Issue 1162 17 June 2025 by theinformernz

PAULINE’S PLACE

‘How is Walker doing?’

Part Two

Part One, published in The Informer June 10, 2025 is on our Facebook and On The Coromandel Informer website. It recounts the journey of Walker Stewart from his first Covid vaccine to the present day and raises some questions about the nature of that journey.

The diary Walker kept has been valuable for my own records. He believed he would die and so did we some of the time. But we still kept hoping and we kept praying. He had planned for his friends to assist him to finish things if this creeping paralysis did not recede. Watching Walker’s peers when they visited was a big reason for Stan to be by his bedside every day. That period of suicidal intentions lingered but not for long; Walker had a beautiful loving wife and a son who doted on him.

We believe now that the virus stopped itself as if it got tired and ran out of steam.

One of the doctors who had been with him for most of the journey, has said that all of the drastic regimes they tried were really of no effect and that it seemed to stop itself. He also added, ‘But, we can’t be sure.’

But to know you signed a paper to permit the surgeons to cut into your spinal cord when you might not have needed to have resorted to that, is more than galling.(That

permanent damage would occur was explained but where and how much could not be defined.)

I remember the discussions and the request for Walker’s and Evie’s signature to give permission to operate on his spinal cord. This was to remove any liability for the medical system and to place it all on Walker’s shoulders. At the time, Evie said ‘NO!’ She believed this thing destroying her husband would peter out, but she gave in to the question - ‘What if he died from the encroaching paralysis?’ We did not want to take that chance and neither did the medical profession.

This operation on the spine allowed them to take a sample of his fluid and to discover that the spinal sheath was being devoured by some sort of virus. The sample was sent overseas. Speed was the essence. It resulted in an injection to be given twice to Walker. The procedure took six hours for the medicine to be infused into his body and the process was to be repeated in 14 days. Walker was told he would need this injection

for the rest of his life.

A doctor was present the entire time of the infusion, due to the strong possibility of an anaphylactic shock. Walker has received this treatment every six months since then. He has never had an anaphylactic shock.

One morning, many days after the op, he felt his fingers and they moved under his control. He could actually work his cell phone. At last!

Walker soon moved hospitals for rehabilitation to begin. Bit by bit, his upper body regained its movement. It was exciting. Hope filled him. They had recommended an electric wheelchair which he refused. The pushing of his manual wheelchair around the rehabilitation hospital which had 2,000 patients who couldn’t walk, brought persistence and strength to our son, not to mention Evie and Logan who visited every day travelling right across the city of Brisbane.

The doctors told him he would never walk again – a blow he ignored. He had made such prog-

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

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well with bluish Regulus while there is a bright ISS pass from 5:42pm in the west. Wednesday, June 18 – The Moon sits slightly above and to the left of Saturn in the dawn sky while in the evening Mars has just passed by Regulus and there is an ISS pass in the west from 6:32pm. Thursday, June 19 – The Moon now lies right beside Saturn at dawn. There will be an ISS pass from 5:43pm in the west. Friday, June 20 – Matariki Day - The Moon has now moved to sit below and to the right of Saturn at dawn high above Venus. Matariki will rise directly below brilliant Venus just at dawn in the northeast. Saturday, June 21 – The dawn sky has the Moon now about halfway between Saturn and brilliant Venus. Matariki will rise directly below brilliant Venus as dawn breaks. We will have an ISS pass from 5:43pm very low in the SW. Sunday, June 22 – The crescent Moon has moved to lie just to the left of Venus at dawn which is directly above Matariki. Monday, June 23 – The thin crescent Moon now sits below brilliant Venus and next to Matariki.

ress, but the nagging question was, could the cutting of the spinal cord decide that totally? He was assured there was some definite damage from the operation, but as to what damage was attributed to the cutting of the spinal cord (probably permanent) and what damage was attributed to the condition of the spinal sheath (could be chance of recovery) – no one could say.

Several months in rehabilitation passed. Walker was in the wheelchair – 80 percent movement in his arms and upper chest, but nothing in his legs. One day, two of his toes moved – he waited for three witnesses before believing he wasn’t hallucinating.

