Issue 1177 30 September 2025 by theinformernz

PAULINE’S PLACE

Branding – right-wing or left-wing?

Apparently this is a right-wing paper and I am a right-wing Editor. I am puzzled some people don’t read our paper because it is right wing. What paper do they read that only has articles that please them or align only with their opinions?

In the township of Whitianga, there are establishments (a few), who refuse my coming into their business and my paper being on their property because somehow I am dangerous and offensive being

the Editor of a right-wing paper.

In one community building I was told never to come back and that I was not welcome!

I have never personally met the people in charge at these establishments. I hav-

en’t had the opportunity. I wonder if all the customers or clients entering their places of business and service are asked about their beliefs or opinions before entering?

I don’t know of any community paper that is totally right-wing or leftwing or only publishes one stream of viewpoints. That is not a newspaper. It would be a club or organisation’s newsletter. I despise the branding, particularly in a small town. It reduces relationships to politics only and it denies people respect for their character and their values.

I refuse to be a rightwing or left-wing person and that applies to this paper while I am the Editor. There have been many issues where I cringe at what is being published because it is simply against what I believe. I am the Editor NOT the censor. A newspaper must try and represent a community with all its viewpoints, with the exception

of hate speech.

Back to how we decide we are left-wing or rightwing or centrist? I think one person can have both left-wing and right-wing views and be authentic in their expression of those views. President Donald Trump is right-wing or at least he says he is opposite to ‘all the lefties’. The rightwing people of America, if we need to apply a general brand, are the supporters of every citizen being able to bear arms or has a right to own a gun. The ‘rightwing’ voters were also the supporters of the Klu Klux Clan.

There are millions of right-wing people who would despise guns and hate racism and who fought against such things with as much passion as some left-wing people fight against mining.

Let’s work more on relationships. Let’s try relating to people who have different or diverse views to where we are. This paper is not right-wing and it is

not left-wing. People from left to right have a place in The Informer and we will listen to you.

My husband Stan would probably have referred to himself as a central person. He had very good friends who are left and right according to the branding we give people in our society.

I found him to be loving and accepting of people. He was a better person than me. He would patiently try to understand and not push his point of view or understanding. Sometimes, long after that person left his company, he would say something affirmative and encouraging about that person.

He inspires me. He believed in this paper too and wanted us to include all opinions. Let’s try and talk more to each other. Maybe those establishments will one day welcome me. I certainly won’t refuse them entry or the time of day.

in the east. They are the only things that will remain in view for a short while as the Sun rises and the sky brightens. Saturn is at its closest to us this month and visible all night and also is at its brightest. It looks like a slightly yellowish star but being a planet doesn’t twinkle like they do. The Moon can help us locate it while Mercury and fainter Mars put on a nice celestial dance low in the west at dusk. There will be many International Space Station (ISS) passes to enjoy this week but, as usual, timings may change especially towards the end of the month if it has to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above.com for updated timings.

Friday, October 3 – The bright Moon sits to the left of the bright star Fomalhaut after dusk with yellowish and brighter Saturn below both while the ISS makes a long pass from 6:06am in the SW moving just beside the Southern Cross. Saturday, October 4 – The Moon has moved to be in line with Fomalhaut and is approaching Saturn. Sunday, October 5 –The bright Moon now sits just above and to the left of Saturn and from 6:07am in the SW we have a bright and long ISS pass. Monday, October 6 – The Moon is now just below and to the left of Saturn after dusk and from 5:19am in the SW there is a bright ISS pass. Tuesday, October 7 – Saturn now sits well above the Full Moon with a long ISS pass from 6:08am in the west. Wednesday, October 8 – By the time the Moon rises Saturn is sitting high in the sky above it and we have an early ISS pass from 5:21am in the west.

Hopper Living – “We are 2025 Award Winners – eight times over!”

COMPILED BY

PAULINE STEWART

Last Thursday, 25 September, this surprise announcement was made to Leigh and Linda Hopper. Their staff and the industry knew but they wanted it to be a surprise at a special celebration. The announcement was “It is with absolute delight that we share the outstanding results in the 2025 NZ’s Best Awards for Best Retirement Village and Aged Care facilities in New Zealand.”

Hopper Living proudly secured an impressive EIGHT AWARDS across all four of their villages and their hospital, truly dominating the North Island “Best of the Best” categories. Most importantly, in recognition of their ongoing commitment to Excellence, Hopper Living was awarded the prestigious NZ’S BEST Multi-Village Excellence Award.

In anyone’s terms this is an outstanding result. Hopper Developments have scooped the national pool with their Hopper Living achievements.

There is excitement and a sense of achievement not just for the staff and the leadership but it is shared in the wider community.

Leigh Hopper is a Coromandel local. The Hopper Living dream, vision and then reality, began with

The highlighted area denotes the location of The Moorings Village and the area ready by the canals to be expanded for new residence; Leigh Hopper with Andy Grey, CEO of Hopper Developments, with the artist’s impression of The Moorings canal front residences under construction.

Pauanui waterfront canal living and then it came to Whitianga. Now it is across the North Island.

However, Hopper Developments, Hopper Living and Leigh and Linda remain locals.

THE LIST OF AWARDS:

The Moorings Whitianga – Winner – Best Small Retirement/Lifestyle Village North Island.

Maygrove Care (Hospital) –

Orewa – Finalist – Best Med/Large Aged Care North Island.

The Anchorage, Marsden Cove, Northland – Finalist – Best Med/

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Maygrove Village – Finalist –Best Med/Large Retirement/Lifestyle Village North Island. Winner of the Enduring Excellence AwardThe only village in NZ to be a Finalist for 10 years running; Winner of the Best Outstanding/Responsive Management Award.

Country Club Huapai – Winner – Best Med/Large Retirement/ Lifestyle Village North Island. This is a reflection of the excellence the residents, families, and communities receive every day.

LOCAL IMPACT

What it has done for our region is much more than a great lifestyle for a few. It has led to a better town for everyone in Whitianga and in Pauanui. Now Whitianga residents see a growing retirement village and have a vision of medical security becoming a fact. The Medical

Centre is just the beginning of that. There are so many plans afoot but Leigh outlines one in particular which is a New Zealand first and in his words, “Will establish a new era of marine living – redefining waterfront living for a new generation.” He said only a few sentences and sketched a few details with his pen and I was ‘onboard’.

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A freehold marina ownership model – the first of its kind in New Zealand

This is a new era of marine living.

Continued from page 3

BY LEIGH HOPPER

Ifeel very honoured and so does everyone at Hopper Living to be the 2025 top brand in the country in retirement living. We are keeping our eyes on the horizon, and we see positive signs of recovery. We would like engender confidence in building and we are investing in a bright future for many New Zealanders.

This begins at Whitianga, where the newly launched Marine Precinct marks a major milestone. It will be located where the Summer Concert venue has been. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Coromandel coastline, the Marine Precinct offers something truly unique: a freehold marina ownership model.

“There are very few suitable locations left for new marinas in New Zealand. Boating is integral to the Kiwi way of life, and we believe developers like us have a responsibility to support that – to create communities where access to the water isn’t a dream, but a way of life. The ocean’s a big playground, and it’s just on the other side of the boat ramp.”

GRAY HOPPER

Project Manager, Whitianga Waterways

STAGE ONE AUCTION 6

DECEMBER

This is already consented is beginning early December, delivers 28 private berths alongside a 170m2 freehold lot, offering bot owners not just a place to berth, but a true piece of the waterfront to call their won. It is an extraor-

Overview of marine precinct offering boat and onland living (under construction); the Hopper family – back Gray Hopper, Project Manager, Whitianga Waterways, Shana Hopper-McCully, Sales and Marketing Manager, Hopper Developments – front Andy Grey, CEO Hoppers and Leigh Hopper; below, red area denotes the area ready for the auction 6 December.

dinary opportunity that reflects our long -held belief that the best in coastal living allows Kiwis to connect land and sea seamlessly, securing long-term value and lifestyle certainty. A small marine related retail area is also planned – brokerage, chandlery, bait, tackle, bottle filling.

TWO OTHER

PROJECTS:

These are not local but follow the same exciting principle. Gulf Harbour with plans for Hobbs Bay Marina. This is tailored for both serious boaties and leisure seekers. It will have direct access to the Hauraki Gulf, providing residents and visitors effortless launching. Further north, a partnership with Azuma property is setting the stage for the proposed Waipiro Bay Marina. About 200 berths are envisioned, a pub-

lic boat ramp with boat trailer parking, fuel dock and a retail/ commercial hub and recreational activities.

