ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTS
Ground control to ukulele heaven
The Thin White Ukes play David Bowie on three precision ukuleles. Let’s dance.
BY MICHAEL DWYER
David Bowie only wrote one song on the ukulele, as far as history records. That’s according to Iggy Pop, who recalls watching his friend strum out the chords to Lust For Life one lazy afternoon in Berlin in 1977.
That tune might get a run on the Thin White Ukes’ first tour of New Zealand, which kicks off at the Te Anau Ukulele Festival [on October 10]. But with a repertoire of around 50 Bowie hits and deep cuts craftily rearranged for tiny strings and big vocal harmonies, the competition is fierce.
“Space Oddity, Heroes, Life On Mars, Starman, Let’s Dance, Golden Years… there’s a lot of classics the fans want to hear,” says Betty France, who plays soprano ukulele with the death-defying acoustic trio from Australia. “But we do love to slip in a few surprises.”
After nine years on the
THE THREE STARS
road from Melbourne to China, the main surprise for France and her bandmates Michael Dwyer (tenor uke) and Robert Stephens (baritone uke) is the great reception the trio continues to receive from hardcore Bowie fans and curious bystanders alike.
“People seem to have a particularly tender spot for Bowie and I think we tap into that because there’s a lot of love and intimacy involved in our performance. It’s pretty demanding material, and we work hard to do it justice.
MICHAEL DWYER (lead ukulele fireworks) is one of Australia most experienced music critics (Rolling Stone, Melbourne Age, Sydney Morning Herald. BETTY FRANCE (soprano ukulele) makes the trio’s sensational stage clothes. ROBERT STEPHENS (baritone ukulele) is the other guy. Give them a big welcome in Whitianga The Thin White Ukes play one night only at the Monkey House in Whitianga on Saturday, October 19. Tickets: eventfinda.co.nz
Come and play the winning design from the recent DesignA-Hole competition, built and playable thanks to Wild Wood Mini Golf and situated outside the library. Can you get a hole in one?
Free, no booking required – but be prepared to wait your turn!
Wednesday 9 October and Thursday 10 October 1.30pm-4.00pm.
DR SEUSS: TAIRUA LIBRARY ESCAPE ROOM
The Cat in the Hat has lost his hat - all we know is Thing 1 and Thing 2 have something to do with it! Can you find the hat and escape the room?
You and your fellow Seuss fans will have 30 minutes to solve the clues and find your way out of the room!
Bookings are essential as time-slots are strictly limited. Contact Tairua Library to book your half-hour time-slot - bookings are open now!
Groups must have a minimum of two people and a maximum of six people.
This escape room is suitable for primary school-aged children and older. Younger participants are welcome to participate with a parent or caregiver. We recommend groups include at least one person over the age of eight.
Like all of our school holiday events, this activity is free! Be sure to check out what else is happening at our libraries
these school holidays.
When: Wednesday, 9 October - Friday, 11 October 9.15am-4.14pm.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCATE, RAEWYN PEART TO SPEAK IN WHITIANGA
Raewyn Peart one of NZ’s top environmental advocates and will be the guest speaker following the Mercury Bay Forest & Bird’s AGM on Sunday 13 October. Forest & Bird AGM is at 1.30pm. Raewyn will speak at 2.00pm
Copies of Raewyn’s book, ‘Environmental Defenders’ will be available for sale. An invitation is extended to everyone in the community who is interested in protecting and enhancing the local environment of the Coromandel
Venue: St Andrews by the Sea Community Church, Corner of Albert and Owen St, Whitianga
CORRECTION
To the Dame Lisa Carrington article last week – the photo on page 2 was mistakenly printed as being Warren Harris instead of Mike (Blink) English. Apologies Mike and Warren.
There may also still be some auroras visible towards the south at the beginning of the week if we’re lucky as the Sun was very active at the end of last week. Look for a low pinkish glow. Tuesday, Oct 8 – There is a long bright ISS pass in the west from 6:13am moving right beside Jupiter while a crescent Moon now lies above Antares and even higher above Venus at dusk. Wednesday, Oct 9 – We have an ISS pass in the west from 5:26am moving right next to Mars. Friday, Oct 11 – First Quarter Moon and there will be a long bright ISS pass from 8:29pm in the NW. Saturday, Oct
12 – Comet A3 is closest to the Earth today and will be right on the horizon at dusk to the right of brilliant Venus. Sunday, Oct 13 – The comet is now a little higher in the western dusk sky and about
The Thin White Ukes – Michael Dwyer, Betty France, costume designer and Robert Stephens. Photo Marty Philbey
Gordon is a Lion and he shared a lion’s portion
BY PAULINE STEWART
The event was about the Lions Club, the Whitianga Lions Club and in part the Mercury Bay Lions Club.
This event marked the 59th Charter Anniversary of the Whitianga Lions Club – the Whitianga Lions Club was formed in 1965.
It was also about service to the community, and commitment to others.
However, weaving it altogether and underlying the reason for the event was one man’s testament to service and serving others especially as a member of the Lions Club – Gordon Barnaby.
Last Sunday, 6 October, in the middle of the day, was a very auspicious occasion at Mercury Bay Club
Everyone who attended and they came from all over the North Island, wanted it to be Gordons Barnaby’s day.
However, he had so planned the programme that it was an event which honoured so many others. Gordon had prepared the detail of their achievements and meticulously prepared personal awards. It was a very moving time.
FIRST A LITTLE HISTORY
Gordon was a Charter member of the Avondale Lions Club from 1974 till 1996.when he transferred to the Whitianga Club. In in 2018 he transferred to the Coromandel Lions Club for three years before again returning to the Whitianga Lions Club. Gordon has 60 years of 100% attendance. He has served in virtually all positions in the club and has attended over the years 120 District or Multi District conventions
and 11 international conventions. Thin addition to lions he has been an Auckland City Councillor and served on the America’s Cup organising committee when it seemed it would come to Whitianga. Gordon is still the secretary for Whitianga Lions and serves on a number of other community organisations. I would add he has been Whitianga’s Santa for the last 19 years.
Gordon Barnaby is 88 and his keen mind and prodigious memory, enthusiasm for keep-
ing accurate records and his love for people and his generosity towards them, framed the entire occasion.
First and foremost, Gordon organised for the longest serving Lion in Whitianga, Shirwin Lee to be recognised and honoured for 60 years a Lion. Shirwin is the only remaining charter member of the Whitianga Lions Club. This is a remarkable achievement and Shirwin’s hold on the history of the Mercury Bay area is like an annal of local history.
Gordon spoke of his love for and his pride in his family. That was his first priority and then Lions and his community. He was joyful in recognising the people who had given years of service and described their deeds. He gave opportunity for distinguished guests to speak – District Governor Dave Thompson, Lions Zone Chair – Marilyn McMillan, the Mayor Len Salt, member of Parliament and Lion, Scott Simpson.
Continued on page 4
Mayor Len Salt holds the published book, written by Gordon Barnaby; Shirwin Lee, longest serving Lion, 60 years; top right, Gordon Barnaby – it was his day.
Gordon’s day and it was shared
Continued from page 3
Through it all, was the friendship and affection that was tangible for those with whom he has worked alongside in his local Lions Club – Kevin Robinson – the current President, John Pederson – the Chairman of the occasion, Noel Hewlett, Barry Roach, Jeanette Russell, Ian Robbie, Peter Birch.
A new Lion was welcomed into membership – Gwyn Howells, sponsored by Ernie Pitchfork. This was a sombre few minutes, a man committing to a life of service to others. A touch-
ing moment was when local caver and Lion, Glenn Schache, presented Gordon with his own skilfully made carving.
Finally, there was the book to be presented – Gordon’s finished work on the history of the Lions Club in Mercury Bay.
Gordon summed up Whitianga Lions Club – ‘the little club that could, the little club that did and the little club that will’ (be there in the future).
Over the years of its charter Whitianga Lions has raised $1.9 million in funds for the local community. In terms of assets that the club has made possible,
the value is $3.2m. 297 members have been welcomed into membership. It may be ‘a little club’ in world terms but what it has achieved in the stream of goodwill, the difference to this community in facilities, services, signs and leadership is of gigantic dimensions.
Thank you Gordon Barnaby because you brought all of this to light and to life, not just in your book but through the people you gathered together.
The event really was about them, those you hold dear and those who have gone before you.
Glenn Schache presents a carving to Gordon; right, Gwyn Howells is made a Lion, sponsored by Ernie Pitchfork.
Kitchen Calendar
Dive Zone – failure is not an option
BY PAULINE STEWART
There are other dive businesses in New Zealand that have been going for twenty years. Some have been going longer. However, none has had the same owner and leader for twenty years.
