12th Nov

Photos by Wayne Martin and Garry Brandon

Ready to Swish with Whitianga Playcentre?

BY BECKS TRETHOWEN

The term “swish” for a clothes swap comes from the dictionary definition of “to rustle, as silk”. In the context of a clothes swap, “to rustle from friends” is what it means.

The feedback I have been receiving from the ladies around town has been really positive, if you are still on the fence about attending, with only pros and zero cons, this is your reminder to book your tickets today! Text or call 0211715470.

SWISH-NIGHT PROS

• Ladies night out! (Need we say more?)

• Delicious canapés provided by Whitianga Hotel!

• Support your community! (Good juju for you!)

• Freebies & giveaways!

• Grab yourself a bargain with our great selection of generously donated silent auctions

• Save the planet! Recycle!

Extending the life of clothes by just nine months of active use could reduce carbon, water AND waste footprints by around 20-30%. Globally we consume 80 billion pieces of clothing per annum.

• Update your wardrobe (for zero carbon footprint)!

SWISH-NIGHT CON

• You will have to wait a whole year for the next one if you miss it!

WHAT ARE WE FUNDRAISING FOR?

Urgent safety upgrades and repairs to our outdoor playground, namely top up the depth of the bark to the required level, repairs to the wooden edging and repair our unusable ladder (as you can see this has been blocked off and removed for the interim but the kids still love to play on their playground!).

ENGLISH IS A VOYAGE OF LIFE

A home is not just a place

BY SEN

A home is not just a place. It is the relationships you build there are that make the place special. Living with housemates is not just a shared space, it is a place of friendship and growth, but when you open the door to your first shared home, everyone feels a little anxious. “What will this new life be like?” So what is it really like living at home with housemates?

My current house mate and I didn’t have much of a relationship before we came to the same house, but at now, she is the one of the people I trust. In this article, I’m going to talk about my daily life with my housemate and my host family, and how I became friends.

When I first arrived at my new homestay, I was worried about whether I would be able to settle in well, but one day, my current roommate, Ruri, invited me to watch a movie with her. After that, we became friends and would visit each other’s rooms almost every day after school to talk about our day, play games, and watch videos together.

Next, I would like to tell you how I spend my time in my NZ home.

First, I either stay in my room or go to my roommate’s room before dinner to chat or play games. At dinner time, I eat while talking with my host family. After dinner, I go back to my roommate’s room, and we talk until the last minute before

lights out. We chat about our hometowns, funny things that happened at school, and sometimes even love stories. Occasionally, we buy ice cream and sweets at the supermarket and have a little candy party together. We also make good memories of playing sports together, mostly because we are both worried about gaining weight! These were my daily routines at home. Thanks to my roommates and host family, every day is full of colour and fun, with new discoveries all the time. These memories will stay with me forever and give me strength.

overhead and the Moon can help us locate them. Planets can be distinguished from stars as they generally don’t twinkle except when very low on the horizon. There will be many International Space Station (ISS) and Chinese Tiangong space station passes to enjoy this week but, as usual, timings may change, especially towards the end of the week if they have to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above.com for updated timings. Tuesday, November 12 – The Moon now lies below and to the right of Saturn. Thursday, November 14 – Ther will be a low Tiangong pass from 4:54am in the north

starting just below reddish Mars. Friday, November 15 – There will be a Tiangong pass from 5:31am starting just beside Jupiter. Saturday, November 16 –Full Moon tonight with faint Mercury is at its highest this month after dusk below brilliant Venus. Sunday, November 17 – There is a Tiangong pass from 5:09am in the west. Monday, November 18 – There will be a Tiangong pass high overhead as it pops out of the Earth’s shadow at 4:12am. The Moon sits just below bright Jupiter after midnight. Tuesday, November 19 – The Moon sits about halfway between bright Jupiter and faint Mars after midnight with a Tiangong pass from 4:48am in the west moving close to the Southern Cross following a low ISS pass in the NE from 4:40am starting just below reddish Mars. Wednesday, November 20 – There is a bright and long ISS pass from 5:25am in the NW starting beside Jupiter and moving through the Southern Cross while the Moon lies just to the left of reddish Mars.

The children cannot enter the play area until it is properly resurfaced. Sen and her friend enjoying life in Whitianga.

This was The Steampunk Parade with the vehicles and people paraders in every kind of glory you can imagine. Everyone was smiling unless their costume or makeup prohibited a smile. There were free outdoor dance items on the St James Church front lawn after the parade. The markets were extended and one of the busiest stalls was Matilda the Time Travelling Fairy all decked out in Steampunk. Both Eloise and her daughter were making

possible for many people extraordinary painted faces. All cafes, food stalls and restaurants were crowded were crowded with hungry festival goers. At 2.00pm on the Saturday was the Fashion Parade in the Thames Civic Centre. This is more than a local event. Groups from the South Island were there. One from New Plymouth (pictured below) used 80 metres of cloth given to them to make their ‘down the rabbit hole’ themed costumes. Independently,

the sewers in this group of nine had made coats, hats dresses, pants and even a dog costume for their mascot. There are many Steampunk clubs around New Zealand, with Oamaru being the capital. Thames festival, with the support of Steampunkers nation wide, is growing. Well done to the organisers and to all those who spent untold hours contriving, sewing and manufacturing their costumes.

Call

Photos by Wayne Martin and Garry Brandon

Photos by Wayne Martin and Garry Brandon

Tickets for A Flight of Fancy fly out the door

BY CYNTHIA DALY

Tickets for the Whitianga and Mercury Bay Lions 14 November fundraiser, A Flight of Fancy, literally flew out the door of Get It On in Tairua and the Annah Stretton store in Whitianga selling out in just a couple of days when they went on sale on 14 October.

With excitement mounting, and a lot of the behind the scenes Lions work bringing this event together, we can announce a few details for the night.

Guests will arrive at the Coro Club hangar to inflight nibbles and open on-board bar, while they mingle and view a slice of aviation history (weather permitting).

The following flight experience features inspiring speakers including a safety briefing; fabulous food, a fashion show and there will be some very desirable raffles to win along with at least two Pamper Me auctions to bid for.

Jo and Tom Jenkins, of Mercury Ridge located above Mercury Bay at Cooks Beach say they are delighted to be part of this Project Mammogram fundraiser. The first Pamper Me auction prize – a voucher for one night’s accommodation for two, including breakfast, at Mercury Ridge in a Lodge Suite, with unobstructed views of the grounds, neighbouring vineyard and out to Mercury Bay.

Mercury Ridge offers elegant boutique accommodation with enviable views across picturesque Cooks Beach and Mercury Bay.

The charming, modern Mediterranean villa is nestled in an elevated, north-facing position encased by an orchard, vineyard and native reserve. Here, you’ll experience a peaceful and relaxing stay among nature with ach-

ingly beautiful scenery at every turn.

This first Pamper Me auction also includes a $100 voucher to dine at The Hive on Purangi Rd leading into Cooks Beach. Here you will be able to dine in a tranquil garden setting where you can linger under soft lighting until the stars come out. The Hive has a philosophy of being a place to come together, celebrating the

connection between people, good food and where it comes from. Its menu offers small and larger sharing plates with New Zealand, Mediterranean and Asian influences.

