Issue 1156 - 06 May 2025 by theinformernz

Coming to the Coromandel

BY PAULINE STEWART

Mercury Bay Performing Arts (MBPA) debut production, Disney’s Aladdin Jr, will be delighting audiences in the next ten days with several performances at the Mercury Bay Area School Auditorium.

Led by musician, songwriter, and CFM Breakfast Host, Fabian Roberts, this production has been all about involving and developing the talent and enthusiasm of children and young people through musical theatre.

The story of Aladdin has a lot of mystery and excitement, based in a realm of fantasy with a battle for good to win over evil.

Disney turned it into an animated movie block buster with breathtaking music and colour. Mercury Bay Performing Arts purchased the rights to present it in Whitianga. A team of producers, directors, technicians and support crew plus a phenomenal cast of very talented children and young people are bringing it to the stage for the residents and visitors on the Coromandel.

Continued on page 3

BASKER ROAST NIGHT

Every Wednesday night from 5pm

Pork, lamb, chicken or beef Buffet salad and sauce bar Bookings recommended

THE WHITIANGA

ESPLANADE PREFERRED OPTION REVEALED

Preferred options on how to improve Whitianga’s marine facilities and waterfront area have been sent to The Informer by TCDC and will be presented to the Mercury Bay Community Board on Wednesday 7 May.

Stage 1 and 2 of the project involved developing concept plans to upgrade local marine structures, the waterfront area, and the Robinson Road Boat Ramp area. This followed review of previous studies, and involved input from local user groups, residents, commercial operators and iwi representatives. Public consultation, including community drop-in sessions and a survey on the options, was held from November to December 2024.

Survey respondents listed walking/jogging/running, the passenger ferry, the playground, waterfront

events and recreational trailer boating as the most popular activities in these areas. Other survey findings, including most popular priorities, and how the project got to this point can be found on the Council’s website.

A report, and the preferred concept plans recommended by the Projects Advisory Group, will now be presented to the Community Board at its 7 May meeting.

THE PREFERRED CONCEPT PLANS ARE:

1. A new public pier with dedicated commercial fishing hub at existing wharf (Concept 1)

2. Retention of the playground, better parking (Concept 3)

3. Robinson Road Boat Ramp upgrades and overflow parking – do nothing, plans deferred due to funding limitations (Concept 5)

If the Community Board

decides to proceed, over the next 18 months Stage 3 and 4 of the project will focus on detailed design and business case development. Stage 3 & 4 is estimated to cost $1.1m and can be accommodated by existing budgets. Whether the substantive construction (Stage 5) goes ahead, will be determined in the 20272037 Long Term Plan when the community will again have the chance to have its say.

Continued on page 2

What’s that Number?

Emergency 24 hours (Ambulance, Fire, Police) 111

Police (Whitianga) 866 4000

Police (Tairua) 864 8888

Police (Coromandel Town) 866 1190

Fight crime anonymously –Call Crime Stoppers 0800 555 111

Dog and Noise Control 868 0200

Civil Defence 868 0200

Coromandel Town Medical Centre 866 8500

Mercury Bay Medical Centre (Whitianga) .........................866 5911

Tairua Medical Centre 864 8737

Thames Medical Centre 868 9444

Need to talk?

Call/text anytime for support from a trained counsellor 1737

Harbourmaster (Waikato Regional Council) 0800 800 402

Coastguard Radio Operators 866 2883

Whitianga Social Services 866 4476

Whitianga Locksmith Services 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

The Esplanade preferred option

• Mercury Bay Community Board pushed for community engagement in Stages 1 and 2 and concept plans were created with input from primary users of each area. In addition to improving safety and functionality, the plans aim to better cater to increased demand while addressing community aspirations and financial feasibility.

• The Project Advisory Group includes board representatives, Ngati Hei and Whitianga Marina Society representatives. It researched, reviewed and listened to all feedback plus advice from marine engineering professionals before coming to its preferred option. It is noted the report’s Total Budget Estimate of $16.5m includes the current Wharf and Pontoon Upgrades and all project figures have a 25% contingency. These total costs are not being signed off at Wednesday’s meeting.

• There are many aspects to this long-running project. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about any of the above. We will be happy to help.

MOST POPULAR ACTIVITIES AT WHITIANGA ESPLANADE

Walking/Jogging/Running

Recreational

Recreational Fishing (Wharf)

Supplier to Commercial Fishing

KEY PRIORITIES FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

Children’s Play Area/Family Space

Support Growth & Local Economy

Accessibility

Space for Events

Enhanced Recreational Space

by the author’s name, phone no, email or residential address. Opinions expressed (esp. in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher and can be cut if too long.

