Photo credit
Romy Stowers
Whiti Beach Meet -
BY JACK BIDDLE
Bit like going to the dentist and getting asked to open wide, many owners of the over 300 vehicles on show at the Whiti Beach Meet held on Buffalo Beach Reserve Whitianga last Saturday, had their bonnets open wide for the general public to pour over some immaculately cared for power units and associated accessories. Certainly there was no
A huge success bringing a
decay on show with the majority of the machines displayed obviously having many hours spent on them getting them into top showroom shape. Many of whom were in better or equal nick, to what rolled off the production line many years ago. Such was the diversity of the vehicles on show that some bonnets were visibly much bigger and wider than others with a massive Kenworth truck, parked close to a wee 1966 Fiat Bambino,
looking like it could have almost swallowed it whole. To add to the occasion there were also a couple of examples of good old fashion Kiwi ingenuity on display. None more so than with the motorbike entries where local Whitianga bike Chris Towgood had two of his handmade machines on display both powered by old donor VW engines and mounted in different configurations completely.
Continued on page 17
beautiful red Mars which rises late in the evening over several nights as well as moving close to the Pleiades/Seven Sisters or Matariki. However, its brightness this week also means that it tends to almost drown out this much fainter star cluster. Bright Jupiter also lies close to Matariki at present, sitting to its right and also directly below the red giant star Aldebaran in Taurus. Meanwhile brilliant Venus still dominates the western horizon after dusk and is getting ever brighter as it approaches us in its seven- month journey around the Sun. It will increase in size by 50% this month so well worth a look and even powerful binoculars or a small telescope will reveal its crescent shape at present. Tuesday, 7 January:
• Roast beef, roast potato, veges & gravy.
• Pork schitznel, mash potato, gravy, peas & beans.
• Ham & mushroom pasta.
• Chicken lasagna & cheesy veges.
First Quarter Moon tonight so great lunar viewing in a small telescope or binoculars. Wednesday, 8 January: The Pleiades, Seven Sisters or Matariki lie about a third of the way from Jupiter to the Moon. Thursday, 9 January: The Pleiades lie between the Moon and Jupiter. Friday, 10 January: The Pleiades or Matariki sit just above and to the left of the bright Moon. Venus is at its highest tonight so easy to spot after dusk in the west. Saturday, 11 January: The red giant star Aldebaran in Taurus, bright Jupiter and the Moon all line up tonight. Sunday, 12 January: The Moon has now moved to be directly below the red giant star Betelgeuse. Monday, 13 January: The bright Moon sits just to the left of reddish Mars. Tuesday, 14 January: Tonight’s Full Moon lies just below and to the right of reddish Mars. Wednesday, 15 January: The bright Moon sits further to the right of reddish Mars. ANY THREE FOR $35.00 (INCLUDES
CORO CLASSIC – SATURDAY, 4 JANUARY
Coro Classic is Matarangi’s outstanding young adult event. Apart from some difficulties getting enough buses and some late waits for travellers, this concert festival ran very smoothly. The spirit of the whole event was fun and celebration. The headline acts exceeded expectations. The crowds kept cheering, clapping and singing along. This event for young adults is organised by young adults. Excellent organisation all around.
Photo credits
Romy Stowers
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
New Year’s Eve around Whitianga
The Monkey House
Waterworld’s Nina Harding – Born to lead
BY STAN STEWART
Nina was never part of the group. Even as a child, her place was out-front. Other children called her ‘bossy’. Nina didn’t see it like that. She was born to lead and that was that.
Nina, 22, is visiting Whitianga for a couple of weeks. She is the Manager of the Water World Park set up in The Waterways just adjacent to Basker at the end of the Whitianga town centre near Highway 25.
I write this with inside knowledge. We have known Nina for sixteen years. For much of this time she was a leader in Day Camps, and other children and youth projects in our organisation. She would always end up out the front, always telling others what to do. We accepted this. Not all her peers did. Nina is kind and generous, but in this respect, her attitude was, ‘Tough luck!’ She was a most valuable young leader - energetic, reliable, willing to take on any task. What more could you ask of a leader.
Nina graduated High School in 2020. The following year was spent leading in Summer Camps in Minnesota, USA. From 22 – 24
she undertook a Batchelor of Dance Studies at the Auckland University gaining the top place. In 2024, she joined the com-
pany, Water World, which has created in New Zealand the floating, inter-connected blowups which make up Water World
parks. Obtained from Bouncia, these bouncy creations are now a source of excitement and water fun exercise at multiple beach and lake locations around New Zealand.
Nina’s talent and reliability was soon spotted by Water World CEO, Kel Travers. This has led to her promotion to Manager of Whitianga Water World Park. Her primary responsibilities are many – promotion, finding and managing suitable staff, health and safety. Her major task is the safety of everyone on the park, most of whom are children and young teens.
Whitianga Water World Park employs ten staff at any one time. These young people come from Whitianga and surrounding districts. Nina rates the Whitianga young people she employs as first rate -energetic, co-operative and friendly. They work with the right characteristics for staff at a fun park.
Nina’s family, Kathy her Mum, a single parent, and her younger sister Holly are also trail blazers in athletic pursuits and leadership of young people. They each bear a mana and magnetism based on deep underlying beliefs
in positivity and life itself.