Christmas boxes spread the love

BY DOROTHY PREECE

The Labour Weekend deadline for return of Christmas Child boxes is coming up fast. On Sunday last, local convener Robyn Balfour brought a special guest to St Andrew’s Community Church to help tell the story about Christmas Child shoe boxes.

“The people came to our village and gave the boxes to all the children. It was the first gift I had ever received.”

Whitianga accountant Joshua Muwanguzi received one of the boxes in the village of Jinja, Uganda. He was 9 years old. “The people came to our village and gave the boxes to all the children,” Joshua says. “It was the first gift I had ever received. I was astonished to learn that the box had come from a country very far away, a place where people had things to give away, and they had given them to me. I already knew about God, but it changed my life to learn that God loved me.”

Robyn also presented documentary videos showing the boxes being distributed in many places around the world.

“It was a different kind of church service,” one person said, “I wish more people could see what a difference those boxes make to children who have nothing.”

Empty Christmas Child boxes can be collected from St Andrew’s Church and

Opshop and from St Peter’s Anglican Church. A ‘packing party’ to fill boxes with loose, donated items will be held at St Andrews before the Labour Weekend deadline.

“We have received bags full of soft toys, and many other items,” Robyn said. “People are very generous. Cash donations also help towards shipping the boxes.”

Robyn Balfour and Joshua Muwanguzi at St Andrew’s.

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Charlotte Porter is far across the world sailing, and as part of a five person team, has just placed second in the Women’s Match Racing World Championships (17 – 20 September). This is a very big deal!

It has been a very busy year for Charlotte with being the global travelling physiotherapist for SailGP, and preparing for the Women’s Match Racing World Championships.

She competed in the St Tropez based SailGP event on September 12–13. SailGP is a global sailing league made up of 12 national teams competing around the world in 12 different venues. The teams race identical F50 foiling catamarans with up to six sailors on board.

“St Tropez was the 9th event in the schedule for Season 5, before she goes to Geneva, Switzerland, Cadiz, Spain, and finally Abu Dhabi.

PHYSIO ON THE OCEAN

BY CHARLOTTE PORTER

I joined SailGP in January this year after being hired as the local physiotherapist at the Auckland event. I was happy to be asked to stay on for the rest of Season 5 following that event. I work as the travelling physiotherapist for 10 out of the 12 teams, so I’m not hired by one singular team but work with them all equally. I work closely with the rest of the medical team, which includes

BACK TO PHYSIO FIRST

GPs, sports doctors, nurses, and paramedics. I’m currently the only physiotherapist, so my role can get very busy!

It’s a great role where I get to support athletes from all around the world: assessing injuries, managing their recovery, and helping ensure they can continue to perform on the water. They are all such fantastic, highly motivated people, which makes my job really rewarding. Of course, it does have its fair share of challenges; these are high-performance boats, and accidents do happen, but our medical and safety team is exceptional and very close-knit after many years of working together.

I am the first SailGP travelling

physiotherapist. It previously hired local physios in each location. It’s been great to come on board this year and provide continuity of care, building those important relationships with the athletes. I’m really enjoying the role and looking forward to rolling out some exciting plans in 2026.

COMING SECOND IN THE WORLD

To be part of the New Zealand Women’s Match Racing Team (2.0 Racing) is itself a privilege; but to compete in the World Championships in Chicago from 17th to 20th of September and come second was thrilling. We are a team of five and have all raced with or against each other over the last few years. Last year we finished second at the Women’s Worlds in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. We worked hard and finished our last training block in Chicago, preparing on the Thompson 28 keelboats that were used for the event.

I’ve been based overseas since May, competing in a series of regattas in Calpe, Spain and Marstrand, Sweden, before heading to the United States for the Grand Slam Tour in New York as part of our World’s build-up. For those interested, results can be seen here: https://www.matchracingresults.com or via our team social media accounts (2.0 Racing).

I’m also excited to be coming back to New Zealand in mid-October and will be back in the Coromandel. From late October, I’ll be back working at PhysioFirst in Whitianga over the summer period, alongside the Season 6/2026 SailGP events happening in the Southern Hemisphere! I look forward to being back in the clinic, and a massive thank you goes to Terri and Joel from PhysioFirst. They have been exceptional mentors and friends and have been super encouraging of me taking on this role with SailGP. They are also incredibly tolerant of my ever-changing international travel plans (sorry!) and have always welcomed me home to the clinic with open arms.

Charlotte Porter, left, is with the other four members of the Women’s Match Racing team who entered the World Championships and came second.

Photos supplied Hannah Lee Noll

New church window “worth the wait”

BY DOROTHY PREECE

Two years ago one of the tall windows in the historic St Andrew’s Church was found to have dry rot. This week the window has been repaired. Not that the job took two years, but it took that long to find a tradesman who wanted to tackle the job. The church is 127 years old, and it seemed no-one was prepared to attack the fabric of the building, for fear of what might be revealed. Luke Lawrence of Lawrence Homes Whitianga had no such qualms.

The first problem was in finding good heart kauri of the right proportions to renew the window frame. After searching around the district, Luke found an anonymous benefactor in Coromandel, who gave the timber free of charge.

When he and his workmate James Arthur set about removing the rotten window however, the exterior kauri cladding was also found to be rotten. Luke was not hopeful of finding heart kauri boards, 300 x 30 mm anywhere. On TradeMe, looking for pine boards, Luke found kauri

Luke Lawrence puts the finishing touches to the new window.

to the exact specifications needed, up in the Waitakeres. It seemed like a miracle. With the new window frame made, and the boards planed, Luke and James began experimenting with oils and tints to match the old interior timbers. The result is a perfect match.

St Andrew’s Parish Chairman Kevin Pringle said the search for the right craftsman had been frustrating, “but it was certainly worth the wait.”

ALL ENQUIRES WELCOME, VIEW OUR VILLA OPTIONS TODAY!

One man at a High Tea

BY PETER WOOD

Ihad a new experience this past week. I attended a High Tea in Whitianga. I was the only man. I have heard about the revived interest in High Teas and planned to intend this one, because it was a new venture being held at the Embassy of Friendship and I wanted to support it. So, I did not mind being there with 16 women and one baby.

Our party of three was met at the front door welcomed by one of three hostesses and then guided to a prepared table. Prepared would be an understatement. The tables were laden with toothsome delectables on multi layered plates. Scones and whipped cream, a multitude of cakes, warm savouries and dainty layered sandwiches. I admit that some of the food brought back memories of great food occasions many years past. There were 16 women, one calm and friendly baby, and me I politely scoffed the egg sandwiches- a great favourite of mine. The room, with its high ceilings, tall drapes, antique style décor and art, was very fitting and comfortable for this elegant occasion. Out came silver coffee pots and tea pots, and soon we were drinking from bone china tea and coffee cups with lots of conversation at each table. Our every need was attended to by our three hostesses led by Anne-Marie.

These high teas are a new business in town. Once a month there will be one held at the Embassy of Friendship in Coghill Street. You can just book by yourself or with a few friends. I can’t be sure about whether other men would come to a local High Tea. Can’t see it, but I went to support this high-quality new initiative at the Embassy of Friendship. Mind you, the food was exquisite and plentiful, and

the conversation was excellent. If anything could be added to this High Tea experience, for me it would be a bit of pan flute music, or a classical piano playing in the background.

Anne-Marie’s Petals & Pearls high teas are thinking about mobile High Teas in homes or public venues for those special milestone occasions. They bring everything – you just supply the space and some tables and chairs.

We now have a variety of villas to choose from – and all are within walking distance to Thames’ shops, cafes, and walkways. The perfect location to enjoy your fun-ﬁlled retirement.

Our spacious villas provide you with plenty of warmth and light and garden patios to enjoy. There are a variety of layouts to choose from including 2 and 3 bedroom villas, and 2 bedrooms with a double garage. All residents enjoy the use of the Village Community lodge and participation in all activities and amenities at your leisure. Living the lifestyle, loving the choice...

The Embassy of Friendship was the perfect venue for the experimental high tea prepared by Anne-Marie and her team.