Editor: Pauline Stewart (027 271 6182)

Business Manager: Emma Gaunt

Delivery Managers: Dave Piper & Merv Gregory Web Host: EMD Agency Circulation: 9000

Writers: Jack Biddle, Trevor Ammundsen, Michelle Dellabarca, Dorothy Preece, Pam Ferla, John Pratt, Malcolm Campbell, Addie Lane.

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

Editorial: info@theinformer.co.nz, Advertising: sales@theinformer.co.nz Admin: office@theinformer.co.nz Editor: 027 271 6182

Eta Aquarid meteors early in the week with the best viewing from well after midnight to dawn in the north. These are swiftly moving remnants of Halley’s comet burning up in the high atmosphere. Tuesday, May 6 – The Moon now sits to the right of Regulus in Leo. Wednesday, May 7 – The Moon lies far to the right of Mars and the Beehive Cluster and we have a low ISS pass from 5:51pm in the west followed by a Tiangong pass in the NW from 6:21pm. Thursday, May 8 – There is a good Tiangong pass from 6:58pm in the west ending by the Southern Cross as it disappears into the Earth’s shadow. Friday, May 9 – There is another good Tiangong pass from 5:47pm in the west. Saturday, May 10 –There is a Tiangong pass from 6:23pm ending just below the pointers. Monday, May 12 – There will be a Tiangong pass from 5:57pm in the west again ending just below the pointers. Tuesday, May 13 – There will be a low ISS pass from 6:32am in the North passing right between Venus and Mercury. Wednesday, May 14 - There will be another low ISS pass from 5:46am in the North passing right between Venus and Mercury.

Continued from front page

There has been quite a team assisting Fabian; many local people with a particular part to play in bringing this local Disney musical theatre version of a great traditional fairy story to life.

Emma Fletcher is the Director. She is an experienced stage director and teacher and her assistant Director, Amanda Roche is also a very dedicated performing arts educator. Leni Whale, a Year 13 student at MBAS and choreographer, has brought his youthful creativity to the presentation. The Producer is Corban Duerre and the Sound and Lighting tech is Isi Cox. Kathy Moylow and Jenny Bell are the Stage Managers for this very large cast of over 50 ranging in age from 8 to 18 years.

“This production is inspired by my own children and the incredible potential of local youth.” Fabian says.

“We’re not just putting on shows here; we’re creating a community. We’re incredibly grateful to Coromind Magazine for the financial support which has helped make possible this local version.”

THANK YOU:

It takes a lot to put on such a musical production as this. Fabian was effusive about thanking all the current sponsors.

Gold Sponsors: • The Lost Spring • Smitty’s Sports Bar and Grill • ADG Automatic Doors and Gates • The Warehouse Whitianga.

Silver Sponsors: • Storcom

• Coromandel’s CFM • Peninsula Scaffolding • Whitianga Information Centre • The Coromandel Informer • Slice Slice Baby.

Bronze Sponsors: • Subway Whitianga • Monkey House Lounge and Cabaret Whitianga

A special word of thanks to parents who have ensured their children can be at all rehearsals.

This show, starring all local children and young people from around the Coromandel Peninsula, promises to be very colourful and exciting. The music, drama and singing are fantastic. This is a big cast musical with lots of action, great music and excellent presentation. You are in for a spell binding performance.

Opening night of Disney’s Aladdin Junior, the Musical, is Thursday, 8 May at the Mercury Bay Area

Children’s Musical Theatre in full swing on the Coromandel

The cast rehearsing for opening night; You will see them in full Arabic dress at the live performances.

School auditorium.

Get your ticket (s) today for one of the six performances as well as two matinee performances of Aladdin Junior.

Tickets can be purchased at the Whitianga i-SITE Information Centre, either in person or over the phone at +64 7 866 5555.

Performance days are Friday, 9 May, Saturday 10 May, Thursday, 15 May, Friday 16 May, and Saturday 17 May, with two matinee performances.

Is New Zealand’s social fabric fraying?

Reporting

on Social Cohesion in New Zealand.

CLARK FOUNDATION

While much has been written about social cohesion, there have only been sporadic efforts to measure it.

Led by The Helen Clark Foundation and authored by economists Shamubeel Eaqub and Rosie Collins, the new report, Social Cohesion in New Zealand, offers a sobering picture of where we stand as a nation. The study revealed New Zealanders have reported lower levels of happiness, safety, trust in government and financial satisfaction than Australia.