NINA’S LEADERSHIP PRINCIPLES. THREE POINTS:
1. Nina is an enthusiastic Christian and chose early in her teens to live by a verse from the Bible:
“Let no one look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity”.
1 Timothy 4:12
2. When approaching a new task, do your own research. Know what you are facing – not just from what others tell you. Investigate the whole situation yourself. This is the opposite to walking into a new situation half -prepared.
3. Trust yourself. Believe in yourself and your ability to face and cope with whatever the new challenge/responsibility brings your way.
This 9,170sqm (STS) section offers the ultimate freedom to create your dream lifestyle. Free from covenants, it’s a blank canvas where you can bring your vision to life with no restrictions. With flat to sloping contour and rural views, it’s the perfect backdrop for your next project. Maybe you’re looking to build your forever home or a weekend getaway, the choice is entirely yours. Just a ten-minute drive to Whitianga township, you’re close to everything you need, from all local amenities to the beach. Might I add, you’re also just a short drive from all the other stunning beaches and activities the Coromandel has to offer, making this an excellent choice for permanent living or a holiday retreat. No limits, no restrictions, just potential waiting to be unlocked. Contact us today to secure your future! bayleys.co.nz/2201435
Glenn Tanner 027 486 2399
glenn.tanner@bayleys.co.nz
Alana Baker 021 051 7455
alana.baker@bayleys.co.nz
Nina Harding, manager of the Water World park in Whitianga. Left below, Nina checks the depth of the water on the boundary.
Make way for the young anglers
BY PAULINE STEWART
The Whitianga Wharf was crowded – literally people standing shoulder to shoulder with children leaning over the wharf holding fishing rods and almost touching. It was a perfect day – sunny, little wind, beautiful location, with locals and holiday makers intermingling on the crowded wharf for this very special and very popular, Kids Wharf Fishing Competition.
Over 168 children had registered for this annual summer event. The local business community and companies further afield had been very generous with lots of prizes to spread amongst the winners of a successful catch and those who came close runner-ups.
Every entrant received a goodie bag which is quite the incentive.
A small amount of bait per angler had been sponsored by The Bait Guy and was very effective bait, as quite a few fish were caught off the wharf in the one hour competition – including mussels and starfish which, by the way, were eligible for entry in the competition.
Suzy Hardy was the key co-ordinator of this very smooth running and successful event on behalf of the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club. Ahri Graves was the overall winner with the biggest catch – a kawhai.
Gordon McIvor, President of the MB Game Fishing Club, said, “We are very pleased to run this event at this time. So many children love to know what it’s like to go fishing
and we are encouraging them to have a go with this competition.”
A special competition treat for adults. This was instigated by Joe Reece of PlaceMakers Whitianga.
The adult could win a $100 gift voucher if they could BITE OFF the head of the fish handed to them, have a good chew and then swallow it (the person needed
to
the
Andy
the first volunteer and
THANK YOU TO THE SPONSORS OF THE ANNUAL KIDS WHARF FISHING COMPETITION:
New World Whitianga; Hunting and Fishing, Whitianga; Fish City, Hamilton; Woolworths Whitianga; Whitianga Fun Zone; Abby Lawrence – Richardsons Real Estate; Espy Café; Mercury Bay Museum; Mercury Bay Twin Cinemas; Owen Alloway, The Bait Guy; Whitianga Sports centre; Wild Wood Mini Golf; PlaceMakers Whitianga; Slice, Slice Baby; The Glass House Emporium; BCA Construction Ltd; P Bull Ltd.
•
• NZ Move it,
up over 15 yrs.
• Offering a strong return on investment with
• Currently owner operated by husband and wife, with part-time staff assistance.
• Supportive handover period with current owners willing to assist the incoming owners.
• Priced competitively to attract a motivated buyer. Call for more
hold
tasty morsel down to win).
stepped forward as
won!!
All of these children were winners in a category. The boy on the left is Ahri Graves who caught the biggest fish of the competition.
Imagination unlimited at sandcastle competitions
Tip Top, Popsicle and Hellers are sponsoring eight sandcastle competitions on the Coromandel Peninsula this Summer. Coromandel CFM have been promoting these and with the iceblocks for every entrant, plus summer treats from Tip Top and Hellers – as well as great prizes for the winners. They have been very popular with children and their families.
The entrants decide who will be in their team to do the building. Judging is very difficult as so many are
spectacular in terms of concept and delivery. Sometimes a team of peers will be the castle team, sometimes a whole family works away.
Gone are the days of a big sand hill or actual castle with a moat. These images from the Matarangi and Whitianga competitions are an example of what has also been created at Whiritoa and Hahei. Each event benefits a local cause so entrants are asked to bring a gold coin donation to show their support. Don’t forget your sun hat, dig-
ging tools, drink bottle. And your imagination! Thank you to our sponsors and to CFM for promoting these fun community events across the Peninsula.
4 MORE SANDCASTLE COMPETITIONS
• Tairua Beach 10.00am Wednesday, 8 January.
• Onemana Beach 11.00am Friday, 10 January
• Pauanui Surf Club 10.30am Saturday, 11 January
• Whangamata Surf Club, 2.00pm Wednesday, 15 January.