Three years and two months have passed since Walker was admitted to hospital, Walker uses a walking frame (like a granny walker). He has no immune system and has asked for the injections to stop so he can build immunity. The doctors had told him it would take away his immunity. They were correct. Walker has lost his vocation

and the life he knew. He believes he had no choice and that the vaccine was the initiator of this terrible spinal sheath-eating virus. His ability to earn has been devastated. Thinking he was dying for a year has been injurious to his spirit and he has to work very hard to keep his body functioning. There are some improvements –he has some degree of feeling in his legs but not enough control to walk and his toileting – the first to be paralysed – is the last to respond to neuro pathways. Walker is hopeful most days. He has the support and love of his family.

We pray for some better connection through neuro pathways; for his brain to connect effectively with his legs. His name is Walker after all. The doctors do not know if what attacked him will return as they still don’t have a diagnosis. Of course, no diagnosis means you can avoid saying it was caused by the elements that made up the vaccine which may have worked to destroy his body and well-being.

Part 3 next week

A big change for a great business

BY PAULINE STEWART

Yes, Jules and Rachael

Lee have sold their very esteemed business Guthrie Bowron, Whitianga.

“It’s time for a change for us. We are happy that we have found great people to take over the team that really is the engine for the business of Guthrie Bowron here in Whitianga.,” says Rachael.

Meet Pete and Dale Banks, the new owners. When The Informer met them, it already felt that they were right at home and working well learning the ropes of the showroom, and large workshops and on-site warehouse.

“We had the Stihl Shop in Hamilton in 2020. We have four years there and we felt together that we hade one more business venture in us,” says Pete.

“We looked for a quality brand and we had our eye on a place near the beach, “says Dale.

Dale and Pete had both learned from their experience to look for and identify something, ‘top of the line- well-run. It was to be a business they could work ‘on’ and not’ ‘in’.

“With a lot of businesses -if you just work in them; you are involved at a staff member level and lose the big picture of what you can improve on, “says Pete.

“This team are really good. They have got it under control. We are very fortunate to have found Jules

and Rache’s business l and to be able to come as the new owners. “

It wasn’t all the celebrative spirit, however. Despite Jules and Rachael knowing decisively it’s time to move on and having made their big decision and business sale. It is obviously hard to deal with their emotions - their feelings for the business run deep.

“We have found great friends here, like family to us. We have been here 18 years, and we have grown with the business, learning every day. The team has been and is No. One. So, leaving friends and adjusting to relationships in a different way; that is a bit of a pull. Our life will be very different for a

while.” (attributed to both Julian and Rachael).

Jules and Rachael both smile when they assure us, the team and their community, “We are not going anywhere except to travel a bit - that is, we are not moving. This is our home. We have community commitments and causes we really care about. We are however, going to take advantage of the flexibility we will have now with our lifestyle to travel. We loved travel when we were very young. It’s time to do that again.”

Julian will still run the OUTDOORS COVERED business. “I enjoy that, and it will keep me involved.” says Julian.

Pete and Dale Banks are not strangers to Whitianga.

“We actually spent our honeymoon here, 34 years ago. It has such a romantic connection. We always wanted to come back,” says Pete.

Our decision to live and lead Guthrie Bowron here in Whitianga has led to other family members buying a house here. My sister and brother-in-law have decided to live nearby. It feels good to have my last remining sibling living near us,” says Dale.

I noticed a, “Welcome to the Family” poster on the office wall and commented.

“We have two adult children

and four grandsons, and we want them to enjoy Whitianga too. We want to make friends that will become like extended family for us.

Julian added that when they arrived in 2007 there were trade customers who came with the business, and they were still with Guthrie Bowron. The same with customers. “People supporting local business has helped us grow and our supporting local has helped other businesses, and the community grow. That’s a fantastic principle to operate by.

We have no doubt that it will be business as usual here with Pete and Dale and the GB team.”

Julian and Rachel Lee after 18 years as owners, hand over Guthrie Bowron to Dale and Pete Banks; the team at Guthrie Bowron is well oiled and ready to work with the new owners Pete and Dale.

Jeanette Wikaira welcomed as new TCDC community boss

Former Thames woman Jeanette Wikaira has been formally welcomed to a senior leadership role at ThamesCoromandel District Council with a pōwhiri at Matai Whetū Marae, Kōpū.

Jeanette Wikaira says she has now “returned home” to Thames to take on the Council’s role of Group Manager Community. She will oversee all community-facing aspects of the Council including Customer Services, Emergency Management, Communications, Parks, Libraries and Facilities.