It provides a broad thematic measure with Australian comparison. In 2024, 49% of New Zealanders agreed with positive statements that indicate social cohesion. In Australia, comparable questions gave a higher score at 56%. New Zealand’s social cohesion is 8 percentage points lower than in Australia, and New Zealand lags on every dimension.

There is a lot at stake – the opposite of social cohesion is polarisation.

Social cohesion can be understood as the glue that holds our communities and society at large together. Without social cohesion, societies become increasingly unstable – from politics to business to civil society to day-to-day life in our communities. This is a pattern increasingly seen around the world, and New Zealand is not immune.

The survey within the report provides a broad and consistent measure of social cohesion across five dimensions: (1) sense of belonging, (2) sense of worth, (3) social inclusion and justice, (4) participation, and (5) acceptance and rejection.

This gives us an immediate comparison with Australia – with worrying results. We are lagging in every dimension. Over time, we will also be able to measure changes in social cohesion, in what ways and for which groups. The biggest fracturing in social

cohesion is apparent across political preference, work participation, income and ethnicity. There were encouragingly smaller differences across age groups and regions.

While this survey reveals a growing division, it reinforces the need for New Zealand to address the underlying causes of social and economic issues. At the official launch of this report, Shamubeel Eaqub rightly emphasized: “We must start conversing with each other, instead of trying to convert.”

Read the report in more detail: https://helenclark.foundation/ support-our-work/social-cohesion/

The Informer invites feedback on this important subject.

THE FIVE DIMENSIONS, WHAT DOES THE REPORT SAY?

We feel proud to be Kiwi: 8 in 10 of us feel a sense of belonging to Aotearoa — but only half feel the same about their own neighbourhood.

Many are skipping meals: 1 in 4 Kiwis sometimes go without food because they can’t afford it — and most of us say inequality is too high.

Safety isn’t equal: Only 45% of women feel safe walking alone at night, compared to 71% of men.

We’re disconnected: Only 1 in 3 Kiwis are part of a local or community group.

MORE RESEARCH AND ACTION REQUIRED

The survey in this report was made possible by: the J R McKenzie Trust, The Tindall Foundation, Todd Foundation and Netsafe. The analysis and commentary was provided pro-bono via Eaqub & Eaqub Limited (Shamubeel Eaqub & Rosie Collins). Talbot Mills Research supplied the descriptive analysis.

This is an important new research piece, examining social cohesion in New Zealand. The comprehensive survey mea-

sures New Zealanders’ attitudes across a wide range of factors that collectively indicate our sense of togetherness.

Since the report’s public release, The Helen Clark Foundation and Netsafe New Zealand, has been campaigning on how to improve social cohesion through a range of practical resources.

These resources are linked below and offer small, actionable steps that people can take

to create stronger more socially cohesive communities.

This research models a survey run annually in Australia by the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute. The aim is to undertake the survey in New Zealand over the next 5 years as a means of measuring changes in our levels of cohesion as well as taking a deeper look at specific areas of concern and where there are opportunities to build connection and community.

Discrimination is real: 1 in 5 Kiwis faced discrimination last year — and Māori, Pasifika and Asian New Zealanders experience it at much higher rates.

Celebration of Helpers

Saturday 7 June – midday Whitianga Fire Station, Kupe Drive

The Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust, in collaboration with Whitianga Fire and Emergency, is holding an Open Day where the public can meet the people behind some of Whitianga’s helping organisations and find out more of what they do.

We know there are many people in our community that may have time to offer, who may have thought about volunteering but are not sure where to start or who to approach. This is your chance to explore opportunities to give back to your community, it’s organisations like these that keep small communities like ours going. Find out what is involved in helper roles for a variety of very different organisations.

• Bellyfull

• Coastguard

• FENZ

• Grey Power Mercury Bay

• Manawai Kai

• St Andrews Opshop

• Heto Hone St John Health Shuttle

• Heto Hone St John Opshop

• Heto Hone St John Operations

• Te Tihi Nui Trust

• Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust

• SeniorNet Whitianga

• The Lions

Keep an eye out for updates as we plan the event.

Any other organisations wishing to be involved please contact Di Taylor 027 252 7996 or ditaylor1965@gmail.com

COROMANDEL RESCUE MISSIONS

For the Auckland & Coromandel

Rescue Helicopters

1-30 April 2025

05.04 Papa Aroha Assist a female patient in her 30s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

10.04 Hahei Assist a female patient in her 30s suffering a medical condition. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

19.04 Whitianga Assist a male patient in his 60s suffering a medical condition. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.

19.04 Thames Assist a male patient in his 70s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.

20.04 Tapu Crew tasked to Tapu for search after a smart watch crash activation for possible motor vehicle accident. It was a false alarm and crew were stood down and returned to base.