Land-roving the Coromandel

The Coromandel’s rugged landscapes and often challenging road conditions are perfect for the Land Rover’s go-anywhere ability. In 1948 a demonstrator model was shipped to New Zealand, it was the 20th Land Rover made in the historic Jaguar Land Rover Birmingham factory.

Coromandel Helicopter Trust’s first chairman, now patron and Whitianga resident since 1941, Walter Russell, owned a 1949 model which seems fitting considering the Trust’s very first lottery with NZ Rescue is a two-package

deal offering a 2025 Land Rover Defender towing a New Age Caravan, and a JB Motorhome.

Walter, whilst a mechanic-engineer, was also your typical hunting-shooting-fishing Kiwi bloke. He was a ‘fixit-yourself’ owner, who found the straight-forward mechanics of the Land Rover easy to maintain with parts always available. He bought the vehicle off Alf Simpson from Kuaotunu. At the time, they both shared an interest in duck shooting on a lake that Walter had to walk an hour to reach in order to be ready by 6.00am for the open morning of Duck Shooting season. This did not compare favourably to Alf in his Land Rover, who only took 10 minutes to get there - driving across streams, through bush and climbing mountains.

Walter was so impressed with the Land Rover, he wanted to get one.

Alf was so impressed with his much-run-in Land Rove, that he was happy to sell it to Walter, and buy another. The love affair with Land Rovers began- family picnics to remote areas were now easily accessible or off to the beautiful Waitaia Bay for sacks of mussels and back home with a pig on the front bar.

There were plenty of

other Land Rover owners in Whitianga who enjoyed exploring the Coromandel’s bush tracks. Walter and his mates were also keen military enthusiasts and would often head to MOTAT at Western Springs for an open working day, always in the Land Rover. After a decade of hard yakka, and the family now grown, it was time to move on from his off-roading antics.

Walter moved on to other business and became the driving force behind setting up the Coromandel Helicopter Trust formed to establish a base in 2012.

The main focus now that the Whitianga Rescue Hub is complete, is fundraising and maintaining the facility for incoming users whether it be Auckland, Waikato, or the Bay of Plenty. Police, Search and Rescue and firefighters also use the base facility when required.

Walter says, “The AW169 helicopter service is now far superior to what once served the Coromandel – so much faster and with amazing equipment.”

What was a ‘taxi’ service to the emergency department is no longer. Now ED (Emergency Department) comes to the site of the event with the specific medical personnel for the job.

Walters ‘49 Land Rover in military line up.

The bush track to the remote Waitaia Bay, halfway between Wharekaho and Opito Bay.

Coromandel family Christmas 1977.

Land Rover enthusiasts all from Whitianga, mid 1970’s.

Walter with his catch and three children.

TRAVEL

Two premium luxury train journeys

ARE LUXURY TRAIN

JOURNEYS WORTH THE TICKET PRICE?

Luxury train journeys are destinations in themselves. The train becomes a holiday, similar to a cruise. You are cocooned in a bubble of transport with long intervals where entertainment is the passing scenery. Premium train travel is about the indulgent experience; sink into a plush armchair and savour gourmet meals.

IS LUXURY TRAIN TRAVEL RIGHT FOR YOU?

● Love trains? You need a genuine connection with rail travel to appreciate the gentle motion – rocking if it’s a standard deisel-electric powered train or silent and sliding if it’s a highspeed rail. The two train trips I am recommending are the former.

● Embrace a slower pace: These journeys should never be compared to a flight or a cruise. They are an exercise in commitment to enjoying the scenic route.

● On some routes, like The Ghan,

Wi-Fi can be intermittent or non-existent. However, it’s a chance to go off-grid.

● Willingness to wait for the pops of scenery as you pass the scruffy backend of a railway station or suburban back gardens.

● Premium rail travel is an idealised view of the railway journey – not intended to be a functional mode of transport.

NEW ZEALAND TRANZALPINE

From Christchurch to Greymouth, the scenic day trip passes the rolling farmland of the Canterbury plains, climbing steadily through sub-alpine landscapes to the breathtaking Arthurs Pass National Park then onto Greymouth on the West Coast.

Tranzalpine Tips:

The train is largely a non-stop day service unless you have booked a tour or stop. There is one regular stop at Arthur’s Pass. You can’t get off unless you have pre-booked a tour and/or stop.

● You can take your own food and drink, but not alcohol. There is a dining car for scenic plus travellers and a cafe for scenic

pass ticket holders

● The best time of year to go is in the middle of winter when the Southern Alps are covered in snow.

● You can travel one way or return, and you can board the train at any of the official stops

A popular independent travel option is to disembark at Arthur’s Pass, go tramping for a few hours. You will have 6 hours to explore the park before catching the TranzAlpine on its return journey to Christchurch on the same day.

● Many visitors join a day guided tour from Christchurch. TranzAlpine train journey to Arthur’s Pass with a tour bus return.

The most scenic parts: These occur before Arthur’s Pass National Park

● Crossing the viaducts between Springfield and Craigieburn (including the 72m high Staircase Viaduct)

● Just after leaving Springfield with Mt Torlesse in the background.

● Crossing the Waimakariri River after Springfield. The braided river is a weave of grey glacial stones.

AUSTRALIA – THE GHAN

A journey of 2 nights and 3 days from Adelaide through the heart of the Australian desert to the tropical Northern Territory town, Darwin (or reverse). There is the option of joining the train in Alice Springs for an overnight stay on the train (depending on availability). The Ghan is considered a luxury train and tickets are accordingly priced. The Ghan is all-inclusive, meaning gourmet meals, off-train half-day trips and transport to and from the train station are included in your fare. Is the Ghan, suitable for families with children and teens?

The Ghan may not be ideal for families with young children or teenagers, as the landscape is relatively unchanging with subtle differences leading to a perceived sense of ‘sameness’. The word boring could rear its head. The train’s classic vintage feel might seem “stuffy.” The final nail is the intermittent Wifi.

Is the Ghan, a gold service cabin value for money?

The Ghan gold service cabin is value for money when you weigh

the cost of airfares to or from Adelaide to Darwin and Alice Springs. Additionally, gourmet meals and coach half-day trips make The Ghan value for money. The final measure, the scenery and offroad trips, is ultimately subjective and up to individual preferences. Does the Ghan, gold service cabin, have enough space for two people?

It’s a very tight fit with a closet-sized bathroom; however, everything is there for a night’s rest and bathroom call when required. The Ghan’s gold service cabin is much bigger than a business class airline lie-flat seat with its shared toilet. Don’t forget it’s a train with carriages that have fit onto a railway track.

While a slow-paced train journey might not be for everyone, the appeal of luxury train travel lies in its unhurried pace. So what if you pass the back end of a few railway stations? Think of it as a behindthe-scenes tour. It’s an adventure for those who appreciate the journey as much as the destination, and who enjoy watching the world go by from the comfort of their own private moving bubble.

The Ghan, Alice Springs, the train is over 1 km in length, Northern Territory Australia; The TranzAlpine Express Train travels through the Southern Alps, Otago, South Island, New Zealand.

Vibrant Opening Night for Coromandel Open Studios Arts Tour

BY CHARLENE SCOTT

The Coromandel community is set to celebrate creativity in full colour with the Coromandel Open Studios Arts Tour 2025, opening with a lively launch event on Friday, 3rd October at 5.30pm at Hauraki House Gallery.

Guests will be welcomed with drinks and nibbles before the evening is officially kicked off by Leo Magri, editor of local arts and culture magazine Coromind. This much-anticipated evening will showcase one artwork from each of the 33 participating artists, offering visitors a first glimpse of the incredible talent that will be on display across the tour.

Artists will be present on the night, giving art lovers the opportunity to meet the makers, hear their stories, and connect personally with the work. Adding to the excitement, the People’s Choice

Award will be announced, celebrating the community’s favourite artist.

All visitors to the gallery will also have the chance to enter the draw for an art hamper packed

with creative treasures — an extra reason not to miss this festive evening.

The Open Studios Tour itself runs across two weekends, 4–5 October and 11–12 October,

10am–4pm, inviting the public to step inside artists’ studios in and around Coromandel Town.

The accompanying group exhibition will remain open at Hauraki House Gallery from 4–12 October,

offering an inspiring overview of the region’s thriving arts scene.

