Eugene
Eugene
A superb community festival – world famous in New Zealand
BY PAULINE STEWART
It was a sublime A Taste of Matarangi event this last Saturday on the Village Green in Matarangi. It was the festival’s tenth birthday and things were a little precarious with the downpour day on the Friday before. however, Saturday gave the Village green a wonderful bathing of sunlight for almost the entire day to mark this special tenth year. The rain dampened nothing. That relaxed atmosphere
The northern sky hosts distinctly reddish Mars in the evenings which has stopped its western motion against the background stars and is now moving quickly to the east. It will soon once again form a straight line with Gemini’s twin heads before continuing further eastwards. It is easy to distinguish from the background stars as planets generally do not twinkle. Bright Jupiter lies far to its left but is now also moving quickly to the east. Mercury, Venus and Saturn have moved to the other side of the Sun and now appear in the pre-dawn sky. Venus is stunningly bright and a lovely crescent in a small telescope while both
and
are both almost 100x dimmer than Venus.
Tuesday, April 8 – The Moon sits just below the brightest star in Leo, Regulus. Friday, April 11 – There is an ISS pass from 7:10pm in the north. Saturday, April 12 - There is an ISS pass from 6:23pm in the north passing right beside the Moon and again another short one at 8:00pm in the west which disappears into the Earth’s shadow a few minutes later. Sunday, April 13 – We have a long bright ISS pass from 7:12pm near Jupiter in the NW which disappears into the Earth’s shadow near the pointers to the Southern Cross 3 minutes later. Monday, April 14 – There is a long ISS pass from 6:24pm in the west near Jupiter. Tuesday, April 15 – We have a long bright ISS pass in the west from 7:13pm. Wednesday, April 16 – There is a good ISS pass in the west from 8:25pm.
– layback but also exuberant – and marks the A Taste of Matarangi, was there in big dollops.
Organiser and Co-ordinator Bronwyn Ririnui was very pleased with the crowd and the atmosphere. The reputation of fine food with lots of variety, good wine, top auction items and loads of people were the reason. Bronwyn started the A Taste of Matarangi thirteen years ago. (Three years in abeyance for covid and a demolished highway due to cyclones). She wanted to create an event that affirmed the local community and involved people in meaningful ways. She envisaged a non-commercial, cost-effective event that had top quality music, food, wine and beer and one which raised money for local causes and where people experienced being able to give back.
“I believe in these events and the way our community works together to make it happen,” says Bronwyn. She spoke about the army of talent, good-
O’Reilly, Bronwyn Ririnui (co-ordinator), and Nick Ririnui (Bronwyn’s son).
has sourced the music for A Taste of Matarangi since the beginning. He returned for the 10th birthday; below, final feature act Black and Gold.
will and experience in the area and that these elements were the resource that makes A Taste of Matarangi a reality. For the three local causes –Te Rerenga School, Kuaotunu Land Search and Rescue, and Coromandel Resue Helicopter Trust – there was a real awareness of the school, the helicopter trust and the Kuaotunu rescue work. Each presented their story from the stage interviewed by Fabian Roberts of Coromandel CFM and each thanked the crowd and the organisers for their support. People could visit their respective stalls to support with donations and purchases. Te Rerenga school children brought a stirring
performance at the start of this greatly loved festi val that involves all the locals and brings people from far away in their droves to enjoy a memorable day of fun, music and eating. In the end it’s about people.
A BIG thank you to Bron wyn Ririnui, her family, her huge team of volunteers and the many generous sponsors and supporters.
Andy Swainbank (left) celebrated his 53rd birthday at A Taste of Matarangi with his two daughters Michelle and Ashleigh (next to Andy), his son Josh (on the ground) and family friends Janice and Rangi (right). The birthday shirts say it all.
Te Rerenga School children performing at the opening of the 10th anniversary of A Taste of Matarangi.
‘N CHUP Meal Deal 2 for 1, that’s right. Buy one meal, get one free. ALL DAY long. She’s worth the drive!
Best gosh darn night of the
Courtesy Tav’n Wag’n will pick you up & drop you o in Whiti. Must book though.. Just give ua call !
FREE POOL SUNDAY! All day Tender Tuesdays At the Tav - 200g Sirloin Steak, eggs and chips! $19 Available All Day!
Isabella White – Coromandel Youth MP 2025
BY HON SCOTT SIMPSON
Mercury
Bay Area School
student Isabella White will represent the Coromandel electorate at Youth Parliament 2025, says Coromandel MP Scott Simpson.
‘After a highly competitive selection process, I’m pleased to announce Isabella as our electorate’s Youth MP. Thank you to everyone who put their hand-up for this role; it’s heartening to know
that so many young New Zealanders are passionate about the future of our country.’
‘I was really impressed by Isabella’s passion, work ethic, and desire to make a difference in our community. She’s already amassed an extensive CV, which includes two part time jobs.’
‘Isabella is a house leader at her school, a Student Volunteer Army ambassador, a Blake Inspire Alumni, and she took part in Hands On
From the editor(s)
This is a difficult period for our Informer office. Personally I am finding it a struggle. I don’t mean the paper is struggling, but I will soon be the Editor by myself.
In a way that’s the easy part – doing things by yourself. Actually we have a small but excellent team here. The struggle is knowing we will be losing Stan. His stage 4 lung cancer will soon have its way. This will change things and I don’t fully know how. What is important to both of us is to keep people connected and inovolved with the news. We both say thank you to all the people involved in making the community of Coromandel a great place to live. His last “Stans Stuff” speaks of the love of this place. See page 15.
at Otago 2025. She is also a member of Mercury Bay Area School’s environment club and is developing a proposal to reduce the school’s carbon footprint through fast fashion.’
‘While Isabella’s tenure as Coromandel Youth MP will be highlighted by the twoday event at Parliament in Wellington on 1 and 2 July 2025, she will be reaching out to her fellow students and the wider community in the coming months.’
Isabella White discusses the upcoming youth parliament with our local member of parliament Scott Simpson.
‘Being a Youth MP is a terrific opportunity to get the pulse of the electorate and to raise awareness of the issues important to youth.’
Isabella’s tenure as Coromandel Youth MP covers the period 28 April - Friday 29 August 2025.
The seventh run by Kelvin’s Mini
BY PAULINE STEWART
Last Friday, 4 April, Kel vin Hyde, local resident of Marlin Waters, Whitianga, set off in his mini in the very early hours for the National Pork Pie Charity Run. This run will take 6 days and 2,300km later, he will arrive in Invercar gill.
It is easy to see Kelvin loves minis and his mini has a real purpose. His mini takes part in the Bi-Annual Pork Pie Charity Run which is a fundraising road trip
for all Mini owners, based loosely on the route taken by the Blondini Gang in the original movie, ‘Goodbye
Pork Pie’.
“Our mini will have done seven runs when we finish this one,” says Kelvin.
“I have had this little gem for four years and this will be my third run since owning the car.”