This is Dive Zone Whitianga owned by Darrell and Linds Bird and last Saturday night they squeezed 160 people into two marquees off to the side of their Dive Zone building to celebrate 20 years of Dive Zone and to thank everyone who has helped them in this outstanding achievement. Darell wished he could have had more people but the space was full to capacity.
SOME HISTORY
Where does the story begin? Darrell learned to dive in Egypt on a travelling/working holiday. He had found his niche – what he knew fitted him. This experience led him to enter a full-time tertiary programme in Palmerston North. This would mean a qualification that would allow him to teach and be able to certify div-
ers. “I never thought you could do diving as a career before this,” said Darrell.
“This was what I wanted to do and the challenge was finding a place to do it. Finally, I ended up in Whitianga – seeing the islands, the water, the bays after travelling to many other places. This was going to be Dive Zone. I met Linda when I was looking for a place of business to lease. The rest is
history.” They are a phenomenal team.
“We have had a few challenges, with economics in the business,” says Linda.
“When I first came here, people thought I had rocks in my head,” said Darrell.
“The population was 3,000 and there was a three-month summer and here I was going to set up a full-time diving business.”
MERCURY BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC
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“What has been great for us and for the town has been the education stream – the school programmes really help. The students and teachers come in off-peak season and occupy the camping grounds and other accommodation.”
When Dive Zone started in Whitianga, it processed four certifications in the first month and Craig Rassmussen was one of those first four. Craig is still with Dive Zone today, twenty years later.
There are currently 11 full-time staff. Amber Boyd has also been with Dive Zone for 20 years and Ryan Hansen has stayed with Dive Zone since he became a certified instructor under Darrell’s teaching. Each of these three was generously honoured and thanked as part of the celebration. Both Darrell and Linda were quite emotional for these presentations.
“Dive Zone is a remarkable business. It’s really rewarding,” says Darrell. He then says what has become his mantras; “Failure is not an option. The lesson is never to stay down.”
He then adds, “And it’s all about
cool sh*t.”
Darrell is a keeper. Linda is a keeper. The best man at their wedding was one of the band playing at this, their 20 year birthday – Nick Rogers. Tested on Animals (the band) helped everyone dance the night away.
This was some of the message of the PADI team to the entire gathering on Saturday night.
“We would like to congratulate Darrell, Linda, and the whole dive team at Dive Zone Whitianga on their 20 years in the dive industry.
Dive Zone Whitianga has an outstanding reputation as one of New Zealand’s premier diver training schools. Earlier this year, Dive Zone Whitianga became New Zealand’s second-only PADI Career Development Centre, which is the highest PADI Retail and Resort Association membership level. To recognize this well-earned reputation and achievement, Dive Zone Whitianga has received the PADI Outstanding Contribution to the Dive Industry Award.
Ian, PADI Asia Pacific’s Sales Manager, came to personally present this award to Darryl and Linda.
Continued on page 6
Darrell thanks Ryan Hansen for his loyal and excellent service.
Whitianga Dive Zone celebrates
Continued from page 5
OTHER AWARDS WERE MADE:
• The epic achievement of Dive Zone having 10,000 PADI certi�ications, of which over 2,000 are at the PADI professional level.
Zone Whitianga’s ongoing commitment to quality education, diver safety, and professionalism as their first priority.
– Finally, there was a trophy for Darrell and the Dive Zone Whiti team to celebrate the 20 years of Dive Zone Whitianga, a 20-year Membership Achievement Trophy.
• Darrell’s 20th year as a PADI Pro. Over these 20 years, Darrell himself has certified just shy of 2000 PADI Divers, from Scuba Divers to PADI IDC Staff Instructors. In fact, over 1000 of these 2000 certifications are at the Professional Diving Level.
Happy 20th Birthday Darrell and Linda and Dive Zone Whitianga!
Dive Zone has greatly benefitted Whitianga and Mercury Bay and there are many dive businesses around the world that were certified at Dive Zone.
• Darrell was presented with his 20-year, individual PADI Membership Achievement PADI acknowledged Dive
A big congratulations and thank you from everyone in this community.
Book a
6 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga | Mon - Fri 8-5 | farmerautovillage.co.nz
Darrel
darreln@farmerautovillage.co.nz
Rates need an urgent review –
INTRODUCTION
BY PAULINE STEWART
This is factual story about a Whitianga family’s encounter with anomalies in the property rating system.
They are not the first family to encounter these anomalies. There are other stories to tell and The Informer will, if that helps address the inequality, even injustice that is experienced because of the anomalies.
Some of the regulations have been set when Whitianga had only residences and motels. But now many homes are also B&Bs and some motels have become long-term rentals or have been turned into separate titles with individuals owning a title.
This is due to changes in our economy and in the need expressed for accommodation by non-homeowners.
All of these changes are able to be part of the blend of the way people live until it becomes evident that the same regulations work out differently across the board and some rules are applied inconsistently by those interpreting the regulations.
As this goes to print, we are aware that the Mayor has indicated in some correspondence that the rating system is going to be under review. Perhaps this will provide valuable insight for that
review and hurry things along.
This family’s story reveals aspects of our rating system that are simply not fair and do not address the need in Mercury Bay for long-term affordable accommodation.
“We bought our home here in 2019. Whitianga was where we wanted to spend the rest of our working life and hopefully our years beyond that. Once we were settled, we had some time to look at the property in front of us right on Buffalo Beach Road.
It seemed a bit run down and needing work. We knew it was rented out for long term accommodation and as we are property investors; it seemed like the right kind of challenge for us. So, we approached the owner of the property to see if we could
buy it. The owner was ready to sell.
At the time it was a seven-unit business. We spent a lot of money doing it up. We wanted it to have a total facelift, ready for a new era. There was also that consideration in our thinking that this building was in front of your own home. Appearances matter.
THE FIRST SURPRISE
The Council (TCDC) came to us and told us that they were investigating us as the new owners, to make sure the tenants weren’t long-term.
We were a little taken aback. We knew that the occupiers of the building had been long-term and that the motel scenario was operational two owners previous. That development of its use for long term tenants had slowly come about due to people’s living
requirements and their economic situation. It was accelerated during Covid and then stayed that way.
This same trend has occurred with a lot of properties throughout New Zealand as well as in Whitianga.
However, the building we had purchased and were renovating, remained zoned commercial, even though it had ceased to be run as a motel.
We felt confident that as this seemed to be the practice and the reality of the trend over the past several years, that we were wondering why, all of a sudden we were being investigated when the way it was being used (for longterm accommodation) had been going on for so many years.
Not so. We were not allowed to have long-term accomodation at the property.
We had just paid for the property and then spent a great deal of money improving it for the sole purpose of long-term accommodation. We were aware of the great need for affordable long-term accommodation in Whitianga.
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE COUNCIL
We had to get a building warrant of fitness and then get inspected every month at a cost, if we wanted to leave the commercial zoning in place.
We could only have each tenant for two months per calendar year, because the building was under motel classification.
We could apply for a resource consent to change the use from commercial to residential (to allow for long-term occupants).
Continued on page 9
One of the bedsits on the property descibed in this article; front view of the building on Buffalo Beach Road.
Who else will get stuck with this scenario?
Continued from page 8
OUR RESPONSE:
We engaged a planner to go down the road of changing it to residential.
MORE INSTRUCTIONS AND REGULATIONS:
We then had to get a fire assessment. Two of the units failed because they had a carport between the units. The cost of the assessment report was $3,000 and made recommendations for compliance. The Council then denied the recommendations and told us we needed to do it a different way.
The carport had been there for many, many years without any hint of any indiscretion in terms of the regulations from the council.
The council required us to get architectural plans of the buildings and complex so they could update their files. The buildings had been in place since the 1950’s, so Council had limited, if any, documentation. This included drawing carparks onto the plans.
OUR FURTHER RESPONSE:
Eventually, after jumping through all of their hoops, we got our resource consent.
COMMUNICATION LACKING
It is interesting that we found out
we had been granted a resource consent by a neighbour. We were not told or written to by anyone from the Council. We had gone to considerable expense to meet their regulations. As a condition, the consent for the seventh unit, as a long-term dwelling, was revoked. Ironically, this was the only unit on the property which (in the previous operations) was permitted to be long-term accommodation, as it was the manager’s quarters.
We started our work to make the property as we had planned, and we were able to secure longterm tenants. Sadly, we had to evict the tenant in the seventh unit.
A CLANGER OF A LETTER:
Everything seemed to be going well and then we received a letter from the Council on our new rating.
Our previous rates on this property, rated commercial, were $6,455. The letter announced that our new rating as residential, for long-term tenants, was $19,870 plus water rates!
We always paid water but what the council have gone and done, is applied standard commercial rates. We still have only one water metre.
Nothing has changed at the property, except we don’t use the seventh unit. That is less water
usage. We are being charged for six water meters. It says what the water meter fees are as a total, but we can’t charge water on to out tenants because we can’t split it up fairly.
