Photo credit: Shevana Lee Davies
Thames and Coromandel Santa Parades
COROMANDEL SANTA PARADE
Three years ago, Shevana Lee Davies, a mum on the Coromandel Play Centre Committee, put her hand up to work with the Play Centre to run the Christmas Parade in Coromandel township. There was no one else to do it. Shevana’s children are now school age but she is still in the organising seat with two other mums, Rochelle Aitken and Tara Palmer.
Having a Santa Parade is very important to the town and especially to the children.
There was a great turnout on Sunday, 8 December at 3.00pm for this popular Santa Parade.
Shevana was very pleased with the parade this year with over 16 floats entering as well as lots of costumed characters.
“Santa was the biggest hit, he always is, and the children loved chasing after the sweets,” says Shevana. The winner of the float competition was Coromandel Garden Circle. So visual widths bees and flowers and greenery.
is half way between the Moon and Mars very low in the east and there is a good Tiangong pass from 9:52pm in the west right beside Venus. Friday, December 13 –The bright red giant star Aldebaran, the Moon and Jupiter form a rough triangle. Saturday, December 14 –
With family, contracting just right
BY ADDIE LANE
here do you go to find a contractor that can do it all? Donovan and Son Contractors would be a good start. Whilst they humbly assert, not to be the best, their actions and capability portrays the contrary.
Going back to the year 1987, the late Laurie Donovan and his wife Anne relocated to Hahei and found their home here. They dabbled with different services when they first arrived, and Laurie, as a jack of all trades, noticed the demand for a local digger.
“We strive to do our best and will take on any new challenges that come our way.”
With a goal in mind, he purchased a digger and began his “one man” service, ‘Laurie’s Diggers’. This was the beginning of a wonderful family business, later to be known as Donovan & Son Contractors.
He was joined by his son Tim in 2003 and today it is still very much a family concern. Tim’s wife Ingred takes care of administration, and now their daughter Katey, who joined the team over two years ago, works out in the field with their business ‘on the
Today, this family concern has a fleet of trucks with a range of different diggers and machinery, and a good crew of experienced and capable operators.
They mainly service the areas of Cooks Beach, Hot Water Beach, Hahei and Whenuakite.
Tim says, “We do go further when we are needed.” They are ready to go wherever they are needed.
The Donovan’s take pride in their contributions to the community, such as installing those beautiful and well-designed public toilets that can be seen in
Tairua and Whangamata, as well as doing call-out work for Thames Coromandel District Council and the local community.
Tim says, “We strive to do our best and will take on any new challenges that come our way.”
When Katey first joined Donovan and Son Contractors in 2022, she felt totally at home in this workforce and she says, “It was second nature to me, having grown up in this industry.”
You would think she would have to compete against the usual things that happen when a woman breaks into a man’s workforce, but she didn’t. Their clients were happy to see her return to the area and take part in the family business.
Katey recalled the occasion when she ran the business whilst her parents were away on leave abroad.
Her parents are over the moon about her ability to run the business.
I asked Kathy, “How do you find it working in a man’s role?”
She answered, “I enjoy working in this industry, and it’s always rewarding to prove the negative people wrong.”
Katey has every intention to continue the Donovan legacy from the days of her grandparents and into the future. It is wonderful to see a great family making waves in the contracting world.
From left to right: Katey, Ingred and Tim Donovan, and Mike Todd.
MONDAY
A great team of two –Community Service Awards for Mercury Bay 2024
BY PAULINE STEWART
Tina Bartlett and Tonga Loumoli were the very deserving recipients of the 2024 Community Service Awards for Mercury Bay.
Although both Tina and Tonga are very involved in many aspects of their communities, as volunteers, it is their work organising and leading the annual Mercury Bay Day Camp which brought high recommendations to the Council and the Community Board for both of them to each receive a Community Service Award.
The Mercury Bay Day Camp is like a camping village of 450 children, teens and adults offered to the community annually.
Under the framework of the Mercury Bay Community Support Trust, the Day Camp is run on the Cooks Beach farm property of Graham and the late Selma Morcom who generously provides access to the site for all that makes the Day Camp such a successful and exciting event and it’s right in our backyard.
For Day Camp 2024, there were 301 children as day campers, over 50 teenagers as leaders, 85 adults helping in operations, as elective leaders, song leaders, counsellors and guides with one captain at the head and that is Tina Bartlett. For three days, this beautiful farm and ocean environment, hosts a highly
tuned and meticulously organised programme with fantastic equipment, confident and loving leadership and the spirit of Christian faith imbuing everything. The ethical and Christian leadership through talks, music, listening, and encouraging comes largely through Tonga Loumoli. He is a Pastor and has highly developed and experienced music and com-
munication skills. Both Tina and Tonga have truck loads of energy for the children and young people. They have demonstrated so naturally that they believe in the young people who lead the teams of children at the Day Camp and they believe in the very wonderful environment and programme that installs a love of nature, adventure, working together, finding friend-
HISTORY OF THE MERCURY BAY DAY CAMP
BY DON ADERN
Unbeknownst to many, The Coromandel Informer’s Pauline Stewart and her husband Stan, set up the Day Camp for Paeroa and Te Aroha, which is still going strong.
Pauline had established and successfully run Day Camps in Australia and could see how Day Camps could work well in this part of New Zealand. She had already established the philosophy and the successful programme. Consequently, Pauline
was brought to Whitianga by Richard Vetter who was then, owner/manager of Peninsula Roofing and Scaffolding, and the key local person who had brought together a team, to prepare for that first Mercury Bay Day Camp in 2000.
ships and learning many skills. They also believe in openness about sharing the Christian faith at the Day Camp and leading by example.
The Day Camp in Mercury Bay has been running now for 24 years.
Mercury Bay should be very proud of this 24-year achievement. Community members and leaders will do well to keep checking as to how they can support and help sustain this remarkable programme. These days, Day Camp attracts families to Whitianga, Cooks Beach and Hahei for the April school holidays, so that their child/children attend Day Camp.
In addition to the Day Camp, Tina Barlett has been on the Cook’s Beach Community Cen-
TCDC COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS
RECIPIENTS
From TCDC newsletter: Throughout our District, there are many people who work quietly away at making our communities better places to live, often with little recognition and no pay. To acknowledge a few of these people and as a way of saying thank you, every two years.
Congratulations to our 2024 Community Service Award Recipients.
Tairua-Pāuanui: Tina Larsen, Les Sinton
Whangamatā: Greame Webb, Rob Boston
Thames: Carolyn McKenzie, John Sanford.
Mercury Bay: Tina Bartlett and Tonga Loumoli
Coromandel-Colville winners will be announced next week and more will be presented about the other Community service Award recipients.
tre committee, since 2004 as the Secretary and the Chair; as Secretary for the Cook’s Beach Volunteer Fire Brigade for 16 years and the MB Day Camp Crew, Committee and Director for 18 years all up.
Tonga Loumoli has only been living in Whitianga with his wife and four children for four years but since his arrival, he has been very active in creating activities for youth, teaching music and song to both youth and adults, free of charge. Teaching MBAS students about health and fitness also free of charge. He also has played a crucial role in supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of our youth, giving them a sense of belonging. Also helping out with Community building projects.