Project Mammogram chairperson, Mike Brown says: “Imagine winning that auction! That’s just the start of what will be on offer along with some fabulous raffles, so make sure you bring some cash as eftpos will be limited.

“We couldn’t achieve A Flight of Fancy without all our generous sponsors, and so, a huge thank you to you all. Together let’s knock off the final $20,000 for our new community-based 3D mammogram machine, ensuring early detection for better outcomes.”

A NOTE ABOUT PARKING: Parking is limited too at Coro Club but Whiti City Cabs will be providing their usual great service to and from the venue. Please phone them early to book your table’s transport.

The Hive, above, and Mercury Ridge, right, are both offering wonderful packages for the event.

ENTERTAINMENT/UPCOMING EVENTS

Iconic Kiwi band Hello Sailor to play Whitianga Freemason 50th Jubilee

„ The Waihi Beach Hotel –Sat urday 7 December 2024

Hello Sailor will be playing as a “full sail” plugged-in fivepiece rock’n’roll band with a set packed with hits.

Hello Sailor has been busy in recent years sharing stages with the cream of Kiwi music, playing to over 70,000 THE BAND: Rick Ball (Drums): Rick had a #3 hit single with 60s band The Challenge while still in his teens. He formed Harry Lyon (Guitar, Mandolin & Vocals): Harry was co-founder, guitar player and songwriter with Hello Sailor.

Jimmy Taylor (Guitar & Vocals): Jimmy’s music career began in Dunedin playing in bar bands

Paul Woolright (Bass & Vocals): Paul has been the anchor in a who’s-who of iconic Kiwi bands.

Stephen Small (Keys): In twenty years of studio recording and live performances, Stephen has worked alongside. Tickets available from eventfinder.

The Whitianga masons invite the community to visit the Lodge Rooms at 68 Cook drive, Saturday 23 November 3.00pm-4.30pm.

“The aim of the open day is to let people know who we are, and

what we do,” says Peter van der Putten, Lodge Master.

There has been a resurgence of interest in the Freemason Lodge with a number of younger men joining the lodge. This increase has been very welcome considering the lodge has a increasingly older membership. This influx of younger men was the subject of a recent article in The

CHRISTMAS PARADES

Coromandel Sunday 8 December

Matarangi Saturday 21 December

Paeroa Friday 6 December

Thames Saturday 7 December

Whangamata Friday 13 December

Whitianga Saturday 30 November

Hello Sailor at Matakana Country Park with Dire Straits Legacy and Nazareth, January 24. Photo credit Leoni Moreland

The branding of politicians

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

For many years political parties have been branded, normally to show themselves in a good light and the opposition in a poor light.

Initially the terms used were words like “left” and “right” but these have evolved so that the “right” now prefers “pragmatic” or “common-sense driven” as these words differentiate it from right wing extremist groups that like to shoot people.

The “left” has been searching for words that accurately describe it and has tried many.

“Progressive” springs to mind, although I could never work out what that meant; and then of course the big one – “Transparent”. Never has a politician used a word when so obviously meaning the opposite as Jacinda Ardern did when using this one.

Recent letters in The Informer seem to indicate that the left now prefers “science-based” and “evidence-driven”, quite possibly to claim they know what they are talking about and the other side does not. One is forced to ponder upon whether our “evidence-driven” politicians inter-

pret their evidence correctly.

For example a claim that Transport Minister Simeon Brown’s dismissal of recommendations for all day lowered speed limits around schools has recently been criticised by Mr Tegg in the Informer of 29 October.

The statement that 85% of accidents in school zones occurred outside of drop-off and pick-up times would mean 15% occur within the two hours where the children are picked up or dropped off. Simple maths shows that the pickup and collect time should represent about 8% of accidents so the 15% recorded is a concern.

Has lowering the speed limit resulted in a higher level of accidents? If so let us get rid of these lower speed limits outside schools or at the very least, let’s congratulate the Transport Minister on his clarity of thought.

The point of this example is that evidence is not in itself a conclusion. Mr Tegg has concluded from the evidence that the speed limit should be dropped to 30 Km/ hour to save lives, whereas the evidence does not necessarily say this.

To be true to his evidence approach, arguing for 0% would

probably get closer to the accident-free goal he appears to be after. But of course the world comes to a halt, so that conclusion wouldn’t be practical.

Singular bits of evidence can sometimes be a distraction. There is criticism of the decision to cut taxes on heated tobacco products because of overwhelming evidence of the harm done by these products. That would be true but

One is forced to ponder upon whether our “evidencedriven” politicians interpret their evidence correctly.

there is also over whelming evidence of the harm done to lower income family groups from the exorbitant tax grab taken at the time such products are sold.

When considering social issues such as smoking, one must consider all evidence, from a variety of sources, before coming to a decision for the community.

And then of course we must be careful of contrived evidence, generally dragged up to support a point we wish to make rather than because of any scientific link.

This is a case in point when claiming that LNG is suddenly now 33% worse than coal in terms of emissions of CO2. This “evidence” comes from people who wish to stop the building of an LNG terminal so that we can use imported LNG instead of really dirty imported coal to generate electricity when the lakes are low.

But these people do not want us to use coal either, so I guess they

just support power outages. It is ironic that the previous Labour Government banned usage of our coal and our natural gas and now we argue over which – imported coal or imported natural gas – is cleaner. Maybe we should just keep using our cleaner stuff. I find it rather amusing that our current coalition Government is described in some quarters, generally leftist ones, as ideological. For the past six years the previous Labour Government was accused of this and when such accusations are made, from whatever quarter, the intent seems to be to label the governing party as non-thinking. We don’t really need ideological governments.

What we all need though is that our government, whoever they are, work with our whole country in mind and do what is best for our country.

If this could be done consistently using an agreed infrastructure plan for the country, along with relevant information from many sources, including listening to our communities, taking professional financial advice and of course scientific analysis (not opinion), then we will all start to be better off.

glass of bubbles & delicious canapés.

RSVP by emailing rtrethowen@gmail.com or text 021-1715470 To pay for your $25 ticket please deposit directly into our fundraising account 02-0496-0096201-066 Ref: (Name) Code:

Simeon Brown is the Minister for Energy, Minister of Local Government, Minister of Transport, Minister for Auckland and Deputy Leader of the House.

the great race day

The Melbourne Cup is the richest handicap race in the world. Horses that are three years of age or older who qualify for the race all have an equal opportunity to win. It is run on the first Tuesday in November.

elbourne Cup 2024 - It was Knights Choice, an Australian bred horse, with an Irish jockey and a New Zealand trainer, that was the winner of one of the most lucrative horse races in the world, run annually on the first Tuesday in November.at Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne.

New Zealand definitely joins in the spirit of dressing up, having a flutter and being in groups to celebrate or commiserate. It is not for everyone but around the Coromandel, all those places with a TAB or a restaurant offering entertainment, welcomed competi-

tions for the best dressed and offered drink deals before and after the great race. It’s a time to have some fun.

Two local Mercury Bay venues that do the Melbourne Cup in style and with generosity and have done so for many years are Mercury Bay Club and Smittys Bar and Grill. Kathleen Callaghan’s gift with decorating and creating classy colourful celebrative surrounds makes Mercury Bay Club a standout for stunning décor with hospitality for the Melbourne Cup. The personal assistance with TAB provided by Smittys is a boost for the irregular punter. Both the

Club and Smittys had their fair share of glamour and beauty. It’s a good days that Australia shares with her close friend New Zealand, despite a few disagreements over where certain thoroughbreds were born and bred.

