Call/text anytime for support from a trained counsellor 1737
Harbourmaster (Waikato Regional Council)
0800 800 402
Coastguard Radio Ops 866 2883
Whitianga Social Services
.................................866 4476
Whitianga Locksmith 027 446 6921
Whiti City Cabs 07 866 4777
Whitianga Car Hire 07 866 2226
Go Kiwi Shuttles 0800 446 549
Barrier Air 0800 900 600
A newspaper must form a relationship with its community
BY STAN AND PAULINE STEWART
We have heard some say, “It is of no value. It is simply a broadsheet for advertisers and a preferred elite”.
That’s not how we see it. We sense some papers operate a bit like that. They are owned in a distant city. A portion of their content is syndicated, recycled. General interest pieces on health, gardening, cooking etc. can fill their pages.
Local news is vital to connecting a community and to the general health of how that community operates. Of course, local news is frequently about sporting events and we can’t forget that the backbone of local papers, especially on the Coromandel Peninsula, including ours, is real estate. We need both these but if that is all local news is, then our community is short changed.
This is how the Editors of The Informer see things. We don’t come from a traditional newspaper background. But we are not strangers to publishing or small communities and being involved in leadership in those communities. We see the production of
a local paper to be a wonderful privilege.
We believe a local paper can be a thing of value for the whole community – not just the advertisers.
How can it do this? We believe we can help this by being a forum, a vehicle through which the com-
munity can talk to itself, argue, debate, detract and applaud.
The key to this process is that we all share the truth as we see it. Inevitably this will lead to disagreements. However, let goodwill prevail. The truth is we cannot move forward to improve our community without robust
debate.’ Debate’ rhymes with ‘hate’ but hate has no place in debate. It is hard not to reject someone because their view is opposing but we sense just about everyone cares about this country, this region and their community. Otherwise, why would we live here?
That care is enough to find respect and a place for each other when our love for the community can translate to respect for our different neighbours.
We believe that local people can effect significant change and that change can be brought about through hard, smart work and persistence. Is it too much to believe that goodwill can prevail? I don’t think so.
The Informer management and staff are part of this community. Through our paper we are involved with the issues of the community and its people. We do not sit in an office watching the Coromandel with detachment. This is our homeplace and we want it to be the best for everyone. That is in our mind every week as we prepare every issue. Let’s continue dreaming, disputing and most of all, let’s keep talking. There is a lot to talk about.
down to meet the Sun and will reappear in the morning sky in April. Venus will soon follow in its footsteps. Bright Jupiter continues to dominate the evening sky with fainter and quite reddish Mars to its right. Mars is rapidly moving away from us getting steadily fainter. There will be a few bright Tiangong (Chinese Space Station) passes this week but as usual timings may change if it has to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above.com for updated timings.
Tuesday,4 March: The crescent Moon lies to the right and above bright Venus low on the western horizon with even fainter and much lower down Mercury to its left at sunset. Wednesday,5 March: The Moon sits immediately to the left of the Pleiades/Matariki and below and to the left of bright Jupiter. Early risers will see a bright Tiangong pass from 6:09am in the SW. Thursday, 6 March: The Moon now lies just below bright Jupiter. Friday, 7 March: Bright Jupiter is directly above the First Quarter Moon. Very early risers will see a Tiangong pass from 5:48am high overhead. Saturday, 8 March: The Moon has moved to be directly to the left of distinctly reddish Mars. Sunday, 9 March: Mars is now just above and to the left of the bright Moon. Monday, 10 March: The Beehive Cluster sits just above the Moon, but its brightness makes observation difficult. Tuesday,
Stan and Pauline Stewart are the owners and editors of the weekly newspaper, The Coromandel Informer, enjoying time at The Lost Spring.
World’s largest billfish tournament
Wednesday 12 March-Saturday 15 March in
BY PAULINE STEWART
There are 460 boats registered for this Tournament with entries being closed off soon after the 2024 tournament due to so many desiring to be part of the famous Kuboto Billfish Classic Tournament.
PHENOMENAL PRIZE LIST
• Heaviest Billfish - $400,000
• Gate Prize The Ultimate Kubota Package valued at $125,000
• Jackpot options for Champion Team 1st, 2nd and 3rd with a maximum potential purse of $1,575,000.
• JC Walker Transport Last Billfish Tagged - $20,000
• Jimmy Buffit Heaviest Tuna$20,000
• Float Mortgages Heaviest Mahimahi - $10,000
• GCM Feeds Heaviest Kingfish$10,000
• Total Access Champion Lady Angler - $10,000
• Vernon Developments Champion Junior Angler - $10,000 (Under 18 years old on March 15, 2025)
TAGGING DRAW
A trailer boat package plus a Kubota Sidekick total value
• Day 3 – K and L Distributors Daily Draw Kubota Tractor (model TBC)
• Day 4 – Daily Draw - Kubota
Tractor (model TBC).
SHIMANO FISHING NEW ZEALAND FIRST BILLFISH TAGGED EACH DAY
• Day 1 – 4 Tiagra 50/Status Bluewater combos
• Day 2 – 4 Stella 20000/Abyss Pitch Bait Combos
• Day 3 – 4 Tiagra 50/Status Bluewater Combos
• Day 4 – 4 Talica 20/Status Bluewater Combos.
This will be an exciting event not just for participants on the boats but for residents and visitors to the Bay.
People are coming from afar to enjoy the waters of Mercury Bay, hoping to catch that big one that will have them in the prize pool.
Many will be fishing but there are friends and other family members who will take advantage of land based activities – a spa, restaurants, shopping, sight-seeing.
The organisation of this huge undertaking is different from previous years. Though still directed by local fisher and businessman, Tom Maxwell, it is essentially a private tournament – no longer run by a New Zealand Sports Fishing Council affiliated club. The Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club will be providing support, assistance and people power but not involved in its organisation or promotion. The events on land associated with the tournament will be held at the Whitianga Hotel.
The 2024 shot gun start for The Kubota Billfish Classic. Photo credit Dmitri Kotelevski – www.fernvision.co.nz
Afew weeks ago, the team driving forward the building of the much-needed, new MenzShed for Whitianga and surrounds, turned the first soil on their land. Now they are about to pour the concrete floor.
The team have raised and been granted enough funding to proceed to the next stage. It has been very encouraging that as each stage is approached. the team of helpers and skilled workers seems to grow.
There is a long way to go to completion and a lot of fundraising to undertake but they are enthusiastic and optimistic. A recent visit from Trust Waikato to their new site and to their previous very overcrowded site has
been very encouraging. Glenn is confident that there will be some financial assistance granted to hep complete their building but it does depend on how much the local community can raise
So many who are not a part of the MenzShed have offered their help,” says Glenn. “Ray Blackler of Roadworx Ltd has been very generous. Others have passed by in their vehicles and stopped to ask, Can I help? As it takes shape, it’s easy to see how the finished project will look and how it will welcome our men and strengthen our community.”
Email: glennschahche if you are Interested: boneman. schache@gmail.comor phone 027 495 2015.
Preparing the soil for the concrete base (above); Right, Clayton McMahon from Roadworx Ltd, Fred Brinsden, Glenn Schache (President of the MenzShed), Brian Jarvie, Jeff Riddle (Project Manager), Fred Bonkovich forged the steel rake he is holding especially for the MenzShed project.
An exciting event – and bringing people to the Coromandel
BY PAULINE STEWART
The Opening of the Art Escape was exciting. Friday night 28 February, from 5.30pm, was a real Gala event attended by over 160 people – colourful, immaculate preparation with food and hospitality, a warm welcome with a glass of bubbles or soda. There was a piece of art from each of the 50 artists in the Art Escape, adorning the indoor spaces of the Hot Waves Café at Hot Water Beach. It was a happy bustle of artists, their friends and family and the general populace who love art.
Shaun Paterson of Bayleys Real Estate opened and hosted the evening. He did this with much aplomb and directness, involving people with his relaxing style and
very clear voice that carried above the rain that failed to spoil any of the celebrations.
“This coming weekend you have the chance to embark on a self-drive tour and see for yourself the creative process unfold in so many different venues in so many different mediums,” said Shaun.
“The intention is that you will not only enjoy yourself and admire the work of the artists but that you will take home a piece of art.”
Shaun explained that Bayleys had been sponsoring the Art Escape for 15 years and that they felt proud to be associated with such a growing movement. He gave a huge thank you to the Trustees and members of the Art Escape.