One unreasonable response in our many conversations with Council was that if they disconnect the water, we will still have to pay for it.
As a motel, it could sleep 24 people. As a residential property, it can sleep a maximum of twelve. (Currently, there are six people living there.)
We are using less water and services, and we are not allowed to use unit seven.
We are basically getting charged six lots of everything on the rates invoices. (This is despite still only having one set of rubbish bins and nothing physically changing at the property).
We have four bedsits and two one-bedroom units. The rating would be exactly the same if they were six, four-bedroom houses.
Our rental charge average across the six units is $358 a week. It’s affordable and a good standard of living and fully compliant with Healthy Homes Stan-
dards. The council wants $384 a week from us for rates! Then there are water charges and also Waikato Regional Council rates.
WE DID SOME COMPARISONS:
An equivalent property in a nearby region, rated residential with six units and long-term tenants – GV $1,105,000 – rates are $11,433.33. This includes five lots of water, sewerage disposal and rubbish collections.
Our GV is $1,025,000 – rates $19,870.23 plus water usage, plus rubbish collection, plus Waikato Regional Council rates.
WE HAVE FACED THIS QUESTION:
“Could we change this back to commercial rating – get a different Warrant of Fitness and a commercial classification allowing us to have people for a maximum of 2 months?”
This would be contracting outside the residential Tenancies Act if we want to have long-term tenants, so it isn’t an option. That is not what we have set out to do. What we have done is essential for the growth of hospitality and should be affordable for the person renting and for the investor.
Can we challenge the Council on this? If the policy, as has been stated, was genuinely to encour-
age people to come and engage in hospitality – have small motels operating with long-term occupancy rooms; then this is the opposite in terms of our reality.
You could run three motels for less rates than a residential property offering long-term accommodation. However, how does the Council audit its policy that motel occupants are never there more than two months of the year?
Offering these units as longterm residential under a commercial zoning is illegal. We changed it to residential believing it was the right thing to do. We went though so much expense, and council regulations were part of that.
The whole time we were going through this, no one told us about the impact on the rates. The Council are taking approximately 20% of the rental income to cover the rates. Then we have water charges plus WRC rates. No wonder they were so keen for us to change it over to residential!
Who is going to offer rental accommodation as an investment when there is not a positive cash flow?
We are not the only ones in this situation. There are other properties with long-term rentals getting slammed with impossible rates.
The rate payer should not have to live with injustice from the very people to whom we pay rates.
Happy Hours
Thursday 4pm to 6pm Friday 5pm to 7:30pm
An amazing Shoe Box project
Help others, you’ll feel it doing you good – Operation Christmas Child A message following World Clean-up Day
– fill a Shoe Box with essentials and small gifts for a child who really needs it. Your package – a Shoe Box of goodies, will be delivered to a child in a war torn or neglected part of the world. You can choose the age of the child. The instructions are all in the box for you. It is fun looking for all the things that will fit and that will be useful and loved by the child. All of these gift boxes go to parts of the world where children struggle to have the basics of an ordinary life.
The deadline is coming up to send these boxes so they will arrive before Christmas. Use this week to get your Shoe Box with the instructions and gift suggestions.
The unfilled boxes with instructions are available in Whitianga from St Andrews Op Shop, Coghill Cafe, St Peters Anglican Church (Dundas St) and The Informer in Monk Street.
Then you go and shop for your selection – fun! Each box requires $12.50 postage. The easiest way is to pay online or payment in cash can be made with the box
The good news is that Tairua and Pauanui also joined Operation Christmas Child this year.
Robyn Balfour who has been the magnificent organiser of Operation Christmas Child for several years says, “In Tairua, Joan from St Francis Church collected some shoeboxes for their church,” Then she gave the Tairua community the opportunity to pack shoeboxes, with a great response. Also Jewel (from Pauanui isite) heard about Joan doing the shoeboxes, and now the Pauanui isite is a collection point for the shoeboxes in Pauanui.”
Not much time left Drop-off points in Whitianga are The Informer – last day Friday, 25 October, St Peters Anglican Church (Dundas St) (last day Sunday, 27 October.)
Shoebox Packing Party – St Andrews By the Sea Church, Sunday, 27 October, from 11.30am. You are welcome to bring along donations to go in the shoeboxes, also if you would like to help pack shoeboxes, you are most welcome.
Note: Since 1993, more than 220 million children in more than 170 countries and territories have received an Operation Christmas Child shoebox. The project delivers not only the joy of what, for many kids, is their first gift ever, but also gives them a tangible expression of love and goodwill. Contact Robyn Balfour Email: robyn.balfour@hotmail.com. Ph: 020 409 39674.
FROM THE MERCURY BAY RESOURCE RECOVERY CENTRE TRUST
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our community for their generosity and commitment during the World Cleanup Day campaign. We were able to make a tangible difference together.
This year, over 50 volunteers, along with 140 enthusiastic students, rolled up their sleeves and dedicated their time to cleaning up our beautiful environment. The results were astounding – we collected a total of 391.5 kg of waste, including a full 40-litre bin of glass and another 40-litre bin of cans. The school’s efforts alone resulted in 201.5kg of waste being removed, show-
casing the powerful impact of our younger generation. The contributions of the community whether through donations or in-kind support, were instrumental in the success of this event. Because of the sponsors, we are able to keep momentum growing and build a cleaner, more resilient future for our community. Together, we are proving that small actions, like cleaning up our beaches and public spaces, have a lasting impact.
Tracey Bell, Chair
• Tidy 2 bdrm, 1 bthrm cottage nestled in the heart of Whitianga.
• Generous 1060sqm section within easy walking distance to the beach.
• Plenty of space & secure parking for the boat, motor home & visitors vehicles.
Whitianga, 8/2 Mayfair Gardens
• 3 bdrm, 2 bthrm home within a popular gated complex not too far from town & the beach. Single internal access garage with extra parking spaces & private outdoor grass area.
• Body corporate fees very reasonable & an outdoor shared pool.
FOR SALE By negotiation
VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L30965772
Ann Hamilton 027 488 6675 Kirby Faulkner 027 436 9990
Hahei, 21B Harsant Avenue
• Seize the chance to own a piece of paradise!
• Beachfront living right from the comfort of your own home
• This property isn’t just a home, it’s a front-row seat to nature’s spectacular show.
FOR SALE $1,795,000
VIEW harcourts.co.nz/ L25693457
Paulette Tainsh 027 241 2001 Philippa Evans 021 266 9295
Tairua, Lot 7/3327 State Highway 25
• 2.53 Ha, north facing, bush views and private.
• A moment’s drive south of Tairua.
• Elevated building site, subject to title.
FOR SALE $710,000 + gst if any
VIEW harcourts.co.nz/ L22920750
Adam Fuller 022 018 0856
Whenuakite , 156B Silverstream Row
• 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom open plan home in a rural area.
• Native bush, birdsong, solitude, soothing sounds of the Whenuakite river.
• 2 dwellings that can be used as BnB & the opportunity to make money.
FOR SALE By Negotiation
VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L30814208
Peter MacGregor 027 224 7332 David Frew 027 491 8420
Whitianga, 196 Cook Drive
• Generous 1040m2 (mol) flat sunny section tucked back of the road.
• Double garage, sleepout and garden shed.
• Located in a quiet park of Cook Drive not too far from the beach.
FOR SALE By negotiation
VIEW harcourts.co.nz/L29408114
Kirstin Brown 027 301 1775
Kirby Faulkner 027 436 9990 David Frew 027 491 8420
Tairua, 10/237 Main Road
• This modern, light and bright apartment offers a superior design plan with easy flow to dual balconies.
• 2 generously sized bedrooms with built in robes, loft storage and 2 car parks.
• Located right in the heart of Tairua’s bars, restaurants, cafes and the Pepe Estuary.
FOR SALE $545,000 VIEW harcourts.co.nz/ L30700330 Philippa Evans 021 266 9295 Jo Wardle-Heath 027 470 7883
• 3 bdrm, 2 bthrm stunning multi-level home showcases iconic mid-70’s architecture. Breathtaking harbour & range views.
• Nestled on 2 separate titles, this secluded oasis spans 1,618m2, offering endless possibilities.
FOR SALE By negotiation
VIEW harcourts.co.nz/ L30609233
Raewyn Trail 021 0201 9111
Coromandel, 1485 Wyuna Bay Road
Annual prizegiving at Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club –And congratulations on national award
It was grand night with so many trophies each one representing some kind of battle with nature.
Young anglers featured throughout the range of awards – the weight of fish and for the tackle.
What is due is the Mercury Bay community congratulates their local game fishing club.
CLUB OF THE YEAR 2024
The Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club (MBGFC) has been announced as New Zealand Sports Council Club of the Year for 2024. It is a prestigious award made from out of a pool of 55 clubs and awarded on governance, community service, fundraising, fishing results, tournaments held and value to the members.