The Opening Night promises to be a warm, inclusive, and celebratory launch to this annual highlight on the Coromandel arts calendar. All are welcome.

Opening Night: 5.30pm, Friday 3 October – Hauraki House Gallery

Exhibition: 4–12 October –Hauraki House Gallery

Open Studios Tour: 4–5 & 11–12 October, 10am–4pm

– Studios in and around Coromandel Town

More information: www.coromandelartstour.co.nz

The Hauraki House Gallery will be the venue for the opening of the 2025 Coromandel Open Studios Arts Tour this Friday evening.

wannt

•

Scallop regeneration

The weather and the scene were picture perfect. Opito Bay is a paradise. About 40 people gathered in a beach front tent on Craig and Cassie Roe’s property supplied by Joe Davis and Ngati Hei. The occasion was a significant presentation organised by Chis Severne as Chair of Opito Bay RRP Ass and led by Joanna (Jo) Logan of Logan Marine Projects Ltd followed by a journey into the sea at Opito.

Joanna Logan was to give background to the work that had been done regarding whether scallop regeneration in Opito Bay was possible.

The answer is, Yes it is! Jo and Jamie Logan and a small hard-working team brought to the presentation 204 scallops about 30/50mm in size successfully grown through rigorous trials, challenges and research on riggings

of vertical cages.

The scallop industry has been wiped out in Mercury Bay attributed to over dredging, overfishing and over-sedimentation from forests ending up on ocean floor. With the Rahui, there has been room to experiment, research and to see regrowth of the seabed. Everyone was full of hope on this beautiful Saturday morning after Jo’s ‘scallop school’ as she called it. Teams went out in three boats with Waka Kai in the lead to place the scallops in the desired cages for spawning.

Yes - these scallops are microscopically tagged. “We are going to track our 204 scallops,” says Jo. There will be a follow-up report on how the three boats managed with their task of diving and placing the cages and the riggings for the scallops to spawn.

regeneration in Opito Bay

Joe Davis of Ngati Hei; Joanna Logan describing the spawning cages; Trish Rea’s plan enabled the research team to devise a process to regenerate the scallops.

Paul Cook, Chris Severne, Hon Scott Simpson and Joanna Logan.

Coromandel Our

from Thames-Coromandel District Council

Local Election 2025 –it’s not too late to enrol

Still need to enrol for this year’s Local Election? Now’s the time to ensure you’re enrolled to vote on election day in October. Every voice matters and helps to shape the future of our district.

Missed enrolling or updating your address? Your voting papers won’t be sent in the mail, but you can still vote. Just contact our Electoral Oﬀicer on 0800 922 822 or email specialvotes@electionservices.co.nz to request a special voting pack. Alternatively, request a pack online via tcdc.govt.nz/specialvotes

The last day to enrol is Friday 10 October and voting will close at 12 noon on election day, Saturday 11 October. Special votes will be available until Saturday 11 October, and can be delivered to or cast at any of our district oﬀices.

Council museum collaboration a hit with tamariki

More than 500 children from local and neighbouring schools were able learn about earthquakes and other local hazards thanks to a collaboration between ThamesCoromandel District Council Emergency Management and Thames Museum Te Whare Taonga o te Kauaeranga.

Our Council’s emergency management team invited schools and covered the entry costs for children visiting the museum to view the Rūaumoko Restless Land display, on loan from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (Te Papa) for six weeks.

The team provided additional resources for the display, oﬀering information on what the localised hazards are for our local communities and how best to prepare for them.

The Rūaumoko Restless Land display has now ended but there are still many amazing things to explore at the Thames Museum.

Find out more about our local hazards at tcdc.govt.nz/hazards

SIGN UP FOR SHAKEOUT

Join more than 574,000 others by taking part in New Zealand’s ShakeOut.

ShakeOut 2025 is a national earthquake drill and tsunami hīkoi (evacuation) and helps prepare communities – should the Big One hit.

ShakeOut is being held on Thursday 16 October this year at 9.30am. All people need to do to take part is Drop, Cover and Hold for 60 seconds. In Whitianga and other coastal areas, it’s the perfect opportunity to also practise your tsunami evacuation.

You don’t have to do it on your own. Join other communities taking part by signing up online at getready.govt.nz and ﬁnd out more about what to do in an earthquake via tcdc.govt.nz

WHITIANGA WHARF PONTOON REPLACEMENT

Our Council is investing in a vibrant and safe district by working to replace the Whitianga Wharf Pontoon. The current pontoon is at the end of its life and will be replaced with a like-for-like facility incorporating minor modern upgrades to enhance durability and functionality. The project is still in the design stage. Any signiﬁcant changes are not expected to be made until next year at the earliest, after conversations with pontoon users and the wider community.

Omaro Reserve

A brand new two-pan toilet facility is being installed at Omaro Reserve (Matarangi Boat Ramp) to replace the old existing one. The new facility will be connected to the town wastewater supply and power, providing a muchneeded upgrade for the community.

This project is funded by MBIE through the Tourism Infrastructure Fund, granted at the end of last year. Please note: the current toilets will be closed until midOctober while works take place. A temporary portaloo will be available on site during construction.

CLIMATE CHANGE RESPONSE

Our Council adopted two key documents in August. The Climate Change Strategy directs our Council’s organisational response to climate change, setting out what we will do to adapt and protect our assets and services, and our approach to working with communities. The Greenhouse Gases Emissions Reductions Plan identiﬁes our current emission volumes and how much we need to reduce them to achieve Council’s long-term emission reduction goals.

Date set for Boundary Creek Bridge

SH25 on the Thames Coast Road will be closed at Boundary Creek Bridge, north of Te Mata, for seven days from 5am on Wednesday 29 October as NZTA contractors demolish the old deck and install the new one.

They will use a prefabricated bridge deck and work extended hours to keep the closure to the shortest possible time. Access will be maintained for all businesses and properties along SH25 up to the bridge from the north and the south, but no through traﬀic will be possible during this time.

To get to locations north of the bridge, including the Waikawau boat ramp, use SH25A and the eastern section of SH25 via Tairua and Whitianga. For those heading south from northern Coromandel, it will be the reverse. Please avoid the 309 and Tapu-Coroglen Roads if you’re towing or driving a heavy vehicle.

For more information visit nzta.govt.nz/sh25-sh25a-coromandel

Kaiaua School principal Carrie Taipari-Thorne with some of her students exploring the Rūaumoko Restless Land display at Thames Museum Te Whare Taonga o te Kauaeranga.

An affordable price and excellent lifestyle by the water

People are saying ‘Yes’ to living at the Moorings Lifestyle Village Whitianga just awarded Best Small Retirement/ Lifestyle Village North Island

BY BEVERLEY SHEPPARD

On a sensational September morning Saturday 27th, The Moorings Village in Whitianga held an Open Day to showcase the release of Stage 2 of the Hoppers Development retirement lifestyle village.

As I walked up the main driveway at 11am, I could hear a saxophone playing famous old- time songs, the music drifting along the main driveway of the Moorings. Jani and Paul of ‘Soul Sax Plus’ kept about 80 visitors happy and humming to their music as they wandered around the Award-Winning Lifestyle Village. The flower beds were sparkling in the sun and the beautifully decorated 2 and 3 bedroom villas looked smart, welcoming and cosy. Many of the current residents were at their homes to share with all the visitors and potential residents, life in the new village.

Toni Hatton, Manager of The Moorings, created a wonderful few hours for potential buyers

to talk openly with her and her staff about costings, upkeep costs (none of course), contracts and the etiquette of living in the Village.

“There’s such a buzz about The Moorings” says Toni. “People are genuinely excited about what’s unfolding. With the supermarket just a short walk away, a medical centre right next door, and close

proximity to the town centre, the location couldn’t be better. It is becoming the talk of the town.”

After a lean period of not much movement, in a short time there are new residents and more on the way.

Linda and Leigh Hopper were on site to talk to everyone and answer questions. Leigh didn’t

hesitate to be the driver of a golf cart on some occasions to take folks on a guided tour, explain Stage 2 of the Moorings Village waterfront plans and some details about the future Club Rooms and pool house.

A coffee cart, a sausage sizzle and nibbles were offered for everyone as they enjoyed the sun-

shine and talking to the Moorings staff about future plans and getting a taste of what their ‘living the dream’ in Whitianga could be. Whitianga’s Moorings Village was awarded - Best Small Retirement/Lifestyle Village North Island from the Seniors New Zealand/Aged Advisor Awards (NZ’s Best/People’s Choice), presented last Thursday, 25 September.