“I wanted to do this run and be a part of it, because I love minis and KidsCan is such an excellent charity for children, supporting their needs for school books, uniforms, shoes and other essentials for children,” says Kelvin. Kelvin invites his Coromandel community to support this great cause. To donate, google: https:// porkpiecharityrun.org.nz/ donate
CARPET • TIMBER LAMINATE • TILES • PAINT
Kelvin Hyde leaving early on Friday, 4 April for the national Pork Pie Charity Run Photo credit: Neighbour – Colleen
Who gets to host Miss Universe New Zealand 2025?
Well, the answer is clear. We do! Here at The Lost Spring, where beauty and nature come together in a breathtaking display.
BY DEBORAH KELSALL
Exciting times are ahead. Miss Universe New Zealand 2025 is to be held this Saturday at The Lost Spring!
Whitianga is about to become the epicentre of beauty, grace, and excitement as we proudly showcase the 2025 Miss Universe New Zealand finalists. Nestled in our own geothermal paradise, The Lost Spring is more than just a relaxing retreat — it’s a place where memories are made, and this weekend promises to create memories that will last a lifetime!
On Saturday, 12 April, we will welcome 14 outstanding women, each representing the diverse beauty of our beloved country, Aotearoa, New Zealand. These contestants have earned their spot as finalists and are ready to captivate with their charm, intelligence, and passion for New Zealand. It’s an event that promises to be nothing short of spectacular, and we can’t wait to share it with all of you!
For over two months, our Operations Manager, Deb, has kept this
exciting event under wraps. But the time has come to bring this dream to life, and we’re thrilled to finally announce the visit of the Miss Universe New Zealand 2025
finalists to our very own corner of paradise here in Whitianga.
When I first reached out to MUNZ to inquire about the tour route, I felt a spark – this was our
chance to invite them here to The Lost Spring. And when I got the green light from our CEO, Maria Balan, I knew this was going to be something special. It’s a true honour to be part of such an incredible event!
Being a part of The Lost Spring team isn’t just a job; it’s a daily reminder of the vision we have for our geothermal sanctuary.
I’m personally excited to have the reins for this event - to highlight not just the stunning geothermal pools that make our town so unique but also to capture the essence of each remarkable woman who stands before us.
Join us for an unforgettable Miss Universe luncheon on Saturday, 12 April , from 12:00pm to 3:00pm. This exclusive event offers you a chance to relax, enjoy the view, and experience what goes on behind the scenes when a woman is chosen to represent her town. Bookings are essential, and we urge you to reserve your table soon for an afternoon filled with elegance and inspiration. You won’t want to miss the chance to meet these extraordinary women
and experience the energy of this unforgettable day.
Our geothermal pools have been the heart of Whitianga for years, and now they will play host to the next generation of empowered, inspiring women. We can’t wait to share all of this with you, and we hope you’ll join us for an afternoon of beauty, elegance, and celebration of New Zealand’s finest.
Don’t miss out. Call today to secure your spot for the Miss Universe New Zealand 2025 Luncheon. It’s more than just a lunch; it’s a chance to experience the magic of Whitianga, the charm of the Miss Universe finalists, and the splendour of Te Wai Ngaro – our geothermal spring that is nothing short of mesmerizing. So, who will host the next chapter of Miss Universe New Zealand? We will! See you on Saturday, 12 April at The Lost Spring. Let’s make memories together. Ph: 07 8660456
Note: Due to this event, the pools will be closed on Saturday until 12 midday. The Restaurant will be open all day.
These young women will all be present at The Lost Spring this coming Saturday as part of the Miss Universe New Zealand pageant.
The Jayco caravaners gathered for a Sunday night chat and drink at Mike and Robyn Gee’s.
A great prewinter Jayco tour
BY PAULINE STEWART
They all drive Jayco caravans and they go on adventures together. That’s the idea and it is a very successful idea.
Local resident, Murray Bennett is the organiser and people from Wairarapa, Northland, Taranaki, New Plymouth as well as Mercury Bay and other parts of the Coromandel Peninsula come and join the other jayco Club owners for a travelling adventure in good company.
Murray has organised a pre-winter tour and this twoday stay of the twenty caravans in Whitianga was spent at Mike and Robyn Gee’s museum, a perfect stay for caravans. The hospitality of Mike and Robyn surrounded by their Museum
–-a most remarkable paraphernalia from folk history as well as a host of classic and historic vehicles is a paradise for tourers.
Their pre-winter tour includes three days in Coromandel, a day In Tapu and two days in Thames. Next Sunday, 13 April, the Jayco caravan safari travellers will be in Kaiawa on the Sea Bird Coast. Go to facebook – Jayco Owners Club – events.
Open-Meetings Reform Stalled at TCDC
BY GEOFF ROBINSON
What should have been a simple exercise in good governance for Thames-Coromandel councillors has instead become an internal tug of war, with opponents of transparency and accountabilty guidelines apparently digging in their heels against change.
In a surprise rebuff to reform advocates, Council’s controversial use of closed-door meetings failed again to make the agenda for this week’s (April 8) full monthly meeting.
District councillors discussed tourism promotion, play active recreation plans, a water supply easement in Thames – and rates -- but not the Chief Ombudsman’s recommendations on transparency and accountability in local government.
Until further notice, and despite the efforts of Deputy Mayor Terry Walker to garner support for a formal Notice of Motion (NOM) to put the transparency issue to another vote, public-excluded and unrecorded “workshops”, briefings and debate will continue. Walker requires the signatures of three other councillors to put the reform measure on
the agenda of a regular Council meeting.
In December, Walker met with community boards in each district ward. He reported overwhelming support for the ombudsman’s recommendations to open by default all Council meetings and “workshops”, with provisions for advance public notice and recording of attendees and proceedings. Walker presented his findings to council colleagues earlier this year.
Councillors Gary Gotlieb and Deli Connell confirmed last week their support for Walker’s notice. Doing the maths, no other coun-
cil member, including Mayor Len Salt, has been willing to put his or her name to a motion for transparency policy reform. With Salt silent on the issue and presumably comfortable with the public-excluded status quo, it would appear there is internal pressure within Council against any change, in spite of significant public concerns.
TCDC remains an outlier among district and regional councils nationwide in respect of its ongoing closed-door proceedings. Councils large and small altered their procedures, or reaffirmed their existing policies, last year to align with the recommendations on transparency and accountability. Official recordings, including that of Auckland Council, showed the transparency reforms being discussed and adopted in only minutes.
Failure of TCDC councillors to open their workshops and informal meetings would likely be a key issue in October local body elections, with individual councillor track records of interest to voters.
The Council will convene its next meeting on May 13. Continued on next page “Decision made on TCDC magazine”
ENQUIRIES FOR STAGE 2 ARE WELCOME!
All apartments are within walking distance to Thames’ shops, cafes, and walkways. The perfect location to enjoy your fun-filled retirement.
Our 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.
People and pets mingle at The Moorings Livestyle Village
BY DOROTHY PREECE
“Keeping a pet can be good for our health and wellbeing,” so says Toni Hatton, Manager of The Moorings lifestyle village on the Whitianga Waterways.