John East, club manager, pointed out that value to the members is very important as they keep the club going and the volunteer spirit makes so much possible. The MBGFC has over 3,350 members, making it one of the largest fishing clubs in the country.
100 YEARS!
In celebration of a century of the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club is holding a very special tournament commencing 100 years to the day of the first marlin ever to be weighed by the club, recorded on 26 February, 1925, landed by angler Mr. E.E (Chad) Chadban.
This is going to be an event to remember with the MBGFC commissioning a ‘Centennial Trophy’ to remain in the clubrooms forever, honouring the boats that
enter and the winning team(s) of the momentous competition.
Entries for this once-in-a-lifetime tournament are limited to 100 boats so enquire now to see if there is any room left. Be a part of history.... this is one you won’t want to miss!
CENTENNIAL FISHING TOURNAMENT – 26 FEB TO 1 MARCH, 2025
Kelly Chambers – National Champion Angler
Well earned and hearty congratulations at the prizegiving went to Kelly Chambers who has been awarded the New Zealand Sports Fishing Council ‘Old man of the Sea Cup for Most Meritorious Catch and the 23-24 Angler of the year for her 300kg Broadbill caught on 24kg line and her 13kg striped marlin on 10kg line.
Kelly broke two Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club records with
these two catches, and the 300kg broadbill is a pending world record claim.
OTHER NOTABLE CATCHES
THIS YEAR:
Junior Angler – James Davies – a 98.2 kg Pacific Bluefin Tuna – Junior and NZ Record. For this James was awarded the Sunbird Trophy – The Heaviest Tuna of the Season.
Junior Angler – Jack Rogers 207.1kg Blue marlin caught during the Kubota.
Jason Sheriff’s 12 tagged and released Billfish
KELLY’S TROPHIES
10:1 Trophy – ‘Heaviest Fish weighing ten times breaking strain of line.’
Lady Jocelyn Cup – The Heaviest Gamefish of the Season by a Lady Angler. McGeady Cup – Heaviest
Gamefish of the Season Caught on Light Tackle.
Paul Barrett Memorial Trophy – Heaviest Billfish of the Season. 300kg.
Stevenson Trophy – Heaviest Billfish of the Season Excluding Black or Striped Marlin.
Lister Diesel Cup – Striped Marlin Scoring Most Points –1030 points.
Hooper Cup – Angler Scoring Most Points for the Season –5,897 points.
HIGHLIGHTING SOME OF THE CHAMPION ANGLERS AT THE ANNUAL PRIZEGIVING
Michael Nicholson – Whitianga Hotel Trophy – Kahawai Scoring Most Points. Also, NZ Champion Line Weight Angler (Single Fish) snapper – 3rd place, kingfish – 1st place (6kg line).
Levi Nicholson – Club Champion Angler Primary 3rd place, Hunter Nicholson – Club Champion Angler Primary 2nd place and NZ Champion All Tackle
Youth Angler Primary – Kahawai. Granddad Jim Nicholson also won his fair share of awards.
Ryder Hamilton – Junior Snapper Trophy – NZ Champion All Tackle Youth Angler Primary –Snapper 8.49 kg.
Jaxon Walker – Collier Trophy – Last Marlin of the Season in Open Waters. Tag and Release (T&R) Primary Striped Marlin – 1st place, and Club Champion Angler Primary 1st place – 600 points
Mark Phillips – Frank Brown Memorial Trophy – Skipper of Champion Team in Mercury Bay Open. NZ Champion Line Weight Angler (single fish) – snapper 6kg line 7.73kg – 1st Place.
Kylie Phillips – Miss New Zealand Trophy; Lady Angler scoring most points during Mercury Bay Open NZ Champion Line Weight Angler (single fish) kingfish 4kg line, 13.60kg – 2nd place. Jarrad Hill – NZ Champion Line Angler (single fish) kingfish 8kg line 9.94kg – 3rd place.
From left, Manager of MBGFC, John East; Kelly Chambers with baby Gus and Ann Smal (Secretary of MBGFC) all holding some of the trophies and awards won by Kelly.
Gordon McIvor President of the MBGFC, proudly holds the national award, Sports Fishing Council Club of the Year; James Davis, Junior Angler with the heaviest tuna of the season.
Celebrating the International Day of Older Persons 2024 at the Whiti Club
BY MEL ASQUITH
Last Tuesday, 1 October was definitely a day to celebrate. This special day marked the 34th United Nations International Day of Older Persons and here in Whitianga this was an opportunity to bring together, acknowledge and thank the older persons in our community.
A celebratory morning tea, held at Mercury Bay Club, and organised jointly by Social Services, Mercury Bay Medical Centre, and Te Korowai provided a range of cross-generational presentations and services to entertain, inform and pamper the senior citizens that live in our community.
Joe Davis, Ngati Hei kaumatua, opened the morning with a Karakia and a recognition of the knowledge and wisdom that our older people hold, as well as their experience and contributions to the nation and more locally to our own community, including our war veterans.
Civil Defence was the education for the morning with a presentation from Pam Bolt, Emergency Management Unit Officer, TCDC, talking about emergency planning and the importance of being prepared in our rural setting, with a checklist and a goodie
bag for participants to take way. This message was reinforced by speakers from our local branch of Grey Power.
Local dance studio, En Pointe, amidst preparations for competitions, gave their time to provide three beautiful dance performances whilst Sergio and his wife, and local GP, Jana, shared their wedding anniversary with
a graceful demonstration of the Tango.
Wellbeing and mobility is a subject gaining increasing momentum, particularly in this age group, and whilst St John’s were on hand to check blood pressure, Lisa Dury, from Te Korowai, led an exercise class with members from the audience, illustrating strength, balance and mobility
that promotes brain and body fitness.
To show our appreciation, with the help of Mercury Bay Area students, the older people were also treated to morning tea, spot prizes, massage/mirimiri and nails painting. We would like to thank Cook’s Beach Massage, Te Korowai and Teryll and Kizzy for pampering our audience and The
A large number of older citizens gathered for the United Nations Internation Day of Older Persons. They were entertained, honoured and they participated.
Lost Spring, Josh and his team at Stephenson’s Pharmacy and Coghill Café for their contribution to the prizes. We are also very grateful to Community Partnerships at TCDC for funding of the morning tea.
This was a significant day to remind ourselves of the importance of this increasing demographic both globally, nationally and more locally. The organisers would like to thank all those involved, who gave their time to help make our older people feel valued, supported and celebrated. Mel Asquith is Business Manager of Mercury Bay Medical Centre
Enter the Auckland Rescue Photo Competition and be in to win an Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max. rescuehelicopter.org.nz
Through the ongoing commitment of our supporters, we fly all over our region, to be there in the moments that matter. To celebrate the connection we have with our community, we are running a photo competition.
If you’ve ever taken a shot of our Rescue Chopper we’d love to see it! Simply upload your shot of the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter to enter. For more information about the photo competition or to submit your entry, please visit our website.
Together, let’s capture the spirit of our service and local people.
Photos: Linda Cholmondeley Smith and Mel Asquith
It’s still ‘Good for your soul’ to come this way – Coromandel
That’sthemessageoftherecentlyreleasedannualreport,23-24 fromDestinationHaurakiCoromandel(DHC).
They have been reviewing their whole organisational structure, including governance since the previous year’s (2023) AGM. The results of their internal review were provided to both TCDEC and Hauraki District Councils in December 2023.
THE REVIEW IDENTIFIED TWO KEY FACTORS:
1. Rating very well - DHC’s operational team were quite frankly, best-in class, outperforming most other RTOs in the country
by significant margins. Despite being around 27th of NZ RTOs in team size and funding, the overall performance places DHC around 9th, beaten only by much bigger and significantly better funded RTOs, - Auckland, Queenstown, Wellington, Christchurch, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, Northland and Hawkes Bay.
2. Moving to Destination ManagementDespite there being no identifiable “better” model in a review of all 32 NZ RTOs, it was felt that a change to the governance struc-
VALHALLA
• Doral Intrigue
Valhalla is a great family boat for a days fishing or cruising for 5-6 people, or a weekend away for 2-4 people, all in style and comfort. This well equipped vessel is a great example of the Doral Intrigue pleasure cruiser which are highly regarded for their quality, comfort, handling and all round sea worthiness.
Valhalla has done just 780 hrs and had a major service/refurb in late 2023 covering the twin Volvo Penta engines, Volvo stern drives, water/oil coolers, heat exchangers, starter motors, steering system, fire and toilet systems, genset and water pumps. Over $50K spent locally with PC Marine. Canvas, clears & carpets replaced mid 2021. Full details and receipts available. Located @ Whitianga Marina, ph owner: 021-742929; Asking $167,500 ono
ture was needed to ensure DHC was better fit-for-purpose as the organisation continued to progress into the Destination Management realm.
