New Year fireworks Te Kai Whakarongo 6 January 2026 | Proudly locally owned and operated Issue 1191 Circulation 9800
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Clique Gallery - Photography by Paul C Schrader
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CONNECTING COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA
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INTERVIEW WITH DAWN MARY MCMILLAN-MNZM BY PAULINE STEWART
D
awn was born in Te Kuiti, King Country. She grew up in the Bay of Islands – lived in Matamata and in 1998 moved to Waiomu with her husband Derek.
Dawn has lived in Waiomu, a community of about 400 people, for almost thirty years and it is where she started writing. She is an internationally recognized writer of Children’s books and has been translated into seven languages with best sellers in the USA and United Kingdom, as well as New Zealand. She
writes both serious and silly books, non-fiction and fiction. The Informer enjoyed an interview with Dawn following her being awarded an MNZM (Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit) for Services to Children’s Literature in the New Years Honours. We started with why her writing only began as a mature
adult. Dawn is a teacher and loves that profession, but she had been a teacher for many years and not written a book. “My children had grown to adults well before we came to Waiomu so it wasn’t the fact that the family had grown and I had more time. The stories just started to happen.” Continued on page 7
See page 13
PAULINE’S PLACE
More or less wrong, never right
I
felt concern or confusion what what Donald Trump as president has done so quickly and somewhat effectively – move in on another nation’s leader, Nicolás Maduro and arrest him and his wife as criminals. I don’t have much sympathy for Maduro. His work as Foreigh Minister in the early 2000’s was corrupt. He was Vice President for Chavez and has had lots of opportunity to choose a better way for his people. At least that is my thinking. It’s hard to understand why the income for the worlds largest landlord of crude oil is half of what it was in money terms during Chavez’ leadership. One can only imagine Maduro has other priorities and it does not seem to be on renewable energy. People have been leaving in droves in the past years looking to find a better quality of life in USA and other South America countries. I don’t think that it will be difficult to prove that there has been corruption and cruelty and the destruction of any political opposition. The crime to be clear about that enables the US President’s officers to arrest Maduro and his wife (accomplice) is the knowledge of, the developing of, and
participating in, an international illegal drug industry. What concerns me is that somehow Maduro is the ultimate criminal and we have Russia’s President Putin, expressing his disapproval of what President Trump has organised and the Security Council of the United Nations is going to have an urgent meeting to no doubt disapprove of this action. The USA, as a member of the United Nations, is supposed to get approval from the Security Council – approval of the UN. I don’t think President Trump is quivering in his shoes over this threat. How could the members of the Security Council ever agree? There are some real contradictions here. I am amazed that somehow the aggression and war mongering of Russia has not received such criticism. How must Ukraine feel at the machinations of this ridiculous and hypocritical circus? Another leader – Prince – of a very wealthy nation was clearly implicated in the torture, death and hideous disposal of wellknown Saudi journalist, Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. He worked for the western media. Who was responsible for his death was
Nicolás Maduro.
Alexei Navalny.
more or less proven and the world was shocked, appalled, but no one was accountable and this despicable crime has been swept under the proverbial Turkish carpet. It is too scary to confront when the cost is counted by our United Nations’ members or counted by anybody in fact. Sometimes the cost is too great even for the people who loved them the most. Speeches are fine, but action to take account is absent. There is Alexei Navalny, an heroic leader, strong, popular, defiant, kindly, capable and courageous. There was every possibility he could one day, in an election, take on Putin. Therefore, he needed to be disposed of and
he was. You could say accidental poisoning but no one believes that and no country has stood their ground to declare that Putin is criminally and directly involved in his death – an instigator of evil far beyond his own shores. The cost is too great. There is danger in calling people and their actions to account. Except Trump believes he must call Madura to account – and he has a good reason. Sometimes I think – when will any country be able to pay the price to stay true to the high ground of integrity. A country is the sum total of its citizens who largely are silent or removed. It’s a way of coping. But, I state again, I am con-
Astronomy Tours and B&B Phone (07) 866 5343 www.stargazersbb.com STAR and SPACE STATION GAZING IN 2025 – your guide to the night sky Wednesday, 7 January: Bright Jupiter makes a pretty triangle with the stars Castor and Pollux which form the twin heads of Gemini low in the NE and from 5:09am there will be a good Tiangong pass in the SW. Saturday, 10 January: Jupiter is at its best for the year tonight. Monday, 12 January: There will be a good Tiangong pass from 9:37pm in the NW. Tuesday, 13 January: There will be a bright and long Tiangong pass from 10:14pm starting near Saturn in the west. Wednesday, 14 January: The three stars forming the claws of Scorpio lie midway between the crescent Moon and the red giant star Antares in its neck before dawn and from 9:15pm in the NW there will be a long Tiangong pass.
New Years greetings to you all. Mars, Venus and Mercury still remain out of sight this week as they are all too close to the Sun to be seen from our perspective at present. However, Saturn remains visible low in the west and brilliant Jupiter is unmistakable in the east after dusk. A small telescope or even powerful binoculars will reveal its four biggest moons moving dramatically from night to night. There will be some Tiangong Space Station passes to enjoy this week but, as usual, timings may change especially towards the end of the week if it has to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above.com for updated timings.
SAVINGS
cerned, that President Trump has done this military ‘lift of a criminal’ who happens to be President of a corrupt regime whose territory holds a huge amount of crude oil. My concern goes further to say, ‘This is wrong’. but what do I do in comparison to these few other wrongs I have given as examples? Being concerned or saying it is wrong will not change too much. I also ask – is this ‘Venezuelan action’ less wrong that the war in Ukraine or less wrong than Navalny’s death or Khashoggi’s murder? It is a slippery slope this deciding what is more or less wrong. But I think it is important for me to think through these things and talk about them, but not too much. People weary of the powerlessness of such conversations. Really, the best I can do is the right thing by the community in which I live, with the people with whom I share the same stores and same footpaths. I intend to do that and will work for The Informer to state the opinions that people really care about. At the same time I won’t stop hoping for an end to this madness – the actions of our current world leaders where the cost always seems too great.
Mercury Bay – the sun, the moon and the tides
Wednesday 7 January
Thursday 8 January
Friday 9 January
Saturday 10 January
Sun: Rise 6:06am Set 8:39pm
Sun: Rise 6:07am Set 8:39pm
Sun: Rise 6:08am Set 8:39pm
Sun: Rise 6:09am Set 8:39pm
Moon: Set 9:54am Rise 11:19pm
Moon: Set 10:59am Rise 11:43pm
Moon: Set 12:01pm
Moon: Rise 12:06am Set 1:02pm
High Tides:11:00am 11:22pm
High Tides:11:49am
High Tides:12:11am 12:36pm
High Tides:1:00am 1:22pm HOT WATER Low Tides:6:44am 7:20pm BEACH
HOT WATER Low Tides:4:18am 4:55pm BEACH
HOT WATER Low Tides:5:07am 5:45pm BEACH
HOT WATER Low Tides:5:55am 6:33pm BEACH
Sunday 11 January
Monday 12 January
Tuesday 13 January
Sun: Rise 6:10am Set 8:39pm
Sun: Rise 6:11am Set 8:39pm
Sun: Rise 6:12am Set 8:39pm
Moon: Rise 12:29am Set 2:01pm
Moon: Rise 12:54am Set 3:01pm
Moon: Rise 1:21am Set 4:02pm
High Tides:1:49am 2:08pm HOT WATER Low Tides:7:33am 8:08pm BEACH
High Tides:2:40am 2:54pm HOT WATER Low Tides:8:24am 8:57pm BEACH
High Tides:3:33am 3:42pm HOT WATER Low Tides:9:17am 9:47pm BEACH
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BY LILY PAULSEN
P
auanui Beach was bursting with life on New Years Eve as crowds flocked to the heavily populated town to celebrate the conclusion of 2025. With plenty of action and activity, people flooded the streets in anticipation of the New Year - a fireworks display at midnight, live music at the Pauanui Club and a great night to be outdoors. For Pauanui Club - at 7.30pm on New Years Eve, dancing and live music by Tim Santner was the order of the day. Cars lined the streets and people crowded the wharf of Pauanui Beach to see the fireworks display. It began at the first strike of midnight – a fabulous display over the estuary and Tairua Harbour that went on for eight minutes. An incredible number of people watched from Billy Point area and more from the
comfort of their homes. Hundreds were on the wharf to enjoy this community-driven and community-funded event that has been kept alive by Tairua Pauanui Promotions Inc. with the local community and families donating to enable it to continue. The Tairua Pauanui Promotions Inc would like to say thank you to their communities. They say that “this much-loved event truly wouldn’t happen without your generosity and support”. So as we dive into the New Year full of new beginnings, there is lots more to do. With an epic event, The King of the Mountain on 2 January, and Miss Pauanui, there are many more events to come live concerts golf tournaments and more. It truly is a fun time of year for holiday goers and residents in the Coromandel region.