Only six individuals among 35,000 have chosen to put themselves forward as your Mayor, God help us all. My campaign is focussed on1. Rates 2. Health 3. No more deaths on my watch – road safety. RATES FREEZE

Implementing a rates freeze is achievable and would encourage prudent ﬁnancial management within TCDC. Let’s start there.

I can tell you I will achieve this. The rates come from all of us. I have already identiﬁed where those funds are coming from.

Stop wasting my money! This is the new motto.

Consultants won’t be happy nor will any resilient crystal ballers.

Why I am standing for Mayor in this election, and what I can do better.

Touring the Moorings Village Leigh and Linda at the helm; Christine Pinkerton, Clinical Manager Maygrove Village Hosptal and Gail Bradley, Hospital Manager; Toni Hatton, Manager of Moorings Village with new resident, June Bennett, left.

60 years of great contribution - a feast, stories, laughter and a host of special guests

It was a Who’s Who of Lions gathered at The Mercury Bay Club on Sunday to celebrate the 60th Anniversary – 60 years of Whitianga Lions Club in Mercury Bay.

Lions – International Director does mini-tour of 60 years

BY GORDON BARNABY

The weekend of September 27 and 28, was the first time in 60 years to have the attendance of serving International Director of Lions Clubs International in Whitianga.

Graeme Wilson from Dunedin is the current International Director and he was able to be present for the weekend celebrations of the 60th Anniversary of Lions in Whitianga.

Our major celebration was held at Mercury Bay Club on the Sunday, but the Saturday was a special opportunity to share with our International Director and the current District Governor, Lynda Halverson, some of the projects our two Lions clubs have raised funds for and assisted in their becoming a reality.

1. We started at the Bike Park where Noel Hewlett (Member of Lions for 36 years) explained how the Bike Park began and developed. There is a carefully tended area where memorial plaques for deceased Lion Club members are viewed and remembered. Director Graeme planted a kauri in the Kauri Grove which has been regularly added to as part of the Bike Park. The management and

volunteer work is independent of Lions with Jon Maud managing the Park’s development and taking the dream further, but so many of the volunteers and so much of the physical work in the past has been done by members

of Lions.

2. The new, nearly finished MENZSHED was the next stop. This was a strong idea of the late Malcolm Brown when he was President of the Whitianga Lions Club in the drive to estab-

lish the project, raise the funds and to be finally constructing it to almost finished is work of the MENZSHED members along with the practical support of many local businesses. This construction of what is a very fine building has been led by MENZSHED Chairman, Glen Schache, who happens to be a member of Lions.

3. The lighthouse on the corner of Joan Gaskell Drive and Kupe Rd. - this was restored and placed by the Lions Club. It’s a great positive symbol for the town.

4. Adult fitness equipment built along the Buffalo Beach front and funded by the Mercury Bay Lions is used all year round.

5. Children’s Playground - The existing one is the work of our Council and Community Board but the original playground was built by the Whitianga Lions Club at no cost to the community.

6. Mercury Bay Museum - The building was once a dairy factory and Whitianga Lions Club raised the monies to purchase that building and was part of the negotiations and cost of setting up the Museum with the Historical Society. I was able to give a copy of a book outlining the funding and purchase of the land

and buildings to Rebecca Cox, Museum Manager. Mercury Bay Radiology Trust - Graeme Matthews talked with Graeme Wilson of its operation and outlined some future upgrades being planned. The raising of monies for the first X Ray machine and installation were led by the Lions Club. Graeme has devised and led a process to put monies aside so that at the time a replacement machine is needed, there does not have to be another fundraising campaign in the community to maintain the machine and the centre. This is to be commended as it is a highly used facility by people throughout the Bay. It is hard to imagine how we managed before there was an x-ray machine with excellent staff.

Lions in Whitianga is 60 years old. A great deal has been accomplished in that 60 years – we have just touched on a few stories; but all of it has been to serve the community and to improve the quality of our community.

Gordon Barnaby has been a member of Lions for 61 years and is the Whitianga Lions Club’s historian. He is also Mercury Bay’s Santa Claus of which we are all very grateful.

Graeme Wilson receiving a copy of Saltspray & Sawdust reminding him of his tour of Whitianga seeing the work of the Lions Club.

Lynda Halverson, District Governor with Graeme Wilson, Judy Lee, Dayle Baker and Shirwin Lee cutting the 60th anniversary cake; Hon. Scott Simpson MP; Gordon Barnaby - Host and MC; Robbie Yeomans receives a 50-year membership award; Cynthia Lindgard, first female of Whitianga Lions; Howard and Dayle Baker, president; Brian McMillan, District rep on Lloyd Morgan Trust; Graeme Wilson with Noel Hewlett and Mayor Len Salt.

Citycare Water is coming: Protecting our precious water

Editor’s Note: This is a new name to residents of the Coromandel Peninsula but not to many areas in New Zealand. Citycare Water will be taking over the role of caring for water services around the Coromandel Peninsula in April 2026. This is not about the water infrastructure of Local Water Done Well. That’s in the future and is still being negotiated with the parties of Western Bay of Plenty and Tauranga District Councils.

Citycare Water, New Zealand’s leading water care and maintenance company, has been appointed by Thames-Coromandel District Council to manage the region’s drinking water, wastewater and stormwater networks. The contract means they will manage approximately 20,000 kilometres of water networks across Aotearoa and service around 25% of Kiwi households.

Citycare Water will establish five regional offices throughout the region. Although the contract is scheduled to commence in April 2026, they are keen to engage with local communities next week, offering an opportunity to learn more about who they are and what they do, as well as discuss potential employment opportunities.

As of April 2026, Citycare Water will look after water infrastructure that keeps our communities ticking: the drinking water

that flows from our taps, the wastewater that’s safely taken away, and the stormwater that channels heavy rain out to sea before it can flood our homes and roads. In a region as unique and challenging as Thames-Coromandel - that job takes dedication, local knowledge, and a lot of teamwork.

THE PROMISE

When a pipe bursts late at night in Thames, when summer storms swell creeks near Whitianga, or when an ageing pump station needs urgent repair in Coromandel Township, Citycare Water’s people are there. They’re the ones in hi-vis on the roadside, in the treatment plants, and underground-making sure residents and visitors alike can count on

Citycare Water will service the Coromandel Peninsula with a laser focus on high level maintenance.

safe, reliable water.

But their work isn’t just about fixing problems when they arise.

Citycare Water is investing in smarter ways to care for our networks-using monitoring, digital tools, and data-driven planning to build resilience into the future. They also work closely with councils and communities, reminding us all that water is a taonga -a treasure -to be respected and protected.

Citycare Water brings national expertise, but here in Thames-Coromandel, their focus is proudly local. They understand the challenges our communities face, from heavy rainfall and flooding to ageing infrastructure, and they meet them head-on with skill and commitment. They’re not just maintaining pipes and pumps-they’re delivering safe water for life to Thames-Coromandel communities.

Website: citycarewater.co.nz

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Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@ theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.

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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.

Daytime closures for SH25A Kōpū-Hikuai in November

PRESS RELEASE FROM NZTA

This was only on 23 September that this was announced.

Daytime closures are needed on State Highway 25A (SH25A) for 2 weeks in November 2025 for a major road rebuild. The work will take place from Monday 10 November until approximately Friday 21 November, with the state highway closed from 8am to 5pm Monday to Saturday.

The 2 sites, each approximately 1km long, between Kōpū and Hikuai, are narrow with steep drop-offs, and the work cannot be done safely with the road open.

The road will reopen under single lane and stop/go each evening from 5pm and on Sunday 16 November. Delays can be expected. Dates are weather-dependent.

Critical services such as first responders and school buses will be escorted through the site during the day. All other vehicles will be required to take the SH25 detour which adds an hour to the travel time.

“We hope getting these dates

and times confirmed well in advance will help people plan their Coromandel travel during that fortnight,” says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Regional Manager for Maintenance and Operations, Roger Brady.

“We recognise SH25A is a vital link across the peninsula and we would not be closing the road if there was any other way to get this work done safety and quickly.

“The top priorities are the safety of our people and road users, and getting the highway open as quickly as possible.