EXCERPT FROM CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
The year has been full of challenges for our region due to the devastating severe weather events which have impacted visitors and businesses alike. The lengthy closures of our main access route SH25A, and our hero visitor attraction of Mautohe Cathedral Cove, have left lasting negative impressions on visitors and our local communities.
The year has been a year of two halves with July - December 2023 focused on activities to minimise the negative impacts of access issues and ongoing media coverage.
We launched the Lucky Loop campaign to encourage visitors to drive the SH25 loop road, experiencing The Coromandel at a more leisurely pace and encouraging longer regional stays. We also worked with our local Councils (Thames-Coromandel and Hauraki) to secure additional external recovery funding to promote the region over summer, which is a departure from our normal marketing schedule.
This funding culminated in The Coromandel Cure, a campaign advocating the scientifically proven health benefits of a
in
successful campaign elevated the region’s brand equity taking ‘The Coromandel good for your soul’ to another level.
The second half of the year, after the early and much welcomed opening of SH25A days before Christmas, moved our focus onto regional recovery for visitation and our international schedule of activity.
While the year has been testing, we believe our efforts have been rewarded with Hauraki Coromandel still front and centre in visitor’s minds as a destination where they can unwind and experience the beauty of our region’s nature and the diversity of our small towns.
John Sandford - Trustee and Chair of Destination Hauraki Coromandel Trust
short break
Hauraki Coromandel. This
THROUGH THE PORTAL
Climate change and the search for truth
BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN
The discussion about climate change, probably more correctly how we react to climate change, has raged back and forth over a number of years. The proponents of climate warming theory generally use a lot of what they think of as facts to forward their case. Generally, I will ignore these but a letter from Meg Beston printed in The Informer issue 1124 made me groan audibly. I question the logic. So rather than ignore the “facts” Meg put forward, I felt they should be addressed and let us get some clearer thinking into the discussion.
Firstly, Meg stated, “Climate science is as well established as the science of gravity.” Really? I don’t think so and will explain.
The theory of gravitation put forward by Isaac Newton and first published in July 1687 states, “..That every particle attracts every other particle in the universe with a force that is proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between their centres”. Or to keep it simple, apples fall down off the tree, not up. Scientific pro-
cedures establish that theories such as this become facts by having people set out to disprove the theory. When they cannot do so, the theory becomes a fact. Gravity has never been disproved and is a fact.
Climate Science however is not based on proven theories. It is based purely on data collection and opinions. To state that this opinion industry is the same as the science of gravity is ludicrous.
Secondly, Meg then stated, “99% of 88,000 peer reviewed climate science papers agree that human activities primarily cause climate change”. In making this claim, she refers to a publication by Mark Lynas in 2021. The paper from Mark Lynas was a sample of 2,718 climate related papers, from the 88,000 referred to. It was not a summation of all papers. His sample showed the following attitudes to the theory that fossil fuels are responsible for the changing of our climate;
Papers that were against 4
Papers that were neither for nor against 1869
Papers that did not say they supported but is presumed they were 417
Papers that agreed 428
How does one get to the statement Meg quoted based upon these figures? The answer is quite simple. You decide; anyone who did not say they were against you, must be for you and therefore produces the 99% figure. An honest analysis of these figures would be;
16% of the papers agreed with the theory of fossil fuels causing climate change; 84% of the papers did not come out in agreement with this theory.
The Climate Change Industry has no proven theories and relies
on twisted surveys to “prove” its case. There have been plenty of other reported surveys which, when analysed impartially, with no pre-conceived opinion, show that the scientific community is nowhere near a consensus for the reasons for climate change.
Thirdly, Meg was quite optimistic when she went on to claim “$95 billion in savings for Kiwi households by 2040 from switching to renewable energy”. The electricity industry currently takes $9 billion a year from us which, over the period Meg refers
to, is $144 billion. It is extremely optimistic to expect this figure to drop to $49 billion, or about $3 billion a year due to extending renewable energy. When making such claims, we cannot forget that about 85% of our electricity generation is currently from renewable sources, so I see no logical basis for Meg’s claim. Perhaps it came from her Solar Panel salesperson.
Meg, like most Climate Change proponents, likes to label people such as I as being “a denier”, and they spit out the word in much the same way as medieval matrons would spit out the word “witch” at any woman they didn’t like.
Generally they were looking for a stoning session or a good fire in the village square and I often get the feeling that nothing has changed.
I am not a so-called denier however, as I can see the weather changing daily and can see its climatic effects on our beach. I am a realist and firmly believe that the sun has more effect on the climate than I do. After all, it’s a lot bigger and hotter, and I do not believe politicians using climate as an excuse to raise taxes on us, will result in any climatic change whatsoever.
COROMANDEL RESCUE MISSIONS
For the Auckland & Coromandel Westpac Rescue
1-30 September 2024
05.09
05.09
10.09
10.09
Coromandel Assist a female patient in her 20s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.
Whangamata Assist a boy suffering an injury from a fall onto an object. The boy was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Whitianga Assist a female patient in her 60s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Waihi Assist a female patient in her 30’s suffering a medical complaint and in a critical condition. Our doctor brought blood and assisted with the patient transit to Waikato Hospital onboard the Waikato helicopter who was already on scene.
Helicopters
20.09 Colville
Assist a male patient in his 30s whose motor vehicle had dropped 15 metres off the road and onto its roof. He was extricated by bystanders and then extracted by winch. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.
21.09 Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 60s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
21.09 Colville Assist a male patient in his 30s whose motor vehicle had dropped 15 metres off the road and onto its roof. He was extricated by bystanders and then extracted by winch. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.
25.09
11.09
17.09
18.09
Pauanui Assist a male patient in his 60s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.
Waihi Assist a male patient in his 30s suffering an injury from a slip in a work-related accident. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.
Coromandel Assist a boy suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Starship Hospital in a serious condition.
19.09 Tairua Assist a male patient in his 40s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition.
Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a female patient in her 70’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
26.09 Whitianga Assist a male patient in his 60s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.
26.09 Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a female patient in her 40’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.
30.09 Thames Assist a boy suffering an injury from a fall and in a minor condition. Transportation to hospital by helicopter was not required and crew returned to base.
STAN’S STUFF
Food obsessions – favourite foods –eye watering food – food for peace
BY STAN STEWART
Every living thing is food oriented. However, I suspect I am a bit over-the-top.
Chinese food: There’s a Chinese café in every Aussie outback town and I suspect every New Zealand small town. The menu hardly varies – sweet and sour pork, fried rice, dim sims, spring rolls, and of course, fish and chips. However, we’ve been to China several times as part of our work and for a holiday and the strangest thing is, they don’t have Chinese food in China – well not the kind of Chinese food Aussies and Kiwis like.
Here’s a business idea! Set up NZ/Aussie Chinese restaurants in China. Look how well MacDonalds and KFC have done in China! Teach the Chinese about Chinese food – Kiwi and Aussie style! They’ll love it.
Desperation cooking: My limited experience and budgetary constraints have forced me to invent/devise ways of cooking the meals I have fantasised about. For instance – fried rice with
pineapple pieces. One winter in the grip of an insatiable desire for this dish, I cooked huge quantities of this kind of rice – sometimes successfully, sometimes a bit off. Under the mantra of ‘waste not, want not’ and some duress, my family ate my fried rice with pineapple pieces until it was all consumed – in fact every meal for a week was the record.
Gazpacho: This Spanish cold soup seduced me. Gazpacho also soured a relationship with a young artist I was working with. Either the gazpacho had to be dropped from our working lunch menu, or I would have to find another artist.
Roast Dinners: I was very surprised to find out how easy it is to cook a roast dinner. Mine were fairly successful. I loved them and others said they were “OK”! What finally brought this fixation to an end was the cleaning up. Those big pans finally overcame me. Being inclined to laziness, I decided to give roasts a miss.
Canned Soup with peanut butter on bread: I loved this combination and had it every lunch for
weeks. When soup was served in a restaurant or by a friend, I was usually (not always) reluctant to ask for peanut butter. Still today peanut butter on bread is an essential accompaniment for soup.
Eureka! Supremo! The greatest revelation of my gastronomic life came to me on a beach in Mercury Bay. As is sometimes said of spectacular revelations, “It knocked me clear off my perch.” It set me on a course to perfection which has dominated my lunch time for months.
My friend is a Whitianga entrepreneur who, when the sun shines, makes a living by providing exciting activities for holiday
makers. I went to ask him how the season was going for his enterprise. We had a most informative chat.Then as he chatted, he set about making his lunch. Clearly this was going to be a salad roll. I watched casually at first, and then in amazement. he proceeded to make a magnificent, world-beating, astronomical gourmet salad roll. I suddenly realised that I was in the presence of salad roll ‘greatness’. I began thinking this man should give up his beach attraction and settle on making salad rolls. He could knock Maccas right off their perch. He wasn’t listening.