Thank you to the community, TCDC and the Community Boards across the District for this process of selecting Community Service Award recipients.
‘Mayor Len Salt having presented Tina Bartlett and Tonga Loumoli with their community Service Award medals at the Mercury Bay Community Board Rooms. Councilllor Rekha Percival was also part of the presentation ceremony.
It’s The Boys Lunch Group
From an interview conducted by Stephen Holmes with Peter Farmer – co-ordinator of the ‘boys’.
STEPHEN: HOW DID THE GROUP START?
Peter: John Evans and a number of other local identities here set this ‘Boys Luncheon’ up about twenty years ago. The idea behind it was a fellowship of guys between the ages of 60 and 85. They are guys that have a very good focus on friendship.
The group has been very useful for people who have shifted here from a farming community or who have retired from their life’s work somewhere else, for example. They don’t know anybody.
There is one man here today who was a potato farmer. Potato farmers generally don’t have close neighbours. He did not know how to find friends, but he is here.
We have got 25 people here today for the Christmas get-together. There are 50 in the total group, so it’s a good figure to have.
We meet once a month. It used to be once a week but people are busy and the monthly get-together works well. The group has been very effective in connecting people.
STEPHEN: WHAT IS THE OFFICIAL NAME?
“It’s friendship that are deep that form out of this, and that is what I pretty much focused on.”
nity. A lot are ex-farmers, builders, business owners. There is only one car dealer and that’s me. (Peter smiles).
There is a very good cross-section of men represented here and a lot of people aren’t here today for various reasons this time of year.
“It’s friendship that are deep that form out of this, and that is what I pretty much focused on.”
STEPHEN: WHERE DO MOST OF THE MEN COME FROM?
Peter: The majority are residents of Whitianga but most of them
Peter: We are The Boys Lunch Group. Whatever Friday is the last one in the month, that’s when we meet and usually the time is a little after midday. We focus on Kufe for our place of gathering. We think the food and environment are very good for this group.
come from Auckland, Tauranga or Hamilton. There are a few that have been in Mercury Bay some length of time and there is a whole cross-section of prior employment backgrounds. We have a number of people from the horse racing commu-
Peter Farmer of Farmer Auto Village, Tauranga, shares his time between Tauranga and Whitianga. In partial retirement, he is spending more time in Mercury Bay. If you are interested in joining The Boys Lunch Group, come along on that last Friday of the month or drop Peter an email: peter@farmerautogroup.co.nz.
Opinion
Thoughts on this SCORECARD:
MB Community Board: 29 TCDC: 0
BY TONY FOX
What does this score relate to, you might ask? Having listened to John Freer’s CFM interview of Mayor Len Salt and the Coromandel Alliance Association (CAA) Chair, Richard Shelford-Woodcock, I was left wondering how much (or little) our Mayor and Council understand about the Community Empowerment Model implemented under Glenn Leach.
This 2012 successfully implemented model aimed to give each Community Board more control over their local projects and budgets, fostering a sense of community empowerment and participation in local governance.
A TCDC SMOKE SCREEN
In the interview, on the question of Community Empowerment, the Mayor could only respond by mentioning the issues that could arise if each Community Board issues (chooses) its contractors. What a smoke screen. At no stage under the Leach-led Council did Community Boards sign contracts, nor was this ever envisaged. Public money must undergo the closest scrutiny.
Under the very successful Community Empowerment model implemented in 2012, each Board had its budget for those council activities not funded at a district level. Water, Solid Waste and Transportation were all funded at the District level. However, this did not discourage a Commu-
nity Board from contributing to the decisions on managing these activities. Community input/participation was encouraged.
NOW TO THE SCORE: 29 - 0
Under the leadership of the Leach Council, the Mercury Bay Community Board spearheaded at least 29 projects. These initiatives, ranging from those funded by rates, fees, and charges to those undertaken with voluntary/ donated input, stand as a testament to our community’s potential. A few examples include:
• Parking at places with heavy visitor use, such as Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove, provided an opportunity to provide improved facilities and, at the same time, have these paid for through fees and charges. I note that the Council refers to $1.4M generated through parking revenue. This was an initiative of the Mercury Bay Community Board and supported by the Council. The MBCB led the discussions/ community engagement;
• The development of improved trailer boat facilities in Mercury Bay. i.e., the boat ramps at the Esplanade, Purangi, Matarangi and Robinson Road. The facilities were provided on the basis that they would be funded on a userpay basis, i.e. fees and charges;
• The Whitianga Town Upgrade, a community-led project, is a prime example. While the District funded part of it, the majority was financed through local rates. The design, negotiation with retail-
Tony Fox
ers, bike racks, seating, etc., were all managed locally, showcasing our community’s ability to take charge of its own development;
• The Skate Park is another Community-led project funded through fundraising by the local skate community and local (targeted) rates.
I do not have space to list every project and comment on it. However, to further substantiate my claims regarding projects initiated and seen to their conclusion within our Ward areas I can mention:
The hoggin path/cycleway along Buffalo Beach Road;
The purchase of the land and buildings on Monk Street, namely The Informer site;
The old Fire Station and Arlingham House.
These were all done at the Community Board’s initiative to future-proof the area for enhanced living, well-being, and development.
At the time, the grand plan was to create a Civic Centre to house the Whitianga Area Office, a performing and visual arts centre and maybe a home for our library
and a fit-for-purpose museum. An option that remains open thanks to the vision of the then Community Board!
Another initiative the then-area manager brought to our Community Board was the spruce up of the old sale yards at Coroglen. The MBCB supported this initiative. Local businesses donated things such as roofing material and paint, and then the locals, with assistance and help from our Board Members and Councillors, undertook the work voluntarily;the power of community-minded folk working together!
It would be remiss of me not to mention the MBCB role in what I believe to be the most significant event to take place on the Peninsula in recent, modern times - the Tuia 250 Celebration. This collaboration involved Ngati Hei, Central Government appointees, local volunteers, and the Community Board, with very little TCDC involvement.
Above clearly demonstrates what can be achieved in empowered communities.
SO WHAT WENT WRONG?
Simply put, we were the victims of our own success. Other Wards believed that all the “action” was in Mercury Bay. They may well have been correct, but this success did not happen by luck, far from it.
We were fortunate to have some excellent staff based in our Whitianga Office. We had a Community Board that bought into the
model and a council supported by a mayor and chief executive/s who encouraged and supported it.
The political landscape may have changed. There are a few more hurdles to overcome these days. However, it can be done. The requirement is for the local community to want to make it happen and for us, as a community, to request and ensure that the Council and TCDC staff deliver what we require. We are, after all, the ones paying for it all. They exist for us. Not the other way around!