“We investigated doing this work with stop/go or controlled openings or allowing convoys of traffic through. However, these options are difficult to accommodate at such confined sites and would mean the job would take much longer with increased risk to contractor staff and road users.”

SH25A was closed for most of 2023 after a slip required a new bridge to be put in place.

“The emphasis in 2023 was all about resilience and our contractors got a lot of other work

completed on the road during the closure,” Mr Brady says.

“This work was not programmed, funded or resourced at that time.

“We always aim to get works done before the busy holiday period, while trying to minimise inconvenience to road users.’’

This work will follow on from the SH25 closure on the west coast of the peninsula for the deck replacement on the Boundary Creek Bridge.

Editor’s Note: I understand the need to get maintenance work done. I realise that there is never a good time to do major roadwork. Mr Brady will be correct in

saying that the work being scheduled now was not programmed, funded, or resourced in 2023 when the other work was done.

My question is - When was the need for the work recognised? It doesn’t seem to be in any plan and this major work has suddenly come to be front and centre. NZTA needs to be mindful of small businesses relying on freight.

Thames Coast Road closure

The Thames coast section of SH25 will be closed for a week following Labour Weekend for bridge repairs, from Wednesday 29 October.

People wanting to get to locations north of the bridge, including Waikawau boat ramp, from Thames, will need to use SH25A and the eastern section of SH25 via Tairua and Whitianga. And those heading south from Northern Coromandel, it will be the reverse. Expect more traffic through town during this period.

National Champions at Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club prizegiving

BY CAROLYN FRANKLIN

It was a great night last Saturday as the MBGFC celebrated its AGM and prizegiving. The prizegiving was well attended and it was great to see so many of our junior members in attendance. It is worth noting that 12 out of the 16 new club records set in the 24/25 season were won by juniors, a great effort.

Also requiring a special mention is the team on Smuggler who represented the club during the NZ Sportfishing Nationals tournament. Blake Wilkins (skipper), Maz Dunn and Mason Norgrove won several sections of this prestigious “club v club” event including taking out the John Hough Memorial trophy for the team with the most points Striped Marlin, with Maz also taking out 1st place in the Striped Marlin tag and release section with 7 tagged Striped Marlin. This was a fantastic effort for such a young team in a trailer boat.

The lucky winner of the Sherriff Drainage Tagging Club was won by Heather Savill. She took away a great cash prize kindly donated by Sherriff Drainage who has supported this tagging initiative for many years.

A huge thanks to Jason and Kirsten Sherriff.

The club is looking forward to an exciting 25/26 season with

(Skipper)

Chase Whitford, Trophy Heaviest snapper during Junior Tournament 7.56kg; Kylie Phillips on Relief, JP Crawford Cup Yellowfin Tuna Scoring Most Points Caught on light tackle 239pts; Caelen Gubb on Seasic Harold Beale Memorial Trophy Kingfish most point light tackle 268pts;

Eccles Junior Club Record Trevally 2.99kgs on 8kg Line; Mike Taylor on

WHAT'S ON

OP SHOPS

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust

Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.

St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat 9.30am-2pm.

St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen St, Whitianga. 9.30am-1pm Wed-Sat. Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-2pm. Donations welcome.

SPCA Op-shop – 2 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 9am-4pm.

MONTHLY

AA Driver Licensing – Friday 10 October and Monday 28 October. In the Mercury Bay Service Centre Community Board Room in Monk St (behind the council offices).

American Muscle Street and Custom Club

Whitianga – Club meetings first Sunday of the month, 11am at Buffalo Beach Reserve for cars and coffee. Phone Reg and Julie Smith on 027 493 5822.

Cooks Beach Garden Circle –Last Thurs of the month 11.15am-2.30pm. New members welcome. Ph Anne on 07 866 0268 for more information.

Craft Group – Meets first Saturday of the month 10am-3pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr, carpark end. Work on your own craft (stitching, colouring in, scrapbook, card making anything goes). Bring your lunch and enjoy mixing with other crafty people. Any queries ph Alison 021 0508 772 or Sally 027 3962 383. Kūaotunu Dune Care – Every third Wed of the month. To get involved, please email kuaotunudunecare@gmail.com.

Hospice Waikato’s Bereavement Support Group – Lost a loved one? Join Hospice Waikato’s monthly bereavement support group. Connect over morning tea with others who understand. Held on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 10.30am to 12.00pm at Whitianga Social Services. Registration required. Contact Hospice Waikato to register at 07 859 1260. Mercury Bay Model Railway Club – Monthly meet. Contact. Damon 0273551650 Mercury Bay Shooting Federation – Muzzle loader, rimfire, centre fire, military, pistol. Email mbsfsecretary@gmail.com

Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Fourth Monday of every month, 10am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Joan on 021 264 3753.

BI-MONTHLY

Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc – Save the Date!

Our next meeting is 1st October celebrating International Day of the Older Person. And yes, we have a lot to celebrate. MB Club, 10.30am start (doors open at 10am). Morning tea provided. All welcome.

Further info or to join Grey Power Mercury Bay please phone 078665516

FORTNIGHTLY

Greeting Card Making – The second and fourth Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. All materials provided. Contact Rev. Gillian Reid on 021 781 081 or just turn up.

Knit for a Purpose – First and third Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. Ph Gillian Reid on 021 781081 for further details, or just turn up. Mercury Bay Creative Fibre – Spin, knit, weave, crochet. First and third Wednesday every month, 10am-1pm, supper room of Town Hall. Phone Vanessa 027 896 5037. Email vandoo555@gmail.com.

Mercury Bay Quilters – 10am-4pm on the first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Contact Margaret on

021 140 4016.

Whitianga Tramping Group – Every second Sunday at 8.30am. Phone Wally 021 907 782 or Lesley 021 157 9979 for more information.

WEEKLY OR MORE

Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.

Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info.

Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and values based ministry for boys. For boys aged 5-13 years old. Tues 5.30-7pm For information contact Robyn 020 409 39674.

Chess Club – s 6.30-9.30pm, MB Bowling Club. Players of all levels. Cost $2. Contact Brett Soanes 0272117195 or brettsoanes16@hotmail. com

Chinwag Café – Every Friday from 10.30am12.30pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. A place for over 50s to meet other people, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a chinwag.

Coroglen Farmers Market every Sunday until Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25), from 9am-1pm.

Coffee and Discussion Group – Every Sunday, 2-4pm, at The Lost Spring. Topics are open and respect shown. No charge. Convener Peter H. Wood.

Cooks Beach Care Group – Join our friendly team and learn about coastal conservation. Come weeding and planting. Thursday mornings. Register www.cooksbeachcare.org. nz

Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling Club – Come and join us at the Community Centre (Hall). New members are most welcome, please contact Coral ph. 0212303944.

Dog walking group – Every Thurs, 2pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to a very sociable group. Ph Jenny on 021 186 5797.

Elevate Fitness – Strength and balance class using chair, sitting and standing exercises –Monday and and Thursday 9:00am Whitianga Town Hall, $10, ACC approved. Aqua Fit Water Workout, Hot Water Beach Resort, $20 including soak in spa, 11:30am Monday and Thursday. Movement to Music exercise class –strength & cardio, The Embassy of Friendship, Coghill Street. Call Nicole 021 0265 2693.

Hahei Contract Bridge Club – Every Tuesday 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Learners and casual welcome. Contact Don Barry 021 741 959 or Robyn Hogg 021543015.

Meditation Classes – Thursday evening. Spiritual, heart, soul development. Sacred energy, chakra activations, working with spiritual guides. Open forum conversation, Thursdays, 6.30pm at Flat 1, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga. Cost $10. Contact Verna 027 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com.

Mercury Bay Badminton Club – Thurs 5-7pm, 4 courts at MBAS gym. Please note club nights currently limited to existing club members due to high attendance levels. Contact: Steve 027 211 3568

Mercury Bay Badminton – Every Wednesday 9-11am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, ages 16+. Phone Carol 027 474 7493 for more information.

Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club – 92 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Social Bowls, Thursday & Sunday at 12.30pm, Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.

Mercury Bay Bridge Club – Every Wednesday at 1pm and every Thursday at 7pm at the MB Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. For more information, phone Gavin on 021 146 9203.

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

Mercury Bay Community Choir – Meets Mondays 6.15 to 8.15pm at the music room Mercury Bay Area School. Start date 4th August. No auditions, no previous singing experience required. Phone Kate 027 2709058 for details.