Special appreciation was expressed to Stuart Christie for his dedicated work as pre-
vious Chair of the Art Escape Trust and to Sally Samins for her amazing organisation of this 2025 Art Escape. Shaun was clear. “Dig deep to help support what has been made possible. The auction of showcase pieces gives a taste of what is to come on the Art Studios tour. The Auction that followed received very generous and enthusiastic bidding.
Guest speaker, Jeff Lockhart spoke of his life – long journey with art and that journey of discovery to his homeplace with Pacifica, Maori and Celtic art. Jeff is an international acclaimed artist melding the streams of the three cultures.
It was a very impressive list of sponsors read out by one of the Trustees, Louise Van den Brink, who had driven from Auckland especially for the gala event and to enjoy the
Arts Trail over the weekend. The scholarship programme is a highlight of the Art Escape and the 2025 scholarship holder is Isobel Warwood, a year 13 student from Mercury Bay Area School. Isobel specialises in painting and will work with the Art Escape co-ordinator to choose two or three artists to work with during the year. it is a great opportunity to observe and learn different techniques and skills and see into the life of a working artist. Isobel’s work was on display at the Opening gala event.
For the Saturday and Sunday of 1st and 2nd March, all the artists were a part of the Arts Trail and will be exhibiting again this coming weekend.
Don’t forget to pick up booklet from the Information Centres and follow the Art Trail.
COROMANDEL RESCUE MISSIONS
For the Auckland & Coromandel Westpac Rescue Helicopters
1–28 February 2025
01.02 Thames Assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.
02.02 Whitianga Assist an elderly male patient suffering a medical complaint and in a moderate condition. Transportation to hospital by helicopter wasn’t required and crew returned to base.
06.02 Whitianga Assist a female patient in her 80’s suffering an injury on a walking track. Extraction by winch was required. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a minor condition.
06.02 Cathedral Cove Assist a male patient in his 30’s suffering an injury at the beach and in a minor condition. Our critical care paramedic was winch inserted onto the beach. Patient and CCP transported by boat to Hahei Beach and then patient transported by road ambulance to hospital. Our CCP was picked up from Hahei and crew returned to base.
07.02 Coromandel Assist a male patient in his 20’s involved in a motorbike accident. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
08.02 Great Crew tasked by the Rescue Coordination Centre to reports of an activated PLB at Great Mercury Island. We arrived at coordinates and located two persons aboard a vessel. A recreational vessel was able to tow back to shore. Whitianga Coastguard advised to rendezvous with recreational vessel. Crew returned to base.
09.02 Fletcher Bay Assist a female patient in her 50’s suffering an injury from a fall from standing height on a walking track. Extrication by winch was required. She was flown to Thames Hospital in a minor condition.
11.02 Coromandel Assist a child suffering a medical complaint. The child was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
12.02 Coromandel Assist a female patient in her 40’s involved in a horse-riding accident. She was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition.
12.02 Opito Bay Assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering injuries from a fall. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.
16.02 Hahei Assist a female patient in her 60’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
17.02 Coromandel Assist a child suffering a medical complaint. The child was flown to Starship Hospital in a serious condition.
18.02 Port Charles Assist a male patient in his 50’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.
18.02 Coromandel Assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering an injury onboard a vessel. Our critical care paramedic was winch inserted into the water near vessel and swam to vessel. Westpac2 landed on nearby beach and second critical care paramedic transferred to vessel by tender. Aircraft relocated to nearby wharf carpark and original vessel transported patient and medics to wharf. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a minor condition.
19.02 Coromandel Assist a male patient. Sadly, the patient died, and crew returned to base.
20.02 Cooks Beach Assist a male patient in his 80’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.
20.02 Whitianga Assist a male patient in his 60’s suffering an injury from a fall from standing height. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.
21.02 Coromandel Assist with the search and rescue of a female (age unknown). The female was located, and crew were stood down and returned to base.
24.02 Opito Bay Assist a male patient in his 80’s suffering an injury from a mower. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.
24.02 Coromandel Assist a male patient in his 50’s suffering an injury from a fall and in a minor condition. Transportation to hospital by helicopter was not required and crew returned to base.
26.02 Whitianga Assist a female patient suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.
28.02 Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 30’s. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
28.02 Port Charles Assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering a possible fall. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.
Mercury Island
‘Aladdin Junior’ rehearsals in full swing!
BY FABIAN ROBERTS
uditions have just concluded, and rehearsals are now in full swing! Nearly 70 students auditioned for Disney’s Aladdin Junior, which will feature eight performances this May.
Show director, Emma Fletcher, vocal director, Raewyn Watkins, and choreographer, Leni Whale (Year 13 students from MBAS) have combined their passion and talents to cast a show that highlights the incredible abilities of local students.
Tickets go on sale at the Whitianga Information Centre from Tuesday, 25 March.
SHOW DATES:
May 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 (plus two matinee performances).
We have been successful in securing the Mercury Bay Area School Hall as the venue. This provides plenty of space for families and the community to enjoy the production.
The cast features students from across the region, including
Hikuai, Tairua, Whenuakite, Coroglen, Mercury Bay, Matarangi, and Te Rerenga - showcasing the demand for performing arts
opportunities in the wider Mercury Bay area.
A reminder that events like these rely on community support.
As Mercury Bay Performing Arts establishes itself as a provider of music and dance opportunities for local youth, we are currently
A reminder that events like these rely on community support.
fundraising to purchase additional microphones for our actors. If you’d like to help, please email mercurybaypa@gmail.com.
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR GOLD SUPPORTERS:
• The Lost Spring
• Smitty’s Sports Bar and Grill
• The Warehouse Whitianga Aladdin is made possible by The Mercury Bay Performing Arts team, in partnership with Coromind magazine
Mercury Bay Performing Arts mercurybaypa@gmail.com
Updates found here: https:// www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6156786489398 6id=61567864893986
Based in Whitianga.
Fabian Roberts is the Producer of Aladdin for the Mercury Bay Performing Arts (MBPA)
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The Aladdin cast at their first full rehearsal!
Do these immigration actions represent our NZ values?
BY ALAN HOPPING
This man is from the Philippines. He has been working in the Coromandel community for two years. Finally, his wife was able to join him. She is working. His work is hospitality. His volunteer work is playing music for community events and these two photos show him entertaining at the Mercury Bay Club. He was a big help with the Filipino national day celebrations in Whitianga. He works hard at whatever he does.
The life of an immigrant is based around visas. They cost a lot. A week ago, this is what happened.
This man was told he had to stop working as there were problems with his visa extension.
He stopped working and was not allowed to earn any money. He paid in advance for his visa to be renewed.
He was told he must go back to the Philippines and reapply after one year for his visa. He had 24 hours to leave or he would be arrested. He had to pay all fees even for unsuccessful applications. The communication to
him stated that the Immigration Department did not need to give him any documented reason as to why they had acted in this way.
He had to leave his wife here. This town revered this man. This makes for no common sense from any aspect.
Do these immigration actions represent our New Zealand values??
They appear to be authoritarian and to punish the very people who currently keep the country going, their taxes flowing into the government coffers. They do jobs kiwis are unwilling to do. They are reliable and often employers in small businesses have found kiwis unreliable. Some Whitianga businesses would have been financially decimated without these good people.
The Pacific Islands and Filipino people look after with love our elderly care homes, our hospitality, our cafes, farms, fruit growers, fish factories and more.
MP’s across New Zealand should be banging the table. Our country is reliant on these wonderful immigrants for our future wellbeing. Sign them up!
Make New Zealand great again!!
This young man has played music for community occasions as part of his volunteer offering. He is a drummer, a singer, a guitarist, a pianist and a producer for sound studios. To make a new life and support his family he was prepared to any work and learn new skills.
3D mapping of NZ coastline underway ENVIRONMENT MATTERS
BY STUART CAIE MEDIA RELEASE
Anew project is wellbeing undertaken by Linz (Land Information New Zealand) to map large parts of New Zealand’s coastline in remarkable detail to help communities mitigate the impacts of climate change and understand our ever-changing coastline.
Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand has selected two suppliers to collect high-definition LiDAR data as part of its 3D Coastal Mapping programme.
Stuart Caie is leading the programme for LINZ and says the data will be used to create 3D maps of vulnerable and populated parts of our coastline:
“As a small island nation, New Zealanders living and working near the coast are exposed to
climate events and natural hazards like tsunami, and these will impact valuable infrastructure, environmental and cultural assets close to the sea, as well as coastal biodiversity.”
The two companies contracted to collect the LiDAR data are Woolpert NZ for the North Island
and NV5 Geospatial for the South Island.