This is the reason behind the formation of the Coromandel Alliance Association and the Ratepayer Associations, particularly on the Eastern Seaboard, to become so active. I encourage everybody who reads this to consider joining your local Ratepayer Association. These groups are advocacy groups and another way to have your voice heard. There is hope, but the future is in your hands. Our Local Body elections take place next year. If you believe your community should have a meaningful say, please join your local Ratepayer Association and think closely about whom to support for your Councillors and Community Board members at the next election. Your involvement is crucial for the future of our community. Tony Fox is Acting Chair, Whitianga Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Association. Tony has previously served as an elected Councillor for four terms
‘The Boys Lunch Group’ meeting at Kufe. Peter Farmer is in the front, second from the right.
Nature’s Hideaway on the edge of Coromandel town
BY RAEWYN TRAIL
Hansel and Gretel was a fairy tale but this place is a reality, offering tranquillity, serenity and peacefulness of this beautiful hidden sanctuary, on the edge of the historical Coromandel town.
Enter the driveway lined with beautiful native fauna and bird song, once across the stream, you’ll see the gorgeous flat parklike fenced grounds, suitable for
many uses, including campers, caravans, tents, or for the ponies and farm animals.
Mature, well appointed trees have been planted to add beauty and give the ultimate shade needed for the hot summer months.
The captivating historic character colonial home has 5 large double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 3 toilets, 320 M2 floor area, with an abundance of rooms, including billiard and music rooms.
Take a meander and absorb the tranquillity of this wonderful property, with formed walking tracks and a stream along the boundary. Take a walk upstream to the beautiful hidden waterfall and enjoy a soak in the swimming hole on the neighbouring DOC land.
Walking through the native bush track full of birdsong, you can a hear the sound of water trickling, its just so relaxing. There is a choice of beautifully
formed ponds where you can have a soak and enjoy the tranquil private surrounds in the stream under the umbrella of ferns and foliage that shades the crystal clear water.
Wander on up through the bush tracks up to the elevated open paddocks, where you can take in the peace and quiet and enjoy the fabulous Coromandel harbour views.
Truly a great setting for a romantic glamping site or a retreat for
yoga health meditation.
Imagine bringing your friends on a retreat for a week. The natural bird life all around is a fantastic sound.
This property is not just to be lived in but to be experienced. You’re not buying a house you’re buying a lifelong experience.
For information and viewings please call Raewyn Trail on 021 0201 9111 raewyn.trail@harcourts.co.nz
Fun and Fun-d raising at the Twilight Gala
BY NATASHA SARICH-DUNN
On Friday, 29th November, Mercury Bay Area School hosted the inaugural Twilight Gala onsite. The turnout was outstanding and the sun was shining as parents, students and the community came together to experience a range of food stalls, fun activities, student performances and stalls from each class.
Gala money was introduced to make the experience cashless and easier for the hosts and attendees alike. Those in attendance had the option of ice play, a bouncy castle, face painting, live music, a disco, games, cake stalls, plant sales, book sales, White elephant stall, flower
sales, an ice cream truck, raffles, student made wooden furniture, art displays, food stalls, garden ornaments and more. The finale of the gala was the colour run where over 300 students participated, (100 registering on the day) running around the school field numerous times while being sprayed with powdered paint and water guns. At least $12,000 was raised from the colour run alone
Principal Ross Dunn said “The Gala’s success was testament to the incredible generosity of local businesses and family donations of which the school is so grateful. We need to acknowledge Freya Marra and the gala committee for their time and energy putting this
successful event together. Fabian Roberts was a fantastic MC who volunteered his time. It also wouldn’t have been possible without the teachers who facilitated events and stalls on the night.” Ross wishes to thank the community for their support with attending and making the event so enjoyable.
All proceeds from the gala will be invested back into the school for new shade sails, seating and a start on the fundraising efforts for the astroturf. Parent Kirby Faulkner said, “It was wonderful seeing the school community coming together and MY children had a great time. The food was delicious, and the energy was lively. I look forward to the next one.”
private & quiet
• Accommodating for families & Air BnB
• Sprawling land area of 7562sqm (mol), fully fenced & ample off street parking
hosting gatherings or even a swimming pool.
Tairua,
Photo credit Leisa McCleery
Photo credits for this event Stephen Holmes
Alfred and George - The Thames ‘Men of Metal’ PART 1
The past and present - not just what was, but what is.
BY JACK BIDDLE
A&G Price Ltd – A very brief overview of the Thames based company and its founders, Alfred and George Price, who are often referred to as the Men of Metal.
156 years ago, brothers Alfred and George Price, originally from Stroud in Gloucestershire England, opened an engineering works in Onehunga, Auckland.
Both brothers had English engineering backgrounds and after their arrival in New Zealand in the mid-1880’s, worked on coastal ships until 1868, when they decided to go it alone and look for ways to put their engineering expertise, vision and imagination to better use.
And so the wheels of A&G Price began to turn and have continued to turn for 156 years. In that time, the company has endured and survived an ever-changing landscape, multiple wars, depressions, labour shortages, competition, pandemics and finding ways to adapt to the changes in direction and bureaucracy by the Government of the day.
What hasn’t changed since 1870 however is the location of their business known by many as simply ‘the foundry’ situated at the northern end of Thames and occupying 10 acres of land, eighty percent of which is taken up by buildings which have also stood the test of time.
The Price brothers and the company’s subsequent owners would soon learn that to survive changing times, reinvention and evolution were going to be vital.
156 years on, that mind-set is very much still in play.
One of the first successful ventures for the brothers, when working from their Onehunga base, was when they saw an opportunity in the flax trade. They went onto design and build many flax processing machines to manufacture rope. Over the next two years, staff numbers grew but the market was tough, so it was time to take a big picture look for where best their expertise and skill could be put to better use.
STARTING IN THAMES
The discovery of gold in Thames was an opportunity not to be missed, and so in 1870, the Thames branch of A&G Price Ltd opened to service the gold mines. In comparison to Auckland’s population of 14,000, the Thames population had at the time swelled to around 18,000 in response to the boom in gold mining and the opportunity and
hope for many to earn a fortune by discovering their own pot of gold.
A&G Price was once again in high demand, with a growing reputation for precise engineering.
The mining equipment designed and produced by the foundry included stamping batteries, steam engines, hydraulic lifts, water turbines and boilers. Essentially, if the mining industry needed vital equipment, then A&G Price would design, manufacture and deliver it.
However, Alfred and George would soon learn nothing lasts forever. When the gold dried up and the price of processed flax fell, the brothers had to look to evolve once again.
They moved into the expanding and lucrative timber industry and the new opportunities that would follow, especially close to home in the Thames region.
A production line was soon set up to manufacture a new version
of a vital piece of forestry equipment, the timber jack. This was used to move heavy kauri logs in the dense bush. The company would go on to make over 25,000 timber jacks, making them arguably the first mass-produced item in New Zealand alongside the cast-iron coal or wood burning Shacklock Stove.
In 1898 the Thames to Auckland rail opened, so another opportunity beckoned, meaning it was time for the brothers to evolve once again.
Alfred and George lobbied the Government to build steam locomotives and in 1903 they got their first contract for 10 modern locomotives to be built in 30 months. This venture was so successful the company got more rail contracts with manufacturing continuing during World War I with over 200 steam locomotives being produced.