Mercury Bay Environmental Trust – Every Tues and Fri from 9-11am, location advised prior. For more information, Phone: 027 954 7434 please email mbenvironmentaltrust@ gmail.com or go to www.mbet.co.nz.

Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club – Every Thursday evening, Whitianga Town Hall, 6.45pm. New members and visitors welcome. Phone Cheryl 027 452 7887 or Sandie 021 825 667 for more information.

Mercury Bay Pickleball Club - At the Mercury Bay Area School Gymnasium, Tuesdays Members Only 5.30-7.30pm; Saturdays Social & New Players 9.30-11.30am; Sundays All Players 4-6pm. Members, Visitors & Guests $5, a complimentary session is available to new players wanting to trial pickleball. Membership is only $20 PA and can be completed online at www.mercurybaypickleball.co.nz Contact Tony 021 426 150. Mercury Bay Sports Park sessions are weather dependant & advised on our facebook page Mercury Bay Pickleball. Matarangi (Matai Pl Courts) Thurs 3-5pm (Winter) 5 -7pm (Summer) Saturday 9-11am Contact Grant 022 383 6351. Hahei Tennis & Pickleball Club-Thursday & Sunday Contact Tim 027 843 2683 or refer their facebook page. Mercury Bay Squash Club – New members/ enquiries to Dawn Thurgood mercbaysquash@ gmail.com

Mercury Bay Table Tennis – Every Tues, 9-11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Ph Anne on 07 869 5162 or 027 565 5575 for more info.

Mercury Bay Tennis Club – Social tennis at Lyon Park on Thursdays at 5.30pm. All welcome. Ph Jason 022 186 7992 or Carl 027 680 5570.

Oneness Meditation Centre – The centre focuses on the meditative art of going deeper within. Learn how to meditate, breath, calm the mind, relieve stress, anxiety and be a calm, peaceful, courageous, dynamic human being. Every Monday, 9.30-11.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881 or email linda_c@orcon. net.nz

Self-defence classes – Town Hall, Tues/Wed 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146.

Spiritual Conversation Mornings – Every Tues and Wed, 10.30am-12pm, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga the Starlight Centre. Grab a coffee and join in some great conversation where we talk about topics and subjects that have meaning. $5 donation. Contact Verna 027 320 0079.

Tai Chi for all levels – Town Hall, Mondays 6-7pm. Gold coin donation. Ph Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.

Tairua Contract Bridge Club – Every Monday at 12.30pm at the Tairua Bowling Club, 44 Hornsea Rd. Contact Lynnette Flowers 021 252 4709 or Johanna Bonnar 027 466 3726.

The Knitwits – A knitting group that meets sociably every Thursday from 10.30 to 1.30pm. Held at Social Services building, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. If you would like to join us please contact Cathy Lines on 0211171037 for more details.

Whenuakite Area Playgroup – 9.30am12.30pm every Wednesday morning at the Hahei Community Centre. Ages newborn-5years. We invite all parents, carers, visitors and grandparents. Contact whenuakiteareaplaygroup@gmail.com

Whitianga Art Group – Every Thurs/Fri 10am-4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.

Whitianga Menz Shed – Open Tues/Thurs, 9am-12 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway, past the diesel truck stop. All welcome.

Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/Fri 9am12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@ playcentre.org.nz or 027 880 3947.

Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games. Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info.

Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome. Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.

Yoga for Everyone - beginners/retirees/ inflexibles welcome. Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 4.20pm, Fri 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25/90 minute session. Txt Rosemary 0274 489326 for info.

DANCING

Argentine Tango Dance Class – Fridays, Town Hall, Whitianga, 5.30-7.30pm. No prior experience or partner necessary. Text Sergio for questions 027 410 2454

Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran. com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm. Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Tuesdays beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.452.30pm; Thursdays absolute beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, improvers/seniors 12.452.30pm. Contact Margaret 027 463 8850 or Glynis 021 1099 155.

Silver Swans Adult Ballet Class - Tuesday’s weekly 10am to 11.10am $20, Whitianga Town Hall supper room. All ages welcome. Marilyn Swan,experienced professional teacher of Dance.M: 0273365263 E; swanebbs@gmail. com

Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes – Town Hall, Monk St, $7 per session. New Beginners, Wed 2.30-3.30pm, Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.30-11.45am, Intermediate classes Wed, 12-1.30pm; . Contact Kathy 027 4321 353 or Cecily 027 294 1750

Zumba – Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk St. GROUP INFO

Mercury Bay Athletics – For info contact mercurybayathletics@gmail.com

Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. Phone Cecily 027 253 3088 or Chrissy 021 177 4226.

SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated –Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet. whitianga.admin@gmail.com. Whitianga Bike Park – 144 Moewai Rd, Whitianga. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, BBQs and walking trails. Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact John 027 366 4606.

Whitianga Gun Club – For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Graham Sutcliffe on 021 846 655.

Whitianga Community Patrol – Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043.

SELF-DEFENCE COURSE FOR WOMEN 8 weeks, each Wednesday, 6.00-7.15pm, Whitianga Town Hall, starting October 8-November 26. Contact Tony 027 333 5146

Coromandel 'Growers & Artisans Market’ When: Every Saturday from 9am - 1pm at Where: The Anglican Church Hall, Coromandel Town.

TRADES & SERVICES

Phone or email us with your Classified advert before 10am on Mondays to make sure you don’t miss out!

The Coromandel Informer Phone 07 866 2090 or email sales@theinformer.co.nz

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

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

Web Host: EMD Agency

Print Run: 9800

(Opp Z)

join the familyFind peace and friendship. Enquiries: ph 022 1322 061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz

Editor: Pauline Stewart (027 271 6182)

Newspaper Layout: Debbie Morgan

Business Manager & Sales: Emma Gaunt Te Kai Whakarongo

Delivery Managers: Dave Piper & Merv Gregory

Writers: Jack Biddle, Trevor Ammundsen, Michelle Dellabarca, Dorothy Preece, Pam Ferla, Malcolm Campbell, Lily Paulsen.

Office: 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Phone (07) 866 2090

Editorial: info@theinformer.co.nz, Advertising: sales@theinformer.co.nz

Admin: office@theinformer.co.nz Editor: 027 271 6182

Also general stores at Taruru, Te Puru, Tapu and Colville Published weekly and distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of them are at the discretion of the editor. Contributions only considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name, phone no, email or residential address. Opinions expressed (esp. in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher and can be cut if too long.

Winning Team Mercury Bay

U16 Thames Valley Rugby

BY LEISA MCCLEERY SPORTS DIRECTOR MBAS

Six of our First XV players have just completed a very successful U16 Rugby representative campaign winning all the games and winning the Heartland U16 Representative Trophy. After coming off a successful Rugby Season with winning the Coulter Cup, these boys have extended their season by being part of this young winning team.

TWO REPS - DISTINGUISHED PLAYERS

After the NZ Area School Nationals that were held in Invercargill earlier this year an Area School Rugby team were selected - The Barbarians Area Schools XV Rugby camp came together in Ahipara, Te Tai Tokerau - Northland for the week 1-6 September. The team participated in 5 days of training and skill development culminating in a game vs Northland Natives Academy on Friday night in Kaitaia. The Barbarians came away with a win of 29-5.

Wednesday September 24

No 3 winners, Wayne Malcom got the first bye, Peter Shultz got the bye to the final where he overcame Rob Reilly to win. 2 winners, Wayne Malcom, Wayne R, Greg Murphy

H/B 25 Greg Murphy.

Saturday September 27

Peter Shultz only 3 winner

2 winners, Jason Smith, Wayne Malcom, Rob Reilly

H/B 20 Peter Shultz

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB

4th Round Aldermen Pairs

Monday 22 September

1, Carol & Ron Baker 65.63; 2, Peter Mc Neil & Christine Meinhold 60.00; 3, Judy McKenzie & Jenny Prince 57.50.