Toni saw that SPCA was promoting its ‘Clear the Shelters’ campaign from April 5th to 15th offering discounts to adopt a pet, so she invited the Thames SPCA shelter staff to bring along some pets for adoption, and threw the invitation open to the community. On Saturday there were three dogs and a bunch of cats and kittens up for adoption, with a sausage sizzle also attracting people and pets.
SPCA Thames Centre Manager Brent Thomas said the campaign was being rolled out
nationwide. “Our work is about rescuing vulnerable animals, but that leads to us looking after a lot of homeless dogs and cats,”
The Informer had heard some weeks ago that a decision in a council conducted workshop had been made regarding the annual publication of the TCDC magazine. This product, while a useful flagship largely promotes the work of the Council, competes with local media businesses in terms of advertising; costs a huge annual number of staff hours; and 11,500 copies are posted individually to homeowners. Most of this cost comes from the ratepayers. Advertising rates do not pay for the cost of the magazine.
Brent says.
During the week-long campaign, SPCA reduced its charges to $150 for dogs and $100 for
The Informer followed up the information with Councillor, John Grant. John was able to respond:
cats, but Brent says the cost of treating and de-sexing the animals is a lot more than that.
“We lose money with every
“I have an indication from staff that the TCDC Council magazine will not be produced. John indicated that cost is an issue; that it is not a core duty of Council. He also added that this is a hard one as it has been valuable communication to non-resident homeowners. However, there are many less expensive ways to communicate if that is the purpose of the magazine.
animal that is rehomed, but we can never charge the real costs.”
At the end of the day, all seven felines and one dog had been adopted to forever homes.
“It’s been an amazing day. As well as the successful adoptions, we’ve received piles of donated blankets and other items for the shelter,” Brent said.
“I’m sure we’ll be back here next year.”
Toni Hatton said they were delighted to showcase the work of SPCA at The Moorings.
“We’ve got plenty of space here to bring people and pets together, and to promote the village lifestyle.
“Stage two of the development has just come onto the market and we already have 12 expressions of interest, especially for those on the canal front.”
Please see TCDC page 16 of this paper as they have set out key issues for which they are inviting public comment. It is an important year for water done well, for rating and for voting.
The above is from the editor of The Coromandel Informer and not Geoff Robinson.
Millie Reeve brought her grandies, Jaxon and baby Jorja, to look for a kitten to adopt. They thought they might like the ginger one; Toni Hatton, Manager at The Moorings and SPCA helper Savannah Paskell with Riley (left), Whiskey, and Lucy. Riley got lucky and was later adopted.
The February that changed their lives Perhaps an opportunity to change your life?
BY GLEN WELLS
e all remember the storms of 2022/2023 –the inconvenience and
to our
For the vendors of 44 Kowhai Drive, Te Kouma, Coromandel, it was more than an inconvenience. Their life of some twenty plus years was completely altered.
The life they had enjoyed, their community of friends; holidays with family coming to stay; being able to just nip down the road with the boat and go fishing; – all gone.
Over the twenty years, the friendships grew strong; the ties tough to break.
The hours and days put into grooming the grounds and having gardens to be proud to show off. All overgrown?
One storm too many, and it was all over for them. The ground could not contain the heavy water table and then slowly, the ground and the home moved. It was all too much for them to be able to cope with or repair.
Now the property sits abandoned, waiting for its new life, waiting for some fresh energy and a new vision.
Is this your opportunity?
The vendors were covered well
by their insurance and looked after well. Time and themselves have moved on.
Now the property is going to auction. The vendor’s expectations are very realistic. Nothing fancy, just the best they can get, and they will be happy not to have the worry of the property sitting. A clean break.
An available report to those interested in 2023 makes for interesting reading.
It says, “For those with the ability and like a challenge?” This could be the start of a future holiday home for the family, or a family home in a great location where others just holiday.
The home has a single bedroom flat or unit downstairs, three bedrooms on the second floor, a large living area with a sun lounge leading onto the deck, a number of fruit trees, and what were once vege garden beds. Living here amongst nature listening to the sounds of bird life was very relaxing for the previous owners and it is there for a new owner.
AUCTION DATE:
Saturday, 26 April 2.00pm on site (unless sold prior). For your information pack contact glenn.wells@harcourts.co.nz Or watch for open home times to view or by appointment.
Whitianga Lions Family Picnic Day
with Bike Races and Bear Hunts
Sunday, 20th April
10am to 3pm at the Whitianga Bike Park
TEDDY BEARS PICNIC NEWS
Lions President Dayle Baker holding the trophies especially purchased for the bike races at the Teddy Bears Picnic. These will go to the winners of the different bike races to have engraved and hold for a year.
THE HUNTING & FISHING JUNIOR TOURNAMENT ISN’T
FAR AWAY, AND THE HYPE IS REEL!
To ramp up the excitement, Hunting & Fishing Whitianga, New Zealand have thrown in THREE mystery vouchers hidden within the starter packs! That’s right – three lucky junior anglers will score a voucher worth $100 each!
MORE ADULT VOLUNTEERS WANTED FOR THE MERCURY BAY DAY CAMP
Tuesday 15 April-Thursday 17 April
This wonderful holiday event has been running for over 20 years - 300 children, 50 teenage leaders and a large team of adult helpers. Give it a go!
Phone Tina Bartlett 07 866 4422
ALISON SHANNON PIPE ORGANIST FOR FRIDAY LUNCHTIME CONCERT
The Thames Music Group’s Friday lunchtime series is a wonderful opportunity for locals to enjoy live music and see the talents of local musicians. On Friday, 25th April, Alison Shannon, an organist and keyboard player from Whangamata, will take the stage to perform on the St George’s organ.
With over 60 anglers entered so far and incredible prizes to be won, this comp is shaping up to be an absolute cracker.
S U N DAY
Come see us at the office for an entry form or contact office@mbgfc.co.nz.
Starter packs can be collected during registration next Friday, 11th April, between 11:00am and 6:00pm at the MBGFC Clubrooms. These starter packs are limited, so make sure you get in early!
C O N C E R T
THAMES MUSIC GROUP
Presents An Outstanding Young pianist
Alison’s journey with music began in her teens when she was drawn to the organ at a church in Te Aroha, after years of piano lessons. Her love for the instrument deepened after attending a recital by Dutch organist Bernard Bartelink, which inspired her to explore the more virtuosic side of organ music. Alison went on to study organ with William Whittle (the Director of Music at St Peter’s Cathedral in Hamilton), and he encouraged Alison to apply to study at Auckland University under the guidance of baroque specialist Anthony Jennings. After four amazing years of study and performance opportunities, Alison graduated with honours majoring in Organ and Harpsichord Performance.
For this Friday’s concert, Alison will perform works from composers spanning the mid1600s to the 1920s, including
Classic Music’s rising star in Thames
One of the most promising young talents in classical music will showcase in the Sunday afternoon concert series on 13 April. 15-year-old pianist Shan Liu is a Year 11 student at Westlake Boys High School. Shan, is rapidly emerging as one of the most promising talents in classical music under the guidance of renowned pianist Stephen De Pledge.