With all this work taking place, a larger furnace was needed, so
the biggest Cupola furnace in New Zealand was installed along with a Bessemer converter for making steel. A Cupola furnace is fired on coal and the iron is fed in the top and is helped to melt by a ring of fans. At the time the Bank of New Zealand reportedly had problems with disposing of old government bonds and asked the Price brothers if they could burn them in the furnace. Rumour has it that one day the furnace operator decided to turn on the fans which blew thousands of bank notes and government bonds across Thames. So the company moved into the 1960s to 1980s which were boom years in New Zealand, with diesel locomotives, hydro stations, sawmills, pulp and paper, cement and steel mills being commissioned. The opportunities were huge and so it was time to evolve once again.
Next issue 17 December Part Two ‘Men of Metal’.
Alfred and George. These photos were cropped from the Thames Cricket Club album; The A & G Price Foundry – photo taken in 1901 courtesy of Turnbull Library
BY PAM FERLA
Rain adds fun to Tairua’s Spring Fling
Tairua’s Spring Fling on Saturday, November 30, was a celebration of community spirit that shone brightly, despite the day’s drizzle.
“The weather was damp, but the energy was anything but,” says Tairua Business Association chairman, Peter Hunt. “Over 70 stallholders came together to create a vibrant hub of artistry, craftsmanship and local flavour, turning it into an unforgettable showcase of Tairua’s charm –and all set on picturesque Pepe Reserve.”
Activities rolled on with unstoppable enthusiasm – sandcastle competitions, tug-o-war battles and a captivating historic photographic display of Tairua’s past.”
Even the rain added a fun twist, transforming the heritage tour of Tairua into a splashy adventure.
Tairua School’s kapa haka performance brought warmth to the crowd, while CFM’s live broadcast kept the excitement buzzing.
Adapting to the weather, jandal throwing gave way to gumboot throwing, which was perfect for the muddy conditions. Three-
legged races also brought much laughter. Highlight of the day may have been the Wearable Jandal Fashion winner, showcasing creativity that stole the show.
“The festival was also a heart-warming tribute to Tairua’s amazing volunteers,” says Peter. “Tairua Fire Brigade’s legendary mussel burgers were on sale, along with presence from St John and Tairua Surf Rescue, reminding us of the incredible community spirit that defines our town. The Spring Fling proved that not even the wettest weather can dampen Tairua’s festive spirit.”
Grey Power progressing instalment of tsunami warning system
BY DOROTHY PREECE
The Mercury Bay Grey Power President, Merle Edwards, had an important announcement to make at their Christmas luncheon last Thursday 5 December.
Merle said the highlight of the year had been the positive progress of the committee work towards providing dedicated warnings to be installed around Mercury Bay, for tsunamis and extreme weather events. “David Yeomans and Linda Cholmondeley-Smith have worked tirelessly to push this through to the next level, and without those two we would never have got there,” Merle said.
“I am now able to tell you that it has gained the support of the Grey Power National Federation and last month it was presented to Government. The proposal was accepted, and Government will now implement it, but there are many hurdles yet to be over-
come at local authority level.”
COMPANIONSHIP THE WORD AT GREY POWER
More than 60 people attended the Mercury Bay Grey Power Christmas lunch on Thursday last, enhanced by festive tables, Christmas trees, good food and live music at the Mercury Bay Club. MB Grey Power President,
Merle Edwards, thanked her very able and enthusiastic committee, saying their hard work had been rewarded with luncheon events and coffee mornings that brought people together throughout the year in caring and companionship, which Merle believes is so important for older persons.
“We are also indebted to Woolworths Supermarket, who con-
tinue to donate three raffles to us each year.”
In a later interview Merle said Grey Power membership is now open to people of all ages, “Because younger people are the older persons of the future and we want them to be working towards recognition of the needs of older persons.”
It was also noted by others that
many younger people are caring for their older parents and grandparents and many professions are about caring for the elderly. They are very aware of the issues facing older people and are in a position to speak up from experience. If you are interested in knowing more about Grey Power or would like to join, contact Merle Edwards 07 867 1737.
Julie Johnstone was a lucky raffle winner; Festive mood at the Grey Power luncheon.
STAN’S STUFF
Teaching the grandson to drive
BY STAN STEWART
Iam teaching my 16-year-old grandson (the youngest) to drive. Basically, it’s about making sure he follows all the rules. I’m observing his navigation choices. I’m giving tips on safe driving.
No! No! No! I’m not. He knows more about driving than I do. He has a perfect knowledge of the theory. He has taken two courses on driving technique and road rules. And there is more instruction and professional supervision ahead. I can only assume the government’s ambition is to raise all the young drivers to the level of ‘Doctor of Driving’. I just sit beside him and watch and wonder as he fixes his learner L plates to the vehicle.
On my 17th birthday, I was given my full driving license, unrestricted - P plates never needed. My dad had ‘kind-of’ taught me, although I never quite got mastery of the double-D-clutch. The local cop (policeman) sat in the passenger seat and had me drive once around the block and reverse into the kerb. The most memorable part of the test was his lecture to me. “Don’t you go
tearing around the town. I know who you are and I’ll be watching you!”
Despite the lessons on basic principles, expense and drawnout testing, in recent months Queensland has had some horrific road accidents. Obviously the most detailed driver’s education can all be negated by the influence of alcohol and drugs.
My first car was a 1927 Riley Nine (nine horsepower). It was a sporty number with a pointy tail. It had been restored by a very clever contemporary of mine. However, his restoration was achieved mostly by painting over masking tape. It fooled me for a month or so before the weather
revealed the deficiency in his body work repairs. The car cost almost all my savings, 350 pound. My dad was against the purchase, but I trumped him by saying I had prayed about buying this car and Jesus wanted me to have it. I was to use the car to take people (girls) to and from the church youth group.
The Riley had a wooden chassis that flexed when the car was driven around corners. This caused the front-opening door on the passenger’s side to fly open endangering the passenger (no seat belts). To save my fair passenger, I had to reach across and hold the door shut before she fell out. This manoeuvre brought my
arm in direct ever so fleeting contact with the girl’s breasts. The girl was always grateful as I saved her life and so was I.
On different occasions I saved three girls from being shot out of the vehicle. Up until that time, I had no idea that girls breasts were so soft. Now to put this sensation in context. In my church we were not allowed to ball-room dance as physical, boy-girl contact was forbidden. After my rescues, neither of us said anything.
I still remember the thrill of those life-saving actions and maybe the girls do too?
These days my grandson’s car (his dad’s really) is a nearly new Nissan SUV. It has surround video surveillance, and more airbags and safety features than I can number, automatic, air-conditioned, with power steering of course. But I’m not envious. In the four months that my Riley nine with a pointy tail like a bee, went, I had so many adventures to remember.
My grandson is tall, handsome, and well-spoken. We talk about school life and his social life but I don’t press him for details. His school is thoroughly up-to-date with uni-sex toilets and to me, its
free discussion to assess
Contact: Ernest Raina 021 716 852 or 07 211 9793 (Matarangi office) ernest@rainest.co.nz
social and political life reflects a WOKE agenda.