Clockwise from top left –Donna, Sharee, Tyree; Cecelia from Montana USA; Bronny and Fleur, Smitty’s owner; winner of the best dressed man is Noel (centre); the winners of the 3 best dressed women at the Mercury Bay Club are Jules, Jacqui and Sonya; Julie Johnston.

Quiz and auction for local AFL players at Grace O’Malleys

BY STAN STEWART

Aquiz night and auction held at Grace O’Malley’s Irish Inn on The Esplanade, Whitianga last Monday, 4 November, was a very successful fund raiser night for two local young men who are members of the national New Zealand AFL (Aussie Rules Football) team, Logan Toomer and Sean Butler. The New Zealand team will shortly travel to Maroochydore, Queensland. There they will compete in the Pacific Cup which will be held from the 17th to 25th November.

The purpose of the quiz and auction night was to raise funds to help with the costs of getting our two local heroes over to Queensland for the Pacific Cup. AFL, even at this national level, is an amateur sport in New Zealand, so community fund raising is essential. This is where Peter Jones, owner of Grace O’Malleys stepped in, to open up the Irish inn to a fund raising night. .

The drive behind turning the idea of the quiz night into a reality, finding the sponsors, items to auction, and promoting it until it was a very full house, was the work of Jacqui Asplin, Peter’s partner.

It was such a fun and energising evening. Logan and Sean were

lively and engaging comperes and prepared a great quiz for the keen team. Every available space at Grace O’Malleys had a quiz team huddled around a table.

The auctioneer, Miles McElwain, was fast and furious and as a professional, he made the auction very entertaining.

Well done Peter Jones for opening up Grace O’Malleys for the quiz and auction, to well over 100 people. It was great to see CFM staff and Paul and Fleur from Smittys Bar and Grill coming to support such a good cause.

The Pacific Cup includes teams from Fiji, Nauru, New Zealand,

Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Vanuatu, South Africa, Samoa and Solomon Islands. The event brings together approximately 500 players in all. The Cup is part of an AFL-sanctioned international programme.

The Queensland Government, along with the Sunshine Coast Council, has partnered with the AFL and thrown their support behind the Pacific Cup, a colourful and vibrant celebration of the game.

The knowledge that Aussie Rules football has players at such a high level right here on the Coromandel came as a surprise to many. But clearly it is part of the smorgasbord of sports which make the Coromandel such a great place to live.

The night raised a little over $3,000 – an excellent result. Jacqui’s message was a big thank you to all the sponsors who made the fund raising possible and to all who came to participate and spend their money on great bargains at the auction.

Wine tasting and mammogram funds

BY MICHELLE RHODES

Thanks to New World, Whitianga and the Mercury Bay Rugby Club, a wine tasting fund raiser evening was organised at Lyon Park, last Wednesday, 6 November, to assist with the Mammogram Project.

There were 33 different opportunities to taste some delicious established and new wines, everything from ‘Seduction’ a red to a seven-time International Gold Award winning Rose. Alongside salami and dips, it was a grand time of tasting and nibbling. Nikarva Blofield, Wine and Beer Manager at New World, organised the whole event and gave everyone their first taster of ‘Lindauer Free’ a lovely alcohol and calorie

free fizzy in Pink or Brut.

The total money required for the Mammogram machine has almost been reached. Mike Brown. Director of the Mammogram Project, believes that the last of the funds needed to be raised will come in at the A Flight of Fancy fashion parade (page 4 this issue) out at the Coro Club on Thursday night(14 Nov) . All tickets have been sold to that event.

This was an amazing good value event well worth the ticket price. Well attended and enjoyable I hope New World make it an annual event.

Kerry Stanley (right) owner of New World Whitianga and Nikarva Blofield (left) meet and greet the guests at the wine tasting.

Miles McElwain the auctioneer brings speed and suspense to the action of competing for the bids - all donations from local Sponsors; Sean and Logan, quiz night comperes and the AFL players doing their bit to get to the pacific Cup, in Queensland.

All in a week’s work

Lions Mercury Bay Lions – a huge Christmas raffle ready to go, a fashion parade for the Mammogram Project out at the Coro Club Whitianga Airport and assisting at Diabetes Day are all in a week’s programme for these women.

CHRISTMAS FAMILY RAFFLE

„ First prize: beach trolley full of goodies valued at over $900

„ Second prize: delicious Christmas fruit cake, home made by one of the Lions best bakers and beautifully decorated.

„ Third prize: Hamper full of gift sand goodies for Christmas Tickets - $2 each OR 3 tickets for $5. Winner drawn Saturday 21 December at 2pm.

LEADERSHIP AT MERCURY BAY LIONS CLUB

There is a new President for Mercury Bay Lions Club. Megan Henson has accepted the role recently as President after Barbara Nippert stepped down to attend to medical matters. Barbara is recovering well and was recognised at the recent dinner meeting for her services as Ex-President. There is a great team at the helm of the Lions and it is clear just how much friendship and cama-

raderie develops through their working together community service and fund raising projects.

DIABETES DAY

Meet some of the Mercury Bay Lions women at the Diabetes Day stand this Thursday 14 November. It will be located just next to The Glass House in Albert Street and free diabetes tests will be available.

Please see page 19 in this issue of The Coromandel Informer.

Poignant remembranceArmistice Day

BY TREVOR FRASER

Armistice Day is commemorated every year on 11 November to mark the armistice signed between the Allies of World War One and Germany at Compiegne, France, for the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front.

The great war of 1914-1918 was one of the most devastating events in human history. For New Zealand, with a population of 1.1 million in 1914, it meant 100,000 men and women were sent abroad to fight or serve in some capacity in this War.

16,700 died and over 40,000 were wounded – a higher per capita casualty rate than any other country involved. The coming of peace on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 brought relief for all involved (in some places however the fighting did

Tairua, 50B Paul Road,

not stop).

On Armistice Day 1918, New Zealand had 58,129 troops in the field, while an additional 10,000 were in training in New Zealand. In total, the troops provided by NZ for foreign service during the war represented 10% of its 1914 population between the ages of 20-45. It was at a great cost that we fought in World War One, and we must not forget that cost.

Trevor Fraser, is the President of the RSA and this was his address at the service. Services were held all over the Coromandel Peninsula. This is outside the Whitianga RSA, where the flag was lowered and then raised again to the Reveille. Interesting to note that the numbers a few years ago were just12, but fifty gathered there this week, Monday 11 November.

Barbara (Ex-President) and Megan Henson (incoming President)

The Lions members with the Christmas raffle Goodies. Tickets will be sold at Saturday markets in Whitianga. (L to R) Rhonda Rutherford, Julie Denning-Kemp, Lesley Reece, Pat Lilley, Cecily Dower.

Tony Remnant and Trevor Fraser, President of the RSA, lead the Armistice service.

STAN’S STUFF

Future-coping for dummies

BY STAN STEWART

Donald what does the future hold?

When it came to politics my dad was adamant. “Leave it to the Labour Party. It’s (whatever was the current issue) all too complicated for the likes of us. The Party will work out what’s best for the working man.” I disagreed. This made him mad. Then we stopped talking politics and that’s the way it was until he died. What about now? To my mind the world is a mess. Some of my friends tell me they know what is happening. They have inside knowledge. I’m lost in a fog.