As the technology requiresgood weather to capture the best data from the airplane, the Woolpert Geospatial team moved to the Coromandel ahead of schedule.
“The plane flies approximately 500 metres above ground, so we
expect people will have noticed this plane tracking back and forth mapping the coast,” says Stuart.
Areas planned to be mapped Summer and early Autumn 2025 include coastlines in Coromandel Peninsula, Gisborne, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki, Manawatu-Whanganui, Hawke’s Bay, Wellington, Oamaru, Timaru, Dunedin, Southland, and Westland.
Planes need to fly at around 500 metres above the ground when capturing the LiDAR data, so people may notice when planes are in their area.
“Coastal mapping data is used by scientists and environmental planners to better understand how the country may be impacted and help keep communities and infrastructure safe, as well as protect ocean biodiversity through improved habitat mapping,”
explains Stuart. LiDAR which stands for ‘light detection and ranging’ technology determines the shape of the coast and shallow sea floor below by sending pulses of light from a sensor fitted in an aircraft that measures the distance to the earth below, building up a 3D picture of the Earth’s surface.
LINZ’s 3D Coastal Mapping programme will create baseline data for up to 40% of the coast over the next three years.
Data will be used to update nautical charts for maritime safety, a core part of LINZ’s hydrographic work programme.
To find out more, the LINZ website is - 3D Coastal Mapping page.
Stuart Caie is the 3D Coastal Mapping Programme Lead at Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand (LINZ).
Change of culture on poisons needed
Explanation from DOC for current practices required.
BY JOHN VEYSEY
Malcolm Campbell pointed out last week how NZ’s environment protection agencies, the EPA and the Environment Court (EC), are giving approval for the release of a raft of very toxic poisons. Many of these poisons have been found in every living creature that has been tested – cattle, deer, dogs, insects, birds, all aquatic life. 1080 even poisons trees, weakens them and reduces their resistance against disease.
Not only does the EPA and EC approve but the DOC-scientists also seem to approve of unlimited poisoning.
In 1991, Stanley Island was the site of DOC’s first poison drop in the Coromandel area. Talon baits were dropped in the water all around the island. Talon is brodifacoum poison which ended up
Chops
in the surrounding fish and all the creatures eating those fish.
Brodifacoum, called ‘brodi’ in the trade, remains in the dead body and poisons the scavengers whose bodies may be eaten by insects and bugs which go on to poison the insect and bug eaters like kiwi and fantails and so brodifacoum passes up and down and back up through the food chain. Many live animals are now walking round with sub-lethal doses of brodifacoum in their bodies.
In 2011, ‘brodi’ was dropped in the waters around Rangitoto Island. A few days after the drop, dead penguins washed up on distant Auckland beaches. “Scientists” autopsied the penguins and found ‘brodi’ in them. This presented a dilemma for the government scientists who could not disclose the fact that the poison had come from the DOC drop. If they did so, they would lose their
jobs. Colleagues had lost their jobs for finding negative aspects of this poisoning and, by 2011, the DOC scientists were well practised at hiding the truth.
‘Brodi’ is sold as rat poison in shops and the DOC scientists explained that Auckland householders had put brodi in their roofs to poison the rats which had then washed down the drains into the harbour and been eaten by the penguins so the Rangitoto drop had nothing to do with their deaths.
This explanation is about as believable as the overseas smugglers who made off with those frogs which had disappeared after a 1080 drop behind Tairua.
Such is the fortuity of DOC science that neither of these ‘scenarios’ has ever re-occurred.
And such is the depth of the “science” behind DOC’s “science-based” poisoning.
Facts about 1080
Although we call it 1080, the toxic ingredient in the bait is sodium fluoroacetate. Fluoroacetate is a naturally occurring toxin that is found in several
Dogs are highly susceptible to 1080 poisoning. When they eat baits or poisoned rats, stoats or possums, the outcome is usually fatal. The following is some information about the precautions in place, and how DOC and dog owners can work together to keep dogs safe during predator control operations.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG EATS 1080
If a dog does eat and ingest 1080, it takes between 30
poisonous plants around the world and provides some defence against mammals. 1080 bait contains a synthetic salt form of this toxin.
minutes and several hours for symptoms to begin to show.
SYMPTOMS OF POISONING IN DOGS
Symptoms to look out for include behaviour changes such as disorientation, restlessness, hyperactivity, aggression, running in circles, barking or howling for no reason, and sensitivity to touch.
FIRST AID TREATMENT
1. Make the dog vomit
2. Get the dog to the vet
Let’s talk about the real problem
Methamphetamine addiction in Mercury Bay and perhaps the Coromandel Peninsula
BY TONY MARSTERS
Waikato has the highest rate of Meth (Methamphetamine) use nationwide with 843mg/day per 1000 people.
In 2024 in Whitianga, while crime was down, burglaries and property crimes were up.
Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences. It is considered a brain disorder, because it involves functional changes to brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-control. Those changes may last a long time after a person has stopped taking drugs. Drugs or alcohol can hijack the pleasure/reward circuits in your brain and hook you into wanting more and more. Addiction can also send your emotional danger-sensing circuits into overdrive, making you feel anxious and stressed when you’re not using the drugs or alcohol. Use of drug by common people leads to
The use of methamphetamine is an issue for the Coromandel Peninsula. Every community has members involved in selling and using.
many social consequences such as instability in family relationship, domestic violence, crimeprone life, reduction of sense of belongingness to the family and the society. There is also lack of social harmony and happiness within the family.
Long term health impacts such as liver, kidney and heart problems or cancer (depending on the type of drug used and how fre-
quently it was used), dental health problems (cavities and gum disease), mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
As drug misuse increases, some people may use crime, such as burglary, to find items that can be stolen and sold to others to raise money to buy more drugs. Others may resort to more serious crimes such as robbery, theft, extortionanything to secure money to buy
drugs. Whatever the cause, substance abuse and dependence confer significant social, mental, and medical impairment on those individuals afflicted, together with huge economic costs to society.
Addiction awareness brings the root of the issues we face as a community to the surface. Only a community can make a difference. Meth is here to stay. Through
awareness and education, we can protect ourselves and our families from the consequences of drug abuse and addiction.
HOW DO WE FIX THIS?
Two free one day addiction seminars designed to provide valuable information for anyone affected by addiction in the community –which is all of us.
The events are being held at Whitianga Community Services on Thursday 13th and again on Friday 14th March 2025. Courses run from 9.00am to 4.30pm and lunch is provided.
This is open to the public, family and friends dealing with people or persons with addiction issues. The courses are designed to help the families and the community deal with the issues addiction brings.
Spaces are limited for the Thursday and Friday sessions. See the adjacent advertisement to register.
Tony Marsters is the Manager of Mercury Bay Social Services Centre.
Get a better understanding of addiction and recovery, and the confidence to respond supportively. You’ll learn what can lead a person into addiction, what strategies can help them change, and when to get professional help, along with practical ways to look after yourself.
Our experienced facilitators bring a huge amount of professional and personal experience to the day, running interactive activities and stimulating conversations that bring the learning to life.
Participants receive a workbook with Addiction 101 notes, additional reading, and a directory for support and assistance, plus access to an interactive e-learning to apply what you learn.
Learning outcomes
After attending Addiction 101, participants will be able to:
• use Te Whare Tapa Wha to understand addiction and recovery recognise the impacts of substance use, gambling, and gaming
• understand brain and body responses to addiction
• respond supportively to people experiencing addiction
• get practical strategies for self-care when you are a support person
• learn about trauma, co-existing problems, recovery options, and when and where to get help
“
Attending the workshop is about gaining an understanding about where the person is coming from, and working alongside them.
“
Two available workshops. Venue – Whitianga Community Services Trust, 2 Cook Dr Thursday 13 March, 9am-4.30pm. (Register: https://tinyurl.com/AD101Whitianga13March) OR Friday 14 March, 9am-4.30pm. (Register: https://tinyurl.com/AD101Whitianga14March) EMAIL SOCIAL SERVICES TO ENROL – manager@wcst.org.nz
www.blueprint.co.nz
ABBA HEAVEN! NEW ZEALAND’S ABBA TRIBUTE BAND
Pauanui Sports and Recreation Club, 31 Sheppard Ave, Pauanui
Saturday 8 March 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm
General Admission: $49.42 each ($45.00 + $4.42 fees)
DAVE FLYNN – CELTIC GUITAR JOURNEY
Kauaeranga Hall,
437 Kauaeranga Valley Rd, Kauaeranga
Saturday 8 March 2025 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Pre-paid: $25.00 each
Door Sales: $28.00 each
MUSIC AT THE LAKES - PAUANUI
Lakes Resort Golf Pavilion - 10 Augusta Drive, Pauanui
Sunday 9 March 2025
Call/Text: 027 464 7766
New Start Time: 3 PM – 6 PM
You’re invited to a one-of-a-kind musical gathering – where we don’t just play music, we become the music!