The completed roll was 6 inches (15.24 cm) in height – as big as the triple-banger hamburgers advertised on TV, but it looked twice as yummy.
On my return home, I set about my quest to reproduce what I had seen. For the next few weeks, sensational salad rolls dominated my thinking and my mid-day activities. Replicating perfection is not so easy. I haven’t achieved this yet, but it remains my goal.
Ruminations: I’ve been think-
ing about how food helps to break down barriers. The example that comes immediately to mind is Japanese food. In my growing-up years in Australia hostility towards Japanese people was universal. Now I number Japanese individuals amongst my best friends. It’s simplistic to say that this is because of Japanese food –but in Australia and New Zealand, their food certainly helped prepare the way for friendship.
Further to this I have sampled some delicious Iranian food. Friends who lived in Israel loved their delicacies.
In many cultures there is an emphasis on sharing food with strangers. We all know a shared cuppa or meal can be the beginning of friendship. In the terrible conflicts of our time, it seems unthinkable, but it must not be impossible for ever.
We are not in the Middle East, but we can do our bit for peace in our local situation. Shared food can open doors and hearts.
“With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.”
Māori Proverb
The winning name was Bluey
There was a naming competition for the big mobile mower during the previous school holidays at the Whitianga Bike Park. Wolfe, 10 years old, won.
The name he chose was Bluey (a good Aussie name). Every school break, Wolfe comes with his younger brother Jago from Te Awamutu to spend the holidays with their grandparents.
The Bike park is a favourite place of the family to spend time. Wolfe’s voice has been recorded and is now Bluey’s voice so when the children press the Go button, Bluey introduces himself on the recorded message.
Jago and Wolfe sit astride the mobile mower now named Bluey and residing at Whitianga Bike Park.
When The Informer arrived to take Wolfe’s photo, he was presented with a $50 Warehouse gift voucher by Bike Park
manager, Jon Maud. That means another happy activity for Wolfe during his school holidays. Well done Wolfe.
BY CONSTABLE
MICHAEL CARTER
WHITIANGA POLICE REPORT:
Monday 30th September to Sunday 6th October 2024
GENERAL:
On the 30 September enquiries were made at a Coroglen address where several drugs were located. The occupier of the address is subsequently facing various charges including theft of gravel from a contractor’s catchment area on SH25.
During the early hours of the 6 October an unknown person has stolen a campervan from the reserve on Joan Gaskell Drive. This was then set on fire a short time later. Any persons that observed anything suspicious around the Woolworths Reserve between 3am and 5am are asked to speak with police.
ARRESTS: Nil arrests this week.
OCCURRENCES:
On the 1 October a Family Harm matter was reported at a Matarangi address. A heated argument occurred with the parties separating prior to police arrival.
On the 2 October a Family Harm incident occurred at a White Street address. All persons were spoken to regarding the matter.
TRAFFIC:
Several areas have been targeted by inconsiderate drivers doing wheelies on grass reserves and roundabouts
around town. If anyone has any information to identify these people, please contact police. We would love to go and remove their vehicles from them.
Police are targeting Restraints, Impairment, Distractions and Speed this month.
HELP NEEDED FROM THE PUBLIC
We believe someone may have seen something connected with the camper van arson in the early hours of last Sunday morning. A camper van is a very visible vehicle and Joan Gaskell Drive is a well lit thoroughfare. Please speak with police if you saw or have heard anything. This is a very serious crime.
Tao Do of great benefit for life
BY TONY WILSON
Tao Do Martial Arts has been running in Whitianga, for just over 10 years. Our number one goal is to develop students to the stage where they can defend themselves if the need ever arises. Techniques are learned that are effective and not taught in many other forms of Martial Arts. We all know how damaging bullying can be so to give kids the ability to deal with this and the confidence to stand up for them-
selves is worth it alone.
A martial art helps develop confidence in oneself by showing students that they can push through difficulties. We are all faced with these throughout our lives.
Tao Do aims to install confidence and belief in oneself, respect for oneself and others based on a philosophy of respect earned not demanded.
A priority at every training is to foster a nurturing environment to help students develop in all aspects of the art.
Tao Do has 3 schools, Rotorua,
Te Aroha and Whitianga.
The students and instructors form a family, supporting each other within and outside the class. Spring is here so it is a great time to get involved.
Tony is a 4th Dan Black Belt. He also teaches Tai Chi (Yang style) and this is held Monday nights, 6-7pm at the Whitianga Town Hall. Tao Do is held Tuesday and Wednesday nights 6-7:30pm. Ph 207 333 5146.
Tony Wilson is an instructor of Tao Do every week.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
TIME
TO SAY NO
I’d be the first to admit, that while I take some notice of what is happening with regard to our region and the actions of TCDC and also Waikato District Council, I often feel as though all we can do as ratepayers is voice an opinion and hope that someone will listen, all the while, mind you, making sure we keep paying those ever-increasing rates that both TCDC and Waikato District Council seem comfortable invoicing us for.
The Whitianga Esplanade Redevelopment coverage in The Informer lately caught my attention as I started to question why this would even be considered at this time when so much of what we hear from TCDC is the lack of funding to achieve much needed things.
It was interesting to read a recent Letter to the Editor which listed potential, essential works for Wharekaho and a suggested breakdown in costs that would be very achievable from the $12,570 million budget that TCDC aims to spend on the Esplanade Redevel-
opment. Meanwhile, those of us living on ‘The Darkside’ (Cooks Beach), I’m sure would really appreciate some of that budget earmarked for urgent repairs to the only road! that runs from Flaxmill Bay to Front Beach and Ferry Landing.
A section of the road, at a guess 100m, has been down to one lane only since being undermined by Cyclone Gabrielle. There is a potential threat that if another severe storm hit this area the remaining one-lane section could collapse cutting off Cooks Beach on one side and isolating Front Beach and Ferry Landing. At present all means of transport, including trucks and buses use that one lane.
TCDC, how safe is it? Are we blindly trusting that you have it all in-hand?
While I’m on my wish list, TCDC could we please get some street lighting at least around the Cooks Beach village, could the budget stretch to upgrading our wastewater system? And how about fixing the toilet block in the centre of the beach; maybe repair the dan-
The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to allow members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest. Please keep them to 200 words or less. These letters do not re�lect the editor’s view. The editor reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.
gerous broken bench seat at the Longreach playground and add a toilet block.
Oh and while you’re at it, improve the speed hump by the playground so that it does actually slow down drivers, as intended. Did you know we are fundraising for public area security cameras here at a cost of $20,000?
Perhaps TCDC might have some ‘loose change’ to help make this community safer while you’re at it.
Cynthia Daly, Cooks Beach
WAITING TO HEAR FROM SCOTT SIMSON MP ON OUR ROADS
Remember when Coromandel MP Scott Simpson was quick to fiercely criticise the former Labour/Green government for their handling of the Kopu Hikuai Road closure?
In fact, the new bridge was built in record time and came in on budget.
In total, the previous government committed $150 million across the Coromandel state highway network. In stark contrast,
Scott Simpson speaking at the Lions Club 59th Charter Anniversary celebrations on Sunday. See pages 3 and 4.
Scott Simpson and his colleagues have failed to secure the critical resilience funding needed for Coromandel’s vulnerable roads.
The New Zealand Herald reports that Thames-Coromandel District Council had worked with Waka Kotahi and Waikato Regional Council for over 18 months on a $248 million investment proposal to fortify our roads against more intense and frequent weather events caused
by climate change. Yet, when the 2024-2027 National Land Transport Programme was released, there was nothing – no funding we desperately need to keep our roads open during future extreme rain events and coastal flooding. Instead, we’ve been handed a paltry $21 million for basic patch-up repairs, while the rest of the country’s transport priorities have taken precedence. So, expect many more road closures and disruptions to local businesses thanks to this shortsighted, penny-pinching approach.
The previous government did not hesitate to provide the resources required to keep our local roads safe and open, while the new Minister of Transport Brown is fixated on road cones and increasing speed limits around our schools.
Where is Scott Simpson’s fiery rhetoric now? The people of Coromandel deserve answers and action, not weak excuses.
Maureen McGill, Mercury Bay
Scott is preparing a response to this lett next issue 15 October.
Have you bought your tickets for the
WHITIANGA SUMMER CONCERT?
SUN 26 JAN 2025 | WHITIANGA WATERWAYS ARENA
Come celebrate 15 years of the Summer Concert Tour with COLD CHISEL, ICEHOUSE, BIC RUNGA and EVERCLEAR
EVENT TIMING
This weekend Coromandel Arts Tour 36 artists, 17 studios
9:00am Car Park Opens 10:00am Express Entry Open 11:00am Main Gates Open 11:15am NZ Opener 12:30pm Everclear 2:00pm Bic Runga 3:30pm ICEHOUSE 5:00pm Cold Chisel 6:30pm Concert Ends
LOOP BUS
FreeWhitiangaTown Loop bus runs to the concert and back.You can purchase a return bus ticket to theWhitianga Summer Concert when you purchase your concert ticket.