MATARANGI
The competition was between teams and each team gave themselves team name. The team in first place was team 21’ NASA’. Second place was team 38 ‘RIPTOP’, and third place was team 32 ‘KUAOTUNU KILLERS’.
WHITIANGA
One team of three young boys turned their disappointment in their first idea into a Milkshake sandcastle. It looked quite impressive.
Catch fish, not cables this summer.
Cables lie on the seabed at the Pauanui Waterways entrance and between Pleasant Point and Tairua. Another cable is located on the seabed just past the entrance to Whitianga Marina.
Keep boats well clear to stay safe.
The cables are marked with warning signs onshore and by buoys on the water.
If you suspect you’ve snagged a cable, don’t try to free it. Record your position, abandon your gear, and contact Powerco’s emergency line 0800 27 27 27. powerco.co.nz
Three amazing sandcastles from the Matarangi competition. The top one was the winner. Matarangi photos Bob Stephens
Quinn Parker, Wallace Roberts and Avery McEwan; The Dodd and Marshall families worked together on their sandcastle which included a starfish, octopus, prawn and shark - very creative! Children from L to R: Psalm Marshall, Miller Dodd with Mum, Chase Marshall and Jacob Dodd; The winners with a turtle sandcastle, Bonnie Roberts and Sage McEwen, were thrilled to receive a boogie board each for their efforts.
NYE – Coroglen Tavern –
‘World famous’ in NZ
BY PAULINE STEWART
Drax Project and Mitch James were the headline acts at Coroglen Tavern for New Years Eve and they performed to a capacity, very enthusiastic crowd.
Drax Project are a very prominent and popular New Zealand pop and R&B band that formed in Te Aro, Wellington in 2014. Mitch James is also a kiwi. His music features a lot of his own compo-
sitions and guitar playing. He is best known for his songs “Bright Blue Skies”, “Sunday Morning”, “No Fixed Abode”, “Move On” and “21” – all have featured in the Official New Zealand Music Charts. Mitch was supported at the tavern by the band, Wet Denim.
Things at the Tavern work like clockwork. In fact, the Coroglen Taven is ‘world famous’ from the Coromandel, having attracted the biggest names in rock and pop music top their stage. The
owners and managers are a well-oiled team for these big event. Their events showcase national and international entertainers and have put the Coromandel Peninsula on the map.
There have already been a number of great concerts at Coroglen Tavern in the past two weeks and another last Friday night. However, New Year’s Eve was a memorable highlight – great fun and raucous celebration without any unfortunate incidents.
From top left, anti-clockwise – Fleur and Paul Clayton, two of the owners of Coroglen Tavern become part of the team at New Year’s Eve and other big events; The concert revellers filled every space on New Years Eve; Drax Project, the headline act; The chefs who catered for 1,800 hungry revellers – from left: Noban, Sol and RJ; Mitch James wows the capacity crowd at Coroglen Tavern.
The case for Len Salt being a one-term Mayor
BY FLEMMING H. RASMUSSEN
CONTEXT:
Our October 2025 LGE is looming large on the horizon. Several candidates have already thrown their hats into the ring to contest the Mayor position in our district. More are expected to join the race before the candidate nominations close 1 August 2025. Your vote and engagement are crucial in shaping our future district.
INTRODUCTION:
Len Salt, our incumbent Mayor, when asked about standing (again), stated, “…it was too early to make a call, saying let’s talk after Christmas” (CFM website 14/11/24 + subsequent interview). In recent weeks, we have seen more of him in a suit, out and about, on the Eastern side than in most of 2024. Read into that what you want. At the heart of our democratic system is holding elected members accountable and demanding transparency. As the political season kicks off, assessing Salt’s term as Mayor is timely.
SALT’S 2022 LGE PLEDGES
In the 2022 LGE lead-up, Salt stated, “..council has to take back control of our own work, decision-making, policies and financial future”. (https://www.valleyprofile.co.nz/ 2022/06/05/len-salt-to-stand-for-mayor/).
“Talk is cheap”, especially in politics. Below, we acid test Salt’s actual delivery versus three (3) core issues/solution pledges made in an advertisement in the Whangamata News on or about 02/09/22. He urged people to vote for him because he would [champion];
1. “Open and Transparent Governance”: Fostering a transparent and inclusive governance approach, ensuring residents’ voices are heard and considered in council decisions.
INSTEAD, we got Secrecy and Closed Workshops: Under Salt’s stewardship, TCDC remains one of very few Councils to actively reject adapting the Chief Ombudsman’s guidance and recommendations to ensure greater transparency, accountability and openness in Council business.
Analogous to Salt’s’ pledge is a 2017 Prime Minister espousing that her government would be “the most open, most transparent Government that New Zealand has ever had”!
For good measure, under Salt’s stewardship, TCDC, on 29 October 2023, under urgency, rushed a decision to establish a
Maori Ward without genuine electorate consultation. This was two weeks after the 14 October 2023 General Election, before a new central government was formed. Neither the Mayor nor any Councillors campaigned on it.