Hypnotic powers create hilarious behaviour
BY PAULINE STEWART
It was quite the experience for the large audience in the Whitianga Town Hall on Sunday night, 2 March. They had come to enjoy and maybe experience first-hand, the mesmerising journey of hypnosis.
Haiming Jiang, a renowned comic hypnotist came to Whitianga to entertain people through demonstrating his powers with using hypnosis for audiences to observe and enjoy but also relaxing those who participate as his subjects of hypnotism.
The evening was advertised as a’ Comedy Hypnosis Show.’ It was exactly that.
Haiming Jiang organising the volunteers who had come forward to be part of his hypnotising demonstration. This photo was taken before he had begun his technique of hynotising them.
all volunteers coming from the audience of locals.
judged for themselves, they were not hypnotised.
The Informer was simply an observer.
No official “band,” no fancy rules – just a bunch of music lovers cobbling together instruments, voices, and good vibes to create something magical. Expect laughs, surprises, and maybe even some accidental harmonies! Courtesy van available! (No excuses now!)
As well, our guest was charming, confident and did not overpromise.
Come for the music, stay for the fun—see you there!
It was clear from the start, Haiming relied on his audience for his programme The programme was hypnotising people who volunteered while the general audience watched, with
Haiming appealed for the fun people. He was clear that he cannot hypnotise people against their will. “When you are hypnotised, you have not lost control of yourself, you are in a state where you just do not care.”
From the first group of about 14 volunteers, only some came under the power of hypnosis. Those who did not could just leave the stage when they
ENQUIRIES FOR STAGE 2 ARE WELCOME!
It was indeed entertaining and at no point did the performance demean anyone. This was something different in terms of entertainment to come to the Coromandel Peninsula. If there is a second visit for Haiming Jiang, he will not be short of crowds to gather and experience the power of hypnosis.
open plan, single level apartments feature covered balconies with fantastic views of the sea, Kauaeranga River and mountains.
residents enjoy scenic views from each level’s shared lounges, use of the Village Community Lodge and participation in all activities and amenities at your leisure.
FreshChoice comes to Pauanui
BY SEAN ROSE
On Tuesday, 25 February, Supervalue Pauanui re-opened as the latest store to undergo a refresh and become a FreshChoice.
The store is now the 64th FreshChoice supermarket in the country and joins a growing network of locally owned and operated grocery stores.
The new FreshChoice Pauanui is independently owned and operated by Ravi Vanisa and Bhavika Rathod, who have strong ties to the local community.
“We transitioned from engineering and teaching to owning this supermarket in 2021. Despite a challenging start with lockdowns and Cyclone Gabrielle, we’ve thrived by catering to the needs of our local community and holidaymakers,” said Ravi and Bhavika.
“We’re the only convenience store in Pauanui, and our team excels at maintaining top-notch customer service even during our busiest summer months.
“We support local events and cherish being part of this tightknit community.
“Our business philosophy
is simple: listen to customer feedback and create a friendly, positive shopping environment.”
The store has undergone a complete refurbishment and now offers a wider range of products, with over 200 new items, many of which are sourced from nearby.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ravi and Bhavika to the FreshChoice family,” said Tim Cartwright, Executive General
Manager of FreshChoice.
“They are passionate about providing their community with a high-quality, locally focused shopping experience, and we’re confident that the refreshed store will be a valuable asset to Pauanui.”
The opening of FreshChoice Pauanui is a testament to the grocer’s commitment to bringing fresh, locally sourced food to communities across New Zealand.
Bhavika and Ravi outside their newly branded Paunanui store, FreshChoice; Lily Paulsen shows off the local and fresh produce; a local pastor offers a blessing for the store and the staff.
STAN’S STUFF
He probably saved my life – and yours
BY STAN STEWART
Currently my health is poor and energy low. I want to keep on with Stan’s Stuff, but for now I will do it the easy way. I’ve looked over some of my pre Whitianga musings and hopefully one or two of them will be of interest.
STANISLAV YEVGRAFOVICH PETROV
On 1 September, 1983 the Soviet Union shot down a Boeing 747 passenger plane that had intruded into Soviet airspace. The Cold War was already hot, but this incident brought it to boiling point.On 26 September, 25 days after the tragic downing of the 747, Lieutenant Colonel Stanislav Petrov was the duty officer at the headquarters of the nuclear early warning system. Petrov‘s job was to relay to the leadership in Moscow, any information regarding missile launches from the United States. Only the top Moscow leadership could authorise a launch of Soviet missiles. Believing the US was planning a first strike attack, the mood in the Kremlin was hair trigger.
On that evening, 26 September, the computerised warning systems at Petro’s station flashed
the information that the US had launched a missile. A few minutes later the warning radars indicated that five more missiles were on their way to Russia. Petrov could not believe what the screens were telling him. Instead of passing the information on to the Moscow leadership as he was required to do, he hesitated. Petro disobeyed the rulebook protocols and went against his training and didn’t pass on this information to Moscow.
Disregarding the consequences, he acted on his own feelings and intuition. Instead of informing the Kremlin, Petrov and his staff checked and rechecked
the computerised systems. Only after an agonising 30 minutes, did it become clear that the system was malfunctioning. There were no incoming missiles. Had Petrov followed the rule books and the protocols in which he was trained, it seems almost certain that a dreadful nuclear holocaust would have been triggered. This would have engulfed the USA, their NATO allies and the Soviet Union. It could have been the end of life on earth as we know it, my life, your life.
On this occasion, Petrov’s common sense and belief in humanity overrode his technical training. Years later, his wife asked him
what he did on that fateful night. “ I did nothing,” he replied. By that he meant he did not send out the alarm which would have started a nuclear war. I only learnt of Stanislav and these events three weeks before Christmas 2019 via a BBC magazine article. He has been in my mind ever since. The photo above was taken when Stanislav was in retirement. He was never honoured in the Soviet Union because to do so would have been to place blame on the engineers and scientists who designed the early warning system he operated. He received a number of awards from governments and institutions in the west. In old age he suffered a nervous breakdown and died in 2017.
These days, if there is an awkward pause in the conversation, you can always ignite a lively response with two words, ‘Health’ and ‘Safety’. School teachers, nurses, self-employed tradespeople, gardeners, social workers, youth group leaders - they all have something to say about Health and Safety regulations and many of the comments are gripes. Preparing rules and regulations and instruction manuals for every aspect of life is now a growth industry. I know they are intended to protect life and limb
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and save us from social and financial disaster. However, I cannot believe that they are designed to inhibit our core values and to stop us from thinking – even ‘no 8 wire’ thinking.
Through The Informer’s lively interface with the public, every week we are in touch with the official ‘rule’ makers and disgruntled ‘rule breakers’. It is not an easy job for the rule makers as they strive to make fair and reasonable rules for everything from garden fences, major structures to where and when and how you can sell ice creams. In making their rules they must juggle many health and safety and environmental requirements. I have the impression that the number of these caveats increase month by month. However, in times to come, it will become obvious that some of the regulations are impractical and will have to be changed or even cease.
So, this is my heart-felt ‘thankyou’ to Stanislav Yevgrafovich Petrov for possibly saving the then known world by his disobedience to the rule book. And to all of us, an encouragement to think for ourselves. The rule books are great but they are not the answer to everything. Let’s keep inking for ourselves.
Stanislav at the time of the nuclear false alarm, left; Stanislav Petrov in 2016.
Celebrating 100 years of MbgfC 1925-2025
Wednesday 26 February-Saturday 1 March
• A 100 boat 4-day tournament • Centenary dinner – 400 people
• Through 10 decades community quiz
• A magnificent new centenary trophy
• Original commemerative art piece
• 3500 member of the MBGFC in 2025
Celebrating of MbgfC
The Centenary Fishing
There was only one Marlin weighed on Wednesday, 26 February, exactly 100 years were out in the water this competition, with boats Andiamo, La Chica,
COMPILED BY
PAULINE STEWART
A FANTASTIC CENTENARY DINNER AND PRIZEGIVING –400 MEALS SERVED.