In fantasy, I wondered what it would be like to be sixteen again. There is a whole genre of films with ‘coming of age’ themes. The one that comes to my mind from long ago is ‘Caddyshack’. There are many more. However, I don’t think any I have seen are very realistic. My guess is that they were written by middle-aged, not so fit men trying to portray ‘coming of age’ as they would have liked it to be. And so, they get a bright and beautiful teen cast to act out their racy fantasies.
From my life experience, I think moving through the teen years for most is more complicated and often more painful than usually portrayed in coming-of age movies. These are entertainment for older adults.
I have done my coming-of-age journey. Sometimes it was exciting. Sometimes it was depressing. It was what it was and I’m not going back. I wish my youngest grandson well and I will do all I can to support him. Some things he may share and some things he may not, but whatever, I am here for him. And as for me, I have my own new journey to traverse.
Empowering the Coromandel: A Unified Voice for Change
FROM RICHARD SHELFORDWOODCOCK
On November 7, the Coromandel Alliance Association (CAA) hosted a meeting with the Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC) in Whitianga to address long standing governance challenges and chart a collaborative path forward.
Attendees included Mayor Len Salt, councillors, community board representatives, and CAA members all focused on improving local governance and empowering community voices.
SETTING THE SCENE:
The CAA, formed earlier this year, represents a unified alliance of ratepayer and resident associations across the Peninsula. The meeting opened with acknowledgement of shared aspirations for the Coromandel Peninsula. During the meeting, Richard Shelford-Woodcock, CAA Chair, Richard Shelford-Woodcock, emphasized the group’s mission: to restore ground-up democracy and advocate for stronger, fiscally empowered community boards. He also highlighted the community’s frustrations with governance, calling for tangible changes in how TCDC interacts with its stakeholders.
KEY ISSUES RAISED:
The CAA presented four primary concerns:
1. Rates and Affordability: Unsustainable rate increases are
placing undue pressure on residents. The CAA called for a more equitable system that retains and invests local funds in smaller, often overlooked communities.
2. Infrastructure Services: Advocacy for TCDC to directly manage essential services like water, roading, and waste under tighter financial controls, improving transparency and accountability.
3. Empowering Community Boards: A call to reinstate the pre-2016 governance model, giving community boards greater decision-making authority.
4. Genuine and Proactive Consultation: Communities want earlier involvement in planning processes, particularly for the Annual and Long-T erm Plans, ensuring decisions align with local needs.
REQUESTS TO TCDC
To address these concerns, the CAA tabled three requests:
1. Implement the Chief Ombudsman’s recommendations to improve transparency in council meetings.
2. Share the draft 2025/26 Annual Plan with community boards and the CAA by December for early community input.
3. Begin restoring community boards to their pre-2016 governance roles, reintroducing localized decision-making.
COUNCIL’S RESPONSE
Mayor Len Salt acknowledged the concerns, stressing the need for constructive, fact-based dialogue.
He highlighted the Council’s ongoing work on storm recovery and infrastructure resilience but noted that changes to governance structures would take time. Salt also encouraged all parties to work collaboratively, emphasizing that negative media portrayals hinder progress.
DECEMBER 2, 2024: RADIO INTERVIEW ON CFM
Shelford-Woodcock and Mayor Salt discussed on Coromandel’s CFM further community empowerment and the restoration of pre-2016 governance models. The interview emphasized the shared vision of empowering communities through decentralized decision-making. Listeners were encouraged to consider how community empowerment benefits everyone, ensuring that ratepayer funds are
allocated fairly and effectively.
LOOKING AHEAD
The CAA and TCDC have committed to ongoing dialogue and constructive engagement.
The November meeting and subsequent discussions mark an important step in fostering transparency, accountability, and local empowerment in Coromandel governance.
As Richard noted during the interview, “This is about putting communities at the heart of decision-making, where they belong. By empowering local boards, we ensure our unique voices are heard and our priorities are met.”
The Coromandel community remains optimistic that these efforts will result in a stronger, more inclusive governance model, reflective of its residents’ needs and aspirations.
TO CONCLUDE:
Residents of the Coromandel Peninsula are encouraged to join their local ratepayer association. These associations play a vital role in advocating for your needs and priorities and ensure your voice is part of the conversation shaping our communities.
As we approach the festive season, the CAA wishes all residents and ratepayers a safe and joyful holiday period, a Merry Christmas, and a prosperous New Year. Here’s to a positive and collaborative 2024, with great anticipation for what we can achieve together in 2025!
I wish all CAA chairs and it res-
idents and Ratepayer a safe festive season and a happy new year. CAA looks forward to continue it’s advocacy work in the new year 2025.
CAA - Chair Richard Shelford-Woodcock
COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT IN ACTION
With the pre-2016 community empowerment model, significant projects were spearheaded and achieved. This is a list of some
● Moewai Park’s concert venue relocation.
● Esplanade Re-development with Ngati Hei
● Town upgrade including underground services
● Tarapatiki/Ohuka Park water reticulation
● TCDC Reserves concessions.
● The initial Esplanade Redevelopment concepts.
● Support for Rally NZ
● The Groyne trial at Front Beach
● Pedestrian crossing on Cook drive to help the visually impaired.
● The Memorial Forests. Each Community Board did their own work on these
● The Great Walks project These are just some of the many initiatives, primarily funded and managed locally, demonstrating the potential of community-driven governance.
Chocky at the Whiti Markets encouraging people to sign up to the Residents & Ratepayers.
CAROLS IN THE PARK
(The ‘Park’ is Whitianga’s Town Centre)
Friday, 13 December 7.00pm
Community Carol Singing
• Local Tongan community will be playing the music
• Local Filipino community will provide the choir to lead the singing.
There is some public seating but bring a picnic chair to be sure.
Come and sing carols with the community.
The songs tell the story of Christmas. Let’s not forget it.
Christmas, NewYear & Summer events!
Mercury Bay Art Escape Student Exhibition
As part of Mercury Bay Art Escape’s work in supporting art in the Coromandel there is an emphasis on encouraging young artists and collaboration between students and local artists.
A longstanding art scholarship is offered each year by the Trust to a Year 13 student from Mercury Bay Area School. The scholarship winner gains support, art materials and mentoring with an established Coromandel artist.
Last year the Mercury Bay Art Escape added to its calendar of art events an exhibition of selected
scanned Year 13 Art including the work of the new and previous years scholarship winner.
This successful exhibition of Year 13 art students work is scheduled to be held again at Hot Waves Café, Hot Water Beach opening on Sunday, 15th of December at 2.00pm and the exhibition will continue until mid-January.
The past Scholarship winners and the Year 13 art students have gained in creative confidence from their association with the Art Escape and the students ben-
efit from the opportunity to display their artistic talents to the public. Call into Hot Waves café, Hot Water beach, for coffee or lunch and view the art works of our local students.
Don’t miss this Year 13 student art exhibition starting on the 15th December.
