s post-colonial documentary heritage. The collections, which include letters, photos, newspapers, telegrams, maps, ledgers, and minutes, provide extraordinary details of Hauraki-Coromandel’s early days of colonisation.

Te Whare Pātaka, a name gifted

Kay Kendall, School of Mines property manager; Jan Wright and Anne-Louise Robertson, in front, co-chairs of Coromandel Heritage Trust; and Lise Cook.

to The Treasury by Ngāti Maru, is one of only two such facilities in provincial Aotearoa New Zealand. Efforts to diversify the records in the ReadingRoom and Archive are expanding the collections to better represent Pare Hauraki iwi and the many communities that make up the region’s cultural heritage.

The partnership between The Treasury and Heritage New Zealand, Thames School of Mines marks the start of a new era of community engagement and collaboration. The the aim is to create a heritage hub in Thames that attracts visitors and establishes the town as a premier heritage destination in the Coromandel region.

Thames-Coromandel District Mayor Len Salt says “We’re thrilled that the doors will soon reopen to this very special building. Within its walls is history that shapes our identity, both past and present, and this collaboration will allow more people discover its treasures and the stories they tell.”

Come and experience an unforgettable heritage journey that will leave you inspired, educated, and eager to return.

Jan Wright – Chairperson chair@thetreasury.org.nz

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME (T.D.S)

Meg Beston’s display of T.D.S (23 July issue The Informer)is sad to see. She is, of course, entitled to her opinion, no matter how ridiculously wrong it maybe. Her rhetoric is mostly so much the reverse of the truth, it is not worth a rebuttal. That’s about all I would say about that.

Stuart Dean, Whitianga

EXPLANATION COMMUNICATED CLEARLY

John Grant – A heartfelt “thank you” to you for taking the time to advise us all so clearly and decisively of how you reached your decision on voting for Closed Workshop Meetings to remain closed. As one of our councillors, there was a dismayed reaction to the news you had voted against the recommendation of the Ombudsman. The fact that you took the time to write to the Informer to ‘inform’ us all of exactly how you rationalise, not just this decision, but all your decisions, was exemplary. I feel we can all move forward, knowing that our interests and concerns matter even though we might mot always agree. .

Thank you also to The Informer for bringing quick attention to John’s letter by adding a photograph. Communication, communication, communication is all we need to keep moving forward. it will be communication that gives ratepayers confidence and trust in the future and in our elected members.

Ady Cole-Ewen, Wharekaho

WE HAVE A CHOICE

Why do people want to visit Mercury Bay and its surrounding area? Why do you want to live here? People come here because it is a place of outstanding natural beauty, peace, healing, and recreation activities like walking on the beach, swimming, fishing, and boating. I have seen whales, dolphins, and stingrays in

the bay, and there is an abundance of bird life. I have awe and appreciation for the paradise I am fortunate enough to live in.

Furthermore, Mercury Bay has cultural significance both to Māori and European settlers, and because of the temperate climate and natural abundance of this area, they knew that this was a place where people could live and thrive. This was a place to call home.

Actions have consequences. Nature’s gifts are bountiful, and she has been particularly generous in this area. This gift is abused and plundered by those who show no consideration or regard for the conservation and stewardship of this place. Resources are free for the taking; let’s cut down all the kauri trees; let’s harvest fish and shellfish to the point that there is no breeding stock left; let’s allow mussel/sprat farming and cage farming and our pristine waters become blocked with pollution and sediment; let’s drop poison on the land and it contaminates the ocean and kills marine life; let’s not stop there; let’s allow mining and our land is stripped of its natural beauty and ransacked for financial gain.

You have a choice. Do you want to continue to live in paradise and pass this on to future generations to enjoy? Or do you want to see this area turned into a toxic wasteland that no longer supports life? What we do to the environment, we do to ourselves. Protect, preserve and support the Mercury Bay area by advocating for a World Heritage Site. The advantages and benefits would be considerable.

Verna Carr, Whitianga READY TO START WORK –NO CHARGE

I refer to the Informer, Tuesday, 23 July. The contribution by Trevor Ammundsen, plus your correspondent Noel Hewlett, brilliant, two wise men.

When I finally stopped laughing, it is in fact the reality of the world, we now live

„ The purpose of the Letters to the

in. Politically correct (PC) nonsense. I moved here during the great storm of the Anniversary weekend 2023, which was followed by February 14th storm. The Green Party said we are all going to die.

So as a simple man my observations are, The Shark Bite (footpath) on the Whitianga waterfront remains damaged. Why? Because it requires a “resource consent” (waiting over a year) For what? It is a simple repair, to reinstate existing, nothing new, not rocket science. Very simple, very easy repair. How many tens of thousands have been spent there on red tape and PC nonsense?

The Mercury Bay Boat Club, another easy repair. It is locked up in red tape and PC nonsense. Currently, it’s an eyesore of rubbish on the waterfront. Could be easily fixed with a rock retaining wall. However, we are told nothing can be done. We are doomed, and we just have to stand by and watch the site eaten away. Even if it the Boating Clubhouse is moved, the PC nonsense remains.

So, here is my offer to Trevor and Noel. I’m happy to be your boy on a Working Bee, Footpath ( Shark Bite) and Boat Club. Two easy repairs need no longer be locked up in PC nonsense. Red tape like this is why productivity is so poor in New Zealand, and why everything is so expensive, and your rates will increase year after year at 10% plus.

Ready to start work, no charge.

Douglas Anderson Whitianga (ex St Heliers!!!)

DOC RESPONSE TO ALASTAIR BRICKELL’S LETTER ON CATHEDRAL COVE, 23 JULY SUPPLIED BY JEFF NEEMS

Senior Media and Communications

Advisor | Kaitohutohu Matua Pāpāho me te Whakapā

Editor,

In your 23 July edition, Alastair Brickell asked how the $5M allocated to reinstating walking access to Cathedral Cove could be broken down.