Saturday’s prizegiving and dinner was a fantastic night. Many dressed in their favourite decade, surrounded by classic cars, memorabilia, and great music by the band, truly capturing the spirit of the centennial celebration. Mark Franklin was the host and brought liveliness and good humour to his job. Both the President of the MBGFC, Gordon McIvor and the Club’s Patron, Warren Harris, spoke of the development of the Club over the years.
GORDON’S COMMENTS
We have brought together a large number of people with a common interest – fishing – 3,500 members. We have an awesome property and we own the club freehold. We have no debt. We are one of the five original clubs. Now there are 51 clubs in New Zealand. In 2024, we were announced the Fishing Club of the year!. It has been wonderful seeing so many who just wanted to fish. There was no prize money for the Centenary Tournament. We asked for 100 boats for the 100 years, and the registrations were full in 8 days. The names of all of the boats will be engraved on the base of the Centenary Trophy.
WARREN’S COMMENTS
I am very pleased and proud to be Patron. I can see some young ones and it’s for them come forward and take up some responsibility. I want them to take up the challenge (of leadership). There are enough old farts like me. We have had our turn.
BOY SMITH
A special moment was the presentation of Boy Smith’s 1950’s club blazer, a treasured piece of the club’s history that is a privilege to hold on to. Gordon publicly thanked Richard Warwick (Boy’s grandson) and Jill and Jennifer (Boy’s daughters) for their presentation and gifting to the Fishing Club.
BRYCE HOOTON
Bryce Hooton on Andiamo took home the MBGFC Centennial Cup. We’re proud of Bryce and the team. Celebrations were fittingly made with rum and L&P. Bryce had said earlier in the week, “It’s 100 years! Let’s do a Zane Greyhave traditional live bait but modern reels, Let’s do what Mickey Ellwood (Father of John and Bruce Ellwood and Skipper of the Whai) used to do.”
Little did he know he would catch the largest Billfish and his boat would earn the most points.
At the prize-giving Bryce spoke of his experience being in Whitianga – that it had been hard moving communities, but he remembered the night he first
came to the Fishing Club and the welcome he received - he felt he belonged and he still felt the same way.
THE COMMEMORATIVE ART PIECE
Jules Smith (Jools Fine Art) local water colour, portrait and mixed media artist, was commissioned to create a fitting artwork which was raffled prior to the centenary celebrations. The Informer spoke to Jules, “I believe that so many raffle tickets were sold , not because people liked the painting, but because of how highly regarded the fishing club is.” It’s a reflection of the committee, staff, volunteers and members. This is a fantastic community.”
Celebrating 100 years 1925-2025 Tournament – 100 boats
years to the date when the first Marlin was weighed in Whitianga. Striped Marlin Chica, and Kawailani successfully tagging and releasing these fish.
No one would agree with Jules’ comments on her art. It is clever and beautiful, very well themed, featuring the Marlin but also the bounty of the ocean. There’s a lightness about it; a message of balance. However, Jules Smith is correct in her assessment of the passion and dedication shown by so many stemming from a love of fishing and a desire to benefit their community.
The lucky winner of the raffled painting was Richard Shortland. He said with a smile, “I was luckier with this than I was with the fishing this weekend.
THE COMMUNITY QUIZ NIGHT
Diane Franklin as Quiz Master and Tim Hennessey, organising
all the IT including the background photo board, conducted a very challenging, competitive quiz not only about fishing but also the history of the region, the club, and New Zealand. The winning quiz team was Farcanal led by John Neighbours. this team is quite the high scorers at the weekly Wednesday Quiz nights at the Mercury Bay Club. The team of John, with Kevin Smith, Tiana Smith, Gordon Kirkham, and Margaret Neighbours were the clear winners of the Fishing Club Centenary Celebration Quiz. Well done!! What a memorable week the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club has had celebrating 100 years. Thank you for sharing it with your community.
CENTENARY TOURNAMENT RESULTS:
Winner Heaviest Billfish:
Andiamo - 136.3kg, caught by Bryce Hooton
Tag and Release Points:
La Chica: 450pts - Pete Maher (Striped Marlin)
Kawailani: 450pts - Sherwin Lee (Striped Marlin)
Andiamo: 450pts - Bryce Hooton (Striped Marlin)
Winner Most Points:
Andiamo - 818.38pts
1 T/R & 1 weighed Striped Marlin
Shirwin Lee – When Shirwin was a teen, he was a keen fisherman and a member of the Fishing Club. This photo proves it. It is 72 years later that he participates in the Centenary Tournament and he tags a Marlin and lands a tuna. Shiriwn Lee, you are amazing!!
Celebrating 100 years of MbgfC 1925-2025
It’s all about the fishing! Game Fishing Club Centenary brings back memories
BY DOROTHY PREECE
Russell Cornes has been a member of the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club for 72 years.
His Mother’s family, the Jackmans, were all members of the Club and Russell was signed up when he was just 14 years old. His family lived in Auckland but they were always in Whitianga for the summer.
FIRST LADY ANGLER WITH A MARLIN - 1955
Russell still has a pair of silver vases that his mother, Florence Gamble, won in 1955.
The inscription reads, ‘First Marlin caught by a lady angler 1955 – Black Marlin 267 lbs.’
Russell says summer holidays with the family in Whitianga were always about the fishing.
“As kids we used to go spear fishing for flounder up the river, or fishing on boats out in the Bay. When I was 14 I went out with Michael Jack-
man on Roly Smith’s boat and Michael’s friend caught a 212 lb (pound) Mako shark. It was the most exciting thing I’d ever seen.
We were a bit deflated when we got it back to the wharf though. Somebody had caught a big Marlin. It made our Mako look small.”
Later in life Russell stayed every year at Richard Simpson’s ‘Ricardo’ Motel on the waterfront, and often went game fishing with Richard on board Chillybin. “They were happy times. I’ve spent many happy hours yarning there with Richard, and upstairs in the old Gamefish Club rooms at the end of the wharf.”
Russell still lives in Auckland and has never lost his passion for fishing. He has owned a succession of boats, the last of which he sold just recently. He regrets he could not accept the invitation to attend the MBGFC Centennial Dinner, as it clashed with a family party on his 86th Birthday.
Russell Cornes with the Game fishing trophies won by his mother.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
RESPONSE TO KIWI NUMBERS GROWING
Printed in The Informer page 18 Environment Matters 18 February
Kiwi numbers have been counted by listening for two hours a night at a certain time of year for a week or two and adding up the number of calls heard. Sometimes many years go by between these call countings. More and more kiwi-call listeners (KCL’s) are getting employed each time and their listening skills have improved so, instead of the number of kiwi increasing they may be hearing more and more of the same number of kiwi whose numbers have not really changed that much.
John Veysey
A TOURISM PERSPECTIVE
Response to Scott Lee - (Issue 1144)
Scott Lee, your fear that’ international anglers’ will go elsewhere if we introduce a few no fish zones around small parts of the Alderman and Slipper Islands, I hope will be the result.
Have a quick look at the amount of tourists snorkelling in the Hahei Reserve without the need to kill anything. If we are not careful with our aquatic backyard some buggers with the backing of a Japanese tractor manufacturer will invite 500 boats and 5000 anglers to compete for millions in
prize money at the expense of our fish...whoops too late this year!
Avon Hansford, Whitianga
EXASPERATION MR BRICKELL
It is exasperating to read Alastair Brickell’s scientifically illiterate letter attempting to deny the reality of human-caused climate change. His amateur opinions display a breathtaking ignorance of basic climate science.
Mr. Brickell should familiarise himself with research: 97% of climate scientists confirm that fossil fuel burning drives global warming. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), representing thousands of genuine climate scientists from over 100 nations - not armchair critics— states with 95-100% certainty that human influence is the dominant cause of warming since the mid-20th century.
While Mr. Brickell spouts uninformed theories, decades of rigorous research through temperature records, ice cores, sea level data and scores of other research areas tell the real story. Over 11,000 peer-reviewed papers support this indisputable consensus. The tiny number of contrarians, like Mr. Brickell, typically lack any relevant scientific credentials in climate science. His dangerous denialism actively undermines urgently needed climate action. We need solutions, not more idiotic attempts to dispute settled sci-
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.
ence from unqualified commentators.
David Gibson, Tairua
THANK YOU FOR THE CLEAN-UP
Kudos must be given to the TCDC and/or Ngati Hei on their very swift response and the removal and clean-up of the recent hideous graffiti at Lovers Rock and on its trees.
It’s a pity the same could not be said of the well-known Albert Street downtown business that has done nothing to remove the eyesore graffiti which has adorned their premises for well over a year in full view of passing locals and tourists alike. It’s a poor reflection on our beautiful wee town.