21.04 Waihi Beach Assist a male patient in his 30s involved in an accident with a window. He was flown to Tauranga Hospital in a serious condition.

22.04 Tairua Crew tasked to Tairua by Police to assist with the search and rescue of multiple persons in the water. Crew were stood down enroute and returned to base.

23.04 Gt Mercury Assist a male patient suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.

Island

24.04 Matarangi Assist a female patient in her 70s involved in a motor vehicle accident. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

24.04 Whangamatā Assist a female patient in her 60s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

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.

A game of two halves

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

Abeautiful autumn day and a good crowd in attendance promised much for the Mercury Bay Seniors game against competition leading Waihi Athletic at Lyon Park. There was a bit of silverware at stake for this game including the trophy for first round competition leader. Mercury Bay, in second place on the table, were in with a chance to upset Waihi and claim this trophy for 2025.

Waihi kicked off and for the next ten minutes there was a bit of a jockeying phase with both sides testing each other. This finished when Mercury Bay scored the first try of the game which was converted by Colville Green. What followed was a period of dominance from Mercury Bay with the next try coming in the form of a penalty try in the 16th minute. This was also converted giving the home team a 14-0 start.

The home team kept on the pressure after the kick off and soon scored in the corner for the third try in the 19th minute with the conversion from wide out missing the mark. The 19-0 lead was looking quite positive for the home side but what followed was a sustained period on attack for Waihi, but also a period

which once again left them with nothing to show for it. Offences by Waihi often benefited the home side, in fact it was noted that at times they looked as disciplined as a Liverpudlian soccer crowd. The resulting penalties either relieved pressure for the home side or enabled them to launch attacks. So it was that after 32 minutes Mercury Bay roared back onto attack and scored their fourth try and once again the conversion from Colville Green was successful and the home side led 26-0.

From the kick off Waihi again attacked and were rewarded with a penalty just before half time which they successfully kicked leaving the half time score at 26-3 to the home team, who definitely had the better of the first half.

The second half saw Waihi on attack for much of the time. Their kicking game to exit their defensive zone was good and although the Mercury Bay back three were generally solid under the high ball Waihi made good ground out of the aerial exchanges. I started to wonder if the Bay full back was taking too much notice of all of the instructions being yelled at him from the crowd, as he looked uncertain on occasions, but when he backed himself it tended to work

better.

Waihi put on a lot of pressure, using their larger blokes to target the Bay backs and as the backs tired they found it difficult to move the ball past second five. The pressure from Waihi had an effect and they crossed the line in the 14th minute, which they also converted. From the kick off the pressure continued resulting in another try to the visitors which was also converted taking the score to 26-17 and the confidence of the local supporters was challenged.

Mercury Bay defended well and the Waihi discipline problems gave them some respite until the 39th minute when Waihi were awarded a penalty about 40 yards in front of goal. Needing more than a converted try to win the visiting captain decided to take the kick and hoped to launch one more attack from the kick off that would follow. The penalty was successful and with the score at 26-20 the last play commenced. Probably a bit of a long shot for Waihi to snatch it from this position and after a bit of scrappy play Mercury Bay were able to clear the ball for touch and claim the win. A great game from both sides and a definite game of two halves. Final score Mercury Bay 26 beat Waihi Athletic 20.

Season Opener for Mercury Bay Woman’s Rugby

On Sunday 4th May the Mercury Bay Women’s Rugby Team travelled to Ngatea to play Paeroa. This occasion marked the first competition game of 2025, also being an away fixture, with both pre-competition games having been played at home.

The weather conditions in Ngatea were near perfect, a clear warm day which drew a very respectable crowd. Paeroa supporters outnumbered Mercury Bay a little; understandable given their closer proximity to the Ngatea venue.

The match was far more even than the final scoreline of 32-10 in favour of Paeroa suggests. The Mercury Bay ladies competed strongly in the first half, but regrettably they suffered injuries which forced three important players from the game before half-time. These injuries were telling as Paeroa piled on points

Both teams enjoying a moment together after the final whistle.

in the initial parts of the second half.

The Mercury Bay ladies showed true fight and character however, to rally strongly in the last ten minutes enabling Trin-

ity Holmes to score the final try of the match. The Bay’s other try scorer was Macca Boyd who also made several brave and well executed tackles. Macca was a deserved winner of the Player of

the Day Award

For the most part, despite the injury toll, the Mercury Bay team were generally competitive and tenacious with the scrum and breakdown areas working well.