In 2023, he made history as the youngest-ever winner of the Lewis Eady National Junior Piano Competition and received the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand Classical Music Award. In 2024, Shan was honoured with the Global Outstanding Chinese Artists Association (GOCAA), Young Artist Award and the AIMES Emerging Talent Award, and he was selected as a Featured Soloist with
both the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the Manukau Symphony Orchestra for 2023, 2024 and 2025 seasons.
Shan Liu Pianist
Shan has performed in renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York, the Sydney Opera House, and Auckland Town Hall. His solo recital at the 2022 Beethoven Orbit Festival in Aachen, Germany, garnered widespread acclaim for his technical brilliance and emotive interpretation.
Shan just won the NZ Concerto Competition
Don’t miss the chance to see one of classical music’s rising stars right here in Thames!
Details: Thames Music Group Sunday 13 April, 2.00pm
St George’s Church, Mackay Street Thames
Tickets - $20 adults, $15 for TMG members, Under 18s free entry.
Shan Liu, a 15year old Auckland pianist, is a promising t alent with gold a nd first place awards in classical music competitions around the globe.
Tickets:
Concert.
DETAILS:
Thames Music Group’s Free Friday Concert series presents Alison Shannon, Friday 25 April, at 12.15 pm, St George’s Church, Thames. Free entry, koha/donation gratefully accepted.
SALTWOOD
Len Salt and Anna Dunwoodie
IN CONCERT
An evening of contemporary, traditional and original songs and tunes for guitar and harp At Tairua Golf Club on Friday 18th April 7.00pm
Supporting Act – Garnham Woodruffe
Tickets $25 from Tairua Information Centre or Tairua Heritage Centre Phone: 0210550524 for further details
JS Bach, Domenico Zipoli, Max Reger, and Erik Satie.
Alison sits beside the pipe organ she will play at the Friday Lunchtime
BY LISA FUTSCHEK CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF SEAFOOD NEW ZEALAND
eafood New Zealand CEO
SLisa Futschek argues that when it comes to fisheries management, responsive decision-making is the responsible path.
Last week, I addressed a few of the major misunderstandings about the proposed Fisheries Act reforms. I clarified that on-board camera coverage is not going away – in fact, it will be as thorough as ever. Plus virtually all catch, whether returned to the sea or brought to shore, will be observed, recorded and counted against ACE (annual catch entitlements).
If the piece prompted you to examine any internalised assumptions about our fisheries management – or just to read the Ministry for Primary Industries’ (MPI) consultation document yourself – I consider my job well done.
This week, I’ve got a few more misunderstandings to clear up with you. Namely, on how catch limits would work under the proposals and why they’d mean more meaningful opportunities
Be responsible, be fast
Improving the way the Ministry for Primary Industries manages fisheries is a win for all Kiwis, communities and our oceans.
to influence decision-making, not fewer.
Misunderstanding: the proposed reforms will take away the public’s rights to have a say on fisheries management.
Given we at Seafood New Zealand are pushing so hard for everyone to submit on the reforms, it’s hopefully evident we absolutely support everyone’s right to have a say. To be abundantly clear: public consultation is here to stay, and we welcome that.
You will hear the exact opposite from opponents of change. They
claim that the public is being disenfranchised. That’s not correct.
What the proposals do outline are ways to make our fisheries management more transparent, data-driven and responsive to real-time changes. With 642 stocks for MPI to manage, only 20–30 stocks are reviewed annually under our current process, and that’s simply not enough.
The proposals outline a few main ways we can make our decision-making more efficient. The first is by allowing the Minister to consult the public on multi-year
catch limits. Note the important part of that sentence: “consult the public.” The changes simply front-load the consultation and give everyone certainty on future management and MPI more time and resources to devote to actual fisheries management!
The proposals would also allow MPI to develop formal management procedures for catch limits and other management settings. We already have highly regarded precedent for using management procedures for some species globally, like tuna, to provide trans-
parency and responsiveness in fisheries management. The procedures would set out in advance what action will be taken when a fish stock changes. Formal consultation would still be required to approve any proposed procedure, and we would expect extensive engagement with stakeholders on their development. Additionally, the Minister would consider public views on whether to approve it or not.
And the ultimate misunderstanding...that the Fisheries Act reforms are a “scam”.
Neither the government running this consultation nor the seafood industry (which I represent) are out to swindle you – that is the frankly offensive notion the word “scam” implies. As with all consultations, the public are being approached in good faith to consider the government’s proposals and have their say.
Fundamentally, the proposed reforms make good, scientific sense, and enable us to be nimbler, more effective and to take advantage of new technology and information. Ultimately, improving the way we manage fisheries is a win for all Kiwis, communities and our oceans.
With submissions closing this week on 11 April, I once again encourage everyone to participate in the consultation process, get informed and share your thoughts.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
NO, TO AGGREGATION OF WEALTH FOR A FEW
Isn’t it obscene, the way the gap between the haves and the have nots has ‘expanded’. Somehow our society has nurtured billionaires who see business as a tool to increase their wealth.
Our government seems to think that the ‘trickle down’ effect is real and not part of the flawed ‘neo-liberal’ Ideology. Thus, a heavy tax on these wealthy individuals is nowhere in the offing. Why not? How many billionaires have profit and increased wealth as their bottom line? They could be philanthropists in a small way many times over.
I believe that people with extensive assets should help their workers be shareholders who would end up working for themselves. This would help our citizens avoid the inequity of renting and improve the community well-being.
But greed for more than is needed for a good life, seems inherent in the human animal.
By having a government making laws for everyone, we try to get round our greed and share the goodies of life. Unfortunately, the aggregation of wealth seems part of the ruling class ideology. Thus, we have billionaires who are in a ruling class and have a vested interest only in further aggregation.
As a democracy, we should be electing people whose ideology is helping people to live the best life they can where generosity is part of everyday life, not tax avoidance or lack of education.
Peter H Wood, Whitianga
QUESTIONS ABOUT KUBOTA BILLFISH CLASSIC
Please could Kubota and any/ all involved share how the environmental impacts of the Kubota-sponsored Billfish Classic fishing competition, most recently hosted in Whitianga March 12-15 2025, are being mitigated?
I’ve contacted Kubota, TCDC and Waikato Regional Council and nobody has replied to my messages.
I certainly acknowledge the much-needed cash injection into the community, which is very welcome and needed. However, would it not be wise to also under-
stand how we can keep this event a fixture in the calendar for many years to come by understanding how it can be undertaken responsibly and sustainably?
I would hate to see this event find an abrupt end just like the Scallop Festival of yesteryear which very suddenly vanished from the Whitianga events calendar through oversight and mismanagement...
There has been much coverage of this event in The Informer. It would be a shame to let a key piece of the event remain invisible. Many in the community are asking the environmental management question which does come hand in hand with hosting large scale high-impact events like this.