John McKenzie, Whitianga BALANCE NEEDED REGARDING KUBOTA BILLFISH CLASSIC
It’s time to put some balance and defence to recent letters attacking the Kubota Billfish Classic which seem quite selective and reek of Tall Poppy.
Pelagic species targeted in this competition are not resident species and only visit us through the summer months.
The debate about sustainability is a question for all but The NZSFC have been actively promoting this release programme for over 30 years.
Google Billfish Moratorium
which highlights their efforts in reviving a depleted resource.
Of the 5 Kubota tournaments so far, over 90% of billfish have been released.
1000’s of snapper caught every week by Kiwis are then released because they are undersize.
So, where’s the outrage?
High local fuel usage for 4 days is undeniable, but adds to marine commerce with GST collected, accommodation, groceries, boats, fishing gear bought and sold.
By far the most prizemoney put forward is raised through the 2000 anglers fishing.
Kubota are obviously getting value for money backing fishing folk whom I suspect the majority are made up of producers - of business and land, and hunter gatherers, exactly the kind of people this country should be supporting.
If I was a fish, I’d prefer to be pulled out of the water and then put back, than having a spear randomly shot through me!!
Glenn Bradley, Matarangi
DATA ON BILLFISH
Some data points provided by Mike Plant of the New Zealand Sports Fishing Council in relation to Billfish recreational fishing
Since 2001, there has been no noticeable increase in the number of marlin caught by recreational fishers. In 2023, recreational fishers harvested just 26 tonnes of marlin - less than 1% of the 3,300
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tonnes caught outside New Zealand’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Since 1994, recreational fishers have tagged and released over 50% of marlin caught each season. Tagging data is critical for research into billfish growth, spawning, and movement—data that is difficult to collect by any other means. Thanks to the Billfish Moratorium, tag-and-release has become increasingly popular, with more than 75% of marlin caught in 2023 being tagged and released. In the 2024 Kubota Classic, 92% of the billfish caught were tagged and released, with only eight landed.
Mike Plant
CLIMATE CHANGE CULT’S DAYS
ARE NUMBERED
Correspondent Brenda Smythe is quite right…the Australian banks operating in NZ have cut coal lending to mining activities, and desperate not to be seen to being left out, our Kiwibank has shamelessly followed suit. However, on the international scene, things are different. The last of the six biggest banks in America, JP Morgan, has just joined the others including Citigroup and Bank of America, and dropped its net zero ESG commitments. After the Albanese government is replaced in Australia this year, the Aussie/ NZ banks will follow suit so this nonsense will finally come to an end.
Much of any Stockton issues
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
she refers to is due to past coal mining. Most of this mining was carried out by the NZ government, so it is quite right that they should clear things up.
Referring to me as a climate change ‘denier’ is both incorrect and derogatory. I certainly accept that the climate is changing (slightly) as the earth undergoes the present brief warm period, but I do not accept that it is our fault.
This is blindingly obvious to those actually prepared to do some independent research rather than just ignorantly and lazily parroting the UN and IPCC mantra.
The minute rate of global sea level rise has not changed significantly for well over a century. Worldwide retreating glaciers are constantly exposing hundred-yearold forests that thrived in obviously warmer conditions where we now have glaciers. These forests have been dated to only 1000, 2000 and 3000 years in the past. Similarly, 5300-year-old Otzi the iceman was revealed when his entombing glacier retreated. Clearly the earth was warmer and
sea levels higher than now multiple times in the recent past, in an entirely natural process. The present warming is no different.
Ms. Smythe and others need to realise that the climate change cult’s days are numbered; the global tide is turning. The sooner everyone, especially our politicians and political activists, realises this the better.
Alastair Brickell Kuaotunu
WHAT IS HAPPENING
I grew up in the 1940’s on a farm some five miles out of Otorohanga, in the King Country region. My parents had bought land that was affordable but quite challenging in its operation. Whilst the buildings and some paddocks were on higher ground, the balance of the land was a flood plain with the Mangaoronga River running through. I can recall looking out of the window to see flooding over half of the property.
When growing up and moving into town, I did not encounter flooding conditions until coming to Whitianga with my wife and three children in 1981
and purchasing the supermarket in Albert Street, Whitianga. Little did we know at the time that Whitianga was built on a flood plain and was devastated after storm events in the 80’s and 90’s.
As a family we were fortunate to take a holiday to the UK and this is where I discovered the true meaning of flood protection. With rock wall, groynes, and flood gates etc., the British Isles were protected from sea invasion and storm events. In fact, if flood gates were not into the mouth of the Thames River, the city of London would have flooded.
Back to New Zealand, where vulnerable coastlines with ridiculous policies which restrict the use of hard options as a function. I feel sorry for the towns of Kumeu, Wairoa, Gisborne and the Buller areas who are faced with huge challenges to protect their land.
I say for bureaucrats, start looking at overseas, especially the Netherlands, to get sensible solutions and not keep repeating the two words, MANAGED RETREAT!!.”
Noel Hewlett, Whitianga
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It’s all in the detail
Meet Steve O’Connell - a man who feels he has returned home
BY PAULINE STEWART
Most holidays of his childhood were spent surfing and hunting between Whitianga, Whangamata and as far across to Mt Manganui.
“I loved my teen years in this area – the east coast of the coromandel was my place to comeback to.
For the most part I just had this thing in the back of my head all these years that I would love to come here and retire.” Steve has spent the last eleven years in Perth, Western Australia but they (Steve and his wife, Alice) felt the need to get back to new Zealand and wanted to get back to a smaller community.
“We had kept all our possessions and gear in New Zealand and the coming onset of Covid was clear to us. So we fast tracked
Philip Hart
out of Perth or we wouldn’t have got home to New Zealand. We hurriedly came to Whitianga and have not been anywhere else or looked for anywhere else, ever since.
Steve is a car painter by trade and has worked with cars all his ife. “At the end of the day ,it is my interest around classic cars and my love for cars that has had me
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set up the Valet King business. I have always kept falling back to my knowledge of vehicles and cars and my knowledge of paintwork. I could see that there was a need here to detail cars and that is what I know so well.
Afer being a short while, Steve started out doing his detailing work in a back garage, but he found out there were four others
Financial Advisor
doing close to the same thing.’
“I decided to go a little bit further and create a proper business and have enough space to detail a variety of vehicles, all different sizes of vehicles. Also I could see the need to use my paint correction and colour matching skills as well as the detailing.”
Steve has found an ideal place in Moewai Road fr his business
where he does quite a bit of restoration work on cars as well which has been his hobby and one of his favourite pastimes.
“It is in my nature to be fastidious with cars. I notice every little detail and I am the same with boats. When you live in a place like Mercury Bay and you love detailing, then it is natural to do detailing of boats.”
It is easy to love Whitianga – the scenery is beautiful but you need more. The weather is terrific and geographically, it is gorgeous, but you need more,” says Steve.
“It’s the people. The people have been very welcoming here. They have helped us feel this is home.”
Sally and Steve will still be travelling to Perth. They have two grandchildren there.
And the grandchildren will come to Whitianga.
Thames
• Long standing professional tenant
• Currently returning $56,000pa plus GST & Outgoings
• Total floor area of 239sqm (approx.)
• Freehold site of 480sqm (more or less) providing valuable on-site car parking
• Neighbours include OPSM, BNZ and various medical businesses
This property is situated in Sealey Street, which runs between Pollen Street (Thames’ main street) and Queen Street, SH25, the by-pass to the Coromandel. The property is diagonally across the road from the BNZ on the corner of Sealey and Pollen Streets. Other businesses in the area include Bayleys, Goldfields Shopping Centre and Subway.
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11am, Wednesday 19 March 2025, 678 Victoria St, Hamilton CBD (unless sold prior). www.naiharcourts.co.nz/HCM32332
Mike Neale M 027 451 5133 mike.neale@naiharcourts.co.nz
One of Steve’s cars with the paint correction and detailing work just completed; Steve O’Connell, top right, enjoying his detailing work at Shed No.3 , the home of Valet King.
Asset Privatisation Demands an Ownership Writ
BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN
Much discussion is currently taking place about the potential privatisation of Government owned assets, often called asset recycling. The conversation is founded on the assessment that the Government owns about $500 billion of assets so why not sell some of these to help fund some of the new assets we need? The argument against this is that, “We must not sell our assets – ever. ‘Cause they are ours!”
Actually, both points of view have merit and should be considered. So, I will give an example to illustrate this.