Jeanette (Ngāti Pukenga, Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāpuhi) returns with a great deal of experience. She has spent five years as part of the executive leadership team at Dunedin City Council with roles including General Manager for Arts, Culture and Recreation, plus General Manager of Community Services, and General Manager of Partnerships, Policy and Governance.

The Honourable Sir Justice Joe Williams (Ngāti Pukenga, Waitaha, Tapuika); Māori Heritage Council chairman Edward Ellison (Kāi Tahu), and Dunedin City Council Chief Executive, Sandy Graham attended the pōwhiri, officially handing over Wikaira to the TCDC. Each applauded Wikaira’s appointment and were supported by Wikaira’s wider whānau from

Thames-Coromandel District Council staff and elected members join with representatives Ngāti Maru, Ngati Tamaterā, Ngāti Pukena, Kāi Tahu and Dunedin City Council to welcome Jeanette Wikaira on board at Matai Whetū marae. New Thames-Coromandel District Council Group Manager Community Jeanette Wikaira with her mum at Matai Whetū Marae.

Manaia. Council’s senior leaders, staff and elected members also attended.

Afterward, Wikaira said the relationships with Kai Tahu and across the community and the roles she held in Dunedin had been incredibly valuable. Now, it was time to serve the communities that raised her.

“I was born in Thames Hospi-

tal, I grew up in Thames, I went to kindergarten, primary school, high school in Thames. I do feel like I’m coming back to give back to a place that I grew up in.”

Wikaira also has ties to Manaia and Waiomu.

Sir Justice Williams, who is Wikaira’s uncle from Manaia, said the occasion was a great honour “ One of our own whānau has taken

up a senior position in the Council. Our people from Manaia have come today to show their support and to let you now that she is not an individual; she is a member of a hapu, iwi, and whānau.”

Thames-Coromandel District Council Chief Executive Aileen Lawrie described Wikaira as a “taonga” the Council and district were lucky to have.

Prior to Wikaira’s local government background, she held senior roles at the University of Otago and Auckland University of Technology and is currently chair of the Hone Tuwhare Charitable Trust, co-chair of the Dunedin Writers and Readers Festival, and a trustee of Manaia Marae. Her academic career spans more than 30 years.

BY CYNTHIA DALY

WThere was a great response to Art Expo Lions Art Expo 2025

hitianga Town Hall was abuzz with art lovers over King’s Birthday Weekend for the Whitianga Lions Art Expo proudly presented by Dayle Candy, David Frew and Harcourts Coromandel Beaches Realty.

Thanks to their support, the hall was lit up to showcase the works of 85 artists, including a record number of Secondary Schools Student Art Competition entries, and the Artists in the Making group of the Coromandel Independent Living Trust.

Opening night proved very popular with a full hall as the winners of the Secondary Schools Student Art Competition were announced.

In the photography category German exchange student Juri Kirstein of Mercury Bay Area School scooped up first place and mentorships with two highly skilled local professional photographers, Ian Preece and Peter Drury. Second place went to Naomi Bell also of MBAS, while Zander Masnon of Whangamata Area School took home third.

In the visual art category, Isobel Warwood of MBAS won first and mentorships with two highly recognised local artists Kay De Blaauw and Souzie Speerstra. Thames High School students, Emma Marr and Naomi Hinton, won second and third place, respectively.

The evening also saw a live

auction, hosted by Harcourt’s Coromandel agent Glenn Wells, with some fantastic prizes to bid for including a Game Fishing Package, Wellness Package, Hot Escape Package and a limited edition print of an Emma Gustafson painting.

Over the weekend the fine weather worked in favour of the Art Expo with continuous attendances, lots of art sells and people fascinated by the Artists in Show: painter David Stone, potter Claire Bryers, pointillism painter Jenny Cotterell, intuitive painter Jessie Macaw, glass artist Sandra Hosking, painter Viola Ashford-Martin and painter Brain Jarvie all working on their next

piece.

With raffles donated by The Men’s Shed, potter Ian Webster and Sunflower Glass Art, and a door entry prize from Pauline Stewart, there was lots of chances to take home something a bit special.

The beneficiary of this year’s Art Expo is the Cancer Society Lions Lodge in Hamilton and while final amounts are yet to be confirmed, at this stage a little over $5000 will go to this very worthy cause.