Life has taught me some lessons.

When I was nineteen, my main concern was buying a car, my second car. My first one, a 1927 Riley Nine, had died. A Dutch salesman heard of my search and told me he had just the car. He persuaded me, took my cash and left the town the next day. The car was an absolute bomb, apart from the upholstery. It was deficient in every function. One of my workmates, another Dutchman, asked me from whom had I bought the car . I told him

it was one of his countrymen. “I knew it,” he said.

“Never, never deal with a Dutch car salesman”. That’s one thing I learnt but it doesn’t help me much with today’s dilemmas.

However, an encounter this week with another Dutchman, has given me a ray of light on negotiating the future.

Part of my current work is distributing the Informer’s Summer Magazine, ‘Your Summer’. This is a substantial publication. Bound in bundles of 20 they are weighty. I had ten bundles on the back seat. To facilitate handling the magazines, I cut the bundle bindings. But, when in the supermarket carpark, I opened the back door, disaster struck.

The magazines had moved in transit and were now leaning against the back door. When I opened the door, like an avalanche or a waterfall the magazines streamed out onto the surface of the carpark. The sight of the magazines scattered on the ground, beside the car, under the car, filled me with horror.

Due to a late-life growth spurt, my legs have grown longer to the point I now find it difficult to reach the ground. This meant that

the magazines scattered on the ground were beyond my reach. I panicked. I knew that the Informer’s management would not view this debacle lightly. If news of this event were to reach top management, my future could be in jeopardy.

I loaded the magazines that remained in the car into a shopping trolley and trundled them to the supermarket. I left behind a mountain of publications scattered on the pavement in the car park for anyone to see. My horror!

My shame!

I knew I needed help to retrieve these magazines. I searched the supermarket entrance for someone I knew. Panic glazed my vision. All I could see were strangers and people with walk-

ing-frames. Then I heard a voice from on-high. “Hello Stan, how’s it going?”

This tall man was a stranger to me, but he said he knew my wife (Informer Management). Early in the exchange we learnt we were both 37ers (born in 1937). I thought I smelt a whiff of tulips. I was right. He was a Dutchman. I couldn’t let this moment slide. Throwing pride to the wind, I asked him to help me. Not knowing what was the task, he said “Yes!”

Viewing my shame, he immediately went to work. He did not reach down as I imagined he would. Instead, he knelt on the ground and handed the maga-

zines up. In a few moments the crisis was over. I returned to base; job done and not a word to the management. This incident gave me some ideas about survival and how to face the future.

• Wear a friendly face.

• Look out for others with the same appearance.

• Nod and talk to them. A few words will do.

• If you need help, ask them. They probably will.

• If they ask you for help, say “Yes”. Whatever the future holds, these simple steps could help you survive and bring life to others. Coping for Dummies!

Quote of the Week To save people from themselves is to breed a nation of fools.

Jordy, Whitianga

Hula Café boosts reusable cups

BY TRACY WORDSWORTH

Hula Café noticed a definite increase in customers bringing reusable cups in response to a generous 50% discount at their SUC (single-usecup) Free Thirsty Thursday event held last week in conjunction with Wāhi Tukurua. Now the café owners, Rachel and Gabe Johnson, hope people get the message that the environmental cost in using a throw-away cup is one worth considering - even when the coffee discount doesn’t apply.

“We offered half price coffees for people who brought their own cups, to help support SUC Free and make it clear that we support the reduction of throw-away cups ending up in landfill,” says Rachel “We were stoked to see some customers – especially those who always use a throw-away cup - chose to bring a reusable this time. Hopefully that carries through to a regular thing. One group of business customers doubled the number of reusable cups they brought in, which is great so

we really hope that becomes a habit.”

When the hospo couple moved from Wellington to set up their cafe business in Whitianga six years ago, they brought with them a heart for the planet and an ethos around sustainability.

Being parents of three ‘future world’ citizens; Isaiah (16), Sairee (11) and Tobias (4), the couple feel a responsibility to leave as

small a footprint as possible in their business and personal lives.

Gabe and Rachel love the cleaner lifestyle the Coromandel Peninsula offers over that of a big city, but are very much aware that the impact of convenient living can quickly creep into a small town and are keen to do what they can to avoid it.

‘Music, good food and a clean planet are all things dear to our

hearts,” says Rachel

“We love the fact that people feel comfortable and relaxed at Hula, that so many people really appreciate what we are trying to do and we love that they seem to

keep coming back.”

The couple also hope that throw-away cups will one day be a thing of the past and look forward to a busy, but sustainable, summer trade.

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The Mercury Bay Resource Recovery Trust were the proud recipients of The Waste Minimisation – Environmental Award at the recent Richardsons Real Estate sponsored HaurakiCoromandel Business Awards.

Whitianga Marina Society honours Life Members

BY DOROTHY PREECE

Two new Honorary Life Members were presented with their certificates at the Whitianga Marina Society’s Annual Meeting at Labour Weekend.

Both recipients, Brian Parker and Kevin Rintoul were taken by surprise when Marina Chairman Callum McGillivray announced their Life Memberships. “They kept it under wraps. We had absolutely no idea,” Brian said.

Kevin and Brian both signed up for marina berths in the late 1980’s, when Richard Simpson had formed a committee of local boat owners to investigate the possibility of a marina. Along with other prospective berth owners, they put up risk capital to get the lengthy planning processes underway.

Brian Parker owned a holiday home in Whitianga but was still living in Wellington when he

signed up. “I hoped the marina would go ahead, but still I bought a mooring block and chain, in case it didn’t. That gear is still all in my shed.”

The story of how the marina project was brought to completion by a committee of local amateurs (on time and under budget) is a very long one, but through it all, Kevin and Brian were receiving regular updates on progress –mostly asking for money. In 1995, after seven years of planning, the Whitianga Marina was opened and Kevin was able to bring in his cray boat, Miss Brenda.

Brian purchased the yacht Killara, and with his wife Brenda he moved to Whitianga permanently in 2005. Shortly afterwards Brian was appointed to the Marina Society committee, serving as Treasurer for some time before being appointed Chairman, a post which he held for three years. Brian has served as a committee member ever since.

Kevin Rintoul has lived in Whitianga for 30 years. For a few years he and his wife Beth were too busy working their various boats, but later Kevin was appointed to the committee and eventually was appointed Chairman, a post he held until he suffered a stroke and had to retire. Kevin says the Whitianga Marina has come a long way since it first opened with 180 berths. “After a few years we were fortunate to appoint Daryl Smith as the Marina Manager,” Kevin says. “Daryl was the Chairman of the New Zealand Marina Operators’ Association, and he was able to put the operation on a very sound footing.”

Chairman Callum McGillivray said the two new Life Memberships were well overdue. “Brian and Kevin are down at the marina every day, still very much involved, still keeping an eye on things. Richard Simpson was our only other Life Member.”

• COMPANY AND COMMERCIAL LAW

• COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

• RESTRUCTURING AND

Future Aquaculture Leaders, Coromandel Township EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI)

Our story is about true connection, and we are here so people will always be able to share in the true taste and rare magic of New Zealand’s best seafood.