New Year 2026
Pauanui-Tairua pulsing for
Clique Gallery - Photography by Paul C Schrader
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Private Hire Charters • Auckland Airport Transfers 4 | The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026
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Mercury Bay Art Escape 2026: Celebrating 20 Years of Creativity
Artworks by: Ian Webster, Paula McNeill, Verna Tagmann, Kate Hill, Debbie Emslie, and Susan Dunster. Sharon Wright’s artwork (top right).
T
his year Mercury Bay Art Escape marks its 20th anniversary – a milestone that reflects two decades of growth into the Eastern Coromandel’s premier arts event, celebrating the talent and imagination of more than 50 local artists. To give our visitors more opportunity to meet the artists Open Studios will take place on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday across the first two weekends of March. Visitors can explore the free art trail, meet artists in their creative spaces, and purchase works spanning painting, printmaking, drawing, textiles and raranga weaving, glass and iron work, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, mosaics, and photography. To plan your studio visits, pick up a copy of the free colourful
Open Studios guide or download online from www.mercurybay artescape.com. Hot Waves Café at Hot Water Beach hosts our annual exhibition featuring one piece of artwork by each of our participating artists. This year there are seven artists returning, after taking a break. Artists returning are: Ian Webster, Kuaotunu, a sculpture and painter, Ian has worked with clay for more than 45 years and has been painting for around 20. His sculptures are primarily outdoor pieces—planters, sculptural works, and abstract forms. His painting is shaped by the landscapes and environments that inspire him. Paula McNeill, Coroglen, mixed media and printmaker. Paula combines printmaking with paintings,
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she also uses intriguing wall sculptures resulting in an interesting collection of diverse artworks. Verna Tagmann, Coroglen, mixed media and printmaker. Verna says, “I last took part in the Art Escape in 2020 as part of the X-press printing group. Now in March 2026 I will be able to show a good selection of my mixed media paintings and my handmade print work. It will be exciting to show what I have been working on over the last few months.” Kate Hill, Tairua, painter and printmaker. Kate says, “I use mixed media more frequently but am still inspired by the unique marks created through print making. I participated for around 7 years, and my last Art Escape was 2019. The organisation has always been extremely professional and has
expanded to include more artists and locations” Debbie Emslie, Tairua, watercolour painter and printmaker. Debbie says, “As a returning artist I find my inspiration outdoors with the play of light on the land, people or objects. Visitors can expect to see Watercolour landscapes and seascapes with most of them having been painted en plein air, on site. My aim is to complete a work outdoors to a finished standard as I prefer not to paint from a photograph. I have been tutored mostly to paint in this way.” Susan Dunster, Tairua, painter and printmaker. Susan has been painting most of her life and over time her artistic interests and preoccupations have evolved from representational to abstract.
Her overriding passion is her love of colour, especially the effect colours have on each other. Sharon Wright, Whitianga, a pastel artist, printmaker, and photographer. Sharon is inspired by the old masters and the shifting light of her coastal surroundings. She captures stories of landscape, sea, and wildlife through both traditional and experimental techniques. Mercury Bay Art Escape 2026 opens with the annual Gala Event on Friday, 6 March at Hot Waves Cafe, Hot Water Beach which is now sold out. For more information on Art Escape 2026 and local artists visit the Mercury Bay Art Escape website: https://www.mercurybay-art escape.com. Discover local art to buy and cherish.
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Dawn has been ‘Colouring the Stars’ for generations of children Continued from front cover “I like humour. I always have. My father and I would sometimes talk in rhyme. It came naturally and it was often humorous, at least for the two of us. I have used rhyme in many of my stories. The feedback has been very positive. It is often easier for children to learn to read when the text is in rhyme. It can be more fun too and fun can never be discounted when it comes to learning.” But there is more to Dawn’s motivation which started her writing and her large contribution to children’s literacy. “There is something in the atmosphere of Waiomu that helps with writing. I can’t define it but I feel a creative energy here. I wrote my first book soon after moving here.”
Adelaide beach.” That was a grandmother’s fanciful wish. The book however, was not fanciful. It was Dawn’s first book and a successful one. – ‘Sea Secret’ published in 1998. “Many years later we went to Adelaide and we actually found a message, ‘I love you’ written in the sand. I have no idea who wrote it and for whom it was written, but it was a wonderful affirmation of writing my first book.” “And then a lucky break into writing educational readers. When Sea Secrets was published I was working as a teacher In Tapu. I used PM readers in my classroom and had always wanted a chance to write them. Luckily for me a representaive for PM was in the staffroom and with encouragement from her I contacted her managing editor who said, ‘We are short of two Blue Level Readers. If you can have stories to me by next week I’ll look at them.’ I was so excited! I ended up writing stories for readers for years at all different levels. I loved it. Readers are structured to meet the learning level but I always started with the story and sorted the educational requirements afterwards.” “My life became more writing and less teaching as time went
THAT FIRST BOOK “My granddaughter went to live in Australia. I was quite heartbroken – part of our family leaving New Zealand. I wrote the story about writing a message in the sand, that somehow the sea would take a message to where my granddaughter was in Adelaide, South Australia. In the story the grandmother wrote, ‘I love you’ and drew kisses on the sand at Waiomu, hoping the granddaughter might find her words on an
on. I began writing for other publishing companies. Stories seem to come to me with their own energy. And characters I can see, like in a play.” The Informer asked Dawn if there was a favourite story of all that she has had published.
TWO STAND-OUT BOOKS “It’s hard to choose a ‘best‘ book, but two come to mind. The first is Colour the Stars. The inspiration came from Waiomu Valley Road. At a pool in the river I imagined there were two boys sitting together on the bank – one was blind and one sighted. In the story the sighted child teaches the colours to his blind friend. That book has been translated into braille. “The second book that looms for me is one I wrote about a child migrant from Britain who was sent out from England in 1950 – Home Child (2019). I found my migrant as an adult living in Nelson. She was so excited to have her story told. She sent me all the treasured memorabilia from her journey. I quickly copied it and returned it, terrified I would lose such treasures. Writing Pat’s journey was a privilege. Often the tears rolled down my face as I typed.” Dawn spoke about the feedback she receives from children. “I am overwhelmed and very
Photo supplied.
affirmed by the feedback. Children send me their stories. A boy in Hamilton has just sent me Part One of his graphic novel. Children communicate from all over New Zealand and the world. Parents write too, about their children loving the stories and finding a love of reading. It is vitally important that parents read to their children. I like to think that each story has something of interest for the adult. After all they are often the ones to select that book so there needs to be something in the pages for the adult.” We have hardly mentioned the Kings Birthday Honours bestowed on Dawn. “I was totally stunned and I am very honoured. So many messages of congratulations have come from people I have taught,
from parents who were once children learning to read, from teachers and readers and friends. For me, writing and being published is all about teamwork. I could not have done this on my own. There are the illustrators, the publishers, the children and their families and of course my friends and family who have encouraged and supported me. My husband, who has cooked my dinner in busy times. My grandchildren are now adults who are having children. We are on to the next generation of readers. It’s an honour to be part of that.” Waiomu Café is a very successful stockiest of Dawn’s books as is Carson’s Bookshop in Thames. Her books are also available at Paper Plus outlets in New Zealand. Email: dawn@dawnmcmillan.co.nz
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The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 7
NEW YEAR SUMMER EVENTS
The Opito Bay Fire Fun Day Delivers Big smiles and strong safety messages were the keys for a very successful day. BY ANNIE SPENCE
S
unshine, sirens and smiling faces filled Perry Chapman Reserve on Saturday, 3 January, as families from across Matarangi, Kuaotunu and surrounding areas turned out in force for the Opito Bay Fire Fun Day. Hosted by the Kuaotunu Fire Brigade, the free community event attracted hundreds of children and adults eager to enjoy an afternoon of hands-on activities, learning and summer fun. Three fire trucks proved a major drawcard, with children lining up to explore the vehicles, try on fire uniforms, and pose at photo boards. Crews kept young participants busy with hose running, water-transfer challenges and the ever-popular fire hose soccer, while colour-in competitions and story-time sessions offered something for all ages. A strong fire-safety focus ran throughout the day. Families watched a kitchen fire demonstration, practised using real fire extinguishers under supervision, and learned how firefighters communicate using operational radios. One of the standout attractions was the “Escape My House”
Photos: Rob Toomey
virtual-reality experience, giving participants a realistic but safe insight into making smart decisions during a house fire. With four marquees providing shade and parking available on site, many families settled in
for the afternoon with blankets, water bottles and sunblock. The event wrapped up with prize giveaways and an energetic lolly scramble that sent children home happy and tired. Brigade members said the day
was a great opportunity to connect with the community they serve. I love organising this event and I think it’s fantastic to see so many families come out, have fun and learn a few simple things that can make a real difference in an
emergency. Events like this help build strong connections and awareness, especially for our younger community members. I wish to thank the community for their strong turnout and suppor. The Fire Fun Day is a resounding success and one we hope to repeat in the future and invite families from further afield on the Coromandel to come.