There have also been questions raised about the tag and release perspective of this fishing event.
I have heard conversations that there seems to be some wild unchecked entitlement going on for the temporary benefit of a few at the huge expense of the rest of the community as a whole in the long run. The resource belongs to none of us, we are no more than its temporary custodians (even self-appointed custodian is a bit self-important!).
Annie Smits Sandano, Hahei
Note: The Informer has provided Annie Sandano with the contact details of Mike Plant – New Zealand Sports Fishing Council. Email: mike.plant@nzsportscouncil.org.nz
COUNCIL TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT PIGSTY
Prior to Christmas, I wrote a letter to Council (TCDC) complaining of the condition of the section at 97 Cook Drive, Whitianga. I said that I thought it was a great place for rats to breed and that it was, and still is, a fire hazard in our town.
In that letter I added that some of the rubbish was on road reserve and that is our land.
After a week or so, I received a phone call from a lady to say, they had received my letter, and it would be passed on to the appropriate committee.
I asked her if she would like to live next door to this house and section and she said, “No, Thank you.”
After a week or so, I received another phone call from a lady to say her committee had received
my letter and that they would discuss it and let me know the outcome. I asked her if she would like to live next door to this same house and section and she also said, “No. thank you.”
After a week or so, I received another phone call from another lady to say her committee had discussed my letter and they would let me know the outcome. I asked her the same question; “Would you like to live next door to this house and section?” she said, “No thank you.”
After a week or so, I received a phone call from a man to say that they had discussed my letter and there was nothing they could do. “There were no bylaws to cover this situation. “
So, I suggested that they show some courage and commitment and make a bylaw to cover this situation. I also pointed out to him that some of the junk on this land was on road reserve (and still is), and that Council could do something about that. I then asked him if he would like to live next door to this house and section and he said, “No, thank you.” I wonder if the Community Board Chairperson, Chrissie Robinson, would like to live next door to 197 Cook Drive?
If this person wants to create a place fit only for pigs, then go and do it out in the countryside, not in our nice towns. This is a tidy township. We should not have to put up with pigsties in the centre of town. I think Council should do something about this mess.
Bruce Williams, Whitianga
OPPOSITION TO FINANCIALLY MOTIVATED TOURNAMENTS
I write in support of previous letters to The Coromandel Informer and to state my opposition to the financially motivated and repeatedly occurring Billfish fishing tournaments, one of which - the Kubota Classic -occurred in Whitianga recently.
My opposition is based on the disrespectful and unsustainable nature of these events which encourage enormous numbers of out-of-town participants to embark on the full-scale slaughter or torture of sea life in return for the prospect of financial or material gain.
If we catch fish, it should be to feed our family, I don’t believe fish should die for prize money.
I am opposed to the practice of tag and release which often, after hours of torture, leaves an animal exhausted, injured and more vulnerable to predators. There is no data obtained from this tagging as the tags do not have trackers. The sports fisher’s tag and release efforts are purely for the benefit of the ‘sport’.
If the NZ Sports Fishing Council truly wants to appear to be practising sustainable methods, why not make it compulsory for the tags to in fact carry sensors/monitors and therefore back up their claims of sustainability with data regarding survival rates?
This event has been touted as beneficial to the local economy. Last week I personally surveyed 25 local businesses and only 4 –a tavern, a liquor store, a wharf side café and one other retailer – said they had benefited from the event. Many business owners were against the event and were shocked, as was I, to discover that this is now a privately run enterprise and no longer comes under the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club’s control. Why would our community support this onslaught of out-of-town people to fish up our waters?
Sharyn Morcom, Cooks Beach
MR. EVERTH REQUESTS READERS’ QUESTIONS ON CLIMATE CHANGE
(Re The Informer,1 April). So here goes:
(i) Why is it that the % of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere kept going up during covid, exactly as before, when worldwide industry, and its’ human CO2 emissions, plummeted?
(ii) If such a deadly catastrophic ‘experiment’ which is impossible to repeat due to its immense size, had no measurable impact on atmospheric CO2, what makes us think that our relatively feeble efforts will?
(iii) Given the trillions of dollars already spent worldwide on reducing human CO2 emissions, why has this, also, had no measurable effect?
(iv) Why is the 0.04 % of atmospheric CO2 over the Antarctic the same as over China, USA and India? As with particulates (pollution), should we not expect far more atmospheric CO2 over the countries emitting lots of human
CO2.
The obvious answer is that the 96 % of naturally emitted CO2 is so dominant, that any change in the human 4% contribution (only 0.0016 % of the atmosphere) is so minimal as to have no measurable impact. If these were abstract high school questions, the hypothesis, that human CO2 affects climate change through increased atmospheric CO2, would be dead in the water. However, long before poor old Giordano Bruno was burnt at the stake in 1600, cult beliefs have always over-ridden scientific logic.
Gerry Sanders, Whitianga TOURISM DEVELOPMENT –HA!HA!
Thank you Trevor Ammundsen for your supercallafragalistically, delightfully presented Tourism Development for Mercury Bay. Stanley (Stans’ Stuff) and I were sitting chatting when The Informer was handed to us hot off the press! We revelled in the front-page covering Sebastien Pan our local composer and then went looking for Trevor.
It is not often these days that you can sit and chuckle at what is presented in our media. We did more than chuckle, we laughed out loud. Then we came up with our own additions to this wonderful story. The laughter continued for some time. So, thank you for making our day – and for all others delighted in your imaginative April Fool’s Day fun – not a pumpkin – article.
Ady Cole-Ewen, Wharakaho
SHOUT OUT TO DOCTORS AND MB MEDICAL CENTRE
Recently there has been so much discussion about the state of our health system and especially concerning GPs.
I just want to give a big shout out to all at the MB Medical Centre who, in the last few months have been fantastic. Needing a non-urgent appointment urgently last week, an appointment was made within the hour and we were able to get what was needed.
Businesses in Mercury Bay generally are amazing and I want to thank them all for supporting locals as they do.
This all proves that we live in a wonderful community.
Linda Stratford, Whitianga
STAN’S STUFF
“Do you remember where you buried the money?”
That was the first question my sister asked. That was the only question in a 43 minute FaceTime call. “Of course I did,” was my answer.
BY STAN STEWART
My sister is called Sadie. She is 97 and those were her very first words to me in a facetime call from Melbourne organised by her family and mine a few weeks ago.
Her question had something to do with an event that took place about eighty years ago, not a current unsolved treasure mystery. She was seeing my face and I hers. We had not done FaceTime before. Audio calls were our mode of contact. In those first few moments, despite looking at the Stan of 2025, Sadie was gazing at her little brother who was seven years of age, and she was the protective older sister ensuring my path to freedom.
In that question and my answer, we were sharing a moment of trouble from long ago that helped define our relationship – her tender care of one who needed it and her strong will to defend and do the right thing. That moment occurred a few years after the Second World War.