Moana New Zealand’s purpose is to build a business for future generations, and we are on the lookout for tomorrow’s aquaculture leaders, today. Talented, and emerging leaders who will play a critical role in guiding our Coromandel oyster farms to be the best in the world. In return we offer the opportunity to hone your leadership, farming and business skills and build a long-term career with an industry leader.

If you come from a farming background (Beef/Sheep/Dairy/ Fisheries/Aquaculture), and are ambitious, keen to grow a career in aquaculture and possess strong farming and people management skills we are keen to hear from you.

What we offer:

• Competitive salary

• Health Insurance + paid birthday leave

• Professional development

• Kiwisaver contribution

Expressions of interest are now open for farming professionals at a supervisor and manager level. Please email your EOI to recruitment@ moana.co.nz and we will arrange an exploratory and confidential discussion with you.

Please put Aquaculture Leadership in the subject box.

Phone 021 594 705 FRasmussen@coromandelchambers.co.nz

Expressions of Interest close 5 December 2024.

Whitianga Marina Society Chairman, Callum McGillivray, congratulates Honourary Life Members Kevin Rintoul and Brian Parker in the Marina boardroom.

RURAL LIFE COUNTS

BY MALCOLM CAMPBELL

Both Regional and District Council rates demands have arrived at the same time.

The Hauraki District Council has simplified the payment system by making two payments per year instead of four payments. Both Regional and District Councils tell us we are so fortunate to be living and thriving in their respective administration areas. Here are some quotes, not in any particular order from the brochure accompanying the Waikato Regional Council rates demand.

The Rate demands have just arrived MISSINGINACTION

1. “We’re working together – partnering with Iwi and involving many others in our communities – for a Waikato region that has a healthy environment, vibrant communities and a strong economy.”

My comment: People will say privately, but not publicly, they are closing their dairy farms fearing ‘enforcement action’ by Environment Waikato should there be any effluent spillage. The environment is not healthy. Where are the frogs? There used to be millions of them. Where are the insects that used to splatter the windscreen of the cars; the cicadas and locusts that signalled

summer; the grasshoppers, praying mantises, seen on shrubbery or in hay crops?

2. “Making your Waikato even better”

My comment: As a school pupil, it was apparently safe back in history to swim in the Waitoa River. The pupils at our school

did anyway. The river had a lacy mass of weed along the banks with fresh-water mussels thriving there and at times mullet were seen at least 25 kms from the coast. Now the duck population is crashing, not too seriously until about 2000, but now cross any bridge or drive by any water-

SHOP RURAL DEALS AT MICO

way, and the birdlife, ducks and shags are virtually non-existent.

As for the Pied Stilts, there were thousands of them. Those cheeky black and white ‘Barker Birds’ that presented ‘a broken wing’ act to draw intruders away from their nest sites; they are so very scarce now, since around 2003 or

2004.

3. “We love where we live – the Mighty Waikato. It’s a place of powerful possibilities.”

My comment: The possibilities depend on your money tree, if it is desirous to start a new venture. Necessary (almost certain), is the requirement to obtain a ‘resource consent’. The issuing of the precious ‘resource consent’ rests heavily on the relevant council staff who will have to be paid handsomely and make sure the following is understood – the Consent may be refused; consultants may be required (council staff do not want to be held accountable); the Environment Court may be required to make a decision; the cost will not be known and if the whole mess becomes complicated, the time frame may extend to weeks, months, even years. Recent press releases indicate that payments can involve bribery. In other words, some processes invite corruption!

To finance this tangled web, Environment Waikato will collect two hundred and fifty million dollars to make it difficult to get an enterprise started and to continue directly poisoning the environment, land, air and water.

Mum

In the garden of laughter where memories bloom, You dance like the wind, chasing away all gloom.

With a heart full of sunshine, and stories to share, Your spirit’s a wildflower, free in the air.

Loving and kind, with a sparkly eyed grin, You look for the joy, even when life feels stretched thin.

A hippie at heart, with a heart that is gold, Bright colour and beauty is your tapestry bold.

I miss our shared moments, the fun that we make, The adventures, the giggles, the chatting for chat’s sake. Your laughter’s a melody, a warm, tender song, Your soft outer shell, the core of you strong.

Though miles may divide us, our bond knows no end, You’re more than my mother; you’re my soul’s closest friend. So, here’s to the hugs and the tears yet to spill,

To the laughter, the stories, and time that we’ll fill.

When I see you again, oh, how my heart sings, We’ll share every moment, whatever life brings.

A breath of fresh air, my guiding light’s glow, Forever I cherish the love that we know.

Sent to Lorrain Clark

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

FROM A RATEPAYER – GREAT CONCERN RE INFLATION AND ELECTRICITY

I have just received a letter from my Electricity Company Supplier informing me of yet another power increase.

The first question I have for you [the Government] is when the current rate of inflation is published at 2.2%, how can an increase of 34% on the daily charge of electricity, be justified?

This equates to a further $9 a month before even a switch is turned on. This sum might not seem much to government or the power companies, but to a very large percentage of the population, and many businesses (many closing down) it is significant.

No doubt, further increases will follow, and other power companies will follow suit.

To find two articles buried away in the back pages of The NZ Herald (copies enclosed) with the Minister of Energy comment is saying that neither he nor the government intend to address this price gouging is to say in the least, is very concerning.

These articles should have been on the front-page news.

The follow-on effect is obvious, with businesses closing down and further unemployment imminent

As a long-time supporter of the National Party, I, like many others are more than concerned that not only electricity but daily price increases are taking place across the board without justification or explanation not waffle or excuses). How did you get an inflation rate of 2.2%?

I could go on with increases.

Thie week both bread and milk prices have increased. These are staple products for families and there are so many other goods and services.

I await your response not just with interest but expect a proper explanation and some promise of action.

„ Editor’s Note: This ratepayer came into the office and asked that his name and address not be used until he receives a reply from the government. The letter was presented to The Informer 4 November, 2024

SHARK BITE AND COSTS AND TIME

It is with great excitement that I read in this week’s The Informer that the Shark Bite along the Buffalo Beach walkway is to be repaired just shy of two years following the great storm.

I expect to see rows of orange cones, high vis vests, and lots of workers with cell phones. Hopefully, it will be finished by Christmas. (From November to May?? Weather permitting?)

My question, after two years of red tape, and PC nonsense, what is the cost for this very simple repair? If you haven’t noticed your rates bill has gone up, in round figures, 30% in the last two years, and that’s not a one-off. This is a classic example of why costs are out of control.

Walk further down to the other end of the beach and the ‘Shark’ has taken another bite from the Mercury Bay Boat Club site, during the same storm. Despite predictions of doom and gloom, global warming, and we are all

Exceed Retractable insect screens are the perfect solution for eliminating insects without interfering with alfresco dining and indoor outdoor flow.

going to die, the Boat Club sits high and dry, safe and sound, and could easily be restored on the existing site, a premium location. However, it looks like it’s going to move. The site is an easy repair with a new rock wall and backfill, it’s not rocket science. I would build a house on this site in a heartbeat.

My question is what is going to happen to the site, more red tape and PC nonsense? It is currently an eye sore, looks like a rubbish dump, an embarrassment to the community.

It needs to be repaired to prevent further damage and dare I suggest, it would be a perfect location for a Boat Club.