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8 | The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026
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TRAVEL
TRAVEL WRITER – SARAH-JANE
Tips to maximise your mini-hikes
D
itch the Everest Gear! Tired of seeing hikers who look like they're auditioning for a survival show? Good news! You can grab the sheer, unadulterated joy of walking without needing to challenge a single, terrifying mountain. In New Zealand, short walks are your golden ticket to outstanding scenic attractions that require minimal perspiration. Need a culture fix? Try a heritage trail. Hungry? Hit the food trails. Explore art and culture under the open sky. Forget the gym in a lush native forest and maybe even encounter unique wildlife that hasn't seen a tourist in five minutes.
outstanding online resources. Check out the helpful guide Walking track categories by the Department of Conservation on required fitness levels for graded walks.
Open firm sandals are suitable for day walks.
• Ditch the heavy backpack and travel light, it’s a short walk. • Indulge in a touch of comfort your accommodation does not need to be a mountain hut.
LETS GET YOU ON THE RIGHT TRACK! • Read the signposted information plaques describing the area you are walking through before striking onwards. The start and finish is usually accessible by road with a designated car park. • Each walk is flagged at the beginning of the walk with the estimated duration of the walk, length of the walk and any special features to look for such as steps and a slippery surface.
TIP: POINTS OF INTEREST Your walk might start rambling through farmland and you wonder why this walk is so interesting? The jewel could be the destination or several sparkling highlights along the way. Look for the walk highlights to see if the walk interests you.
HOW TO GET THERE Many walks are under the Department of Conservation with their
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WHAT TO WEAR ON A NEW ZEALAND SHORT WALK While these walks are not extended day walks New Zealand weather is unpredictable. You are always advised to carry a waterproof jacket, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and water. FOOTWEAR Are jandals / thongs suitable for a short walk? No. Jandals / thongs are for the beach or BBQ, NOT for a bush walk. • You can slip on an uneven surface and snap your favourite pair (and have nothing to wear) • In muddy or wet areas they are hazardous with the wet area / mud creating an impromptu skateboard • Jandals / thongs do not support the ankle or foot, good trainers work well for short walks • Sturdy walking sandals are an option when it is hot
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CAN YOU DRINK STREAM WATER? It is unwise to drink water directly from a stream, creek, river or any unfiltered water supply. No matter how clear the water appears it could contain Giardia.
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Nothing grates like kids muttering phrases … “I’m bored” or ‘When are we going to get there”. • Weather is changeable, ensure you have layers for kids and yourself sorted. • Encourage the kids to go in front, to be the leader of the pack and read the information plaques and tell you what is happening. • Carry snacks and energy bites for flagging kids. • Consider the thrill of getting to the walk and returning back to your accommodation, a boat ride, promise of an ice cream (for everyone including the kids), a chance to check out nearby attractions and fold these into the conversation about the walk. • If the kids or anyone for that matter wants to explore interesting finds during the walk, take time to look around. Department of Conservation kiwi guardians is an amazing programme with factsheets so the hard work is already done for you.
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The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 9
Running was never part of the plan My experience running in the New York Marathon 2025 and changing my mindset. BY LILY PAULSEN
I
f I got asked a few years ago to run a marathon, I would have laughed – not politely, but in disbelief. Who would want to pay to run – to endure 42.2km (26.2 miles) of pure pain? I grew up surrounded by runners – my dad, my sisters, my brother in-laws. I never saw myself being one of them. Running was always something they loved; It made sense to them. For me, sports felt like more of a foreign language in which I would never be fluent, no matter how hard I tried. There was a time I even said I hated it. You’d only see me run if I was being chased, and even then, it was more of a reluctant jog. So, when I put my hand up to do the TCS New York Marathon in November 2025, I surprised myself, feeling almost instant regret. But there was no turning back, I had already paid half the fee and booked plane tickets. I don’t think I had fully grasped what I was committing to at the time, but I definitely wouldn’t have got anywhere without my dad and my sister, who became my coaches. PREPARATION The hardest part actually wasn’t the marathon itself. It was the training -the consistency, the
New York Marathon running team from NZ – (from left) Rebecca Wilson, Ashlee Paulsen, Neil Paulsen (dad), Linley Taylor, Lily Paulsen, Linda Paulsen (mum); New York City.
motivation, the pain. Almost any run came with knee pain from a previous injury, and it took a lot to keep fighting through. Some runs were manageable, others excruciating. Whether it was wet outside or scorching hot, in a hurricane or sand storm, I still had to run, even though stopping felt like the easier choice. They (my sister and Dad) got me through, teaching me about endurance, grit and determination. What I didn’t realise at the time however was that I too got me through each run, every injury and even mind game. Through running, I found some-
thing unexpected - harmony and gratitude. Somewhere along the way, my pain was joined with purpose. Running became my friend. Most days were hard, but it became rewarding; and like most friendships - you fight, but you always come back together.
MARATHON DAY Arriving in New York for the first time with our group of seven felt surreal. The crowded city was full of diverse citizens and excited runners. The days passed by in a blur, but Marathon Day was unreal, like a picture pasted in my mind which cannot be erased.
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Thousands of people lined the streets which had countless security checkpoints. When I ran through that start line it felt like a full circle moment. Every running step had led to this. I was running through Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and finishing at the start of Central Park. What a great way to see New York - except all I was seeing were the insides of my eyeballs and starry vision. The New York Marathon clocked in 59,226 finishers, which set the world record of the largest marathon ever! I felt honoured to be a small part of this historic event
and represent 1 of 130 countries recorded. Running over the finish line with my sister was one of my proudest moments, our hands up in the air to celebrate. To finish was unfathomable and truly an experience of a lifetime. It felt weird to have finally done what I’d been training for, for so long. It was like, what now? As I hobbled out and a medal got slung around my neck, I felt many things - freedom, pain, happiness, relief and gratitude. I also felt privileged that I got to do what millions only dream about. Now I get to call myself a runner, and that's pretty darn awesome. It’s hard to believe how I could have almost missed out on this opportunity just by having a different mindset or simply by choosing easy.
WHAT NOW? I think about all that I’ve learnt over the past few months and what I can tell you is that you can choose to be positive, choose to say yes, choose to start now. If you choose to believe in yourself, you can do just about anything. A marathon would have been impossible not long ago - but I did it - even in pain, even in disbelief. I did it because I chose not to give up. And you can too. Start now whatever your challenge is to meet and overcome. It’s always better late than never.
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The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 11
ENVIRONMENT MATTERS
Turning the Tide: New Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection Areas – Part One Your Questions Answered.
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WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU? In a High Protection Areas (HPA) • You can: swim, snorkel, kayak, and anchor your boat • You can’t: fish (commercial or recreational), take seafood, discharge waste, or disturb habitats by underwater construction or drilling In a Seafloor Protection Areas (SPA) • You can: swim, snorkel, kayak, and anchor your boat, recreationally line fish, spearfish, surfcast,
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SO WHAT’S NEW? • 12 High Protection Areas (HPAs) – five around the Coromandel Peninsula. These protect and actively restore marine ecosystems. Look for purple on the map • Five Seafloor Protection Areas (SPAs) – one around the Coromandel Peninsula. These safeguard seafloor habitats while allowing low-impact activities. They’re marked green on the map • Extensions to two marine reserves: Te Whanganui-o-Hei/ Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve in the Coromandel and Cape Rodney-Okakari Point Marine Reserve (aka Goat Island) in Auckland. These are the bright blue on the map.
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he Hauraki Gulf is a taonga (treasure) that’s on the path of recovery. It’s been doing it tough for years as increasing impacts of climate change, overfishing, pollution, and sediment runoff from land have taken their toll. Reports indicate more kina barrens are showing up, some habitats are disappearing, and localised fish stocks are struggling to increase in numbers or simply sustain themselves. The Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection Act is one conservation-led tool we’re using to help turn the tide. This law focuses on key habitats where sea life breed and grow. The new network of protected areas safeguards rare and important habitats – the kinds acting as nurseries for young fish, to help rebuild fish size, abundance and variety over time. The goal? To restore the mauri (life force) of the Gulf and build stronger, more resilient ecosystems for generations to come.
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New marine protections in the Hauraki Gulf. Tikapa Moana / Te Moananui a Toi.
Extension and coordinates.
use a pot, and gather by hand - as long as you don’t damage the seafloor. • You can’t: commercially bottom trawl, dredge, Danish seine, sand mine, drill, or dump waste
Q: What is the exception for commercial fishing? A: While commercial fishing is excluded from HPAs, there are two exceptions: Two HPAs outside of the Coromandel District (Kawau Bay HPA and Rangitoto and Motutapu HPA) allow limited commercial ringnet fishing. The area they are allowed to fish in represents 3% of the total protected under this Act. This applies only to several operators in small vessels targeting kahawai, trevally and grey mullet, and only between 1 March and 31 August. This clause will be monitored closely by the Ministry of Primary Industries and reviewed in 3 years.