Loop 1: Ferry – Isite – Concert Venue Loop 2: Centennial Ave – Buffalo Beach Rd (toilets near Halligan Rd) – Venue
BUS DEPARTURES:
• Coromandel – Information Centre – 9.30am
• Matarangi – Matarangi Fire Station – 9.45am
• Kuaotunu – Kuaotunu Reserve – 10.00am
• Whangamata – Whangamata Rugby Club – 9.00am
• Pauanui – Community Hub carpark – 9.15am
UNFORGETTABLE LIVE MUSIC AND FESTIVAL EXPERIENCES ALL RETURNS DEPART AT 6.30PM FROM DROP OFF POINT
• Tairua – Tairua Information Centre – 9.45am
For more information collect a booklet from Coromandel Information Centre or any one of the studios.
Gallery 6 in the main street of Coromandel exhibits the works of five local artists.
Rosemary Murphy, Saskia Riemersma and Rose Deane – in the gallery at 860 Tiki Road, Coromandel where the three of them are exhibiting their work.
Welcome back markets – a brilliant start – for Spring/Summer 2024-25
BY STAN STEWART
The first market for Whiti Citi Market for spring/summer 24/25 was a vibrant affair. It was the same for Coroglen night markets and for Coromandel Saturday markets.
Amongst the many stalls we noticed a new one.
WHITI CITI MARKET - MINI MAKERS
‘Mini Makers’ produce colourful and intriguing creatures for children and other objects of interest. This was their first time with a stall at the Whiti Citi Markets. Their stall was lively and colourful and busy - definitely a hit with the young fry.
Mini Makers are a straw in the wind as to what is happening all around us. The products were all produced by 3D printing. This amazing technology is becoming more available, more affordable in industry and commerce and in homes.
The production of Mini Makers objects is a family enterprise with roots going back into Mercury Bay’s past. In the 1980s, Doreen Harris and her husband built a house at Cooks Beach. Since then, their home has been a family gathering place. Doreen now lives in a care home in Auckland and the Cooks Beach home is used by family, especially at holiday seasons.
The driving force behind Mini Makers is Doreen’s son, Lindsay Harris. Lindsay is an electrician who now majors in industrial automation. His interest in Laser
Printers came naturally to him. Lindsay introduced and enthused his family about Laser Printers and their potential. So now it is a family hobby/enthusiasm and their products are amazing.
The Mini Makers stall at the market was staffed by Lindsay’s wife Morgan and daughter Madison. No doubt they were a bit nervous about how their products would be received. However, by the end of the day they were well pleased. Mini Makers and their variety of products will be back.
MORE ABOUT WHITI CITI MARKET
There are three institutions at the Whiti Citi markets – the sausage sizzle run by The Whitianga lions Club, the Fairy Floss stall and Dave Kennedy. Of course, they are far too lively and flexible to be institutional but what is meant is, they are consistent, dependable, and their product and/or service is what we expect – quality with excellent service.
The Lions Club raises funds through their sausage sizzle for the Mercury Bay Community.
Bianca Reynal is a local teen, holding her fairy floss stall to earn money. Of course, she is supported by her Mum and Dad and sometimes grandparents but Bianca is always there early setting up and the day before she is busy cooking up her fairy floss and putting it carefully into packets. It is her small business.
Dave Kennedy’s dulcet tones waft over Soldiers Memorial Park every Saturday morning of the
markets. People sing along; as he often sings and plays familiar tunes they cheer everyone along. You never know who comes to the markets but sometimes you get a surprise that you do recognise the stranger.
Famous visitors Trent Boult was at the Whiti Citi Market on Saturday. Trent is a New Zealand cricketer who has represented the New Zealand cricket team in all formats between 2011 and 2024. He continues to play in various Twenty 20 leagues around the globe as a fast bowler. Trent and his wife, Gert and their two boys were relaxing at the markets in the Whitianga sunshine.
COROGLEN NIGHT MARKETS
The first Friday night of the Coroglen Night markets was not so busy but some of the stall holders were at the Whiti Citi markets at Soldiers Memorial Park on the Saturday.
Tiana with her Amber Lily jewellery all made by her own hand, came from Dunedin to hold her weekend stalls. Her sister lives in this area and helps her set up and pack down but it is still a huge commitment to do this. Is ay good on her.
Many of the stall holders make their own beautiful creations. They love what they do and what they make, but it costs, takes a large commitment of time and for some, it is their livelihood or paying for their study. Please support local producers and manufacturers. Try and make online still local. Our economy and sense of well being depends on it.
Whiti Citi Markets on again this Saturday; next Coroglen Night Markets TBA; Coromandel Markets on again this Saturday; and Coroglen Farmers Market starts up again at Labour Weekend.
Morgan and Madison at their Mini Makers stall
Beautiful hand-crafted artisan soaps were on sale at Coroglen Night Markets
Lovely fresh local produce at bargain prices.
Mike Christie is a member of the Whitianga Lions Club and a regular at the Saturday sausage sizzle. He is getting ready for the Halloween season.
Trent with his two boys Bowie and Parker buying some fairy floss from Bianca Reynel’s stall.
Tiana and her sister Amber Lily whose name is the business name for Tiana’s jewellery .
GAMES AND PUZZLES
ACROSS
Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@ theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.
1. Feeling pain (6) 5. Negative votes (4) 7. Speak to crowd (5) 8. Horseback sport (4) 9. Subside (4) 10. Preliminary copy (5)
11. Runs after (6)
13. Pork cut (4)
14. African wildlife tour (6)
18. Prescribed amount (6)
21. Stepped (on) (4)
22. Routines (6)
24. Bring together (5)
25. Group of three (4)
26. Illuminating gas (4)
27. Court attendant (5)
28. Nocturnal birds (4)
29. Veer sharply (6)
DOWN
1. Features (7)
2. Cultural symbols (5)
3. Commodities (5)
4. Parked undercover (7)
5. Lies snugly (7)
6. Tugging (7)
12. Misjudge (3)
15. Flight staff (7)
16. Strenuous (7)
17. Intuition (7)
19. Eggs (3)
20. Concentrated scent (7)
22. Inheritors (5)
23. Spree (5)
MY APOLOGIES
DUE TO HUMAN ERROR THE CLUES FOR THE CROSSWORD PUZZLE LAST WEEK WEREN’T THE CORRECT ONES – THEY WERE FROM THE PREVIOUS WEEK - SO NO PRIZE WINNERS TO ANNOUNCE THIS WEEK.
Proudly sponsored by
Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer. co.nz to reach us by 12.00 noon on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly.
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.
WHAT'S ON
OP SHOPS
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust
Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.
St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am4pm 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 – Friday 11 October and Tuesday 29 October. 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, 10am1pm, 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.
Writers’ Club – Tuesday fortnightly between 4-6pm at The Coromandel Informers foyer, Monk St, Whitianga.
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 10.30am-12.30pm 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.
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
Tuesday and Wednesday
Whitianga Town Hall
6:00 – 7:30 pm
Instructor: Tony 0273335146
If you have an activity or group or the existing information is incorrect, let The Coromandel Informer know. Call 07 866 2090, email
Our What’s On page is not guaranteed to run every week as often space is restricted. Consider paying for a classified advert if you want to guarantee your activity runs every week.
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 at MBAS gym. Please note club nights currently limited to existing club members due to high attendance levels. Contact: Steve 027 211 3568
Mercury Bay Badminton – Every Wednesday 9-11am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, ages 16+. Phone Carol 027 474 7493 for more information.
Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club – 92 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Social Bowls, Thursday & Sunday at 12.30pm, Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.
Mercury Bay 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 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 – 9.30am12.30pm 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 mercurybayathletics@gmail.com
Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. Phone Barb 0274 075 268.
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated –Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet.whitianga.admin@gmail. com.
Whitianga Bike Park – 144 Moewai Rd, Whitianga. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, BBQs and walking trails. Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact John 027 366 4606. Whitianga Gun Club – For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Graham Sutcliffe on 021 846 655. Whitianga Community Patrol – Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043.