I go back to the year I was born – 1937. My father thought the Japanese would invade Australia. He was not on his own in that. He planned a hideaway spot for his family way out of the city of Melbourne in the bush where there was a stream. He believed as long as there was a reliable supply of fresh water, he could live from the
bush. He built a bush shack out of the crates that housed imported military trucks, organised a few chooks and that became the weekend home, getting ready for what might happen.
But what was not in the plan was the death of our mother. That was just four months after I was born. My siblings ranged in age from 10 years to 19 years. There was no social welfare safety net. However, there was the church.
YOU NEED A WOMAN IN THE HOUSE
That was the advice my father was given from many in the church after his wife, our mother, died.
He needed to provide for five children, one was a baby, me, and one, my sister Laura, was about to be married. The church members said he had to have a woman to help him raise the family. Dad took their advice and married an ex-missionary. Little did he know that she was a failed missionary and that she had been expelled from the mission station in central Australia because she was a troublemaker. The main thing as far as the church was concerned was that she was a born-again missionary. For our very religious
Baptist family, that was the top consideration.
Dad married in haste and repented at leisure.
Our new ‘mother’ did not bond with my siblings. In fact, she disapproved of them and was cruel, particularly so to Sadie. However, she doted on me to the exclusion of everyone else. She wasn’t nice to anyone.
Soon, my father had my stepmother and me staying in the bush shack during the week while he looked after his four older children in the family home in Melbourne. He would come
and be with my stepmother and me on the weekends. He did everything he could to be a good father which meant keeping the family together even with an unbalanced missionary tyrant. Sometimes she was cruel to him as well, striking him with kitchen utensils.
The war was well and truly over but our little family
My sisters and brother were only allowed one visit a year. At the close of one of those very special visits in the bush, Sadie gave me a tobacco tin and some very strict instructions. The tin was full of coins.
I was to bury it secretly near the roots of a tree on our property in the bush. I knew every tree and my siblings did too. As soon as my stepmother became cruel, as they all knew she would, now that I was no longer a cute baby, i was to use the money to travel by train to Melbourne and to them.
Every day, I would think about the tobacco tin and frequently go to where it was to check that it had not been disturbed. Burying it where I was told was my secret from my stepmother and my dad. But it was much more. It was my most treasured possession; my
ticket to freedom. It united me with my siblings against someone who had succeeded in separating us but not dividing us.
My stepmother never became cruel to me, but she remained committed to keeping me to herself.
I never had to use the money to escape. I remember, quickly and secretly, digging it up the day Dad and I left that bush shack. We didn’t look back. I was 11 years old.
The tin never had the mystery of ‘my treasure’ again. Over time, I frittered that money away on lollies.
Eighty years later, the memory has not faded – for me or for my sister, Sadie. My other siblings have died. It is a memory I have needed – the love and fierce protectiveness of older siblings whom I could see only once a year.
I have wanted my life to be marked by good and encouraging memories in the hearts and minds of others, – some to bring tears of fondness but mostly my hope would be memories to bring a smile, even a chuckle, and energy for living well and generously for others.
This is my last Stan’s Stuff. I have written quite a few. I got a lot of help with this one.
Thank you Whitianga and the Coromandel for creating the time and space for me to write.
DECISION TIME FOR THAMESCOROMANDEL
Kōrero mai –We’re listening, tell us what you think.
Our district has three important issues to decide on and we'd like your feedback so that the final decision our Council makes reflects what the community thinks.
What does the future of water services look like?
Local Water Done Well Have your say
Our Council will soon be asking our community for feedback on how best to manage Council’s water services and infrastructure in the future.
The Government’s Local Water Done Well water services reform programme means councils throughout Aotearoa New Zealand must consider different management and operation models of our “three waters” – stormwater, wastewater and drinking water.
In Thames-Coromandel, a list of different models has been deeply researched and
What does the future of water services look like for Thames-Coromandel?
the advantages and disadvantages of each weighed up.
These models, and what each means for ratepayers and residents, will now be included in the Council’s upcoming feedback process for community consideration.
You’ll be able to provide feedback from 15 April to 15 May. We’ll be holding meetings throughout the district and reaching out for feedback on the proposed options.
tcdc.govt.nz/lwdw
RATING REVIEW 2025
Consultation Document
HAVE YOUR SAY FROM 17 APRIL TO 15 MAY 2025
This is your guide to help our Council make one of the most important decisions for the district in many years.
We’re reviewing our current rating system to make sure it is fair, equitable and transparent in how rates are calculated and applied.
Read through what the government’s Local Water Done Well reforms require all councils in Aotearoa New Zealand to do.
Explore the options that are available to TCDC. No matter what we do, changes are coming and you can be part of them
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK
Our Council will make a decision at its 8 April meeting whether to go ahead with the next step of the review which is public consultation to get your feedback on options.
If Council decides to proceed, then we’ll have several options, including the status quo, that we’ll present for you to consider over April and May.
If Council decides not to go ahead, then nothing will change.
Go online and fill out our feedback form, or a handy tear-out version is on the last page.
We have the same information that’s in this booklet, plus supporting documents and the online feedback form at tcdc.govt.nz/lwdw
tcdc.govt.nz/ratingreview
Proposed changes to summer kerbside collections
We’re also proposing to change peak summer collections for rubbish and glass recycling in our east coast communities from twice weekly to once weekly.
These communities, from Whangamatā to Whangapoua, would still have rubbish, glass, mixed recycling and food waste
collected once a week from the week of Christmas to the week of Waitangi Day.
The second collection hasn’t been well used. Fewer than half of properties put rubbish and glass out for the second collections and the trucks are usually finishing the day with small loads. This is not a good use of ratepayers’ money and needlessly adds to costs, pollution and vehicles on the roads. Our proposal will only affect rubbish and glass collections in our eastern communities, but all wards will benefit from the cost savings. Eastern communities will save the most since
they’ll see the service change, while Thames and Coromandel-Colville wards will also benefit as the rubbish and recycling budget is partially shared district-wide.
This proposal is part of the review of our Annual Plan for 2025/26, and we want to know what you think of this potential kerbside change.
The feedback period is from 1 – 29 April.
We’ll have public drop-in sessions where you can find out more and give feedback, as well as an online or paper survey to complete.
tcdc.govt.nz/annualplan2025
Giorma’s fish of a lifetime
BY GIORMA ALLEMANO
Last month I took off on a fishing trip up North. My mate Mike Wilson, who used to be my father’s skipper on Mamma Mia! in Whitianga many years ago, arranged for us to go fishing after Swordfish.
Saturday morning we got to the spot on Mike’s boat JD. Within a few hours we were hooked up with a swordfish. One hour later, after a solid fight, we had the fish in. 170kg as my first sword, and I was over the moon. This was my personal best (PB) fish and I could have gone home a happy man. But Sunday’s weather was great and the drive home isn’t short, so we did the obvious.
On Sunday, 23 March, as we were heading out, we dropped a stripey – not that I really cared after catching my first sword.
Once again we arrived at the grounds and dropped down. And once again we were hooked up. The sword even raced to the surface and leaped out. Within 30 minutes we had it next to the boat and safely released a healthy fish.