Whitianga Lions would like to thank everybody who got behind this event to help make it the success that it was – a great example of community supporting the community.

BY BEVERLEY SHEPPARD

Beautiful canvasses and art abounds, Magical colours framed that would wipe any frowns, Feathers and cotton bags by Ms Deborah, Stunning framed pictures by the plethora, Glenn the Auctioneer had everyone bidding and was fantastic, Jewellery by Mark and Sandra wrapped in delicate plastic.

Birds by Thelma were so happy and bright, The pottery by Mr Webster reflected the light, The Black and white prints by Lena were divine,

Lois and her cows on the hill gave a sign, A sign to others to buy some art,

Even Mosaics to buy and put into your cart.

David Stone and his paintings so close to home,

Julia and her pottery bowls that hold many a comb.

Sarah Nicholson and her stunning art is fine.

Necklaces and bright bracelets were so sublime.

Marie and her love heart painting is so fabulous, Paintings sold are definitely miraculous.

Souzie S with her bright beach scene,

So big, bold and clean.

Ali G was with her big blue beautiful art,

The painted stones to sell are so very smart.

Roimata even had 3 of his most thoughtful prints.

We even had tasty morsels with no room for mints.

Art is very special here on the Coromandel Peninsula, It’s time to feast your eyes on Amazing Art and not be so insular.

For the Whitianga Lions Clubs have done their Amazing Best,

And we say thank you to the young students for passing the test.

Prizes won and smiles everywhere,

Happiest of artists here and we are grateful and care.

Written about the Opening Night

Cythia Daly at the information desk at Art Expo.

Coromandel CFM blitzes competition

Curia Poll reveals 35 Percent Market Share.

Whitianga, 16 June 2025 – Coromandel CFM is the most listened to radio station across its Coromandel Peninsula / Hauraki audience, according to a recent Curia Research poll.

The station which showcases the power of a hyperlocal focus to drive audience share, can show that its local focus is working.

Currently in the GFK Radio surveys no station in a surveyed market holds more than a 20 percent share for all listeners. CFM’s success reflects its deep community connection in a market never previously surveyed.

The Curia Research poll of 500 Thames-Coromandel residents aged 18+, conducted between June 3 and 10, this year, reveals CFM’s dominant 35 percent share of the radio market, far ahead of Newstalk ZB (8 percent) and Radio NZ (7 percent).

This unprecedented result, with a ±4.2 percent margin of error at 95 percent confidence, is unparalleled in recent radio rating surveys.

Station owner and manager Lynda Grant expressed gratitude at the result:

“This 35 percent share among 18+ listeners is humbling. We feel

a huge responsibility to be the conduit for community messaging, supporting everything from fundraising to local events. Our dedicated team is proud of what we’ve achieved in just six years.”

Since launching in 2018 from Whitianga studios, CFM has grown rapidly. By 2019, it adopted cutting-edge synchronous technology, a global first, trialled in New Zealand. By 2020, CFM expanded to five transmitter sites across the challenging Coromandel Peninsula, cementing its community-driven focus.

With local news and a music playlist featuring over 20 percent

New Zealand content, earning two NZ On Air awards, CFM has become the voice of the Coromandel. CFM’s community-focused approach, backed by 30,000+ social media followers and 1,500+app users, positions it as the go-to platform for community engagement.

With the upcoming launch of CFM Retro, targeting 60+ listeners, CFM continues to innovate.

Media Contact: Lynda Grant, Station Manager, Phone: 021652593 Email: lynda@cfm.co.nz

Refer to this Facebook story: facebook.com/1303091278486941

Source: Curia Poll, 3–10 June 2025, n=500, ±4.2% margin of error.

To Darwin and back by Cessna

This was the plane, yes none other than this tiny Cessna, that returned these four Whitianga residents – Leigh and Linda Hopper and Paul and Lynette Hood, back home safe and windswept after having flown to Darwin and back.

Of course, there were quite a few stops for this antithesis of a jumbo jet – Kerikeri to see customs, Norfolk, Lord Howe, Gold Coast, Hamilton Island, Normanton, Katherine, Darwin.

A break for cruising for 10 days but in a boat.

Return air trip was Darwin, Mt Isa, Roma, Gold Coast, Lord Howe, Norfolk, Kerikeri for customs again. There were many extra stops for fuel along the way.