Douglas Anderson, Whitianga

SHARK BITE PROJECT –QUESTIONS?

I see in The Informer 29 October 2024, the council will start work on the Shark Bite mid-November and will be completed by 1 May 2025. My question is - Why is it going to take four and half months to fit 30 metres of rockwall?

This is absurd. Someone is ripping off the system or the ratepayer.

It is ridiculous that this has not been done already. And ridiculous when other communities illustrate that they can undertake much bigger repairs in much shorter time. What will take all these months ‘weather permitting’?

Merv Gregory, Whitianga

COUNCIL SPENDING

The government is calling on councils to rein in spending and stick to doing the basics well. Whether or not we agree with this policy, a 3 year 30% rises in local rates, when inflation is 2.2%, suggests TCDC should be looking hard at its proposed spending.

Most would agree to council spending on roading resilience, three waters upgrade, and other core services, however there are

some major spending proposals that should be scrutinized to determine whether they are a wise investment of rate payer contributions and provide a benefit to all rate payers, not just a small minority

TCDC should not be borrowing to invest in residential property development such as the 500 houses proposed for the Totara Valley. The council infrastructure budget is $20million. Rates from 500 houses would barely cover the loan repayment costs.

Council would also have to provide traffic management for the 550 cars exiting Totara Valley every morning, extra medical services, schools, waste collection, drinking water etc. This cost will be born by the local ratepayers, who, in return, will find it more difficult to park in town, longer queues at the checkouts and the doctors.

The winners from this projectLand owners and property developers, who will likely abandon the valley as soon as they sell the land.

The losers - everyone else, but particularly the current Totara Valley residents. Where is the benefit to all ratepayers?

If you want to live in Thames, there are 130+ houses for sale on Trademe today (Friday 8 November).

Ratepayers should not be the gift that keeps on giving. Martin Spinks, Thames RESPONSE FROM SCOTT

SIMPSON MP TO SCOTT LEE RE HAURAKI GULF PROTECTION AREAS

The Hauraki Gulf is the most intensely recreated marine space in New Zealand’s entire Exclusive Economic Zone.

In the eight years since the Sea Change Plan was eventually finalised the state of the gulf has become much worse.

New Zealand’s first ever marine reserve was established in the

Hauraki Gulf in 1975 at Leigh. But it was very small, and almost 50 years on, only 0.3 percent of the gulf has been protected.

I make no apology for supporting the legislation currently before Parliament that will see the creation of 12 new high protection areas, five new seafloor protection areas and two extensions to existing marine reserves.

Yes, some of Scott Macindoe’s local member’s favourite fishing spots fall within one of the proposed new protection areas. He and they are feeling the same way some local fishers in Leigh felt back in 1975. That is no reason not to proceed with further, and some would say still inadequate, protection of the rapidly deteriorating gulf eco systems. I doubt there would be any of those 1975 Leigh fishers that opposed the first reserve who would now think it was still a bad idea. Certainly, their children and grandchildren do not.

The new legislation will increase the area of the gulf that is protected from 0.3 to just 6% leaving 94% for Scott and members of his association to fish.

Over the years I’ve had many conversations with Scott and more often than not, I agree with him, but on this occasion I do not. It will be interesting to see which MPs, if any, oppose trying to improve the health of the Hauraki Gulf when the legislation comes back to Parliament in coming weeks.

Scott Simpson

REALITY CHECKCONGRATULATIONS

Congrats to The Informer. The article in your 15 October edition, was an informative and concise reality check by Mr Rasmussen on the state of our local governance. We would be well advised as ratepayers to seriously consider the many aspects and concerns he has raised.

Tim Hayde, Coromandel

Information

re the Nellie

Inquiry – letter to the editor November 5

The Informer

* Refer to: “NZ Shipwrecks 1795-1970” page 257

* Refer to: www.hotwaterbeach.org.nz/history.

This talks about: “The Nellie lost on the northern end of the beach after the captain and crew mistook the bay as the entrance to Mercury Bay.

In trying to recover the vessel, a hole was blown in the keel by explosives in a hope to clear large rocks from

under the hull. Matthew Creed bought the abandoned hull for 5 pounds. Remains were visible up until the 1950s. After the wreck, the creek at the northern end of the beach became known as “Nellie River”. A plaque and some timbers of the Nellie are mounted on the junction of the lane to houses off Link Rd.”

Wayne Myers, Volunteer MB Museum

“Speed Dating” at Business Association

BY MICHELLE DELLABARCA

Fortified by complementary drinks, courtesy of Aaron from Shelly Beach Top Ten Holiday Park, members of the Coromandel Colville Business Association, attended a “Speed Dating” session during their regular monthly meeting last Wednesday. This was not just any speed dating session – it had a purpose – to introduce business owners and entrepreneurs to potential business mentors who could help them with various aspects of their businesses.

The evening began with a motivating talk from Kate Wightman from SODA about the power of business mentoring in growing great ideas into financially viable businesses. Kate explained that the organisation she represents – SODA, offers courses on business start-up basics, business coaching, innovation support, help with digital

marketing and strategies, how to navigate Artificial Intelligence to your advantage and many other workshops and resources.

This expansive 10.1665-hectare property on the edge of picturesque Whitianga offers diverse income potential, making it an exceptional investment opportunity. The property is ideal for developing a campground, event venue for weddings and corporate functions, or even industrial activity (subject to approval).

With its prime location, multiple income streams, and versatility this is a standout opportunity for investors. bayleys.co.nz/2201670

She went on to say that the right mentor can bring perspective and experience, networking connections, accountability and skill development to your business. She went on to talk about how to choose a mentor with relevant experience and connections who you get on with and you trust. It is important to discuss how much time they have available to help you and what both your expectations are of this relationship.

And then the speed dating began! Five local business owners/entrepreneurs volunteered their services as mentors, and other business owners spent five minutes with each one, trying to find the perfect match! Judging by the volume of the conversations, and the networking that continued after the allotted time, the evening was very successful.

She explained that “At Soda, we believe that anything is possible. With rigour, structure and process, your viable business idea can become a thriving commercial enterprise. We have the support systems and people in place: you have the determination to succeed.”

People interacting using the speed dating model at the Business Association meeting in Coromandel.

The plaque attached to a memorial made from timbers of the Nellie; close-up of the plaque, right.

Treaty under threat: A call for deliberation, not division

With the Treaty Principles Bill now coming before Parliament, Denis Tegg has offered this opinion piece on the proposed Bill and to suggest a better way forward. The issue of Maori, Crown and Local Council relationships has been a hot topic in The Informer in recent months.

BY DENIS TEGG

More than 180 years after its signing, the Treaty of Waitangi remains foundational to New Zealand’s legal and cultural identity. However, debate continues over its principles, reignited by the ACT Party’s Treaty Principles Bill. This proposal aims to redefine Te Tiriti principles through legislation, dismissing decades of nuanced interpretation by the Waitangi Tribunal and the courts. While the Bill may seem like a solution, it is more likely to undermine Māori-Crown relationships, disrupt race relations, and sidestep meaningful dialogue on Treaty matters.

The Waitangi Tribunal recently released its second interim report on the Bill, a 145-page document strongly condemning it. The report stated that if enacted, the Bill would constitute the “worst, most comprehensive breach of the Treaty/te Tiriti in modern times.” It warned that the legislation could lead to the end of the Treaty itself if not repealed. According to the Tribunal, the

Bill would fundamentally alter every statutory regime impacting Māori, effectively ending the Treaty/te Tiriti partnership and severing the formal relationship between the Crown and Māori.