One sword sitting on ice was already more than enough meat. After two very tough but relatively fast fights, I made the mistake of complaining to Mike that I thought these were six-hour fighting fish and I wanted to feel the pain of a real fight.
Careful what you wish for, 30
minutes later something hooked up. I offered it to Mike who insisted I go again as I had been let off lightly.
The next 22 hours became what is a once in a life time experience.
We hooked up at 12.05pm. Throughout the afternoon we got it near the boat a couple of times but never enough to see the fish, even though the skipper knew it was a sword.
After about four hours, the body starts to hurt. It sucks but the physical pain is manageable and the skipper always ensured I had water.
As night started to approach, we were still nowhere with the fish. It would comfortably go on 200+ metre runs. It charged the boat at one point. At another it just cruised for close to an hour at nearly three knots with us following it.
Nothing we tried to do helped. At about 10 hours into the fight, everything just hurts on the body but I had a real scrap and was wanting to see the experience through what was by then night time broadbill fishing.
Fortunately, the ocean was glass and our vessel was a very well equipped 8m customised boat with a skipper that ran it like a Swiss watch.
At about 5.00am on Monday, 25 March, 17 hours into the fight ,we had the fish coming in. Skipper got the gaffs and gear all ready
and I was so relieved that this ridiculously long fight was finally over and we could see what we had caught. The light on the trace was approaching and lighting up the black water, so the fish was within 30 metres. Then suddenly it took off. In five minutes, the fish took back what had taken me five hours to gain. Over 250
$8 on selected ground cover like Coprosma Prostrata, Coprosma Poor Knights, Coprosma Kirkii Varigata and Coprosma Kiwi Gold. Plus there will be a lot more specials through to the end of April while stocks last.
www.facebook.com/hwbgardecentre
Fortunately, the ocean was glass and our vessel was a very well equipped 8m customised boat with a skipper that ran it like a Swiss watch.
metres was just gone, almost as if to torture you. The fish doesn’t even take it in a rush, just gradually cruises off like you’re tied to a steam roller. My heart sank at that point. I wasn’t even running on fumes anymore.
I started hallucinating seeing dancing lines in my peripherals. I nearly fainted at one point, going all pale from exhaustion. I even started to fall asleep.
I spent the next few hours gaining inches to then lose them, whenever the fish felt like cruising. I was ready to give up. The fight had gone longer than anything Mike had ever seen or heard about. Even longer than Matt Watsons 18 hour Swordzilla, which I had ironically watched the night before driving up to get myself prepped. There was no mental milestone to keep me going. I was done.
But inch by inch, it started to surface. Mike had kept me motivated just enough. He had to manage a single engine boat and fish and was as exhausted as I was.
The trace appeared and we saw a monster. The fish comfortably stuck out at each end of the stern
of the boat. It was huge. We gaffed it and secured it and once my part was done, I crumbled in the cockpit unable to move.
My legs and core were frozen, my arms were cramped, bruises and blisters on my thighs but I was on a massive high. I did it! That was all I could say.
The fish had been hooked on the dorsal fin, making it near impossible to turn it and have some control. And as Mike went to remove the hook, it just basically fell out.
For 22 hours this sword was only just hooked by a circle hook in the dorsal! The 80w Tiagra Shimano had run so hot and for so long that the drag washers inside fused when it cooled off. Amazingly every part of the gear had held under immense pressure for such a long time.
Luckily Mike keeps a winch on the boat and we were able to half bring the fish in the boat. The other half had to hang outside.
Mikes comment was, “That is the biggest tail I have ever seen on a fish”.
Throughout the course of the fight, the fish had towed us an insane 15 miles out to sea. It weighed 297.3kg on 37kg line, and took just over 22 hours with one angler on stand up. I think this is potentially a record.
Massive thank you to Mike who put in just as big of a shift to help me catch the fish of a lifetime.
Giorma’s big catch, after 22 hours, could not fit in the boat.
GAMES AND PUZZLES
Positive and busy –it’s good news!
BY PAM FERLA
“We’re out of the doldrums and feeling positive,” says manager of Tairua Information and Services Centre, Eve Roper, as she gets set for a busy Easter.
“We are getting back to the number of visitors preCovid, with people recorded through our doors in January topping 8,500.”
Eve says there are now a lot of tourists visiting the centre and they are keen to know what the Coromandel and Tairua have to offer.
“I find it astonishing that
we now have people from every corner of the world coming down to explore New Zealand. We have Canadians and Americans coming here in droves and they are very interested in our country.
“They say we live in a country that is exceptionally beautiful and they frequently stop to take photos. For me it’s heart-warming to be reminded of the beauty that we, as locals, may take for granted.”
She says the hot summer months have had a positive effect and there have been a lot of happy people calling in the centre.
“Our holiday homes have been mostly full. Our visitors ask about local walks and bike rides as well as tide times at Hot Water Beach. They also ask if they can get to Cathedral Cove and we are very happy to say yes, they can.
“With the Easter holidays coming up, we have a smorgasbord of activities in town, including our Easter egg hunt which starts 10am at Pepe Reserve on Easter Saturday. The Firemen’s Market is also on that day.”
Details of this and other events are at the information centre’s website. tairua.co.nz.
RESPONSE TO PUBLIC NOTICE
This is in response to the Public Notice from Whitianga Vets (TheInformer18March)andPyefamily(4February)
PHANTOM ODOURS
Noel Hewlett, Pauline Stewart, one TCDC councillor, our friends, family and grandchildren have all experienced the very pungent, nauseating chemical odours from the vet clinic onto our property, and we are all apparently liars or imagining (The TCDC Councillor first agreed then changed her mind).
We gave up having family and friends over for a barbeque as it is impossible to sit outside when the clinic is expelling the odours. It has been proven chemical, surgical odours are coming out of the clinic and these odours do not stop at the boundary fence.
The words “Spying, abuse and pacify” are not even worthy or a reply. This is purely an attempt to discredit Mr Pye.
Boundary Fence: If the owners of the vet clinic property and building thought the boundary was 300mm into 19 Lee St then it should have been addressed in the resource consent for the vet clinic. The resource consent application states that there would be no adverse effect on 19 Lee Street, so it was passed without being publicly notified.
We sold 73 Cook Drive in 2013 and not to the present owners, Thurgood Properties Ltd. We have spoken to the previous owner and there were no issues with the position of the boundary for both par-
ties. In fact, there were boundary pegs up against the fence as it stands. We asked for a legal surveyor’s report from the Thurgoods in 2022 at their expense but nothing has come of it.
Chemical odours are being expelled more frequently onto our property since our article and their reply. This impacts on our health and wellbeing. We are nearly 70.
Have a look at other vet clinics. There are hardly any windows and doors open, if any. Why? Because of the use of strong chemicals used in a vet clinic, and they have the proper ventilation systems in place not necessitating windows and doors to be open particularly when the nearest neighbour is so close.