MARINE RESERVES • All marine life is protected. • No commercial or recreational fishing, collecting seafood, or disturbing habitats • No feeding fish or removing shells and rocks • No dumping waste Te Whanganui-o-Hei/Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve has been in place for over 30 years and has been successful at increasing the numbers, diversity and size of some fish species. But unfortunately, people still get caught fishing there every year, so if you’re heading to Mautohe/Cathedral Cove this summer, check your charts and know the rules!
Q: WHY HAS TE WHANGANUI-O-HEI/ CATHEDRAL COVE MARINE RESERVE BEEN EXTENDED? A: Research shows that some species including rock lobster need more space. Up to half of mature rock lobsters move beyond the old boundary to feed. Combine this with the constant potting
12 | The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026
along the edge of the reserve and the protection loses some of its effectiveness. The extension has improved protection of rocky reefs further offshore, providing a bigger buffer zone to help rock lobster and other species thrive. INSERT SECOND MAP SHOWS TE WHANGANUI-O-HEI/CATHEDRAL COVE MARINE RESERVE EXTENSION AND COORDINATES
COMMON QUESTIONS Q: What is the difference between a marine reserve and a High Protection Area? A: Both protect important ecosystems through a high level of restrictions, but an HPA is slightly more flexible. Marine Reserves were created for the purpose of scientific research. They are left completely untouched so that ecosystems can function without human interventions – good or bad – and researchers can study them. An HPA allows us to do active restoration to accelerate the restoration of a healthy ecosystem. For example: removing kina from barrens or reseeding kelp beds. Importantly, they also allow Māori customary fishing practices to take place in an authorised manner, enabling kaitiakitanga (guardianship) to be exercised.
WHY ALLOW CUSTOMARY FISHING? Customary fishing rights are not a new thing, they are guaranteed under Te Tiriti o Waitangi/The Treaty of Waitangi and managed under the Fisheries Act 1996. They support Māori cultural knowledge, learning and kaitiakitanga (guardianship) of the marine environment. Customary fishers need written approval from an appointed tangata kaitiaki/tiaki and can only fish for a customary purpose, for example a hui (meeting) or tangi (funeral).
Q: How much of the Hauraki Gulf is now protected? A: Marine protection from all forms of fishing has increased from 0.3% to 5.9% (excluding the pre-existing Cable Protection Zone). SIGNING OFF How do I follow the rules easily? • You’ll see DOC Rangers sharing information at boat ramps, beaches and local markets in the Coromandel and Auckland. Our Marine Protection Rangers will be on the water, patrolling the marine protected areas and answering questions. • Visit doc.govt.nz/HaurakiGulf for more information, downloadable maps/GPS files, and full legislation • Download the MarineMate app or update your chart plotters for maps and boundaries. Most popular boating apps in New Zealand have been given the updated coordinates for their charts. Before you head out, take a few minutes to check the latest maps. A bit of prep now means fewer surprises later and helps keep the Gulf on its road to recovery! Rosa is Marine Community Ranger, Department of Conservation
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NEW YEAR SUMMER EVENTS
Thousands at Coro Classic Saturday, 3 January
3 JAN 202
Near the Matarang tickets go2 JOIN THE TEAM FOR CORO For CLASSIC www.thecoroclass SATURDAY, 3RD JANUARY 2026 festival of bands, DJ”S and 3 JAN 2026 $30/HR music – almost 20 music
A
WE’RE ON THE LOOK FOR: Near the Matarangiartists. The 2026 biggest event on 3turnoff JAN $30/HR 3 JAN 2026 $30/HR JOIN ATTITUDE THE TEAM FOR COR • A POSITIVE, CAN-DO thego Coromandel Peninsula – a sell tickets to JOIN THE TEAM FOR CORO For CLASSIC 2026! Near the Matarangi turnoff Near the Matarangi turnoff out! ww • TEAM PLAYERS WHO CAN STAY COOL UNDER PRE SATURDAY, 3RD JAN For tickets go toForgood JOIN THEJANUARY TEAM FOR CORO CLASSIC www.thecoroclassic.co.nz A great success in2026! very SATURDAY, 3RD 2026 tickets go to JOIN THE TEAM FOR CORO CLASSIC 2026! • GREAT COMMUNICATION AND RELIABILITY weather. The location was the estate www.thecoroclassic.co.nz 3 JAN $30/HR SATURDAY, 3RD 2026 JANUARY 2026 of Coromandel Luxury Escapes just www.thecoroclassic.co.nz
Ne
SATURDAY, 3RD JANUARY 2026
Near the Matarangi turnoff on SH 25. near Matarangi Well done to this amazing WE’RE THE LOOK FOR: For tickets go2026! to JOIN THEON TEAM FOR CORO CLASSIC organising team – infrastructure, WE’RE ON THE LOOK FOR: marketing, transport and the best www.thecoroclassic.co.nz • A POSITIVE, CAN-DO ATTITUDE SATURDAY, 3RD JANUARY 2026 WE’RE ON THE LOOK FOR: • A POSITIVE, CAN-DO ATTITUDE
WE’RE ON THE LOOK
THE ROLES WE NEED TO FILL: • A POSITIVE, CAN-DO ATTITUDE Photos: Romy Stowers.
of all – sound and light and staging. • BAR STAFF • TEAM • BUSPLAYERS MONITORS EVENT WHO •CAN STAYUS C • TEAM PLAYERS WHO CAN STAY UNDER • TEAM PLAYERS WHO CAN STAYPRESSURE COOL PRESSURE • A COOL POSITIVE, CAN-DO ATTITUDE Local DJUNDER Sunray and Francie Lid– vocals guitar bothUNDER from • GREAT AND COMMUNICATION ANDgard RELIABILITY • GREAT COMMUNICATION AND RE • GREAT COMMUNICATION RELIABILITY • TEAM PLAYERS WHO CAN and STAY COOL PRESSURE ADDITIONAL HOURS AND MAHI FOR PACK Whitianga – wowed the crowd. We • GREAT COMMUNICATION AND RELIABILITY are very proud of our local CoroTHE FOLLOWING DAY! • A POSITIVE, CAN-DO ATTITUDE mandel artists. • TEAM PLAYERS WHO CAN STAY COOL UNDER PRESSURE If this sounds like you, send an email to • BAR STAFF • BUS MONITORS • EVENT USHERS • GREAT COMMUNICATION AND RELIABILITY
WE’RE ON THE LOOK FOR:
THE NEED ROLES TO WE FILL: NEED TO FILL: THE ROLES WE
THE ROLES WE NEED
THE ROLES WE NEED TO FILL:hello@nexgentouring.co.nz with your name, conta • BAR STAFF • BUS MONITORS • EVENT USHERS
• BAR STAFF • BUS MONITOR
ADDITIONAL HOURS AND•MAHI PACKDOWN • BAR STAFF BUS FOR MONITORS • EVENT USHERS a bit about yourself and what role you’d be ke THE FOLLOWING DAY! ADDITIONAL HOURS AND MAHI FOR PACKDOWN
THE ROLES WE NEED TO FILL: ADDITIONAL HOURS AND MAHI FOR PACKDOWN THE FOLLOWING DAY!
THE FOLLOWING If this sounds like you, send an email to DAY! • BAR STAFF • BUS MONITORS • EVENT USHERS
hello@nexgentouring.co.nz with your name, contact details,
If this sounds like you, send an to you’d be keen on! a bit about yourself andemail what role ADDITIONAL HOURS AND MAHI FOR If thisPACKDOWN sounds like you, send an email to hello@nexgentouring.co.nz with your name, contact details, THE FOLLOWING DAY! hello@nexgentouring.co.nz with your name, contact details, a bit about yourself and what role you’d be keen on! a bit about yourself and what role you’d be keen on! If this sounds like you, send an email to hello@nexgentouring.co.nz with your name, contact details, a bit about yourself and what role you’d be keen on!
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ADDITIONAL HOURS AND MA THE FOLLOWIN
If this sounds like you, s hello@nexgentouring.co.nz with yo a bit about yourself and what r
The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 13
NEW YEAR SUMMER EVENTS
An awesome night at the Coroglen Tavern Artists who headlined - Th’ Dudes, Mockers, Stella* – Monday, 29 December.
A
ll three artists performed for an almost capacity crowd despite shadows of inclement weather. Monday, 29 December “It was a brilliant concert. Mainly an older crowd and that includes me and my friends, but who cares. Worth every bit of the trip from Auckland. The weather wasn't too bad either. My kids are coming to New Years Eve at the Tavern..” – Auckland Concert goer.