The report goes so far as to claim, “At present, the progressing of the Bill is having serious impacts on the relationship, but the Bill if enacted would kill that relationship. This is deliberate.”

ACT’s proposal risks destabilising legal protections and introducing unnecessary uncertainty.

Despite claims that Treaty principles are vague or unknowable, the last half-century of Tribunal reports and almost four decades of case law have clarified the Treaty’s intent. Redefining these principles through Parliament would compromise established Māori rights, creating rather than resolving legal ambiguity.

Critics suggest that ACT’s stance reflects a lack of understanding of the Treaty’s purpose, but this view may underestimate ACT’s hidden agenda. Rather than misunderstanding the Treaty, ACT’s approach aligns with its commit-

ment to deregulation and privatisation. Treaty principles have often counterbalanced free-market policies; restricting them could facilitate the privatisation of public assets and reduce governmental oversight. For ACT, the Treaty’s protections for Māori may be viewed as obstacles to implementing these extreme economic reforms.

Moreover, the Treaty Principles Bill has little chance of passing, with the National Party already opposing it beyond the select committee stage. This suggests ACT’s intent is less about Treaty reform and more about using divisive tactics to gain political advantage. Pushing a Bill with little hope of success generates publicity and appeals to certain factions, creating division rather than progress. With the Treaty’s bicentennial approaching in 2040, New Zealand should consider a more inclusive, constructive approach. Instead of legislating Treaty principles, a deliberative democratic process could help shape Treaty policy that is fair, modern, and enduring. Citizens’ assemblies

are proven models for complex issues, such as Ireland’s approach to social change; a promising path forward. By fostering dialogue among New Zealanders from diverse backgrounds, these assemblies would allow for shared understanding and consensus on Treaty matters, reflecting both Māori and non-Māori perspectives.

Deliberative democracy aligns well with Māori traditions of hui and kōrero, where open discussion helps reach collective solutions. Such a platform would ensure new frameworks are grounded in mutual respect, rather than polarising debate. Bringing Māori and non-Māori together to discuss and determine the Treaty’s future would honour its partnership principles and provide a more stable basis for policy. This approach, built on inclusion and collaboration, offers a path to a Treaty framework that is resilient and relevant.

Political leaders, especially Prime Minister Chris Luxon, should choose an inclusive national conversation over divi-

sive legislative attempts. By fostering open dialogue, they could demonstrate true leadership and ensure that New Zealand’s future reflects shared values. An informed, respectful national conversation would better serve the Māori-Crown partnership than ACT’s narrow Bill, which risks heightening divisions and undermining the Treaty’s founding spirit.

New Zealand stands at a pivotal moment, with an opportunity to reshape its approach to Treaty principles through deliberative and democratic means. Rather than relying on legislation that simplifies and narrows these complex issues, we should seek a comprehensive process that respects Māori culture, legal traditions, and shared heritage. Political tactics that exploit racial tensions serve only to divide, whereas fostering understanding and collaboration will strengthen New Zealand’s foundation for future generations. Denis Tegg is a former lawyer and Waikato Regional Council representative for Thames Coromandel

Double vision

• Residential zoning

• 21.694ha (more or less) in two titles

• Flat easy contour

Two substantial blocks of greenfield residential development land in a flourishing coastal town are placed on the market for sale - meeting the local authority's commitment to supporting private enterprise to build new homes in the region to sustain an ever-increasing population. Subject to planning approval, there’s potential to create up to 300 residential sections, with scope for a hotel development alongside the housing. bayleys.co.nz/2201675

GAMES AND PUZZLES

8. Fluid losses (8) 9. Groaned (6)

12. Funeral vehicles (7) 15. Recently amended (7) 19. Stinging insect (6)

Ready to explode (8)

Manufactured (4) 23. Actor, ... Nolte (4) 24. Re-evaluate (8) DOWN

1. Computer phone links (6)

2. Synthetic fabric (5)

3. Laid ceramic squares (5)

4. Document fastener (6)

5. More miserly (6)

6. Valuable possessions (6)

10. Corrosive substance (4)

11. Let out (shriek) (4)

12. Owned (3)

13. Lowest female voice (4)

14. Imminently (4)

15. Irregular (6)

16. Assail (6)

17. Weirder (6)

18. Says (6)

19. ‘Laughing’ scavenger (5)

20. Elevated walkways (5)

Sudoku instructions

Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of 9 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, 9.30am-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 – Friday 8 November & Monday 25 November

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 6.30-9.30pm, 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 7.309pm 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 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 Pickleball Club – At Mercury Bay Area School Gymnasium, Every Tuesday Members Night 5.30-7.30pm; Sundays Social/ Training/ Newcomers 2.00-4.00pm & Intermediate Plus 4.00-6.00pm. $5 per session (first session free). Moewai Sportspark Outdoor Sessions - weather dependant & advised per our facebook page. Matarangi (Matai Pl Courts) Thurs 4-6pm, Sun 1012pm. Contact Tony 021426150.

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 on Thursdays at 5.30pm. All welcome. Ph Jason 022 186 7992 or Carl 027 680 5570. 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, 9.3011.00am. 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/

If you have an activity or group or the existing information is incorrect, let The Coromandel Informer know. Call 07 866 2090, email info@theinformer.co.nz. Our What’s On page is not guaranteed to run every week as often space is restricted. Consider paying for a classified advert if you want to guarantee your activity runs every week.

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 11.15am12.15pm; seniors 12.30-2.30pm; Thurs, absolute beginners 11.30am12.30pm, improvers 12.45-2.45pm. 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 – Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk 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. Coroglen Farmers Market every Sunday until Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25), from 9am1pm.

TRADES AND SERVICES

PUMPS

1080 science shows lack of credibility for all science

BY JOHN VEYSEY

An opinion writer published in The Informer laments the dismissal of 200 DOC scientists.

How many scientists must DOC have to be able to afford to lose 200 of them? Maybe they are the 1080 researchers no longer needed in such numbers. Having studied reports from DOC’s 1080 scientists for over 30 years I have observed a pattern.

The 1080 publicity gives the impression there is a sound scientific base behind the 1080 business. This impression is widely believed.

But the business of spreading 1080 baits had been underway for decades before we saw any research into the effects of 1080 in the environment. There was little need for any science back then

because only very few NZ’ers come face to face with 1080 in their daily lives. As 1080 use spread, more and more people came into close contact with the poison the number of concerns grew.

With each new outcry a scientific research project was designed to show that the concern was groundless. A member of the public saw dead birds or watched one of his animals die of 1080 poisoning and a scientist was employed to show there was no cause for alarm. 1080 was safe and effective.

In the ’70’s and early ’80’s, each 1080 scientist strived to become an expert in one aspect of 1080 spread; the rat expert, the gecko expert, the bird expert, the insect expert and so on. !080 science provided a whole new avenue for scientists looking for a job.

The bird expert found birds were poisoned by 1080 drops but ‘concluded’ that these deaths were sustainable because the birds would bounce back.