For more information on this event and other Mercury Bay Art Escape activities and artists check out the stunningly colourful Mercury Bay Art Escape website https://www.mercurybay-artescape.com/
Christmas Parades
WHANGAMATA CHRISTMAS PARADE AND FAIR 5.30pm - 8.00pm Friday, 13 December.
NGATEA CHRISTMAS PARADE 5.45pm –7.30pm, Thursday, 12 December.
Tairua Santa’s Picnic on the Pepe Saturday, 21 December
Matarangi Santa Parade Saturday, 21 December
Turua Christmas at the Domain Sunday, 22 December.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
TCDC’S EXPENSIVE MAGAZINE
As Trevor Ammundsen has noted (The Informer, November 26) TCDC’s latest ‘Our Coromandel’ magazine with its expensive fold out back cover is another iteration of an ongoing wasteful and expensive exercise by TCDC. The Communication Department (aka spin doctors) has taken more of our money just so council can tell us once again how very wonderful they are! After an ongoing public backlash over many years it’s production was deleted from previous council budgets as it was such a waste of staff time and resources but somehow it has been snuck in again right under our noses with no consultation.
Hart
In previous editions the only two pages with actually useful information were those with details of the summer rubbish collection timetable. Yet even this is missing from the latest version as it just tells readers to go to the council website! What is the point of council producing an expensive publication telling readers to go to their website for the information they need…why not just have the website and save ratepayers all this unnecessary cost?
Responding to widespread criticism that this council funded publication is unnecessary and, even worse, diverts advertising revenue from similar private publications that have to actually make a profit for their owners, Our Coromandel has the following text on the first page:
“All advertisers signed a contract stating that advertising in Our Coromandel did not divert them from planned or budgeted advertising in other local media.” Really? How would council ever know this…it’s just weasel words to shamelessly deflect criticism that this publication does in fact impact on the viability of the other similar publications that can’t rely on endless ratepayer funding.
If council’s messaging is so important for us all why don’t they just buy pages in the private newspapers and summer magazines thus supporting local busi-
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 reflect the editor’s view. The editor reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.
nesses (which council endlessly tells us they want to do). It would also free up these council staff to actually do something useful with their time which we are stuck paying for.
Can council please give us a breakdown of the cost of producing this heavy and glossy magazine including staff and non staff hours and also the cost of posting it to those 11,000 people who live off the Coromandel. I’m sure they’re anxiously watching their postboxes every morning desperately hoping for it to turn up.
Alistair Brickell Kuatunu
WHO HAS ‘THE SAY’ RE DEVELOPMENT?
Preamble from Maggie – In the interests of a level playing field, and the good of the whole community, thank you for your attention to publishing this, this week. Now is the time when the information is needed to push people to submit their opinion online at TCDC website.
Thank you for your article in the 3 December The Informer re the 6 concept plans for Whitianga’s waterfront and boat-ramp facilities.
Like anyone with childhood or longtime roots here, I am gravely concerned about the changes afoot, formulated mainly by business & development inter-
Financial Advisor
est groups who have Council’s ear… and have had, for the past 8-15 years at least, which is why a once-healthy WWRRA was disbanded. This, for Ms. Cole-Ewen and Mr Rasmussen, who seem not to see the bigger picture.
Many of us may not be in business, own a boat or even be an event-goer. We may choose to live in this charming, river-ferry town for its existing natural beauty and serenity, its interesting history and authentic ‘Kiwi character’.
However, a very tricky political cross-current exists behind the scenes here. It does not bode well for either our current Council, or those of us who’d prefer to see changes that are more mindful of, and fair to, the whole gamut of ratepayers.
The very-important comparative figures on financing these costly projects, are NOT available. They are said to be “within the current budget”! How though?
Are these redevelopment plans for Whitianga practical and affordable?
Do we REALLY WANT:-
a) our prime, character-giving, waterfront space taken up and congested by boat-trailers and car parking?
b) our beautiful playground (money already spent) up-ended and moved to the unattractive Taylors Mistake?
c) one or two costly new jetties built (Waterfront & Robinsons
Rd) given the danger to our coast of climate change, and huge costs of building materials? Do older folk want to walk along a long jetty in bad weather to the ferry? d) extortionate rates on top of what we already face, because USER-PAY fees charged are not enough?
d) continuing high debt, adding to rates rises, when the town’s existing infrastructure is already failing & needs attention?
“What do you think?” Let’s team-build positively. Please submit on TCDC’s website or a hardcopy form, by Wed 18 Dec. Maggie Johnson, Whitianga
MULTICULTURALISMGREAT CONCEPT, BUT IN PRACTICE, IT SEPARATES
Let’s put multiculturalism back in the closet. It was espoused ideologically by Jacinda Ardern and others. Yet multiculturalism is now believed to be promoting ethnic separatism instead of a more integrationist/assimilated society.
Instead of encouraging small tribal cultural groups within our national culture, let’s have a peaceful multi-mix culture where we are all equal, valued and respectful. Is this what Mr trump is offering? Let’s see what 2025 brings.
Peter H Wood, Whitianga
A great colouring-in or painting-in competition
Daena Young is the administrator of Shoreline Painters, Whitianga. Daena is a force of sunny ideas and positive energy. Through Daena, Shoreline Painters has initiated a Christmas colouring competition for children in The Coromandel Informer.
COLOURING OR PAINTING-IN COMPETITION
Two levels- 5-7 years and 8-12 years; starting last week and running for three weeks in December. Your entry must be in by 9.00am the following Monday of each issue.
First colouring-in or painting-in appeared 2 week’s ago of The Informer and can be downloaded from facebook and the website, but you can use the version in The Informer if you choose.
The quality of the paper is better when printed from your facebook or website but no child will be penalised for colouring in the newspaper edition of the colouring in.
Each entry will increase in level of difficulty to colour in or paint.
Third Entry in by Monday 16 December
CHRISTMAS EVE
The winning finalists (there will be two winners, one for each age group) will be announced on CFM and published in The Informer, Tuesday, 24 December. They will be personally notified as well by Shoreline painters.
Prizes: The winner
(8-12years) receives a $100 voucher from Paper Plus and a Banana Boat ride for four.
The winner (5-7 years) receives a $100 voucher from The Warehouse plus a family pass to Fun Zone which includes 18 Holes of Soccer Golf, 20 minute Outdoor Laser Tag game and 100 paintballs to shoot off at Target Paintball Shooting. Great for anyone over the age of 6yrs.
Please Note: The Laser Tag guns are about 2.2kg so make sure you child is capable of holding up a 2 litre bottle of milk for a while prior to booking..
Send in your colouring in each week for three weeks
The two winners will be announced in the Christmas Eve edition and their prize can be picked up that day. The judges require all three colouring-ins or painting-ins from each entrant to decide the winners.
There is a colourful box outside The Informer office in Monk Street Whitianga for placing in your named entries, but those living outside Whitianga township can post or email their colouring-in or painting. Daena welcomes that.
Daena Young – the initiator of the colouring or painting-in competition and Administrator at Shoreline Painters
Name:
Address:
Phone no:
Age:
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.
THROUGH THE PORTAL
Would Maori Sovereignty work like this?