Pilot Paul Hood was ably assisted by Leigh Hopper. Together, almost 50 hours flying time, four people and luggage in a tiny Cessna!! Well done to all four and the Cessna.

Leigh and Linda Hopper and Paul and Lynette Hood on their return from their intrepid air trek.

Building more than homes this Matariki and beyond

If you’ve noticed Urban Homes popping up more around the Coromandel, it’s no coincidence — the Thames Coromandel team is growing, and they’re doing it the local way.

This Matariki, as we reflect on whānau, new beginnings, and the connections that shape us, Urban Homes Thames Coromandel is proud to be building more than houses.

They’re growing a team rooted in the region, supporting local trades, and helping families build new lives here.

Take Rena, for example. With over 20 years’ experience as an architectural designer, she’s now the team’s New Home Consultant and Designer. Originally from the

Bay of Plenty, she made the move earlier this year - drawn in by the lifestyle and the people.

It’s not every day you can walk into a design and build company and sit down with the very per-

son designing your home. “It’s great to be involved first-hand with what people want to achieve, and then make their design a reality,” says Rena.

Also new to the team are Luke, a foreman based in Whitianga with strong family ties to the region, and Nathan, a builder who recently relocated from Tauranga.

And then there’s Jan. She and her husband Kevin relocated from Auckland to their new home built by Urban in Wharekaho.

“We loved the experience so much, I joined the team!” says Jan, who now plays an integral part of the office team.

Dan and Tanya may have started as a two-person operation, but today, Urban’s local presence sup-

ports dozens of subcontractors and services across the Coromandel – keeping business, skills, and heart right here at home.

Pop into the office and design centre in Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga to see how their family can help yours make the Coromandel home.

Imagine, build, LIVE. – with Urban Homes Thames Coromandel.

Contact Tanya on 021 744 197 or email tanya.jones-blok@ urban.co.nz

Left to Right - Jan, Baylee (Gateway Student), Rena, Luke (at the back), Casey (budding apprentice builder - we start them young!), Nathan, Tanya and Dan.

TRAVEL

TRAVEL WRITER – SARAH JANE

SOLO TRAVEL: Why being alone isn’t lonely – 10 reasons to get off the couch

Have you ever pondered the profound differences between your daily routine and an exhilarating holiday? Perhaps the idea of traveling alone has crossed your mind, leaving you feeling unsure. Take the first step and embrace solo travel! Solo travel doesn’t mean you’re truly alone in the world, especially with social media readily available. The benefits are tremendous, and here are ten compelling reasons why your next adventure should be a solo one. Ditch the familiar and take the plunge into a solo holiday.

1. RELAX; YOU DO NOT NEED TO COMPROMISE

There is no one looking bored or disinterested at your side. There is a sheer joy for many in letting go of the shadow of compromise. You do not need to ask permission to visit a particular place. The choice where to go rests with you.

2. IS SOLO TRAVEL SHOWING THE WORLD YOU ARE SELFISH?

Solo travel isn’t selfish; rather, it’s a moment to spoil yourself, doing exactly what you want, all the time. Share your experiences on social media with family and friends, and laugh at their responses.

3. WHAT HAPPENS ON HOLIDAY IS YOUR PRIVATE JOURNEY, WHAT A PLUS

You are the editor-in-chief of your holiday story. You decide how long to explore a funky museum or interesting market. You control the calendar of events and activities.

4. JUDGMENT, THERE IS NO ONE TO TELL YOU WHAT TO DO

Splurge at McDonald’s (a fastfood chain you rarely visit at home), indulge in handcrafted

chocolates at the weekend market. You’re not lazy; you’re doing what you want. You are invisible, part of the holiday crowd. No one is pressuring you to walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

TIP: Invisibility in Dubrovnik should have been a given. A cherry hello, from neighbours back in NZ led to a shared coffee moment in Croatia.

5. SELF INDULGENCE THE JOY OF SOLO TRAVEL

The sheer pleasure of indulgence is perhaps the single biggest perk

of solo travel. Have ice cream for breakfast and indulge in local delicacies.

6. SOLO TRAVEL IS ABOUT TESTING YOUR OWN BOUNDARIES

It’s slightly scary, especially if the local language is one you’re not familiar with. It’s exhilarating as you sort out where to go... eventually. The experience makes for a great storyline when you get home.