The insect expert found that aerial 1080 drowned the insects under a cloud of 1080 dust and failed to hide the fact. He was thrust aside. The bird man who had shown such positive initiative regarding the dead birds, replaced the insect expert, repeated the insect expert’s research and didn’t see a cloud at all. He concluded no harm to insects from 1080.

The tree expert declared our forests would be ruined without 1080. The water expert found 1080 in the streams and in all the creatures he studied in the 1080laden streams, but concluded that 1080 was harmless to all aquatic life. The frog expert monitored his frogs before and after a 1080

drop on the Coromandel. After the drop, the frogs had disappeared but the frog expert concluded that was not because of the 1080, it was because tourists had entered the country and taken those frogs to sell them as valuable rare specimens overseas.

A Tb-infected animal was imported onto a farm near Tairua, the answer was to surround the farm with 1080 because the possum ‘expert’ had concluded that the possum must have been the cause of the Tb outbreak, not the imported animal. We don’t just have DOC and Regional councils spreading 1080, we now have Tb and Predator-free departments to increase the flow of 1080.

Motoring along one morning a scientist started counting the number of dead possums on the road. If there were so many possums along such a length of road

and multiply that number by the area of NZ at the end of that drive and he comes up with 70 million possums in NZ. He tells his mate, and it soon becomes a published scientific fact.

NZ has 70 million possums. He became the possum counting expert. When it finally sunk home that the’ 70 million possums’ figure was quite unsustainable the number was halved, equally scientifically.

The 1080 ‘science’ lacks credibility. Immense chicanery is involved.

The 1080 occupation is just one massive government business riding on the very “science-based, evidence-driven decisions” which are largely contrived. I am with the sceptics on this.

As Malcolm Campbell said, The Informer, October 27, page 30 –Follow the money.

68 years. As per her wishes on Saturday 9

2024, after a

TO

McNEILL, Gwenda May

Age

November,

battle with cancer. Beloved wife of Wayne, mother of Kiley, Nick and Simon Skelton and her grandchildren. Thanks to Ashley, Nick, Judy and their teams for their care of Gwen.

A farewell has already been held.

“Fly high my little witch.” –Wayne.

SPORTS

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB

Slipper Pairs, Round One

North/South: 1, Chris Death & Peter Clark 68.00; 2, Celia Young & Nolene Kirkpatrick 55.50; 3, Diny Naus & Lynnette Flowers 47.00.

East/West: 1, Ron Baker & Rob Stewart 61.00; 2, Jim & Heather Buffett 56.00; 3, Christine Meinhold & Jocelyn Taylor 52.00.

HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB

Cathedral Cove Pairs Week One

Tuesday 5 November

North/South: 1, Denise Knutson and Anne Knowles 65.63; 2, Myra Hoogwerf and Angela Butterworth 53.65; 3, Bev Dickie and Robyn Hogg 49.48.

East/West: 1, Peter Hogg and Don Barry 59.38; 2, Lee Hughes and Johanna Bonnar 54.38; 3, Ann Scott and Ngaire O’Brien 53.13.

MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB

Handicap Pairs Round 6

Wednesday 6 November

North/South: 1, Augusta Canegallo & Gavin Hedwig 49.5; 2, Giorgio Allemano & Don Barry 49.2; 3, Dave Dylla & Johanna Bonnar 48.9.

East/West: 1, Susan Swan & Anne Knowles 62.3; 2, Kate Palmano & Pete Hogg 57.3; 3, Hillary Scott & Chris Hilford 52.8.

Centennial Pairs Round 3

Thursday 7 November

North/South: 1, Rose Tegg & Gavin Hedwig 59.4; 2, Geoff Jervis & Julie Rutledge 57.3; 3, Angela Cook & Kate Palmano 46.9. East/West: 1=, Norma Hart & Augusta Canegallo, Shay Geach & Faith Stock 55.2; 3, Hillary Scott & Margie Bussell 50.0.

MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER

Wednesday 6 November

Best of three frames: Eight players and it was Wayne Malcolm and Peter Challis with two straight wins to battle out the final third frame. Veteran Peter who showed great form took a close win over Wayne and took the cash prize. With two wins Wayne Malcolm (runner up), Greg Murphy and Ken Gibson.

Saturday 9 November

Best of three frames: Eight players and it was Greg Murphy and Peter Schultz with two straight wins to battle the final third frame. Veteran Peter was too good for Greg and took home the cash prize. Greg (runner up) and also Ian Baumgren with two wins.

MERCURY BAY PICKLEBALL CLUB League Q4

Round 9: Tuesday 5 November Court 1- 1,Hakan Nedjat 2,Justin Woolley 3,Eisaku Tsumura Court 2- 1,Kevin Walmsley 2, Dan Emmott 3, Grahame Christian Court 3- 1, Josh Muwanguzi 2, Rachel Johnstone 3,Graeme Eady Court 4- 1, Tony van der Drift 2, Michael Holmes 3,Vicky Blok

Round 10: Tues 5 Nov

Court 1- 1,Hakan Nedjat 2,Justin Woolley 3, Dan Emmott

Court 2- 1, Tony Minto 2,Andrea Williams 3, Grahame Christian Court 3- 1, Graeme Eady 2, Rachel Johnstone 3,Tom Duncan Court 4- 1,Fiona Gardien 2, Hamish Judson 3,Trish Graves

MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

Thursday 7 November

This was our last night for the year and we played our usual 3 games but made them fun games by using different jacks and obstacles on the mats which made the evening an enjoyable night with lots of laughter. Indoor Bowls will start up again next March.

Winners: Ray Rout, Maureen Lack and

Lionel Lawrence Runners Up: Merle Ward

m Lee Pudney, Sue Webb and Judy Adam’s Good Sports: Ian Pudney, Cheryl Henderson and Jan Harvey.

MERCURY BAY BOWLING CLUB Championship Triples

THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB

Melbourne Cup 9-hole mixed Stableford – Tuesday 5 November

1, Brenda Riggs; 2, Chrissie Smith; 3, Teri Tomlinson; 4, Peter Mathias; 5, Peter Ritchie.

Mixed Haggle Stableford

Saturday 9 November

1, Cathy Drake-Wells; 2, Norman Gilbert; 3, Ross Alexander.

Nearest the Pin#18: Cathy Drake-Wells Club Champs Winners 2024

Men’s Senior - Gary Bancroft

Men’s Intermediate - Jade Kennedy (playoff winner)

Men’s Junior- Jim Dale

Men’s 9-holes - Steve Airey

Ladies Silver - Allison Drake-Wells

Ladies Bronze 1 - Marie Dunn (playoff winner)

Ladies Bronze 2 - Marie Murphy

Ladie’s 9 hole - Glenda Philpott

TAIRUA GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB 18-hole Scramble Stableford

Saturday 2 November

1, Garth Hughes; 2, John Fraser; 3, Leon Smith.

If you would like your club/ sports results published in The Coromandel Informer please make sure they are emailed to us before 9am on Monday. Any photos with captions and an explanation are also welcome.

Email info@theinformer.co.nz

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The Coromandel Informer is published weekly and distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of them are entirely at the discretion of the editor. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name, telephone number or residential address. Opinions expressed (especially in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher and can be cut if too big. Published by The Mercury Bay Informer Limited.

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Sale is on selected ranges of popular Bremworth wool carpets. Ends 13th December 2024.

Inspiration starts here, at your local Guthrie Bowron Whitianga.

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