Photos: Romy Stowers and Diane Andrews
Katchafire, Daily J and Flaxxies
Coroglen Tavern 14 | The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026
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NEW YEAR SUMMER EVENTS
Whitianga Hotel
Smitty’s Bar and Grill
Piston Broke
Mercury Bay Club
Wizzbang! New local band
Grace O’Malley’s
Phil Hart & Hanna Sharps www.theinformer.co.nz
The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 15
NEW YEAR SUMMER EVENTS
Happiness at the Cooks Beach Carnival
BY VERNA CARR
W
ith perfect summer weather on Saturday, 4 January, hundreds of families and holiday makers descended upon Cooks Beach for the Whenuakite School's annual fundraising gala. The day was packed with entertainment, laughter, and that special carnival atmosphere that makes the event a go to of the holiday season. The activities were designed with children in mind. Kids lined up eagerly to try their luck at spin the wheel, ring toss, and ball-throwing games, all with exciting prizes up for grabs. Basketball hoops challenged older children to test their aim, while the ever-popular dunk tank had brave volunteers taking a plunge each time someone hit the target.
Younger children squealed with delight on the colourful rainbow tyre slide and when they had rides on the small Ferris wheel. Older students showed off their strength and stamina in press-up competitions and other challenges, competing fiercely for prizes. One of the day's highlights was the talent quest, which showcased the impressive abilities of young local singers and musicians - revealing some genuine rising stars in the community. Fabian Roberts of radio CFM was the super Host and MC of all the stage fun and competitions. However, the undisputed star of the show was Daisy the cow, whose participation in the school's famous "Cow Pat Lottery" drew the biggest crowd of the day. Sponsored by Richardson's Real Estate with a gener-
ous $1,000 prize, the event saw Daisy select her own winning square in front of an enthusiastic audience. This quirky and popular tradition has become one of the carnival's biggest fundraisers. The aroma of sizzling food filled the air as families explored the variety of food stalls and trucks offering everything from classic carnival treats to international street food. Many families settled under the shady trees near the beach just metres away to enjoy a leisurely picnic with their market food.. As a small rural school, Whenuakite relies heavily on community fundraising events like this carnival. All proceeds
will support the school's literacy and numeracy programs, classroom upgrades, teacher aide positions, new playground equipment, visiting educational shows, school camps and trips, and IT development. The success of this year's carnival is a testament to the strong community spirit in the Whenuakite / Cooks Beach area, supporting local children's education while creating wonderful memories for locals and holiday makers alike." If you'd like to support Whenuakite School, donations can be made to: Whenuakite Fundraising 03-1578-0015991-000. For a receipt, please contact the school with your details.
Matilda The Time Travelling Fairy Presents
FAIRIES, PIRATES & PRINCESSES PICNIC IN THE PARK SUNDAY JANUARY 11TH, 11AM - 1PM
Dance competition.
SO L DI ERS ME MO RIAL PA RK W HI T I AN G A Grab the family for a fun, free day out. Bring a picnic & rug and enjoy a day in the park. Bubbles, Face Painting, Food, & much more! P RO UDL Y SUP P O RT E D B Y: Press-up competition.
16 | The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026
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NEW YEAR SUMMER EVENTS
The biggest fair for a big cause
T
he Keltic Fair in Coromandel town is one of the largest festivals in New Zealand and a huge achievement for the small town community of Coromandel. It is always held on 2 January, no matter what day of the week the 2nd falls. It features over 300 stalls – a huge variety of good for sale from wood craft, 3D printing, LP vinyl art, original design clothing, children’s toys, sunglasses, fashion jewellery and hand-crafted jewellery, chutneys and sauces, amazing sweets. Coromandel has that creative edge which threads through the art and produce of the people. Then there are the rides for the children and a music stage right in the
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centre where shade trees offer a great spot just to sit on the grass and chill out. Reggae and folk music featured and the overall sense of relaxation is quite seductive. When it came to market food, I counted 25 varieties – burgers, Mexican Street Food, Trinidad chow, crepes, Vietnamese food, BBQ pork, Raglan Kettle Corn and dessert treats to die for. Behind this very successful Fair that looms large in the Summer calendar in New Zealand is a huge amount of work that begins from the day the Fair is over. The reason is their Coromandel Area School. The community including all the businesses work for the children and their
education. They know that their efforts will raise the funds needed for resources for the school and extra opportunities for the children as part of their education. It is the nature of country communities and any region that is distant from the resources of a city. The Keltic Fair has been going 35 years. The first one was held in the grounds of Firlawn House in Coromandel in 1990, when two women from the Culdian Trust took it upon themselves to organize the fair as a community project. It was a small event with a local flavour, featuring stalls, crafts, food and entertainment. it has the same feeling 35 years later though at least 20 times bigger.
The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 17
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
New Chum Beach.
WHY WAS NEW CHUM BEACH LEFT OUT? TOURISM DESERVES TRANSPARENCY I was surprised to see that the Council’s updated online Tracks & Trails guide for the Coromandel Peninsula omits New Chum Beach (Wainuiototo). This is not a minor destination. New Chum Beach is internationally recognised, regularly ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, and is a significant drawcard for visitors to the Coromandel. Tourism is a major contributor to the Peninsula’s economy, and New Chum (Wainuiototo) plays an important role in that success. New Chum Beach is internationally recognised and is one of the Peninsula’s strongest tourism drawcards. International visitors plan trips specifically to see it, supporting accommodation providers, cafés, retailers, and tour operators across the region. Removing such a wellknown destination from an official Council guide sends a confusing message – not just to visitors, but to local businesses that rely on clear, consistent destination promotion. For 15 years the local and wider New Zealand and International communities have sought to protect and preserve New Chum for future generations, and in 2021 purchasing a block at the northern end of New Chum for the people of New Zealand. The removal of New Chum from the Tracks and Trail guide raises reasonable questions. Why was New Chum Beach excluded? Who made that decision? And on what basis was such an iconic and globally recognised tourist attraction left out. Was this a staff decision? If there are concerns around access, environmental protection, or visitor safety, those issues should be openly communicated. Responsible tourism depends on accurate information, not silent exclusion. Good information helps visitors plan responsibly and respect a fragile environment. I respectfully ask Mayor Peter Revell to seek clarification and ensure the community is given a transparent explanation. Decisions affecting how our
region is presented should not be made without public accountability. The TCDC CEO said recently when asked, “New Chum was an area that was under the Mayor’s umbrella of responsibility.” New Chum Beach (Wainuiototo) is part of the Coromandel’s identity and heritage. If it has been removed, the public deserves to know why. Linda Cholmondley-Smith, Whitianga KIWI AND THE KUAOTUNU PENINSULA An initiative to protect kiwi across the wider peninsula was initiated by a committee supporting a professional team of three hunters in the late ‘90s. The Kuaotunu Kiwi Sanctuary was made up of a range of locals and included several people with professional conservation skills. Project Kiwi did not exist at that time. Both the committee and field team worked collaboratively and diligently to gain support from landowners across the wider peninsula and this included those at Waitaia Bay. Permission took some time to be obtained for access to Waitaia. Waitaia landowners were not actively involved in any of the project process at a committee level. This initiative followed the Department of Conservation (DOC) Otama Block possum ground control, which was the first systematic forest restoration project on the peninsula. The Otama possum control was part of DOC’s response to possums across the wider Coromandel which also included coastal forests at Whenuakite and Papa Aroha. Readers can see on the TCDC online mapping site that there is legal public access to the coast via Waitaia Road. Visitors to the bay may incorrectly conclude the public lands behind the beach are private property due to the private dwellings on public land. Visitors can check the public online maps to legally take advantage of this unique coastal experience. Paddy Stewart, Co-founder Kuaotunu Kiwi Sanctuary (Treasurer) and initial predator control team co-ordinator
18 | The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026
SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL Some years ago there was an idea that ‘small is beautiful’. So why is there a move to amalgamate into a large group called ‘a unitary council’? Community Boards were a result of concern that the ordinary citizen was being distanced from the halls of power at our local body amalgamatio0n. Our mayor’s position was also introduced instead of a chairperson at the same time. The TCDC was formed by amalgamation so has it become a leaner, more efficient, cheaper organisation? Some aged folk might say that the old borough councils worked fine with contact daily with staff and citizens, and a central government in the form of Commissioner Elwood drove the amalgamation action. The article by G. Robinson lauding a Unitary Council is very full but has some minor omissions, e.g., Te Puru were rated for flood protection after serious flooding from a ‘weather bomb’. So they expected continuing rate increase to pay for it over time. What does the WRC give us for our rates? Will the TCDC be able to do that? Is the Unitary Council a way of allowing commerce to ‘develop’ at the expense of the enviroment? There is no ‘free lunch’ in this matter. Peter H. Wood, Whitianga TOURISTUS VULGARIS After days of feasting and wearing silly hats Touristus vulgaris, or the Common Tourist prepares for seasonal migration. This highly social species transforms our quiet neighbourhood into contested territories, nesting in hotels, baches, and campgrounds with remarkable adaptability. Their relationship with road rules reveals fascinating cognitive gaps. Indicators have lost all evolutionary function - why signal when spontaneity is so much more exciting? Locals simply adore the surprise element tourists bring to our roads! It keeps us on our toes, hearts racing, and brake pads thoroughly tested. Pedestrian tourists step directly into traffic without glancing up from their devices, moving at different speeds and trajectories like planets with erratic orbits. Nothing says summer like emergency braking for an