The Paeroa team had a good defensive line which proved difficult to break, but the Bay ladies will benefit from this experience. All things considered this was another positive step forward on Mercury Bay Women’s Rugby journey in 2025. Valuable learning as to travelling, encountering new venues and meeting staunch opposition.

The next fixture in the calendar sees the Ladies return to the home soil of Lyon Park on Sunday 11th May, playing against Te Aroha at 1 pm. The ladies would be grateful for a strong turnout of local support as they chase their first victory.

Also, please remember that joining the team is wide open for those interested. The recent spate of injuries means numbers remain a little thin so please contact Grace on 0272924514 for information.

Waihi clear the ball from the base of their scrum.

The big boys get to work as Mercury Bay feed the scrum.

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Crossword Puzzle

, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.

1. Dig (8) 5. Rounded thermometer part (4) 7. Clothing (4) 8. Straw-roofed (cottage) (8) 9. Peru beasts (6)

Chapter title (7)

Hates (7)

Lyrics (6)

Adornment (8)

Foundation (4) 23. Alleviate

... one’s time (6)

Illegally assist (4)

Says further (4)

Is compelled (to) (3)

As well (4)

Novel thought (4)

Dedicate (6)

Sheathe (6)

Intimidating comment (6)

Evaluate (6)

Cast ballot (5)

Ship’s room (5)

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 – Monday 28 April and Friday 9 May. 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, Phone: 027 954 7434please email mbenvironmentaltrust@gmail.com or go to www.mbet.co.nz.

TRADES & SERVICES

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

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

Mercury Bay Pickleball Club – At 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 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 – 9.30am-12.30pm 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.

Yoga for Everyone - beginners/retirees/inflexibles welcome. Mon 2.30pm, Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 8.45am, Fri 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25/90 minute session. Txt Rosemary 0274 489326 for info.

DANCING

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

Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran.com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm. Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Tuesdays beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.452.30pm; Thursdays absolute beginners 11.30am12.30pm, 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

Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc – AGM, 11.00am on Thurs 15th May 2025 at the MB Club. Doors will open at 10.30am. All are welcome. Lunch & guest speakers. Any questions ph 07 866 5516. 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.

Recruiting for Women’s Rugbywhy not give it a try? Phone Grace on 0272924514.

TRADES & SERVICES

AUTUMN CUP PLAYED AT THE MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB

BY GRAHAM ECCLES (PRESIDENT)

Recently, the Mercury Bay Golf Club hosted the 89th edition of the NZ Women’s Autumn Cup Pairs Tournament.

Played over three days at Matchplay format, the tournament was blessed with fine weather which highlighted the well-prepared course.

The organisers, Kerali Golf, were very complimentary of the welcome and efforts of club members and staff to make the event “a challenging but enjoyable experience for all participants” who travelled from all over New Zealand to compete.

In an exciting final. Local ladies, Debbie Holmes and Jane Deadman, emerged winners to take out the championship from Lynda Tate and Trudy Morrison of Omaha Golf Club.

OTHER RESULTS WERE:

Plate: Sandra Thompson and Kay Gregory (Ngaruawahia).

Flight: Peggy McLean (Coromandel) and Ruth Rennie (Waiheke Island).

Plate Flight: Gail Dougherty and Sharon Young Mercury Bay.

CHURCH SERVICES

C3 Church Whitianga

Join Us, Expect Miracles!

Sundays 10am 22 Coghill Street, Whitianga

Anglican Worship

Every Sunday at 9.00am at St Peter the Fisherman 7 Dundas Street, Whitianga ALL WELCOME Enquiries phone 021 781 081 www.anglicanchurchwhitianga.org.nz

St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church 82 Albert St Whitianga (Opp Z) SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:00AM

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

Thames – Pak n Save, The Green Grocer (new), Richardsons Real Estate (new), Aeroview Garden Centre, Superprice Furniture (new), Goldfields Shopping Centre

Tairua – 4 Square, Surf n Sand Takeaways, Bayleys Real Estate, Gull Service Station, Super Liquor Coroglen – Coroglen Tavern, Whangamata – Tango’s Shoes, Whanga Books, Challenge Service Station Whitianga – New World, Woolworths, 4 Square, Gull Service Station, Z Service Station, Tango’s Shoes, Stephensons Pharmacy, Mercury Bay Pharmacy, Liquorland, Well Stocked Deli (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

Winners of the NZ Women’s Autumn Cup Pairs, Debbie Holmes, left and Jane Deadman of The Mercury Bay Golf Club.

(CA)

Personable, Practical & Professional 28 Lee Street, Whitianga

M Amy +64 27 373 1404

M Geoff +64 27 495 8923

E office@accountingbydesign.co.nz

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