7. SOLO TRAVELLERS OWN THE NARRATIVE

Similar to ‘what happens in Vegas,’ you can edit or polish the story of your adventures for family and friends. No one will interrupt to correct your version of events.

8. SOLO TRAVEL IS NOT LONELY

Solo travel is traveling alone, by yourself, yet it is rarely lonely. People will naturally turn and

chat to you. You are not constantly turning to a partner. With a smile on your face, look around you. This is especially true on guided day trips where the logistics are managed by someone else.

9. SOLO TRAVEL IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE WANT TO DO AT SOME POINT

Couples will ask you questions, as the dynamics of traveling with a group can wear people down. Try not to look smug as you hear comments like, ‘I’d love to try solo travel, but my partner doesn’t want me to...’ The ultimate treat is solo travel.

10. SOLO TRAVEL DOES NOT EXCLUDE JOINING A GUIDED DAY TRIP

One of the benefits of solo travel is the option to join multi-day or single-day trips. You get to relax as the local guide highlights points of interest. It’s having your cake and eating it too!

A Lifestyle Village in Thames on the Coromandel 2 AND 3 BEDROOM VILLAS NOW AVAILABLE

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Ashlee’s first flight

BY ASHLEE HOWARD

On Tuesday, 3 June, it was my 15th birthday, so my family decided to surprise me with an aeroplane trial flight. They chose to give me this present because I would like to become a pilot one day.

Around 9.30am I arrived at Whitianga Airfield and met my flight instructor, Alan Coubray. The weather was nice and calm which was good for flying.

We boarded the plane, which was the fourth Vans RV-12 two-seater aircraft built by the Mercury Bay Area School students. They have built five aircraft so far and now

are constructing their sixth one.

Once we were safe and ready, I was allowed to turn the engine on. We waited a few minutes for the plane to warm up, then got up to 55 knots before we took off into the sky.

We were in the air for around half an hour, and during that time we flew over my house, above Hot Water Beach and around the Mercury Bay coastline.

The view was amazing. I could see the bottom of the blue-green water and some of the clouds were still orange and yellow from the rising sun.

Next, we cut across from Cathedral Cove and flew up and over Simpsons Beach, and then we

Steampunk had its international day

Saturday, June 14 was International Steampunk Day and Thames celebrated in true Steampunk style. The crowd of fun-lovers gathered on the lawn at Thames Museum for a programme of Steampunk Parlour games at the Salvation Army Hall, a themed meal at Gastronomics Restaurant. The title of the evening was Glowing Escapades and everyone enjoyed the parade around Thames. Steampunk provides fun and escapism for many.

turned back to Whitianga and glided over Whititanga Marina and the town back to the airfield where we landed.

While we were in the air, Alan showed me how to use the foot pedals and steering stick and I would sometimes have control of the steering which was fun. I really enjoyed my experience of flying and I plan to have another lesson again soon.

Ashlee Howard ready for her first flight.

Photos Garry Brandon

What a way to say thank you!

Jeanette Russell is responsible for thanking the volunteers or partner organisations and businesses who support the Lions Club in the causes that have Lions working hard to raise funds for their community.

Whitianga Lions Club and Mercury Bay Lions Club organised a great Art Expo (see page 6) recently with sponsors Dave Frew and Dayle Candy of Harcourts Coromandel Beaches Realty. Many in the community helped make this possible.

Jeanette baked amazing food – sausage rolls, and fairy cakes extraordinaire and filled trays with these morsels to give to those businesses and organisations who had joined the team to make the success of the Arts Expo. Jeanette is not only an amazing baker, but she comes in style and laden with generosity of spirit.

In her spare time Jeanette is also a business woman and a good friend to many.

Thank you for what you do in the wider community.

Luca’s done it again

Year 10 Thames High School student Luca Yamamoto won big recently at NZ Modern School of Musics’s annual competition for music students from the Counties Manukau / Coromandel area.

BY GARRY BRANDON

Luca’s Flamenco guitar playing bagged him two gold medals, two silver medals, and a trophy for ‘Best Under 16 Guitarist’.

This follows his two gold, and two silver, medals won at last year’s competition.

The golds medal awards were for his performance in the guitar section of his own composition, Distant Memories, and his performance in the ‘same piece’ category, where all performers must play the same piece of music.

The silvers medals came in the sight-reading performance, and with a piece of his own choosing, Pica Pica, this time competing against all the other entrants, regardless of their chosen instrument.