Way back in time, when the Muldoon chap ruled the country, we experienced oil supply crises which severely affected our country. We needed to protect ourselves against this, so it was decided to ensure that we had sufficient oil refinery facilities to service the country’s needs. At that time we did have a small refinery
at Marsden Point but this was not of the size required for the whole country and so the Government underwrote, and eventually took over the expansion of this facility, at a cost of over $1.8 billion. Ownership remained with the private shareholders, predominantly being the oil companies involved. While this project was messier than it should have been it is a good example of public money being used to fund the development of a much-needed asset and the Government then getting its money back from the private owners. This enables them to use this money for other asset construction projects. The repayment was done through a fuel levy charged on all fuel purchases. We had an asset the country needed and we freed up our money to be used again, a win for the Asset Recycling faction.
Unfortunately though, the owners decided in August 2020, to close the refinery and go back to importing fuel. In other words, back to the situation prior to the
“We need to keep our infrastructure dollars moving, not tied up, which means that private enterprise needs to be involved.”
seventies fuel crisis. This was a bad decision for the country and a win for the Assets Are Ours faction.
This is a good example of how Asset Recycling can work out but illustrates how we need an Ownership Writ, or a set of rules, that apply to any strategic asset purchased or run.
In this example this Ownership Writ would have demanded that the owners maintain and operate the facility until such time as the government of the day decides it is no longer needed. Failure to do so means that the ownership of the asset immediately reverts to the government who take over all operations, maintenance and decision making roles. In other
words, if you don’t want to run it any more, bugger off and we will sort it out.
Another example where such a Writ could have worked for us is the Railways. This was owned by an Australian company, the Toll Group. They steadily lost money running Toll Rail as it was then known, but threatened to close the business and bullied a simple, “Assets Are Ours” style of government) into buying it back for about $600 million. Its value at the time was about 75 cents.
If however an Ownership Writ, as suggested above, was in place, the Government could have just used this to enforce either ownership was simply handed back or Toll kept operating the service. Toll could, of course, looked for another sucker to buy it but the Writ would still apply to the new owners.
There are many examples where the applicability of such a system can be seen. This is in areas such as usage as well as continuity of operation. For example, if we sold
a hydro-electric dam we wouldn’t want the new owner to stop producing electricity because they felt they could get a better return selling water for irrigation. Major usage changes such as this would need to be protected.
It could be argued that such Writs would lower the value we could expect from any asset recycling programme but I do not think this is necessarily the case as the conditions in the Writ could also protect the purchaser.
For example, an electricity generator could be protected from being forced to not use coal or natural gas when needed, thereby taking out costs imposed by political decisions.
Food for thought but if we are to address our infrastructure deficit, we need to keep our infrastructure dollars moving, not tied up, which means that private enterprise needs to be involved.
Then we can ensure the protections the country needs through such a scheme as the Ownership Writ.
SPORTS RESULTS
TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB RESULTS
Fourth Round of Drawn Partners
Monday 24 February
North/South. 1, Judy McKenzie & Jenny Prince 60.42, 2, Johanna Bonnar & Peter McNeil 54.58, 3, Jocelyn Taylor & Lynnette Flowers 53.75.
East/West. 1, Robyn Waters & David Wilkinson 72.50, 2, Chris Death & Lee Hughes 57.08, 3, Heather & Jim Buffett 49.58.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Cummings Pairs 3
Tuesday 25 February
North/South: 1, Val Dwight & Johanna Bonnar; 2, Don Barry & Peter Clark; 3, Lee Hughes & Bev Dickie
East/West: 1= Maggie Beattie & Jean Myles; Angela Butterworth & Dave Dyla; 3, Anne Carter & Myra Hoogworth.
MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB
Handicap Pairs (part 1) round 3 Wednesday, 26 February
North/South: 1, Val Dwight & Norma Hart; 2, Augusta Canegallo & Rose Tegg; 3, Gavin Hedwig & Kate Palmano.
East/West: 1, Ian Hogg & Chris Southwell; 2, Giorgio Allemano & Colin Day; 3, Geoff Jervis & Amy Hyde
Court 1 – 1, Hakan Nedjat; 2, Tim Stephens; 3, Tony Minto Court 2 – 1, Dan Emmott; 2, Graeme Eady; 3, Grahame Christian Court 3 – 1, Jim Gavegan; 2,Rachel Johnstone; 3, Ian Hogg Court 4 – 1, Fiona Gardien; 2, Jacqui Everett; 3, Yolanda Wills Round 10 Court 1 – 1, Hakan Nedjat; 2, Tim Stephens; 3, Tony Minto Court 2 – 1, Kevin Walmsley; 2, Grahame Christian; 3, Trevor Hayde Court 3 – 1, Justin Woolley; 2, Josh Muwanguzi; 3, Andrea Williams Court 4 – 1, Tom Duncan; 2, Chris Hawthorn; 3, Yolanda Wills
MERCURY BAY TENNIS CLUB
Mixed doubles championships Pip and Jude Calder def Carl Gubb and Trish Graves 9-5. Plate Final Jason Mcloughlin and Jackie King def Maggi Johnson and Tane Spooner 6-0.
MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS
17 players this week so 501 singles were played. One player went unbeaten in all four sets this week being the outright winner and that was Rex Donaldson. Highest finishes over 50 this week were 62 for the ladies scored by Nan and 112 for the men, scored by Mike Gillett. Three 180’s scored this week, two by Rex Donaldson and one by Stoney.
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday 26 February
12 players today and it’s Greg Murphy, Peter Challis and Wayne Malcolm with two straight wins to challenge the finals. Wayne wins the bye and Greg despatches Peter in the semifinal to meet Wayne in the final frame. A great close match this was with Wayne snatching victory and the cash prize. Greg Murphy runner-up and with two wins Peter Challis, Brian Codyre, Dave Coleman and Peter Schultz who also had the highest break of 22.
Saturday 1 March
A good field of twelve players which included two visitors from the Whangamatā Club. With two straight wins were Rob Rielly, Greg Murphy and Bob Haase who wins the bye and goes on to meet Rob who had despatched Greg in the semifinal. Here past Club Champion Bob is on form, wins this final comfortably, also makes the highest break of 33 and winning the high break pool as well as the Winners prize today.
A good day for him. With two wins were Rob Rielly, (runner-up), Greg Murphy, Phil Jones,Doug Pascoe and Wayne Malcolm.
THE DUNES MATARANGI
9 hole Men Ambrose
Thursday 20 February
Winners Graham Kemp, Mark Deutsch, Grant Short, Dave McDonald
Monday 24 February
9 hole Men Stableford
1, Ray Green; 2, Barry Titchmarsh; 3, Noel Rogers
9 hole Ladies Shoot-Out
Tuesday 25 February
1, Glenys Wilson; 2, Maree Cabaret
18 hole Men Tony Cotton Memorial Shootout Net
Wednesday 26 February
1, Rowan Toms; 2, Tony Nicholson; 3, Chris Palmer
Two’s: Nick Lambert, Brian Tomlinson, Robin Fleming, Charlie Chilwell, Mike Friis
Nearest the Pin on 18: Darren Gribble
9 Hole Men Stableford
Thursday 27 February
1, Steve Airey; 2, Peter Murph
Twos: Barry Titchmarsh
Nearest the Pin on 18: Ray Green
18 hole Ladies Stableford Shoot-out
Thursday 27 February
1, Noeleen Mulligan
18 hole Mixed Meat Pack Haggle
Stableford
Saturday 1 March
1, Barry Bowen; 2, Sandra Bowen; 3, Cathy Drake-Wells
1, Wayne Morrison; 2, Lauren Stephens. 18-hole Net monthly medal
Saturday 1 March
1, Mike Farrance Winner of monthly medal; 2, David Young on count back; 3= Bob Walker, Richard Agnew.
Net Eagles: Mike Farrance, Steve Borlase. 4BBB: Mike Farrance and Steve Borlase.
LEARN TO PLAY GOLF
See public notice on page 30
GAMES AND PUZZLES
Scold persistently (3)
Nonprofessional (7)
Worry (7)
Less full (7)
Day before, ... of (3)
Subjugate (7)
Languished (5)
Chopped in cubes (5)
Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer. co.nz to reach us by 12.00 noon on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly.
Sudoku instructions
Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.
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 14 February & Monday 24 February. 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 07 866 3801 or 027 275 1372.
BI-MONTHLY
Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc – We meet bimonthly for either coffee mornings or luncheons. Learn more about us by phoning Merle 07 867 1737.
FORTNIGHTLY
Greeting Card Making – The second and fourth Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. All materials provided. Contact Rev. Gillian Reid on 021 781 081 or just turn up.