The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to enable members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest/concern. 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. entire family – complete with dogs and inflatable toys – meandering across the road mid-conversation. Observe their supermarket hunting strategy: the alpha male positions the trolley at a strategic forty-five-degree angle, blocking entire aisles while juveniles range freely, touching everything. It takes twenty minutes and the entire extended family to debate which flavour of ice cream to buy. Hokey-pokey or boysenberry? A predominantly nocturnal species, Touristus vulgaris consumes fermented beverages while serenading neighbourhoods with thumping bass at maximum volume until 3 a.m. Sleep is overrated anyway – who needs REM cycles when you can lie awake contemplating noise control bylaws? A relatively recent evolutionary development involves the tourist’s need to photograph everything, often while standing in the most inconvenient location possible. Footpaths, doorways, the middle of the road. Forcing all pedestrian traffic to halt while they capture seventeen virtually identical photographs of themselves pointing at the ocean. The local behind them, attempting to walk their elderly dog, waits
patiently – though their expression suggests they’re considering taking up meditation Or drinking. As summer progresses, locals emit barely audible sighs, white knuckles gripping steering wheels So we smile through gritted teeth, take the scenic route to avoid town, shop at dawn, invest in industrial-grade earplugs, and dream of February. Because this peculiar summer ritual, however exhausting, keeps our community alive. Their wallets fund our businesses through winter. Their enthusiasm reminds us why we live here. Their terrible attempts at pronouncing local place names are quite endearing. Besides, we secretly enjoy complaining about them. So welcome, Touristus vulgaris. We’ll be ready. We always are. Yours in seasonal survival, Verna Carr, Whitianga
CORRECTION REQUIRED As a small note of correction for The Informer issue dated 30th December 2025 (Looking Back on 2025); in your recap article for November 2025 you incorrectly note Martin Rodley and myself as returning for our second term (page
28 “John Grant, Robyn Sinclair, Martin Rodley who undoubtedly want to achieve more in their second term”). While Mercury Bay local John Grant was first elected in 2022, both Martin and I were in fact first elected in 2019, making the 2025-28 triennium for both of us a third term. Robyn Sinclair, TCDC Councillor NOISE CONTROL In the early hours of this morning (Monday) I phoned noise control at 2.30am as holiday makers across the road had their stereo going very loudly and I couldn’t sleep. I phoned again at 3.15am to be told that the complaint had been logged. Shortly after 4am the stereo was turned off. I don’t know if noise control asked them to turn the music off or if they went to bed? Where do TCDC’s noise control officers come from? The lady who took my complaint couldn’t tell me. Surely over 90 minutes after a complaint has been received is not acceptable, and in particular at that time of day. Tired Cook Dr resident (name has been held due to possibility of angry response), Whitianga
This wasn’t created by accident Kia ora — Safer Coromandel here. BY AYANA PIPERHEALION
D
uring the summer of 2010/11, 13 people lost their lives on the Coromandel Peninsula. It was a devastating season, and a turning point for our community. Local agencies came together with a shared determination: we need to do better. From that moment, Safe Summer Coromandel was born - and over time, it grew into what you now know as Safer Coromandel. Today, Safer Coromandel brings together around 17 local agencies and community organisations, all working toward the same goal: preventing death and serious harm across our district. In this collective are New Zealand Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, St John, Surf Life Saving, Maritime NZ, ACC, the Department of Conservation, Waikato Health, and several com-
munity groups focused on family wellbeing. Thames-Coromandel District Council supports the partnership by providing coordination through its emergency management function. You may hear my voice on Coromandel’s CFM – the locally owned radio station helping share safety messages on air, online, and through local newspapers like this one. It’s all part of making sure important information reaches the people who need it, when they need it. That collaborative approach has proven its worth. In 2015, the partnership won the Supreme Award at the Police Problem-Oriented Policing Awards. Since then, Safer Coromandel has evolved into a year-round initiative – because keeping people safe isn’t just a summer job. The challenge is real. Our district’s permanent population of around 34,000 swells to more than 150,000
during peak summer. That puts enormous pressure on our roads, beaches and bush tracks. TCDC Civil Defence Controller Brian Carter says that’s why working together matters. “Summer numbers put enormous pressure on our roads, beaches and bush tracks. By working together under the Safer Coromandel umbrella, our agencies can coordinate our messaging and resources to reach more people – and ultimately keep more people safe.” So as the busy season continues, I’ll leave you with a reminder you might hear often from Safer Coromandel. See it. Share it. Sort it. Coro’s safer when you are. Kia noho haumaru.
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NEW YEAR SUMMER EVENTS
Emergency Services Summer Festival
Above: Search and Rescue Team; Three firemen – Paul, Duncan, and Karlos; Fire Officer Darryn demonstrates the danger of water being poured on a small fire on the stove.
T
St John.
he Mercury Bay Emergency Services Summer festival on. Tuesday, 30 December December in the heart of Whitianga township. Whitianga Foire Service featured with their big fire engine and equipment. Darryn and Karlos, volunteer Fire Brigade officers lead a demonstration on fire safety at home on the hour. This was dramatic in demonstrating what not to do as well how to put out a stove fire effectively. It was very popular with all ages. The Kuaotunu Land Search and Rescue team were on hand with their knowledge of the region and the invitation for others to become a part of this important local volun-
teer service. St John (Hate Hone) Ambulance officers took people’s blood pressure and heart rates. This year the market stalls, both food and sale items, were brought up front from Taylor’s Mistake area and this worked well for a sense of community. It was a warm, clear day and the holiday makers enjoyed the experience as well as many residents. The funds raised go to the work of our local Emergency Services. There isn’t a person living on the Coromandel who has not at some time needed or knows someone who was in need of an Ambulance or a Coastguard , or Civil Defence, and some lives have been so very glad to have Land Search and Rescue.
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The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 19
GAMES AND PUZZLES Issue 1191
Crossword Puzzle © Lovatts Puzzles 952 1
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Issue 1191 – Grid 160
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NEW YEAR SUMMER EVENTS
Hahei Market Day brings community together Right: Painting found at market by Tiffiany Consumi.
Lorne Depap – one of the key organisers; Hahei Library; BJ Donald, Mike Ritchie, Derek Fenton, Henk Roling – fire fighters; Henry McDowell in the fire truck.
BY VERNA CARR
T
he annual Hahei Market Day, held on Monday 5 January as the paper is almost at its deadline, once again proved that small communities can achieve remarkable things when they work together. Organised by Lorne Depape and Robyn Dalzell from the Hahei Library, along with a dedicated team of volunteers, the event raises thousands of dollars each year to support purchasing new books for the library and making substantial
donations to St John Ambulance, the Fire Service, and Hot Water Beach Surf Lifesaving. These essential services are often taken for granted, but in an emergency, they're the ones who respond. As Lorne and Robyn emphasise, small towns depend on these service volunteers, and they need financial support to continue their life-saving work. Smaller donations are also distributed to groups and organisations that enhance wellbeing and benefit not just locals, but the thousands of tourists who
visit Hahei to enjoy its stunning beaches, scenic beauty, and coastal walkways. The market tradition begins with the library's annual book stall on 3 January, with remaining books sold at the main market two days later. This year saw excellent turnout, with many young families eager to experience the fair's delights. Visitors spent the day browsing a diverse array of offerings-from local art and handmade crafts to delicious food and special holiday treasures. Lorne acknowledges that run-
ning a market requires tremendous time, effort, and community cooperation. Robyn devoted countless hours as chief organiser, handling all stallholder bookings. Both expressed deep gratitude for the community spirit that makes everything possible. Local fire volunteers BJ, Mike, Derek, and Henk delighted youngsters by letting them sit in the fire engine and activate the lights and sirens. Their presence served as a timely reminder of the brigade's importance; they were called out on Christmas Day this year.
All stall spaces sold out months in advance, reflecting vendors' recognition that holiday markets offer visitors something relaxing and different to enjoy with their families. When tourists depart, Hahei returns to being a small village, but with greater security knowing emergency services remain funded, the library has resources for new books, swimmers are protected at Hot Water Beach, and small community groups receive support for projects that enhance everyone's health and wellbeing.