Grade: FAIL
2. “Responsible and Prudent Financial Management”: Regaining control over costs by reviewing Council’s “contracts model”. He believed it would allow Council to operate more efficiently/effectively, reducing unnecessary expenditures through “Task force reviews of contracted services” and “target driven cost management”.
INSTEAD, we got:
2.1 Rate Grab: Since Salt became Mayor, we have had 30-34% compounding rate increases in two years. On the Eastern side, this equates to $1,350 extra in rates p.a. for an avg. ratepayer. We pay a historic high $4,500-$4,600 p.a. avg. rates. (Mercury Bay $4,610, Whangamata $4,553, Tairua-Pauanui $4,566). (Council provided figures per LTP2024/34 pp 48).
Before Salt became Mayor, the Council collected $83.4m (actual 2022/23) from us in rates. Under his watch, it increased by $11m to $94.4m (actual 2023/24) and a further $14.2m this year, bringing total rates to $108.8m (budget 2024/25 – 10/12/24 Council Meeting, Board pack, p. 193).
Notably, MB and SE Wards pay +$81m (approx. 75%) of TCDC’s $108.8m rate income. Coromandel and Thames Wards contribute 6.5% and 18.5% respectively.
2.2 Staff Cost: Under Salt’s watch, personnel costs have ballooned from $20m on 30 June 2022 (Annual Report 2021/22 p.65)) to $24.5m on 30 June 2024 (Annual Report 2023/24 p.81). This year’s budget is $27.8m (2024/25 budget – 10/12/24 Council Meeting, Board pack, p.193). A modest 39% increase under Salt’s watch!
2.3 Headcount: Council had 255 FullTime Employees (FTE) equivalents 30/06/24 (Annual Report p.83). Up from 223 on 30/06/23 (Annual Report p. 66).
Grade: FAIL
3. “Future proofed critical infrastructure”: Ensure the district’s services and infrastructure are fit for purpose, ready to meet future demands, stressing the need for strategic planning and investments to maintain and improve essential services and facilities.
INSTEAD, we got annually reoccurring “3rd World water restriction messages to conserve water”. As I write, we have L5 Watering Ban (highest restriction) in Pāuanui, Tairua, Hāhei, and Matarangi.
Allegedly because summer has arrived, which means more visitors (what a surprise….).
We pay more rates than ever to fund such water service and infrastructure delivery. Many of us pay water user charges on top of rates. We have more TCDC staff than ever.
No material new infrastructure projects have seen the light of day during Salt’s time in office. What has been achieved was planned, in the pipeline, when he took office.
Grade: FAIL
THE SOLUTION: FUNCTION, FORM AND FUNDING
The government has challenged Councils “to rein in the fantasies and to get back to delivering the basics brilliantly.”
We pay rates to receive clean drinking water, storm and wastewater treatment, solid waste management, rubbish pick-up, local roads and walkways (fill the potholes), and cost-effective maintenance of assets. TCDC needs to focus on “delivering these basics brilliantly“.
The government’s Local Water Done Well reforms will majorly impact our future infrastructure requirements and reduce TCDC’s organisation to deliver the basics.
Questions about WHAT (to do), HOW (who), and WHEN are at the core. Strategic decisions with intergenerational ramifications.
CONCLUSION:
We get the politicians we deserve. We elect them. Metaphorically, we are, from a mayoral perspective, paying penance! Council is a $161.8m business (revenue; budget 2024/25). Articulating a vision, defining and setting policy, and leading effective governance requires skills, experience, and competencies fit for purpose. Many on the Eastern and Western sides believe Len Salt does not have what it takes. A poor business track record and political scorecard speak volumes.
DECISION TIME:
Who should be our Mayor? Who should be our Councillors? Y/N binding Maori Ward poll? Strategic water reform, Council restructuring…. the list is long. We must all “turn up” and exercise our right to vote and impact meaningful change.
What do you think?
Flemming is a Whitianga based independent lawyer
Disclosure: Bringing proven expertise, business acumen and common sense to Council, the writer intends to contest the 2025 Local Government Elections (LGE).
Singing in wind and rain didn’t work for Picnic on the Pepe
BY PAM FERLA
“Singing in the rain” is a cheerful song, but unfortunately singing in the rain – and strong winds – was not a cheerful experience for the entertainers at Tairua’s “Picnic on the Pepe” on Sunday 5 January.
The event had already been postponed because of bad weather on December 21.
In spite of the gallant efforts by those who set up equipment and entertained, it was eventually stopped for safety reasons.
Singer Adelle Eddy entertained for an hour. “Crowded Trousers” was also on the bill but had to abandon their set when the winds increased.
“We gave it a go”, says local musician, Jono Peet, who entertained for a while with Tairua’s Anton Roose. “However, we all got very wet and the wind went through the tent, so unfortunately we had to stop.
“Picnic on the Pepe” was organised by Tairua Information Centre, with Santa invited to attend the original event. Tairua community appreciates the efforts of those who turned up on January 5 to entertainment in spite of the challenging conditions.
To keep the future planning positive, we have included a recent photo of beautiful Tairua near the Pepe Bridge, on a fine summers day.
Pedicures
by HOPPER LIVING
The Moorings is Hopper Livings newest retirement village, offering a unique coastal retreat at Whitianga Waterways. Come experience dream retirement living at our gorgeous Show Villa or get in touch with Toni today.