Knit for a Purpose – First and third Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. Ph Gillian Reid on 021 781081 for further details, or just turn up. Mercury Bay Creative Fibre – Spin, knit, weave, crochet. First and third Wednesday every month, 10am-1pm, supper room of Town Hall. Phone Vanessa 027 896 5037. Email vandoo555@gmail. com.
Mercury Bay Quilters – 10am-4pm on the first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016.
Whitianga Tramping Group – Every second Sunday at 8.30am. Phone Wally 021 907 782 or Lesley 021 157 9979 for more information. WEEKLY OR MORE
Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.
Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info. Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and values based ministry for boys. For boys aged 5-13 years old. Tues 5.30-7pm For information contact Robyn 020 409 39674.
Chess Club – Monday nights 6.30-9.30pm, MB
Bowling Club. Players of all levels. Cost $2. Contact Brett Soanes 0272117195 or brettsoanes16@ hotmail.com
Chinwag Café – Every Friday from 10.30am12.30pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. A place for over 50s to meet other people, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a chinwag.
Coroglen Farmers Market every Sunday until Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25), from 9am-1pm.
Coffee and Discussion Group – Every Sunday, 2-4pm, at The Lost Spring. Topics are open and respect shown. No charge. Convener Peter H. Wood.
Cooks Beach Care Group – Join our friendly team and learn about coastal conservation. Come weeding and planting. Thursday mornings. Register www.cooksbeachcare.org.nz
Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling Club – Starts back 26 February, Cooks Beach Community Hall, 1.45pm. First month free. Ph Coral 021 2303 944. Dog walking group – Every Thurs, 2pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to a very sociable group. Ph Jenny on 021 186 5797.
Hahei Contract Bridge Club – Every Tuesday 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Learners and casual welcome. Contact Don Barry 021 741 959 or Robyn Hogg 021543015.
Meditation Classes – Thursday evening. Spiritual, heart, soul development. Sacred energy, chakra activations, working with spiritual guides. Open forum conversation, Thursdays, 6.30pm at Flat 1, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga. Cost $10. Contact Verna 027 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com.
Meditation Stress Reduction Circle – Whitianga – Mondays from 7.30-9pm at the Embassy of Friendship, 5 Coghill St. More info Steffen Lindner (Counsellor, Therapist & Mindfulness Facilitator) ph 022 0853 121 or email steffen@eof.nz
Mercury Bay Badminton Club – Thurs 5-7pm, 4 courts at MBAS gym. Please note club nights currently limited to existing club members due to high attendance levels. Contact: Steve 027 211 3568
Mercury Bay Badminton – Every Wednesday 9-11am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, ages 16+. Phone Carol 027 474 7493 for more information.
Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club – 92 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Social Bowls, Thursday & Sunday at 12.30pm, Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.
Mercury Bay Bridge Club – Every Wednesday at 1pm and every Thursday at 7pm at the MB Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. For more information, phone Gavin on 021 146 9203.
Mercury Bay Community Choir – Mondays 6.15pm-8.15pm, The Music Room, Mercury Bay Area School. Start date 3rd February. All welcome. No auditions needed. Phone Kate 027 2709058 for details.
Mercury Bay Environmental Trust – Every Tues and Fri from 9-11am, location advised prior. For more information, please email mbenvironmentaltrust@gmail.com or go to www. mbet.co.nz.
Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club – New season starts Thursday 6 March. Every Thursday evening, Whitianga Town Hall, 6.45pm. New members and visitors welcome. Phone Cheryl or Alan on 027 452 7887 for more information.
Mercury Bay Pickleball Club – At Mercury Bay Area School Gymnasium, Every Tuesday Members Night 5.30-7.30pm; Sundays 3.00-6.00pm- Open to New players (Training & equipment provided, first session free) and all members and visitors. $5 per session. Moewai Sportspark Outdoor Sessions-weather dependant & advised per our facebook page. Matarangi (Matai Pl Courts) Summer Hrs-Thurs 5-7pm, Sat 9-11am. Contact Grant 0223836351. Hahei Tennis & Pickleball Club Thurs & Sunday, Contact Tim 0278432683 or refer their facebook page.
Mercury Bay Squash Club – New members/ enquiries to Dawn Thurgood mercbaysquash@ gmail.com
Mercury Bay Table Tennis – Every Tues, 9-11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Ph Anne on 07 869 5162 or 027 565 5575 for more info.
Mercury Bay Tennis Club – Social tennis at Lyon Park on Thursdays at 5.30pm. All welcome. Ph Jason 022 186 7992 or Carl 027 680 5570. Oneness Meditation Centre – The centre focuses on the meditative art of going deeper within. Learn
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.
how to meditate, breath, calm the mind, relieve stress, anxiety and be a calm, peaceful, courageous, dynamic human being. Every Monday, 9.3011.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881 or email linda_c@orcon.net.nz
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 beginners – Town Hall, Mondays 6-7pm. Gold coin donation. Ph Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.
Tai Do Martial Arts – Town Hall, Tues/Wed 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146.
Tairua Contract Bridge Club – Every Monday at 12.30pm at the Tairua Bowling Club, 44 Hornsea Rd. Contact Lynnette Flowers 021 252 4709 or Johanna Bonnar 027 466 3726.
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 10am4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.
Whitianga Menz Shed – Open Tues/Thurs, 9am-12 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway, past the diesel truck stop. All welcome. Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/Fri 9am-12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@playcentre. org.nz or 027 880 3947.
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games. Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info.
Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome.
Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss
Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information. NEW - Yoga for Everyone - beginners/retirees/ inflexibles welcome. Weds 7.15-8.30am. Sats 8.159.45am. Gentle Simple. $25/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 11.30am12.30pm, improvers/seniors 12.45-2.30pm.
Contact Margaret 027 463 8850 or Glynis 021 1099 155.
SALSA/Merengue/Bachata and Cha Cha –Contact Molly, events@beatfairy.com. Every Monday from 6.30-7.30pm at Monkey House. $20 per class which includes a drink.
Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes – Town Hall, Monk St, $5 per session. New Beginners, Wed 2.45-3.45pm, Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.30-11.45am, Intermediate classes Wed, 121.30pm; . Contact Cecily 027 294 1750 or Kathy 027 4321 353
Zumba – Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk St. GROUP INFO
Mercury Bay Athletics – For info contact mercurybayathletics@gmail.com
Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. Phone Barb 0274 075 268. SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated – Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet.whitianga.admin@ gmail.com.
Whitianga Bike Park – 144 Moewai Rd, Whitianga. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, BBQs and walking trails. Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact John 027 366 4606. Whitianga Gun Club – For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Graham Sutcliffe on 021 846 655.
Whitianga Community Patrol – Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043.
10.30am Thursday 6 March at The Lost Spring All members and friends welcome.
TOES IN THE WATER
Beach Wheelchair & Walker available for the disabled & ill members of our community. This is a free service to enable access for all to our beautiful beaches. Phone 020 434 1647 to
Thames – Pak n Save, The Green Grocer (new), Richardsons Real Estate (new), Aeroview Garden Centre
Tairua – 4 Square, Surf n Sand Takeaways, Bayleys Real Estate, Gull Service Station, Super Liquor Coroglen – Coroglen Tavery, Colenso Cafe 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 (new), Whitianga isite Coromandel – Coromandel Oyster Company, Super Liquor, Coro Liquor, Coromandel Information Centre, Coro Super Saver, James & Turner
Also general stores at Taruru, Te Puru, Tapu and Colville
First game of rugby for 2025
It was great to see so many locals and visitors filling the bleachers and lining the boundary fences at Lyon Park Whitianga on Saturday, 1st March for the first game of rugby for 2025, a pre-season game, Mercury Bay versus Keri Keri. The weather was sunny
but steamy, hot and humid out there on the field. The B Grade match was played hard with good defence especially for the first game with training only just begun. Well done and thank you to Keri Keri for the long journey to Whitianga. Mercury Bay won deservedly, the score
being 24-12. All of Keri Keri’s points were scored in the second half of the game whilst Mercury Bay scored 6 points.
This Friday, 7 March, at Lyon Park, 6.30pm –annual Town versus Country Game.
SPORTS RESULTS
Please email your sports results, photos and captions to info@theinformer.co.nz and if we have space available we can publish them for you.
Mercury Bay Tennis Club Mixed Doubles Club Champs were held on Tuesday night. Jackie King and Jason Mcloughlin receive the Plate trophy from Peter Grant (left).
Carl Gubb and Trish Graves (left) in 2nd place to winners, Pip and Jude Calder (right) in the hotly contested big finale, 9-5.