Twenty-four Santas on the circuit
AJ and Donna decided to involve their friends in some Christmas cheer which could be shared around their community. They live in Whiti and invited their friends to organize for themselves a Santa suit, (women and men), including beard and hat, and meet at their home for a beginning drink on Christmas Eve. Once all costumes were checked and all were in good spirits and effective Santa attire, the programme was to start down on Buffalo Beach Road at Stoked and the Buffalo
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beach Club before journeying to the Mercury Bay Fishing Club, Grace O’Malleys, Whitianga Hotel and finally Smitty’s Bar and Grill. The purpose: Have a drink together at each venue and spread some Ho Ho Ho! Around. it worked and very well. Those 24 Santas for 24 days leading to Christmas Eve; added hilarity and humour to the town’s celebrations of Christmas Eve and of course, a little confusion when seen by some children. Thank you AJ and Donna. Well done!
The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 21
The Cooks Beach Lakes – action coming FROM COOKS BEACH RESIDENTS AND RATEPAYERS
Lake A: This is the big lake and it was cleared of weed on the weekend of 5-7 December. The operator has done a good clearance job this time around. A huge quantity of weed was removed. However, it is only a matter of time before the weed grows back. In this regard we're hoping that the grass carp application, currently with DOC, will be approved early in the New Year, as it is critical to get the carp positioned before the weed has a chance to recover. It follows then that fewer fish would be needed with the weed growth reduced resulting in a potential saving of costs.
T
here is progress ad goodwill. For three years the residents have been working on, and sometimes at odds with TCDC, as to the best method to clean up the two storm water storage lakes that have become an expensive eyesore for the community. There have been so many false starts, conflicting understandings and consultants have gone off in the wrong direction leading to frustration and some degree of tension as well as extra costs. A number of articles in The Informer have highlighted the plight of the two lakes. Finally, the original suggestion brought by the residents is to be enacted. The goal is to have them maintained as economically as possible as clean, pleasant to the eye, non-smelling, and able to be used for leisure kayaking and by remote-operated yachting enthusiasts. A report was brought by Steve Lloyd of Cooks Beach and received at the Cooks Beach Residents and Ratepayers AGM this last weekend. The main message of this is set out below.
ACTION REQUIRED VERY SOON The urgency is to get the carp in as soon as possible to take advantage of the recently cut weed. The grass carp application is proceeding as well as can be expected – hopefully it will be approved by the end of January. There are still security screens to be erected on the outlet pipes and across the overflow spillway at 13 Scott Drive. TCDC have to design and build these security screens. The understanding is that Council staff have these measures
underway as DOC will need to inspect the screens prior to allowing release of the carp. N.B. For readers’ information, this system only drains to the sea and as these fish have no salinity tolerance, they would probably perish before reaching the Rees Ave, Cooks Beach Hall area. These fish are a valuable asset and as such the screens will do the job of keeping the fish secure in the lakes only. It should also be noted that in over 40 years of releasing these fish, they have never bred in the wild. The conditions in NZ are just not suitable. Lake B: This lake is in a terrible state and at this stage no remedial work is planned until 27/28 year when additional funds become available. A zoom meeting took place on 17 December with Council water services staff to discuss this cleanup in conjunction with the Stormwater Stakeholders committee. It is hoped something can be done as it is not good for residents and perhaps a few need to speak out particularly those living on the lake front. A case of a squeaky wheel get the oil!!
POLICE REPORT Christmas/New Years 2025/2026 BY CONSTABLE MICHAEL CARTER
Ford utility was stolen from the address. Liquor Ban breaches: Over the Xmas/New Years period, a number of persons were issued various infringements for Breaching the Liquor Ban. 18 tickets were issued during this period.
A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the boys and girls in blue on the wider Coromandel Peninsula.
GENERAL: Mon, 22 Dec, a trespassed male unlawfully entered a commercial property in breach of the notice. He will be facing charges in court at a future date. Tues, 23 Dec • An intoxicated male threatened violence after being confronted for his behaviour on Cook Drive. He has been spoken to regarding his behaviour. • Astolen Toyota Hilux was recovered from SH25 and found to have various tools and equipment removed from it. A female was apprehended with some of these items and arrested. A male is assisting with enquiries, and a known suspect is to be spoken to. Further charges are likely. Wed, 24 Dec • A drunken fight occurred at a local establishment. The intoxicated male was removed by staff. The male and his associates were spoken to regarding his behaviour; • A burglary was reported as having occurred at a Monk Street address. Enquiries are continuing to identify the person involved. Thurs 25 Dec Christmas Day • A a burglary was reported as having occurred at a Mayfair Close address. A vehicle was stolen from the address. • A Nissan motor vehicle was stolen from a Pelican Place address. This vehicle has since been located. Enquiries are continuing to locate a possible suspect. Fri, 26 Dec • A reptile was stolen from the Whiti Farm Park. • An allegation of Assault was made to police. Enquiries are con-
tinuing to verify the matter. And, an unknown male was observed unlawfully on property at an Annette Place address. Enquiries are continuing to identify this person. Sun, 28 Dec • A burglary was reported as having occurred at a Mill Road address. A suspect will be spoken to regarding this matter. • A Theft and Trespass were reported as having occurred at an address on The Esplanade. A known suspect is to be spoken to regarding this matter. And, a known suspect went to a Blacksmith Lane address where they have intentionally damaged a vehicle. This person will be facing further charges in court. Thurs, 1 Jan • A report of Wilful Damage was made at an Albert Street location. Suspects have caused damage to the Whitianga Xmas Tree by smashing decorations on purpose. Enquiries will be made by CCTV footage to identify these persons. • Aburglary was reported as occurring at an Old Coach Road address. A known suspect was located by police. Sat, 3 Jan • A report of Wilful Damage was made at a Cook Drive address. Enquiries are continuing. • An intoxicated person decided to damage tyres at a Matarangi address. He was spoken to regarding his actions. Sun, 4 Jan, a burglary was reported as having occurred at a Robinson Road address. A
22 | The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026
ARRESTS: 1x female arrested and charged for Receiving stolen property 1x male arrested and charged for Injures with Intent to Injure 1x male arrested for Breach of Protection Order 1x male arrested and charged for Refusing Blood and Assault Police 1x female arrested for warrants 1x male arrested for warrants
OCCURRENCES: Wed, 24 December • A Family Harm matter was reported to police involving the victim being assaulted by an ex-partner. Enquiries are continuing to locate the offending person. • A drunken argument occurred between a couple in Cooks Beach. Both parties were spoken to by police and apologetic for their actions. Fri, 26 Dec • Two drunken males decided to have a fight while being assisted with a flat battery in Wharekaho. Police attended and spoke with all parties. • Amale breached his Protection Order at a Poplar Street address. He was arrested and charged for this breach. Sat, 27 Dec • Two intoxicated brothers decided to have an argument at a Catherine Crescent address. Police attending and spoke to all parties. • A known suspect has gone to an ex-partner’s address on The Esplanade and tagged the property. This person will be facing further charges in court.
Sun, 28 Dec • A minor argument occurred between a couple at a Matarangi address. Both parties were spoken to by police. • A verbal argument occurred at a Heritage Close address. Police spoke with all parties involved. Tues, 30 Dec, a verbal argument occurred at a Robinson Road address. Both parties were spoken to regarding the matter. Wed, 31 Dec, an allegation of Breaching a Protection Order was made at a White Street address. Enquiries are continuing regarding this matter. Sat, 3 Jan • A family harm matter occurred at an Old Coach Road address. All parties were spoken to by police. • A family harm matter was reported as occurring on SH25, Coroglen. Police spoke with the people involved. And, a Family Harm occurred at a Dundas Street address. All parties were spoken to regarding the matter and separated.
TRAFFIC: Tues, 23 December, a report was made regarding erratic driving on The 309. The driver is to be spoken to regarding this matter. Thurs, 25 December, Christmas day, a known driver failed to stop for police and drove recklessly on Joan Gaskell Drive. He will be appearing in court at a later date. Fri, 26 December • A two-vehicle collision occurred at the intersection of Cook and Joan Gaskell roundabout. A vehicle failed to give way when entering the roundabout. • A male driver was stopped on Blacksmith Lane. He refused the Breath Testing procedures prior to Assaulting Police. He was subsequently arrested and charged. Sat, 27 Dec • A vehicle failed to stop for police on SH25. The vehi-
cle was located a short time later and impounded. Enquiries are continuing to locate the offending driver. • A driver was found to be driving with excess breath alcohol on Albert Street. He received an instant fine and 50 demerit points for his actions. Sun 28 Dec • A driver was stopped on South Highway. They were found to be over 3x the legal alcohol limit. The driver was suspended immediately and will be attending court at a later date. • A vehicle was stopped on Buffalo Beach Road. The disqualified driver was found to be in excess of the alcohol breath limit. They will be appearing in court at a later date. Mon, 29 Dec, a vehicle was stopped in Cooks Beach. The driver was found to be in excess of the breath alcohol limit. This matter has been sent through for further action. Tues, 30 Dec • A vehicle was stopped in Cooks Beach. The driver was found to be in excess of the breath alcohol limit and issued with an instant fine and demerit points. • A vehicle was stopped in Hahei. They were found to be over the legal alcohol limit and will be appearing in court at a later date. Fri, 2 Jan, a vehicle collision occurred in Matarangi. Two young persons on electric scooters failed to look after exiting an alleyway and across the road into the path of a motor vehicle. One was struck by the vehicle, thankfully receiving only minor injuries. This is of great concern to police with the number of scooters being ridden by young persons in the area and nil thought for road safety. Police are targeting Restraints, Impairment, Distractions and Speed this month.