We’re happy to explain. Our funding is for significantly more than hard assets leading to the beach.

We can build the temporary access, address geotechnical and a stair structure design for the long-term solution, explore revenue opportunities and undertake a visitor management plan, within the $5M IVL approved funding envelope.

This includes $2.4M in year one, with up to a further $1.1M for repair of the Grange Rd carpark in 2025/26 and the remainder to be used over subsequent years for part of the delivery of the visitor management plan.

At this point we are determining what external expertise will be needed – but we can state with confidence DOC will run a robust tendering process to ensure we obtain the best possible value for money.

Tania Short

Project Lead – Cathedral Cove Department of Conservation

TRADES AND SERVICES

TRADES AND SERVICES

Coromandel/Thames & Whitianga area.

Phone: Tony 027 494 7692

Centre of town upstairs above Stirling Sports. 68 sq m comprising studio, kitchen, WC, and waiting/dressing room. Available 1st August. Email: jhs@xtra.co.nz Mob: 0274375321

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

Will be held at the Matarangi Fire Station on Wednesday 18 September 2024 at 7pm. One board position is open for election for our

members welcome to attend. If you have any queries please contact –secretarymvfba@gmail.com

Tairua-Whitianga Road, KAIMARAMA 021 0283 0515 kaimaramacats@gmail.com

WORSHIP EVERY SUNDAY 9:30am Come, join us! Bring the family! Parish Secretary: ph 022 132 2061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz

Fisherman 7 Dundas Street, Whitianga ALL WELCOME Enquiries phone 021 781 081 www.anglicanchurchwhitianga.org.nz Anglican Worship Everyone welcome for the Easter programme Sunday 10 am – 12 noon @ 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga (Community

RUGBY AT LYON PARK

Two excellent games played at Lyon Park on Saturday, 27 July

The under 16 team played first and won against Te Aroha as did the First XV which was also against Te Aroha.

There was a lot of local support for the teams, both from Whitianga and Te Aroha.

Cody Hardy (pictured) summed it up.

“We all love Rugby – playing it and watching it.

“Our winning score of 66 nil does not really reflect how well the

played.”

The Mercury Bay First

is now into the semi-finals.

The MBFC Eighth Grade played their game on Wednesday afternoon.

Thankfully we managed to get through the games without getting too wet.

Players of the day were Elias Phillips for putting in great effort for the whole game and Arlo Christini for continuously being involved in the game and playing great.

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)

Editorial: Jack Biddle, Michelle Dellabarca, Suzanne Hansen, Stephen Holmes, Dorothy Preece, Trevor Ammundsen, Lynette Gee.

Business Manager: Emma Gaunt

Newspaper Layout: Diane Andrew Social Media: EMD Agency Circulation: 9000

Office: 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Telephone (07) 866 2090

Editorial: info@theinformer.co.nz, Advertising: sales@theinformer.co.nz Admin: office@theinformer.co.nz After hours: 027 271 6182

Follow us on social media @theinformernz | ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online), © 2023 Mercury Bay Informer Limited

What’s that Number?

Coromandel

Players of the Day; Elias Phillips and Arlo Christini

Cody Hardy, left, was very pleased with the First XVs win over Te Aroha; the Under 16 teams had a hard faught match, but Mercury Bay were the winning team.

Dom Thomassen Player of the Day for MB 10th Grade Orcas

Whenuakite Players of the Day - Noa Jensen and Archie Hansby with Coach Zane Hansby.

Jessica Allen Player of the Day for her tenacious defence. Here with Coach Nick Jensen.

Nikau Ward-Parr, Te Rerenga School and Jackson Davies, MB Orcas, work hard to get the ball.

Te Aroha team

XV

SPORTS

Take a Kid Hunting Competition

BY DENISE ALLEN

Abig thumbs up to the Whitianga Pig Hunters Club for another successful

Take a Kid Hunting Competition.

This hunt is held yearly in remembrance of Kyla Ngarimu one of our junior members who was taken too soon. There were 113 children who entered in two age groups, 0-8 and 9-16years. Hunting started on Friday, 19 July and the kids could hunt up until weigh-in on Sunday afternoon. Pigs, possums, rabbits and snapper were on the menu for our young hunters, and what a great haul they all brought in.

Results: 25 pigs were weighed in, which was over 700kg of pork, 300kg of possums and about 30 rabbits. It is great that the kids involved have the ability to go out and do their bit for the environment while enjoying doing something worthwhile. The Whitianga Pighunters Club would like to thank all our sponsors who supported this event, without them it wouldn’t have been such a success.

Sponsors: Thank You to Andrew from The Stunned Mullet, Okawa, Hunting and Fishing Whitianga,

The Warehouse Whitianga, Sea Cave Adventures, Farm Source Kopu, Lady Admin and the Coroglen Tavern. We all know it’s quite hard for businesses at the moment, so remember to support the locals. Finally, a huge thankyou to the Whitianga Pighunters

Club members who worked hard to once again make it such a great success. Thank you to the Coroglen staff and everyone involved. The Winner Heaviest pig went to 7-year-old Harper Goodlet with her 49.9kg pig. Harper is one of our junior members and her

dad is a senior member. This was Harpers first hunt with dogs. She was so excited that she had won that she took the trophy to school to show everyone. The trophy was especially carved for the Club by a local lady whittler and was presented to Jack Munroe, since

passed, for all his work he had done for the club as a member over the years. He then donated it to the club as the trophy for Take a Kid Hunting. See you all again next year.

„ See the winner on the front page.

A lot of the kids who went hunting, standing with their pig ‘catch’ at Coroglen Tavern.