THE HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB

Cooks Beach Pairs Week 4

Tuesday 23 September

North/South: 1, Ngaire O’Brien & Peter Clark 62.50%; 2, Robyn Waters & Sue Gill 59.17%; 3, Val Dwight & Dave Dylla 53.75% East/West: 1, Jennie Hemmings & Angela Butterworth 57.50%; 2, Johanna Bonnar & Carol Henwood 56.25%; 3, Pam Churchill & Amy Hyde 54.58%

MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS

24 players this week, so 501 doubles were played. One team went through unbeaten in all four sets to be the clear winner. The team was Stoney & Debbie

50 for the ladies this week and no 180’s scored

MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB

Championship Singles (Wed) round 3

Wednesday 24 September

North/South: 1, Chris Southwell & Ischelle Stevenson 58.0; 2, Gavin Hedwig & Alison Tichbon 52.4; 3, Johanna Bonnar & Val Dwight 52.1

East/West: 1, Colin Day & Rose Tegg 67.3; 2, Bob Schibli & Pete Hogg 57.1; 3, Norma Hart & Lois Page 53.9

Championship Singles (Thurs) round 6

Thursday 25 September 1, Amy Hyde & Kate Palmano 65.0; 2, Norma Hart & Rose Tegg 61.3; 3, Lois Page & Ischelle Stevenson 55.0

MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

Thursday 25 September

Winners: Ian Pudney and Wayne Fisher

Runners Up: Keith Denney and Lionel Lawrence

Good Sports: Lee Pudney, Betty Simpson and Alan Henderson

MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB

Friday 26 September

9-Hole Mixed – Stableford 1, Gavin Green; 2, Roger Pheasant; 3, Don Maguire

Saturday 27 September

18 Hole Men - Stableford 1, Graeme Butler; 2, Nathan Wilson; 3,

Twos: Steve Geach, Nathan Wilson

Gross: Div 1, Nathan Wilson; Div 2, Graeme Butler

NTP: Div 1, Wayne Kearney; Div 2, Graeme Butler

Longest Drive: Div 1, Nathan Wilson; Div 2, Alan Coubray

Tuesday 23 September

9 hole par round 2 L hancock Trophy

1= Jo Geoghegan, John Hamilton; 3= Mark Bell, Annabel Wharton, Wayne Morrison

TAIRUA GOLF CLUB

Saturday 20 September

18 Hole Scramble Stableford

1, Tony Anderson; 2, John Fraser; 3, Warrick Rogers

Tuesday 23 September

9 Hole Stableford

1, Dennis Rundle; 2, Kay van Lubeck; 3, = Carolyn Williams & Gabrielle Tucker

PURANGI GOLF CLUB

Thursday 25 September

9 hole stableford

1, Catherine Borlase; 2, Neil Robertson; 3, Annabel Wharton

Saturday 27 September

18 hole nett

1, Phil Ander; 2= Donna Dinsdale , Annabel Wharton; 4, David Young; 5= Brian Keucke, Tim Bartlett, Jo Geoghegan 4BBB NETT

Frank Geoghegan and Callum Murray

Two great events

Mark Taipari gave great entertainment at the Mercury Bay Club on Friday – it was rock and pop. Michael Song presented a classical music concert at St Andrew’s by the Sea on Sunday afternoon – it was loved by everyone. Thank you Whitianga for offering such a great variety.

Monday 22 September

9 Hole Men’s Stableford

1, Jim Dale; 2, Graham Kemp

Tuesday 23 September

9 Hole Ladies 3 Blind Mice Comp 1, Merrin James

Thursday 25 September

9 Hole Men’s Stableford

1, Rey Bertling; 2, Robert Ffisken

18 Hole Men’s Tony Cotton Memorial Shootout Qualifier Net

1, Tony Nicholson; 2, Tony Horne

Two’s: Geoffrey Hill on Hole 13 and 7; Russell Barnett on Hole 5 and 18; Tony Nicholson on Hole 7; Geoff Atmore and Brian Tomlinson on Hole 18

Nearest the Pin on Hole 18: Brian Tomlinson

18 Hole Ladies Russian Roulette

1, Ann Dale and Cathy Drake-WellsTeam Score 74 points; 2, Bev Gwyn and Chrissie Smith - Team Score 65 points

Two’s: Polly Lambert on Hole 5; Allison Drake-Wells on Hole 7; Cathy Drake-Wells and Ann Dale on Hole 13

Saturday 27 September

18 Hole Mixed Stableford Haggle 1, Paul Dixon; 2, Gary Bancroft; 3, Tony De Coek

Two’s: Brian Tomlinson on Holes 13 and 18; Paul Barnard on Hole 5; Russell Barnett and Charlie Chilwell on Hole 7; Allison Drake-Wells on Hole 18

Nearest the Pin on Hole 18: Brian Tomlinson

From left: Dwayne Mansell (U16 Coach), Taj Lorimer, Tyler Ray, Reo McQueen, Ty Willigers, Kyson Mansell and in the front Taingarunui Hinds.

Taingarunui Hinds and Ty Willigers.

MERCURY BAY SNOOKER

Holmes. Highest finish for the men was 77, scored by Steve Jessup. No finish over

Paul Lupton

THE DUNES GOLF CLUB

Basketball Awards Mercury Bay Area School

BY LEISA MCCLEERY

Monday night 22 September, MBAS celebrated the 2025 Mercury Bay Boars Basketball season to honour the hard work, dedication, and talent of our basketball players. All teams competed in the Friday night Thames Valley Basketball league. Unfortunately, this year teams made it to semi-finals only.

PRIZEGIVING RECIPIENTS

Junior Girls – Sharna Proctor.

Junior Boys – Kaino Adams.

Senior Girls – Angel Scobie.

Senior Boys Development – Mathis Reece.

Senior Boys – Ruben Thackray.

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER

Junior Girls – Madison Morgan.

Junior Boys – Daniel Vaughan.

Senior Girls – Miranda Coleman.

Senior Boys Development – Reuban Vaughan.

Senior Boys – Tom Lamason.

TEAM SPIRIT

Junior Girls – Lara Sharman.

Junior Boys – Charlie Bahr.

Senior Girls – Lily McGrath

Senior Boys Development – Zhandro Jumapao

Senior Boys – Tyron Cummings.

BEST DEFENSIVE PLAYER

Junior Girls – Lucy Thackray.

Junior Boys – Rohan Percival.

Senior Girls – Tallulah Lukic-Calder.

Senior Boys Development – Nico Adams.

Senior Boys – Kiani Van der Putten.

CLUB RECOGNITION

Senior Girls Players Player - Holly Simpson.

Coaching and development to Basketball - Jared Adams

Beginner Referee - Phoenix Newson.

Thanks to all our awesome coaches, managers and referees - Te Rahoroi Clayton, Caleb Tane, Jared Adams, Taimania Hinds, Sandi Lowe, Amanda Scobie, Grant Vaughan, Jody Bowers, Terry Hill, Luke McGrath and Pheonix Newson

JUNIOR GIRLS

On Monday night we celebrated the 2025 Mercury Bay Boars Basketball season to honour the hard work, dedication, and talent of our basketball players.

Cooks Beach Indoor Bowls Club

Cooks Beach Indoor Bowls Club held their Annual Fours Competition on Wednesday 24 September

Winning Four pictured were: Left to right - Frank Coulton, Colleen Hunt, Sumer Bartleet, Phil Costello; Runners-up: Keith Wright, Tom Riddle, Phillip Keall and Bill Bartleet.

The Blue-Ribbon Golf Tournament at The Dunes Golf Club in Matarangi was a resounding success, bringing together 144 players in support of the Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ. Thanks to the incredible generosity of sponsors, participants, and supporters, the event raised an impressive $20,507.50.

A cheque was proudly presented to Peter Dickens, CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation, last Thursday. The tournament featured 11 live auctions, with the standout prize being a luxury beachfront villa getaway to Vomo Island, Fiji.

A HUGE THANK YOU!

The Dunes Golf Club extends heartfelt thanks to:

• All our generous sponsors

• The golfers who joined in

• Our amazing volunteers and dedicated staff

• And especially the main organisers, David Gaskell and Rowan Toms, whose hard work made the event possible. The evening was filled with great golf, live music, spirited bidding, and plenty of community spirit—all contributing to raising vital funds for a cause that touches so many. Together, we’ve made a real difference!

•

From left: Tournament organizers Rowan Toms and David Gaskell, Peter Dickens, CEO of Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ, and Nicky Fanning, Golf Operations Manager at The Dunes Golf Club.

Augie, above, and Maisie enjoyed working with their grandfather, Noel Hewlett, planting native trees at the bike park during the school holidays.