Show Villa Open | Mon -Thurs 8.30am-4pm 91 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga
Toni Hatton | 021 349 101 sales@mooringsvillage.co.nz
by HOPPER DEVELOPMENTS
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Human induced Climate Change was not an issue until the most recent phase of capitalist global expansion beginning with the inclusion of China in the 1980’s, followed soon after by many other countries. This expansion caused the worldwide burning of carbon fuels to massively increase, placing us on the cusp of huge environmental problems.
China’s carbon emissions are now 35% of all emissions. China is currently the world’s largest carbon emitter, emitting more than twice that of the USA. India is in third place with half of the USA’s emissions and gaining fast. New Zealand, by contrast, produces less than one tenth of one percent of all global carbon emissions, with smaller scope for easy improvement compared to China and India where the burning of coal is rampant. Coal burning accounts for 60% of Chinese electricity supply and in India, it is 73%. In New Zealand, coal burning for electricity is a fraction of that and of no world-wide significance at all.
Under these circumstances, New Zealand’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 is a singularly stupid policy that risks massive economic self-harm, while making no actual difference to world-wide climate change.
It would be better if we aimed instead to be consistently within the 10% lowest carbon polluters in the developed world on a per capita basis. Achieving that would allow us to be in a strong position to encourage better performance from most other nations across the world.
We are a long way from achieving even that. We are 19th in the world for per capita carbon emissions, with a level similar to the USA and Russia, and we are the 4th highest carbon polluter in the OECD with 15 tonnes per capita compared to an OECD average of 11 tonnes.
It is time for a realistic, practical policy for NZ carbon emissions that rises above the persistent, torturous ‘Teggy green-speak’ that has plagued our information space for the past 15 years.
Get real NZ !!!!
Dal Minogue Ferry Landing
POLLUTION FINES
I heartily disagree with Malcolm Campbell’s shocking suggestion that taxpayers and local ratepayers should foot the bill for cleaning up other people’s pollution while those actually accountable should get off scott free.
Pollution negatively affects many local businesses, from mussel farms to tourism and beyond: we all lose out to these selfish
actions. When companies don’t get fined for polluting, there is no deterrence and repeat offenders will keep right on doing it, which we have seen already with mining and certain farmers.
Here’s a better idea for polluters: stop leeching off the taxpayers, and take some personal responsibility for a change. Ordinary hard-working New Zealanders don’t owe you a living at our expense. It’s 2025 - time to clean up your act.
Juanita Packman, Whitianga
ROAD CONE TOPPING A NORFOLK PINE IN HAHEI
A message to the intrepid person who climbed a tall Norfolk pine in Hahei some time ago and planted a road cone on its top growth spike. While I must admire your courage and skill in achieving this (but not your foolhardiness!), I believe that you have done irreparable damage to the tree. It has become apparent that the lateral branches immediately below the top are enlarging out of proportion to the expected tapering of the branch lengths that give these trees their beautiful form. I have seen this happen before, when the leading spike is damaged. The branches just below the apex continue to grow outwards, destroying the tree’s symmetry for ever.
As you got the cone up there,
I presume you could get it down again. It might be too late but please give it a chance!
George Foote, Hahei SAFETY PRECAUTION DOESN’T WORK!
My wife was walking on the wharf at Whitianga. She tripped on the black webbing /matting which is there as a slip prevention aid. It does not work. The reason is that webbing was torn in places from wear and tear and has become dangerous for people. It has not been restapled and it is a very busy season.
I am not sure why that covering is there because wood is a very good nonslip surface if kept clean. Why not remove what’s there and let the wooden surface do its job. This is an unnecessary cost for ratepayers and it isn’t doing its job. My wife has a considerable injury from this as well as expense, and it will happen to others.
DSG Whitianga
ELECTRICITY CHARGES A RORT!
I’ve just got my latest bill (electricity) from Contact Energy for my one-person unit.
I’m furious! When Roger Douglas started the sale of all our stateowned assets to the wealthy, he was followed by Mr Bradford MP,
who completed the privatisation of the electricity systems and then sold them off. From then on, these assets that had been built by the taxpayer’s money for the well-being of citizens had only profit for the owners as their driving force. The flawed Friedman philosophy (capitalism) said competition would keep prices down and government could not run business efficiently. Also, ‘leave it to commercial interests’ was the conclusion. Well, has this happened? Firstly, an ‘unavailable’ charge of 33 cents a day was instituted. Then the greedy corporations have ratcheted it up. My bill stated previously 90cents daily and now that is $1.20 per day. That is $438 per year and that is not for any electricity. Multiply that by household numbers and that is extortionate profit to certain shareholders.
It is time for the government to step in. What about nationalising the systems? What does our representative, Scott Simpson, have to say?
I have just noted that my power use cost increased from 28.5 cents a unit to 31.8 cents a unit. In addition, because I do not have a computer for emailed invoices Contact Energy charges me $2 for every bill they send. How can I get off this merry-go-round?
Peter H Wood Whitianga
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
REASONED DEBATE DENIED
I fully concur with your correspondent David Gibson (Letters 31 Dec 2024) that many people voted in 2023 following slogans and misinformation. It behoves all of us to keep well informed by facts and reasoned debate.