BY TREVOR AMUNDSEN
Well, the hikoi has come and gone, and as expected, nothing has changed yet.
This doesn’t surprise me as I thought the Treaty Principles bill was largely an administration tidy up which no one should be too upset about. However, this thought was corrected by Te Pati Maori leader, Rawiri Waititi, who stated that the hikoi was really about Maori Sovereignty and the good fight would continue. When I read this, I started to think about how Maori Sovereignty could exist, how it could be structured and so on. Essentially, I decided to think about how this could be achieved, rather than how this could be stopped.
Sovereignty means “supreme power over a political body” with the body generally being a country. The Treaty of Waitangi gave that power to the Crown and from there to our Parliament however the second clause of the Treaty indicates how Maori Sovereignty could be approached.
This clause states that the chiefs, sub-tribes, and all people of New Zealand are to be protected in the unqualified exercise
of Chieftainship over their lands. If Maori did not sell their land, they were in charge of it. Perhaps it is possible to structure some form of self-governance/authority based upon this.
In some overseas countries, the self-governance of a population segment is always based around geography. This really has to happen in this way if boundaries are to be defined. An example is the Indian Reservation system in the USA where ethnic Indians manage their own affairs. Police for example can only pursue to the border of the reservation with the Reservation Authority in charge once that border was crossed. The problem with these reservations is that generally the land is poor quality and the opportunities to generate income are limited. I do not believe we really want such a model here but there are aspects of it that we may appreciate.
It would seem that a self-governance system could be put in place based around the Treaty and some overseas ideas but the first requirement would be to define Maori land and who is a Maori. These definitions would be needed as if laws come from two different places, it would be necessary to easily clarify when
either version of the law was to be applied. Both definitions should be reasonably straight forward to put in place with the electoral role used to define a Maori and a set of rules (size, presence of Marae etc) used to define Maori land.
With these structures being in place, it invites the transfer of power from the country to the Maori land entities. There are a number of services that can be setup for Maori to control on their land. A good example is education, where the existing Char-
Christmas Giving Tree at Guthrie Bowron
Some gift tickets are waiting for you to collect so that you can buy that special gift for a family or person in need.
“Each ticket hanging on the tree represents a family or individual with the specific needs they might have to make it a good Christmas for them,” says Rachel Lee.
The Social Services Centre in Cook Drive provides Rachel and her team with the
details (no names or addresses) of a family or individual in need –the age, hobbies, and a little of their situation.
Go to Guthrie Bowron’s showroom in Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga to collect a gift ticket by the close of Friday 13 December. See advert back page.
ter Schools programme could be used. Potentially, other such services could be tapped into, such as Health Care. Another example would be rates where Maori land blocks would not pay any general rates yet would need to pay for services (Water, Storm Water etc) if they were required. They could of course develop their own such services and could develop their own rules. For example, a Maori block may decide to ignore the established local authority building rules and define their own. This would have the effect of lowering costs but may have a negative effect on any bank financing that is required.
As soon as issues such as housing come up, the major problem of finance is raised. Any houses built on the Maori Land Blocks we are discussing would be only available to Maori. This means a smaller market so perhaps would take longer to sell. This may mean the banks would be less interested in lending on such houses. An eventual cure for this problem could be to start a Maori Bank, using funds from the wealthier tribes, potentially from other banks and possibly the Government. This is a very big task and a race-based bank might be a chal-
lenging democratic principle. The challenge for such Maori land blocks (MLBs) is to not let them turn into only homes for beneficiaries with a gathered community ruined by the effects of drugs, alcohol and separation. This has been a major problem overseas but I believe we have the land quality to help ensure this does not happen. The MLBs should generate money through tourism, farming, hunting and related sales as well as associated activities (eg contracting, driving, etc) selling their products and services to the outer world. This could work well for people such as the Tuhoe in the Ureweras with a large expanse of land available for the generation of income. If they wished they could, for example, partner with a foreign operator to build a tourist hotel by Lake Waikaremoana and further boost income.
Further challenges could be discussed, My musings do lead me to think however that a form of Maori self-governance could be put in place, but I wonder whether or not they would really want this once it gets past the rhetoric stage. Would anyone really want this kind of societal structural change?
GAMES AND PUZZLES
(8)
Person giving loan (6) 12. Most frozen (7)
Adolescence (7)
Celebratory meals (6)
Trick (4)
Pirates’ hoard (8)
1. Large inns (6) 2. Helped (5) 3. Discourage (5)
Dotted game tile (6)
Ogled, ... at (6)
Move restlessly (6)
Seized (aircraft) (8) 22. Japanese wrestling style (4)
10. Without sensation (4)
11. On any occasion (4)
12. Weep (3)
13. Misplace (4)
14. Hearing organs (4)
15. Shoved (6)
16. Enclose in box (6) 17. Travel coupon (6)
18. On dry land (6)
19. Soft confection (5)
20. Donkeys (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
OP SHOPS
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop
– Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every MonSat 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 13 December and Monday 23 December. 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 Buffalo Beach Reserve 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 Alison 021 0508 772 or Sally 027 3962 383. 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 bimonthly for either coffee mornings or luncheons. Learn more about us by phoning Merle 07 867 1737.
FORTNIGHTLY
Greeting Card Making – The second and fourth Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. All materials provided. Contact Rev. Gillian Reid on 021 781 081 or just turn up.
Knit for a Purpose – First and third Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. Ph Gillian Reid on 021 781081 for further details, or just turn up. Mercury Bay Creative Fibre – Spin, knit, weave, crochet. First and third Wednesday every month, 10am-1pm, supper room of Town Hall. Phone Vanessa 027 896 5037. Email vandoo555@ gmail.com.
Mercury Bay Quilters – 10am-4pm on the first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016. Whitianga Tramping Group – Every second Sunday at 8.30am. Phone Wally 021 907 782 or Lesley 021 157 9979 for more information.
WEEKLY OR MORE
Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.
Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info.
Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and values based ministry for boys. For boys aged 5-13 years old. Tues 5.30-7pm For information contact Robyn 020 409 39674. Chess Club – Monday nights 6.30-9.30pm, MB Bowling Club. Players of all levels. Cost $2. Contact Brett Soanes 0272117195 or
brettsoanes16@hotmail.com
Chinwag Café – Every Friday from 10.30am12.30pm 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. Coroglen Farmers Market every Sunday until Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25), from 9am-1pm.
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 – On summer break. Recommencing 2025. 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 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 3.006.00pm- Open to New players (Training & equipment provided, first session free) and all members and visitors. $5 per session. Moewai Sportspark Outdoor Sessions-weather dependant & advised per our facebook page. Matarangi (Matai Pl Courts) Summer Hrs-Thurs 5-7pm, Sat 9-11am. Contact Grant 0223836351. Hahei Tennis & Pickleball Club Thurs & Sunday, Contact Tim 0278432683 or refer their facebook page.
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, 9.30-11.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881 or email linda_c@orcon.net. nz
Santa’s Grotto – 77 Buffalo Beach Rd, 14-24 December (inc), 7pm-9pm. $2 entry pp. All proceeds go to Mercury Bay Cancer Support.