JUSTICES OF THE PEACE
Kim Abrahamson: 07 866 5896 or 027 478 2232
Peter Bould: 021 923 198
Barbara Blair: 07 866 5181 or 021 310 351
Heather Bruce: 021 132 8878 or 07 866 5873
Derek Collier: 07 866 5893 or 027 436 8444 Bess Kingi Edmonds: 022 158 9782
David Harvey: 0274 878 363
Patricia Hynds: 021 935 780
Mary Kedzlie: 07 866 4096 or 027 290 4940
Julie Bubb: 027 600 3967
Date: Thursday 31 October
Time: 7pm-8.30pm
mikehoey66@gmail.com
David:
Tracey:
VERNA (027) 320 0079
vernacarrspiritualhealing.com
for
- inc power, 7m x 7.5m $178 per week inc GST,17 Moewai Road, Whitianga. Ph: 0274 817 258
Everyone welcome for the Easter programme Sunday 10 am – 12 noon @ 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga (Community Service Bldg) Enquiries - 021 113 0566 THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS ST ANDREW’S BY THE SEA
Presby/Methodist Church Albert St Whitianga (Est.1898) COMMUNITY WORSHIP EVERY SUNDAY 9:30am Come, join us! Bring the family! Parish Secretary: ph 022 132 2061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz
COURTENAY, Roberta Anne (Anne)
Anne passed away peacefully, on Thursday 3rd of October 2024; at Whitianga Continuing Care. Loving wife of Leon, one week short of their 65th Wedding Anniversary. Loved mother, grandmother and mother-in-law of Alan and Sharon, Karl and Joanne, Nathan and Selena, Jared and Hayley, and Loren and Liam.
NEW GROUP WRITERS’ CLUB
4.00-6.00pm – Tuesday fortnightly at The Coromandel Informers foyer Monk St, Whitianga
CONVENOR: Peter H. Wood
No cost except ‘hands-on’ participation. Next meeting 15 October
& OFFICE SUPPORT (Mrs Tradie Office Lady Extraordinaire) Due to growth we have a position available:
* Full time position
* Based in the Whitianga office
* Must be a disciplined self starter who is customer focused
* Must be relatable, and have a pleasant and positive manner
* This is a fast paced role with numerous aspects – no day is the same Applications to business@mrstrdie.co.nz
‘She will be sadly missed but never forgotten’ A celebration of Anne’s life will be held in St Andrews by the Sea Community Church, 82 Albert Street, Whitianga on Thursday 10th of October at 1pm. Communications to: 0273735768.
TWENTYMANS
SHEEHAN, Peter William
Our Hero has fallen 11/5/1923-5/10/2024
PlaceMakers is a dynamic, interesting and
environment to
in. We also happen to be one of New Zealand’s leading and largest suppliers of building materials.
Passed away peacefully at home with love ones. Husband of Daisy (dec), father of Peter, Pamela and Christine. Grandfather to 12 and great grandfather of 12. Peter’s farewell to be held at Mercury Bay Bowling Club, 92 Cook Drive, Whitianga, on Thursday 10 October, at 11am.
Communications to: 138 Buffalo Rd, Whitianga. Phone 07 866 5987
TWENTYMANS
We have a diversity of customers who come through our branch and it’s up to us to make sure we deliver out-standing service to each and every one of them. We have an opportunity for a Showroom Team Member to join
The
You
Due to large increases in printing, paper and delivery costs we have had to reconfigure the layout of our Trades & Services and Classifieds section. The size of the adverts have changed slightly so that we haven’t had to increase the cost of your advert.
although if you do have previous experience in a customer service capacity this will provide good grounding for this role, as well as being flexible, willing to learn and go the extra mile for our customers, employer and team mates.
We have some amazing success stories of people who have shown commitment to work hard and they have gone on to achieve incredible things.
Could you be our next success story? Ideally, we are on the hunt for someone able to work fulltime 4 days a week with rostered weekend work.
To apply please send your CV to Hannah.Hardy@placemakers.co.nz
You will need to pass a pre-employment medical and drug test to be eligible for this opportunity.
Applications close 12th October 2024.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Handicap Pairs Week One
Tuesday, 1 October
North/South: 1, Val Dwight and Angela Butterworth 55.46; 2, Pam Churchill and Don Barry 54.28; 3, Peter and Jan Ruygrok 50.42.
East/West: 1, Jean Myles and Myra Hoogwerf 75.82; 2, Ngaire O’Brien and Judie Johnson 60.78; 3, Philippa Hall and Ann Scott 51.66.
MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS
14 players on Tuesday, so singles 501 was played. Two players went through all four games unbeaten. They were Rex Donaldson and Bill Bonnetto, with Rex Donaldson coming away victorious. Highest finish for the men was 96, scored by Mike Gillett. No high finishes by the ladies this week. Two people scored 180’s this week. They were Peter Reekers and Rex Donaldson.
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday 2 October
Best of three frames: 11 players on Wednesday and it was Peter Schultz, Bob Haase and Ian Baumgren with two straight wins each to challenge the finals. Peter won the alley drawn bye and Ian took a reasonably close win over Bob to go through to meet Peter in the final frame. However, it was Peter on great form in this match and took a very comfortable win and the cash prize. Runner up Ian Baumgren and with two wins Bob Haase, Luke Trainer, Brian Codyre, Rob Reilly, Ken Gibson and Peter Challis who also had the highest break of 19.
MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB
Thursday 3 October
Winners: Ray Rout, Lee Pudney, Judy Cullinane and Sue Webb Runners Up: Keith Denney, Heather Walker and Joy McGregor Good Sports: Merle Ward, Lionel Lawrence, Betty Russell and Marie Grimshaw
TAIRUA GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
9-hole American Foursomes – Net
Tuesday 1 October
1, Jan Stanley, Mike McCann; 2, Dennis Rundle, Annette Eltringham; 3, Sue McDonnell, Kay Van Lubeck.
18-hole Stableford
Saturday 29 September
1, Anna McGuire; 2, Bruce Crawford; 3, Brian Cole.
PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
9-hole Stableford minus Putts
Tuesday 1 October
1= Brian Keucke, Paul Hopkins; 3, Lauren Stephens; 4= Jock Peacock, Richard Duckworth.
18-hole Nett Saturday 5 October
1, Brian Keucke; 2, Neil Vowles; 3, Mike Farrance; 4= Bob Walker, Phil Ander.
4BBB Nett: Neil Vowles and Phil Ander.
MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB
9-hole Women – Putting
Tuesday 1 October
1, Audrey Vickers; 2, Linda Stratford; 3, Raewyn Whitt.
9-hole Men - Stableford
1, Don Maquire; 2, Patrick Gonthier; 3, Kelvin O’Leary.
18-hole Men – Stableford
Wednesday 2 October
1, Rohit Ranchhod; 2, Richard Schofield; 3, Willie Jones.
Twos: Richard Schofield
Div 1: Gross - Richard Schofield; Div2: Gross - Graeme Butler.
9-hole Mixed Scramble - Stableford
Friday 4 October
1, Don Maguire; 2, Mickey Henderson; 3, Bob Holliday.
18-hole Men - Stableford
Saturday 5 October
1, Roger Pheasant; 2, Pete Maher; 3 Kerry Allan.
Eagle: Kerry Allan
Twos: Kerry Allan, Pete Maher, Neal Robinson, Matt Kurth.
Div 1: Gross – Neal Robinson; Nearest to Pin: Matt Kurth; Longest Drive: Pete Maher.
Div 2: Gross – Trevor Hayde; Nearest to Pin: Paul Lupton; Longest Drive: Tom Sutcliffe.
THE DUNES MATARANGI
Monday 30 September
9-Hole Mens F9 Ambrose
1, Rey Green, Mark Deutsch, Jim Dale –Net 29.84
Tuesday 1 October 9 Hole Ladies Stableford 1, Maree Cabaret; 2, Chrissie Smith; 3, Sue Karl
Wednesday 2nd October
Mens 18-Hole Net
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.
Medal
1, Steve Moss; 2, Tracey Mulligan; 3, Graham Harrison.
Editors: Pauline and Stan Stewart (027 271 6182)
Business Manager: Emma Gaunt
Newspaper Layout: Diane Andrew
Two’s: Nick Lambert
Nearest the Pin on 18:
Jared Adams
Thursday 3 October
9-Hole Men B9
Stableford
Editorial: Jack Biddle, Michelle Dellabarca, Suzanne Hansen, Stephen Holmes, Dorothy Preece, Trevor Ammundsen, Lynette Gee.
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
1, Robert Fisken; 2, John Schoutens; 3, Rey Bertling.
18-Hole Ladies
Canadian Foursomes
Results:
Follow us on social media @theinformernz | ISSN 2422-9083 (Print), ISSN 2422-9091 (Online), © 2023 Mercury Bay Informer Limited
1, Cathy Drake-WellsBrenda Riggs 67 nett; 2, Allison Drake-Wells –Ann Dale 67.5 nett
Saturday 5 October
18-Hole mixed Haggle
Stableford
1, Peter Mathias; 2, Brenda Riggs; 3, David Gaskell.
Nearest the Pin on 18: Peter Mathias
Twos: David Gaskill on 5, Graham Harrison on 7, Peter Mathias on 18.