Unfortunately, this tabloid, as reflected in the Editor’s note following Mr Gibson’s letter, and in the majority of opinion pieces, is completely partisan. This means there can be no neutral discussions between local citizens who are genuine in their desire to solve the many challenges which are right in front of us.
Regrettably, genuine efforts to seek solutions and conduct reasoned debate are not possible through this publication.
Rather foolish in my mind when there are many locals who have much to contribute but are unilaterally denied the chance to do so through these pages thus dividing and impoverishing the Mercury Bay community at large.
Anna Horne Whitianga
REMOVING BLUE-TINTED NATIONAL GLASSES
Trevor Ammundsen (The Informer 31 December) needs to take off those blue-tinted (National Party) glasses and see the world through the eyes of millions of Kiwis who survive from pay cheque to pay cheque.
Our government’s actions are tearing apart New Zealand’s social fabric. While thousands lose their jobs
OUT & ABOUT
and food banks close their doors, our “wealthy and sorted” Prime Minister stages photo ops at the very institutions his government is defunding.
The National Party has lost its way, captured by fringe libertarian ideologies favouring the wealthy while abandoning ordinary Kiwis. Even ACT’s founder Roger Douglas warns these reckless policies risk our nation’s future.
Despite promising people-focused policies, this government rushes through laws that ignore experts and public input, while giving tax cuts to landlords instead of struggling families.
One in four Kiwi children now live in homes where food runs out – up from 21.3% last year.
What’s especially troubling is how these policies are crippling our future. New Zealand now ranks near the bottom (33rd out of 37 OECD countries) for educational equality.
Our environmental protections are being stripped away, and our reputation for democratic stability is eroding.
This isn’t the New Zealand we cherish – where every child deserves a fair go. We risk losing everything that makes our nation great on our current path of growing inequality.
We need leaders who focus on what works, not dogma. That means tackling child poverty, improving education, addressing climate change, and fostering unity.
Brenda Smythe Papakura
Dave - portraits and a grand exhibition
BY MICHELLE RHODES
Dave Fowell, a kind and colourful man, hosted the opening of his exhibition called “Faces and Figures” at the Whitianga Art Gallery, Monk Street, Whitianga, Friday 3 January.
On the night funds were raised for The Cancer Society and Waikato Hospital by auctioning a portrait of Jack Sparrow.
Dave is renowned for his portraits. As a point of interest in this exhibition, Dave had painted a portrait of three local people whom he had known personally for some time and who are quite well-known. His intention is to give these portraits to the three subjects at the close of the exhibition on 16 January.
AN EXCELLENT COMPETITION AT THE GALLERY
Dave is offering a competition. All who visit the exhibition are invited to enter this competition by guessing the names of the people who are the subject of the portraits. These will be placed in a box at the gallery, and from the
Cooks Beach Massage Therapist
Summer Season location
Philip Hart
correct entries (name all three), a winner will be randomly chosen. The winner will be able to commission Dave for a portrait or other work at their request as the first prize.
The winner will be drawn on 16 January.
On the evening of the opening of Faces and Figures, Dave also celebrated his birthday with friends and invited guests. Describing himself as an ageing rock star, he has been part of the Mercury Bay community for over 30 years.
Dave has had previous exhibitions in Raglan, Hamilton, Rarotonga, Cassino,
and at
A painting by a world-renowned Dave could be a good investment.
There is an extensive display of Dave’s work at Whitianga Art Gallery –many beautiful pieces. Full details of the competition and how to enter are available at the Whitianga Gallery, Monk Street. Come in and talk to Monique Rush, the gallery owner who is also a multi-medium artist of excellent achievement, and who encourages artists across the Coromandel and beyond.
Erin,
Sergio is an internationally qualified and certified massage therapist. The clinic is in Cooks Beach and also a pop-up clinic is available at 14 Monk St, Whitianga
To make an appointment
Call or text – 0274 102454
Email: Sertango1@gmail.com
47 years developing long term relationships with clients.
Specialising in Business Development, Taxation, Farm Accounting, Structuring, Accounting Systems.
For an obligation-free discussion and appraisal of your business needs, call me.
Phone 021 960 494 or 07 866 2907
Whitianga Office (Mon-Wed) 26a Albert Street, Whitianga
Exceed Retractable insect screens are the
for eliminating insects without interfering with
Italy
his family business, Eggcentric Café, Cooks Beach.
The artist Dave Fowell holding one of the portraits as part of his exhibition competition at the Whitianga Art Gallery.
Enjoying the beach and a cycle, Montana Taogaga, Mercury Bay Area School teacher and Girls Rugby Coach out and about with her family and cousins on New Year’s Day.
Perry and
the dynamic duo that is Opito Bay Salt, take time to showcase their wares at the local summer markets on the Peninsula.
Montana with Lani, AJ, Manaia, Kennedy and Kaylan.
STAN’S STUFF
Radishes and more in 2025
How will I cope with that annoying ‘Old Father Time’? The crusty old bugger keeps telling me. “This year I’ll slow you down.” We’ll see.