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The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 23
TRADES & SERVICES KICKSTART MOTORCYCLES WHITIANGA
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Where to pick up The Coromandel Informer Paeroa – Arkwright’s Antiques, 4 Square Waihi – Waihi Information Centre and Gold Discovery Centre Thames – Pak n Save, The Green Grocer, Richardsons Real Estate, Aeroview Garden Centre, Superprice Furniture, Goldfields Shopping Centre Tairua – 4 Square, Surf n Sand Takeaways, Bayleys Real Estate, Gull Service Station, Super Liquor Coroglen – Coroglen Tavern, Whangamata – Tango’s Shoes, Whanga Books, Challenge Service Station
24 | The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026
Whitianga – New World, Woolworths, 4 Square, Gull Service Station, Z Service Station, Tango’s Shoes, Stephensons Pharmacy, Mercury Bay Pharmacy, Liquorland, Well Stocked Deli, Whitianga isite Coromandel – 4 Square, Coromandel Oyster Company, Super Liquor, Coro Liquor, Coromandel Information Centre, Coro Super Saver, James & Turner Kopu – Mobil Service Station Also general stores at Taruru, Te Puru, Tapu and Colville www.theinformer.co.nz
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Te Kai Whakarongo Te Kai Whakarongo Published weekly and distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. Readers’ Connecting communities across the Coromandel Peninsula contributions of articles and letters are throughout welcome. Publication of them are at the discretion of Published weekly and distributed the Coromandel Peninsula. Readers’ Connecting communities for across the Coromandel Peninsula the editor. Contributions onlyletters considered publication when by discretion the author’s contributions of articles and are welcome. Publication ofaccompanied them are at the of name, phone no, email oronly residential address. Opinions when expressed (esp. in letters) are not the editor. Contributions considered for publication accompanied by the author’s necessarily those the owner or publisher and can be cutexpressed if too long.(esp. in letters) are not name, phone no, of email or residential address. Opinions necessarily those of the owner or 271 publisher can be cut Manager if too long. & Sales: Emma Gaunt Editor: Pauline Stewart (027 6182)andBusiness Issue 1088 Circulation 8800
(07) 866 2090 info@theinformer.co.nz
Issue 1088 Circulation 8800
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ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS Starting THURSDAY 22ND JANUARY 11:30AM - 12:30PM Cost $5 At Whitianga Town Hall Margaret 027 463 8850 Glynis 021 109 9155
DEATH NOTICE
Got something to sell?
Advertise it in our classified section
Passed away peacefully on 31 December 2025. Very much loved Mum/Nana/ Grana. Many thanks to staff at Whitianga Continuing Care for your exceptional care of Mum. Rest in peace Mum, your inner-strength and spirit never failed. We will miss you. Memorial service to follow at a later date.
Join Us, Expect Miracles!
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MARKETS
Soldiers Memorial Park Saturday 9am - 1pm Whiticitimarket@gmail.com
or email
82 Albert St Whitianga (Opp Z)
• Units – range of sizes from 2m x 1m to 9m x 6m with roller doors for easy access. Prices start from $30 per week. • Containers – range from 1.9m x 1.6m to 6m x 2.4m. Prices start from $27 per week. Moewai Road, Whitianga. Ph: 0274 817 258
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GR8 STORAGE, WHITIANGA Phil – 0273 433023, Car, boat, campervan storage, 20 foot containers available to store your belongings.
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PUZZLE SOLUTIONS FROM ISSUE 1189 23 DECEMBER T
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The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 25
SPORTS
Proudly sponsored by
NZ manufactured aluminium windows and doors since 1990:
Kids fishing competition - New builds & renovations - Replacement joinery in existing homes
T
he Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club organised a fantastic competition on 28 December enabling over 170 children to take part. It was supris-
ing just how many fish were caught off the pier and on the wharf, plus a few down at the beach’s edge. Every child had one or two adult sponsors who were
- Aluminium & glass balustrades
as involved as the children. catch ‘the big one’. Even starfish and mussels 07 869 Without the|generosity of 5990 nzwindows.co.n which were caught on their the businesses and individ1 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga (Monlines were recognised with uals in our community, this a small prize. Children as annual kids fishing would little as four were ready to simply not happen.
Crowd present for prize giving.
Kate Flexman biting the fish.
26 | The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026
www.theinformer.co.nz
MUSINGS FROM THE VILLAGE
Opinion
Sharing our beautiful vista together BY GORDON T
I
terms of fuel costs for them to get to their targeted fishing spot if they launched there. He nodded; he had gained a bit of community knowledge by watching what was happening in front of him. The sky was gaining some light so I stood up and took the lad with me to the front of the deck. I told him to stand at a certain spot which was in the exact centre of the deck then pointed out two metal markers that stood up from my fence. Once I was sure he had seen them, I explained they were solstice markers and they marked the winter and summer solstice positions, the positions where the sun rose on the longest and shortest days. I told him to look directly over the summer solstice marker (the southern one) as that was roughly where the sun would rise today, not quite exact as we were about 8 days after
the longest day, but close enough for a ten year old boy. There was a look of delight on his face when he saw the sun appear, exactly where his Poppa said it would be. It actually started to dawn on him that old people really did know some stuff and he had enjoyed learning that stuff. As the sun rose, we discussed the equinoxes, the path of the sun and how humans used the knowledge of the sun’s movements; knowledge for planting, harvesting, fishing and hunting; knowledge for survival and of course for worship. We gained all of this from our vista, our view of the horizon. As we talked, we noticed people coming out of their homes; some to walk dogs, some to walk themselves and some to jog. The male joggers are first; the young ladies generally like full light to ensure they are admired
Scott Simpson
Jan‘26
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of breakfast, and a second cup of tea for myself, which was appreciated. That time together was such a success with my grandson gaining knowledge and the both of us an experience that could only be gained by having a vista offering great views from our village to the horizon. This article is perhaps a whimsical little ramble but the point is that our vista of Mercury Bay is an important part of nature; offering communication about beauty, the culture and habits of fishing and fishers, general knowledge – for different ages to share, education opportunities and of course beauty. Our vista must not be reduced or destroyed as once it has gone, we will not get it back and our community will be the worse for this.
January 2026
had an early morning a couple of days after Christmas, couldn’t sleep so was up early, out on the deck reading the morning paper (The Harvey Norman Chronicle) and having my first cup of tea for the day. It was still dark but a glimmer on the horizon showed a bit of promise of the day to come. My peace and quiet was disturbed by a ten year old grandson who snuck onto the deck, telling me he couldn’t sleep, but not quite demanding breakfast. It was not yet 5.00 am. The grandson was sitting quietly looking out at the dark vista in front of him, when a couple of utes towing trailers made their way along the street. “Do they fish in the dark?” a small voice asked me. “The keen fishermen do” I responded. I then proceeded to point out the lights by Centre Island and explained that they were boats fishing for live baits to be used by the crews as bait for bigger fish such as Tuna which they would find further out to sea. The boy watched, taking it all in; noticing some boats leave Centre Island and others arrive. He gained an understanding of what was actually happening out in Mercury Bay. The quiet was broken by another ute, this one towing quite a large boat but heading north, the opposite direction to the previous two. “Couldn’t they catch any live bait?” was the question posed. I explained that some crews wanted to launch from Kuaotunu and pointed out where that was. I also explained that it was quicker and cheaper in
as they jog softly along the paths by the beach. Old people with dogs are last out as they have more to prepare in the morning than most. As the sun rose and light filled our Bay, we both admired the view in front of us – people walking along the beach, small waves breaking gently. There were dogs enjoying their morning excursion and of course, the fishermen and women on boats throughout the Mercury Bay area. More boats were going out now and I confirmed for my inquisitive ten year old that these crews were probably just after a feed and an enjoyable few hours. They would not be going as far as the earlier lot. His grandmother came out at about this point and ruined this wonderful time of education with an offer
Call Daniel for your FREE Quote 0204 198 4000 ARCHGOLA.CO.NZ
Authorised by Scott Simpson, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.
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The Coromandel Informer – 6 January 2026 | 27
Whitianga Boat Chandlery T rev or & Raewyn Hildreth P. 07 866 5799 M. 027 677 4930 M. 027 487 1978
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