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 1011am 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 10am4pm, 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 9am12 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 12.302.30pm; 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.
Whitianga Summer Art with Hilary! Whitianga Summer Art is a holiday programme open to children ages 8-12 that will run for two weeks in January 2025. Kids can come for just one day or as many days as they’d like! All artwork will be ready to take home after each class. All classes will be from 9am-12 at the Whitianga Town Hall, 24 Monk Street. Preregistration is required, as class sizes will be limited to 8 students. Kids should bring morning tea and a drink bottle. Cost: $35 per class, materials included. We’ll be doing two super fun projects each day! To register your child, or for inquiries, please email me at hilaryemersonlay@gmail.com.
PUMPS
Sales and installation of Mitsubishi and Fujitsu heat-pump/air conditioning.
Bill for a free no obligation quote – 027 2714803 www.dynamicelectrical-whitianga.co.nz
Warm up a medium sized bedroom with a Mitsubishi heatpump. Starting at $2000 installed.
SPORTS RESULTS
MERCURY BAY DARTS
Tuesday 3 December
Given the good turnout of 22 players, a double competition was the order of the night.
As usual there was a number of very close games and at the end of the night Ali Crawford and stoney were the outright winners.
Other achievements of note were a 180 scored by Mike Gillett, while the highest winning scores over 50 were 72 for the women by Karen McKenzie and 55 for the men by Les Comber.
Congratulations to the winner and thanks to all players for making it an enjoyable night.
MERCURY BAY CLUB
SNOOKER
Wednesday 4 December
Best of three frames: A good field of 13 players on Wednesday, and it was Brian Codyre, Ian Baumgren and Dave Colman with two straight wins to challenge the finals. Brian wonthe alley drawn bye and Ian took the win over Dave in the semi-final to meet Brian in the final. It was veteran Brian on form and who took a comfortable win and the cash
prize. Runner up Ian Baumgren and with two wins were Dave Colman, Rob Reilly, Jason Smith, Peter Schultz & Peter Challis.
Saturday 7th December
Best of three frames: 8 players today and its 2021 Club Champion Peter Schultz on form today and takes home the cash prize with three wins. With two wins were Bob Haase( runner up, Jason Smith and Kevin Taylor.
MERCURY BAY TENNIS CLUB
Business House
Tuesday 3 December
R. U. Surveyors defeated C. S. Construction 8-9, 9-7, 4-3. Gubb Electrical defeated Misfits 9-8, 9-4.
MERCURY BAY PICKLE BALL CLUB
League – Q4 Round 17
Tuesday 3 December
Court 1: 1, Hakan Nedjat; 2, Tony Minto; 3,Tim Stephens.
Court 2: 1, Graeme Eady; 2, Jim Gavegan; 3, Tom Duncan.
Court 3: 1, Janine Hayde; 2, Josh Muwanguzi; 3, Jacqui Everett.
Court 4: 1, Hamish Judson; 2, Brenda Reid; 3, Vicky Blok.
Round 18
Tuesday 3 December
Court 1: 1, Tim Stephens; 2 Hakan Nedjat; 3 isaku Tsumura.
Court 2: 1,Justin Woolley; 2,Jim Gavegan, 3, Tom Duncan.
Court 3: 1,Josh Muwanguzi; 2, Jacqui Everett; 3,Trevor Hayde.
Court 4: 1 Vicky Blok ;2 Michael Holmes; 3 John East.
THE DUNES MATARANGI
GOLF CLUB
Xmas Ham Tournament
Men’s Best Gross: Ivan Adams
Ladies Best Gross: Drake-Wells
Men’s Best Net: Wayne Whitney
Ladies Best Net: Megan Schick
Best Stableford: Doug Smith
Men’s Straightest Drive: Kerry
Mason
Ladies Straightest Drive: Allison Drake-Wells
Men’s Nearest the Pin: Dave
McKay
Ladies nearest the Pin: Megan Schick
Nine-holes Stableford
1, Jo Nicholson; 2, Lance Croawell ; 3, Maree Cabaret . Nine-hole Men - Stableford
Monday
1, Graeme Kensington; 2= Robert Fiskin; Graham Kemp. 9-hole Women - Stableford
Tuesday 1, Glenys Wilson. 18-hole Men - Monthly Medal
Wednesday
Net Medal: 1, Doug Smith; 2, Tony Nicholson; 3,Glenn LeLievre.
Gross: Craig Batty
Two’s: 2 x Doug Smith
Nearest the Pin: Craig Batty
9-hole Ambrose
Thursday 1, Graham Kemp; 2, Phil Rodgers; 3, David Ellis. 18-hole Women
Thursday 1, Polly Lambert; 2, Cathy Drake-Wells; 3, Bev LeLievre.
Saturday Haggle
7 December
1, Andy Swainbank; 2, Paul Melloy; 3, Brian Tomlinson.
Two’s: Brent Holtom
Nearest the Pin: Andy Swainbank
MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB
Tuesday 3 December
Nine-hole - Stableford 1, Bob Holliday; 2 ,Peter Chaffin; 3, Lachlan Tee.
Eighteen-hole Men – Stableford Irons Only
Wednesday 4 December 1, Graham Eccles; 2, Dave Enright; 3, Steve Collins.
Two’s: Trevor Hayde; Jack Coldicutt; Adrian Havard; Dave Enright; Graham Eccles
Eagle: Greg Peterken
Div 1: Gross - David Enright
Div 2: Gross - Rob Baines
9-hole Mixed Scramble –Stableford
Friday 6 December
1, Campbell Elliott; 2, Peter Chaffin; 3 Don Maquire.
Saturday 7 December
Closing Day: Ham & Lamb
Mixed
18 hole women – 1, Barbara Bradley; 2, Julie Rutledge; Angela Cook.
Div. 1 Men – 1, Neal Robinson; 2, Steve Collins; 3 Matt Sanders
Div. 2 Men – 1, Carl Mitchell; 2, John Row; 3, Tom Sutcliffe. 9 hole woman – 1, Christine Godden; 2, Gaylene Imms; 3, Audrey Vickers.
Two’s: Dominik Szparagowski; Mark Kilgour; Matt Sanders; Mark White; Geoff Lowe.
COROMANDEL RESCUE MISSIONS
For the Auckland & Coromandel Westpac Rescue Helicopters
1-30 November 2024
01.11 Thames Assist a child suffering a medical condition. The child was flown to Starship in a moderate condition.
Assist a child suffering a medical complaint. The child was flown to Starship Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist a boy suffering a medical condition. He was flown to Middlemore Hospital in a moderate condition. 09.11
Coromandel Assist a male patient in his 60’s involved in a tractor accident. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.
Port Charles Assist a male patient in his 60’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to North Shore Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist a male patient in his 60’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.
Assist a male patient in his 60’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition.
Assist a female patient in her 60’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.
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Assist a male patient
patient in her 20’s in labour. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist a female patient in her 20’s suffering a medical condition. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist with the interhospital transfer of a female patient in her 60’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 60’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist a male patient in his 80’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.
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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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