BY STAN STEWART
People have come up with suggestions as to age-suitable activities for me in 2025. One is trying to persuade me to take on a raised garden. “No bending and you would have great satisfaction in growing your own vegetables!” I doubt it.
Over the years, I have successfully grown two of my favourite vegetables – radishes and tomatoes. But growing them did not fill me with delight. Eating them was always the goal.
Radishes can be ready to eat in 5-6 weeks. I would daily watch them grow and salivate. Mine usually were skinny and misshaped. In supermarkets I’ve seen bunches which are plump and shiny. They are my greatest temptation to shoplift. I can’t resist them. Once in my basket radish munching is immediate. On occasions, by the time I get to the checkout all I have is stalks and the price tag. The cashiers look surprised, and I meekly pay up. In 2025 I will not be growing them. Instead, I will wait with hope for more radishes to turn up
in the supermarkets.
Once I grew tomatoes. I mean I grew them on purpose, not just the self-sown plants which seem to pop up in odd places. I bought the seedlings, I read the tag, staked the growing plants and did everything right, fertilised, pest control etc.
In time, they grew tall and produced bountifully. I was entranced by these shining red orbs of goodness. Full of pride, I decided to take them around to friends and neighbours. I remember standing on a friend’s porch offering my home-grown bounty. My friend winced and disappeared inside and came back with a dishful of tomatoes larger and more beautiful than mine. Later, when I passed the greengrocer, there on display, were cases of tomatoes at give-away prices. I returned home with my produce realising this was a bumper year for tomatoes – everyone’s tomatoes! That year we ate tomatoes till we looked like them. The experience completely killed my enthusiasm for growing tomatoes.
These days I realise where I fit on the spectrum of life. I am
a garden admirer. My role in life is to compliment others on their gardens. What could be more enjoyable for me than admiring someone else’s veggie patch, complimenting friends on their home grown produce, praising them for their dedication to growing their own food. When it comes to veggie gardens that’s my role in life and I will stay true to this calling. However, growing things in soil even in raised beds is not my thing so it’s not on the agenda for me in 2025. I must admit that thinking
about this new year, 2025 is different for me than previous years. I have always been sure of growth, excitement, and progress. This year I am hesitant. My impression is that things on the world stage are wobbily. I know that the New Zealand economic prospects look somewhat shaky. And then there is my own health. I have never felt this uncertain before.
On the beautiful Coromandel I imagine that many others share my questioning of what the new year will hold. Do we just sit back and wait for good things to burst into our life? Hmm!
I have been influenced by Victor Frankl’s book, ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’. Forged, clarified, condensed when Frankl was a prisoner in Auschwitz Concentration Camp in World War II. Frankl writes of finding beauty and purpose in the horrors of the camp. He tells of being moved by the beauty of a sunset and finding delight in a small bird perched on the electric fence. He would tell his fellow prisoners that they should search for some purpose, some contribution they could make to others in the future.
From project
conception to handover
Cove Construction is able to provide planning, development and construction services that will ensure the fi nal product is delivered in the most cost-effective manner while not compromising on high standards and a quality finish.
It seems unfair to put this task before starving men in a concentration camp. However, those who responded to this challenge found motivation so essential to survival.
HERE IS WHAT I AM NOW THINKING
The way to obtain the most out of the new year is not to sit back and wait for good things, (blessings) to illumine all around you. The trick, the smart thing to do, is to find some good things to do for others, the Coromandel, friends, or strangers. This is the opposite to sitting back and waiting for what happens next.
Along the way I’ll be watching out for radishes and other people’s tomatoes. Enjoying other people’s gardens will be my pleasure.
And do you notice what a good job our Council gardeners do around Whitianga? I think Thames town centre is outstanding. Their green fingers make many of us feel great.
New Years greetings, and I say to you what I say to myself. “Hang in there”.
Whiti Beach Meet
enjoyed by many
Continued from page 2
Both bikes had the legendary Burt Munro written all over them and had successfully participated in the annual Bert Munro challenge at Oreti Beach Invercargill in recent times.
The military vehicles on display which were never originally designed for shows like this were another crowd pleaser with their more rugged looks and originality.
Other vehicles of interest included some immaculately restored and presented car/caravan combinations, speedway cars and sports cars while the hot rods are traditionally magnets that always attract a lot of interest.
The annual show was once again organised by the American Muscle Street & Custom Club (AMS&CC) Whitianga with a big push in 2025 to not only have a diverse range of machinery on display but to also encourage local participation. Club spokesperson Reg Smith was delighted with the turnout from both vehicle owners and the general public alike. “The day was an awesome success with entries exceeding our initial expectations completely. We actually had to close entries off early due to the Buffalo Beach reserve being at its capacity plus it was fantastic to see such a good turnout of local vehicles taking part. Apart from a niggly wind,
the weather played its part as well which is always a huge bonus for the hard working committee when organising a meeting like this”.
The 2025 show was jointly sponsored by CFM (Coromandel radio station) along with Peninsula Cars & Auto Service Centre Whitianga.
“Along with our major sponsors, the AMS&CC are immensely grateful to all the local businesses for the prizes donated, those that provided the entertainment at the event, individuals that have put their hand in their pockets to make a monetary donation, given up their time or passed on some wonderful prizes to help make the event happen and succeed” added Reg.