There is provision in the RMA for the installation of a proper ventilation system in a vet clinic to remove these chemical and surgical odours but TCDC and WRC do not seem willing to apply that condition and take responsibility.
As a resident and homeowner, I should be able to open my windows and doors without nauseating odours coming through our home and our backyard without the chemical stench. Is that too much to ask for? Why should I have to continually message Mrs Thurgood about the strong odour.
Mrs S Pye, Whitianga
Jill Elliott from North Shore is impressed with Tairua Information Centre, saying “I received good advice and they also have beautiful products”.
COROMANDEL RESCUE MISSIONS
Assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition. 07.03
Assist with the interhospital transfer of a female patient in her 80’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
08.03 Waihi
Assist a female patient in her 70’s involved in a horse-riding accident. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition. 09.03
09.03
Assist a male patient in his 30’s involved in a vehicle accident. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Charles Assist a male patient in his 50’s suffering a medical complaint and in a moderate condition. Transportation to hospital by helicopter was not required and crew returned to base.
10.03 Whitianga Assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
13.03 Tairua
13.03 Tairua
17.03 Whitianga
Assist a female patient in her 30’s suffering injuries from a fall onto concrete. She was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.
Assist a male patient in his 80’s suffering injuries from a bike versus motor vehicle accident. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist a male patient in his 80’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.
22.03 Kuaotunu Assist a male patient in his 70’s involved in a boating accident. He was flown to Middlemore Hospital in a serious condition.
26.03 Whitianga Assist a male patient in his teens involved in a non-fatal drowning. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.
27.03 Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 50’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
30.03
Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a female patient in her 80’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown from Thames Hospital to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.
TRADES & SERVICES
TRADES & SERVICES
Keith Mahon Painters Ltd
SPORTS
TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB
Final round of the March Pairs
North/South: 1, Johanna Bonnar & Peter McNeil 61.00; 2, Carol & Ron Baker 54.50; 3, Jean Myles & Diny Naus 53.00. East/West: 1, Chris Death & Jocelyn Taylor 58.00; 2, Doreen Wernham & Jo Feasey 57.50; 3, Nicoli Fox-Waite & Heather Campbell 49.00.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Purangi Pairs Week 1 – 1 April
North South: 1, Peter and Robyn Hogg 64.00; 2, Norma Hart and Amy Hyde 54.00; 3, Val Dwight and Sheryll Roberts 50.50. East West: 1, Pam Churchill and Ngaire O’Brien 60.00; 2, Lee Hughes and Carol Henwood 55.00; 3, Jean Myles and Natasha Courtney 49.50.
MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB
April Competition round 1
Wednesday, 2 April
North/South: 1, Robyn Hogg & Geoff Jervis 59.3; 2, Val Dwight & Rose Tegg 57.9; 3, Don Barry & Giorgio Allemano 54.6. East/West: 1= Amy Hyde & Augusta Canegallo, Susan Swan & Bob Schibli 58.3; 3 Denise Knutson & Dave Dylla 55.4 Harbour Pairs round 2
Thursday, 3 April
1, Steven Knowles & Gavin Hedwig 62.7; 2, Julie Rutledge & Rose Tegg 61.1; 3, Ischelle Stevenson & Jenny Layton 53.2
MERCURY BAY CLUB – DARTS
15 players this week so 501 singles were played. Several players won three sets this week but only two players went through winning all four sets. They were Rex Donaldson and Richie Neighbours. After a very close game, Rex Donaldson came away with the win. Highest finishes this week were, 52 for the ladies, scored by Nan and 75 for the men, scored by Rex Donaldson. No 180’s scored this week. A trip away to play against Ohaupo on the 31st of May is being organised. Any interested parties please contact the dart club on any Tuesday night after 6.30pm.
MERCURY BAY CLUB – SNOOKER
Wednesday 2 April
A good field of 13 today and it’s Rob Rielly, Wayne Ratrick and Wayne Malcolm with two straight wins each to challenge
the finals. Wayne Malcolm wins the drawn bye and Rob despatches Wayne Ratrick in the semifinal to go through to meet to Wayne Malcolm in the final. A very close battle this was coming down to black to win which Rob pots to take home the cash prize. Wayne Malcolm runner up and with two wins Wayne Ratrick , Ian Baumgren, Bob Haase, Ken Gibson and Kevin Taylor.
Saturday 5 April
9 players today and it’s Ian Baumgren and Bob Haase with two straight wins each to battle out the final third frame. A great close game this was with Bob snatching victory and the cash prize. Runner up Ian Baumgren and with two wins Phil Jones and Greg Murphy. Highest break PeterSchultz with 21.
MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING
CLUB
Thursday 3 April
Winners: Alan Henderson, Merle Ward and Betty Russell
Runners-Up: Maureen Lack, Wayne Fisher, Sue Webb and Betty Simpson
Good Sports: Wayne McNeill, Ian Sanderson and Sandie Morris.
PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
9-hole Stableford plus hidden holes
Tuesday, 1 April
Stableford: 1= Steve Borlase, Neil Robertson, Dave Gibson; 4, Jock Peacock
Hidden Holes: 1, Dave Gibson; 2= Steve Borlase, Annabel Wharton.
18-holes nett Cooks Beach Building
Supplies Monthly medal
Saturday 5 April
1, David Young on count back winner of monthly medal; 2, Donna Dinsdale; 3= Neil Robertson, Neil Vowles, Catherine Borlase
4BBB NETT: Donna Dinsdale and Jeff Bright
TAIRUA GOLF CLUB
Tuesday 9 hole Putting
1= Annette Eltringham, Mike McCann; 3= Frances Reid, Joyce Birdsall, Robyn Hunter, Graham, Eltringham
THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF
9 Hole Mens Stableford
Monday 31 March
1, Phil Rodgers; 2, Paul Dixon; 3, David Macdonald
UPCOMING GAMES
Twos: Graham Kemp on hole 5
9 Hole Ladies Best Gross
Tuesday 1 April
1, Jaine Were; 2, Merrin James; 3, Christine Godden
Twos: Christine Godden on hole 5
18 Hole Mens Net Medal
Wednesday 2 April
1, Geoffrey Hill; 2,
Best Gross: Gary Bancroft
Nearest the Pin on hole 18: Geoffrey Hill
Twos: Geoffrey Hill on Holes 5 & 18; Tim Bartlett on Hole 5; Tracey Mulligan on Hole 5; Frank Geoghegan on Hole 13
Tracey Mulligan; 3, Glenn LeLievre; 4, Brian Tomlinson
Whitianga Boat Repairs
We specialise in woodwork repairs & maintenance, including teak decks & platforms, insurance and rot repairs, plus we fit new transducers, anchor winches, bow thrusters and more.
Mitch has over 40 years experience with an Advanced Trade Cert Wooden Boat Building qualification to back it up!
Phone or email for info E: info@whitiangaboatrepairs.co.nz
Mitch 027 4852046
Phyll 027 4852036
Last Saturday’s games Mercury Bay Development and Premiers went to Paeroa.