Vendors on-site were kept on their toes during the day with the big crowd turnout enjoying the food on offer, none more so than the Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade who were kept busy selling their famous mussel fritters.
The Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust were the beneficiaries of money raised during the day with the final figure still be confirmed but estimated to be several thousand much appreciated dollars in the coffers of such a worthy charity.
All up a great day out and apart from a regular visit to the workshop for a general polish and health check-up, many are bound to return again next year with an even bigger smile as will the general public.
GAMES AND PUZZLES
(7)
(5)
(for) (5)
Modified (7)
Opted (7)
Crustacean’s eggs (3)
Quiver (7)
Dental thread (5)
Take pleasure in (5)
Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer. co.nz to reach us by 12.00 noon on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly.
Sudoku instructions
Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.
COOKS BEACH CARNIVAL
– a fantastic event!
BY PAULINE STEWART
Acombination of gala, carnival and festival fun blended together to be enjoyed and revelled in by a huge crowd of holidaymakers, visitors, and locals.
A feature was the involvement of so many of the children and staff of Whenuakite School, leading and organising and participating in the competitions. This carnival is truly owned by the local community. It was fun seeing the Principal of the Whenuakite School being dumped in the water every time one of the balls hit the target.
Daisy Dung Drop competition was a sellout – 1,000 tickets at $5 each to guess where the dung
would be dropped. This time Daisy was not a cow but a very attractive pony. She obliged very well with her task of dropping. There were so many requests from people for more tickets I think next year the area of dung drop might increase.
Fabian Roberts of Coromandel CFM did a great job of leading the competitions and involvement of the crowd from the stage. We would have liked for him to do the press ups. He was so good at counting them. The programme was so good natured and inclusive – well done!
The Informer spoke to Kelly Walker, one of the organisers. “I believe it was one of our best ever carnivals. We were very
impressed with the games the children of Whenuakite School came up with and organised.”
Kelly affirmed that they had great stalls and enormous variety but having the games and the action from the stage made for lots of interaction with the crowd and so much involvement for the children of the school.
The people loved the games, having a go with their kids and their grandchildren.
“We were very impressed with the number of people that came. We are very thankful for such a great day.”
Once the counting is done, then the Carnival committee will be able to announce the amount of funds raised for Whenuakite School.
“This is how to throw the sack son” “Thanks dad but I can do it myself”
“See, I can throw the sack myself!”
TRADES AND SERVICES
OUT & ABOUT
TRADES AND SERVICES
WHITI DOORS & STAIRS
HEAT PUMPS
Coromandel Oyster Company about 4kms south of Coromandel town served a continuous stream of travellers with their famous oyster and mussel specialties, as well as great burgers. Locals were also making a special trip out for their regular favorite order. While enjoying our delicious burger selection in the very relaxed and idyllic environment, one could hear five different languages being spoken. Welcome to all our visitors!!
RUBBISH REMOVAL
Thai food was a great success served from Walnut and Fig food van in the Hahei Homestead grounds.
MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB RESULTS
Wednesday 1 January
18 hole Stableford
1, Ron Watson; 2, Paul David; 3, Mick Henderson
Twos: Wayne Kearney
Thursday 2 January
New Year Open
Women – Gross: 1, Ali DrakeWells
Men Div 1 – Gross: Stephen Geach
Men Div 2 – Gross: Ian Hopping
Women – Net: 1, Diane Eccles; 2, Ali Bryson; 3, Lee Coers
Men Div 1 – Net: 1, Pete Maher; 2, Graham Eccles; 3, Sam Murphy
Men Div 2 – Net: 1, John Bradshaw; 2, Graham Dun 3, Roger Pheasant
Women – Stableford: 1, Jenny Marillier; 2, Debbie Holmes; 3, Megan Burrows
Men Div 1 – Stableford: 1, Wayne Kearny; 2, Gordon Kirkham; 3, Scott Manning
Men Div 2 – Stableford: 1, Blair Lovell; 2, Patrick Gonthier; 3, Brett Proctor
Nearest Pin: Ali Drake-Wells, Graham Eccles, Graham Dun
Longest Drive: Ali Drake-Wells, Brett Proctor
Twos: Patrick Gonthier, Richard Steel, John Brashaw
Friday 3 January
9-Hole Stableford
1, Roger Pheasant; 2, Christine Godden; 3, Don Maquire
Saturday 4 January
18 Hole Stableford
1, Roger Pheasant; 2, Steve Collins; 3, Graham Eccles
Twos: Stephen Geach, Kelvyn Drinkrow
•
Personable, Practical & Professional
AMY BALME (CA) GEOFF BALME (FCA)
28 Lee Street, Whitianga
M Amy +64 27 373 1404
M Geoff +64 27 495 8923
E office@accountingbydesign.co.nz
Accounting, Bookkeeping & Tax Solutions Please
Rachael and Julian have put together a qualified team experienced to assist you with all of your interior decor needs. We are skilled at colour scheming and we love to help with the final touches that complete a room. Come and talk with our friendly team of specialists or phone for an appointment and we will come to you.
Guthrie Bowron Whitianga 2/9 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga 07 866 0035 sales@gbwhitianga.co.nz
Whitianga