That’s pretty impressive for a guy who took up guitar playing only three years ago and only started to read music 10 months ago!

So, what got him interested in Flamenco music? Well, that’s down to his dad Nick’s varied music collection.

Luca has grown up listening to a wide range of musical styles, and Flamenco stood out for him. “I started listening to Flamenco a lot with my dad and it just continued

Tapas Night

from there.”

He cites as influences, Spanish players such as Paco De Lucia, Isaac Albeniz, Paco Pena, Francisco Tarrega, and more recent performers, Mexico’s Rodrigo & Gabriella.

Most people will have no idea who these people are, but Luca looks back in history and finds players that inspire him.

That inspiration, and an average of two hours practice every day has got Luca to where he is today.

So, what does the future hold for this young maestro?

“I might start playing electric guitar next year, but at the moment I don’t really listen to rock music, just mainly Flamenco,” says Luca. Two months ago, Luca got his first proper Flamenco style guitar, an Almansa. “I wanted a guitar that was made in Spain and specifically made for playing Flamenco music. I’d like to go to Spain, to see and meet some Flamenco players, and get another Spanish-made guitar.”

His ideal guitar? Well, that would be one made by Antonio De Torres, known as the ‘Father of the Spanish guitar’. He was a master luthier born in Spain in 1817. During his life, Torres built an estimated 300 guitars, and most modern acoustic guitars are derivatives of his designs. It is not known how many Torres guitars have survived the last couple of centuries, but if Luca does find one, he can expect to pay up to $250,000 New Zealand dollars.

If he keeps up his playing and constant practice, Luca might just manage to be in a position to buy one someday!

Concert photography : Twitter : @ GarryBrandonNZ

Guitar building : Instagram : brandonandsonguitars

Course

Luca Flamenco, best under 16 guitarist. Photo Garry Brandon

High Tea cuts the cake in Whitianga

Three local women, led by Ann-Marie Nicholas are launching a new business this Friday 20 June.

Baking is their passion, and they especially love to prepare the things that grandma used to make. They are the face of a new company Petals & Pearls High Tea.

When Ann-Marie came to Whitianga she thought that she would no longer keep up with her baking and hosting. “However, I couldn’t resist the temptation,” she says.

“I just love baking and preparing beautiful settings and my two friends Vicki and Rhonda who are also the business team, love it too. This is a piece of paradise, and it is such a beautiful place for us to run Petals & Pearls High Teas.”

This trio are preparing their high teas so a host can hold their High Tea in the room of a home or in a public room.

“We create a vintage setting providing everything to enhance your high tea experience,” says Ann-Marie.

“It can be a group of 6, 12 or twenty or any number inbetween.

“We are three longtime friends with a passion for vintage charm and time-

less elegance.

“Our setup will feature a beautifully arranged table adorned with all things vintage – delicate china cups, saucers, and plates, complemented with flowers. You’ll enjoy a delightful selection of bite-sized sandwiches, savoury treats, cakes, slices, and, of course, scones with jam and cream.

“Your tea will be served in exquisite vintage tea ware, with silverware adding to the experience. Candles and pearls will bring an extra touch of glamour and sophistication.

“Our goal is to transport you to a refined era when people took the time to enjoy cake, and good company. It’s a tradition worth remembering!”

Simply choose the date and time, gather your

favourite people, and let the Petals & Pearls service create a truly special experience for you in the comfort and convenience of your own home.

“We are very excited to begin and look forward to hearing from the people of Mercury Bay.”

Ann-Marie invites people to use their Facebook page or give her a call on 021 0534704 for more information.

Parking volunteers earn

$13,475 donation

A small team of people belonging to the local chapter of the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association led by Murray Bennett (known as Muzz) have raised this huge amount from helping out with parking at Whangamata Beach Hop. This news came to light when a letter crossed the desk of The Informer thanking Murray and his team. Some excerpts from that letter

“Well done, with the donation of $13,475 to Whangamata Area School. They sure deserve it; not just from providing an easy access place for Beach Hop, but because it is these tucked away ‘off the beaten track’ schools that get left out of any easy money.

Negative attitudes: On another point, more often than not, Camper Van and Motor Home people are always having the ‘bone’ pointed at us for flying through towns without

spending a brass razoo, dumping our rubbish everywhere , ripping up the grassed verges and shooting through without stopping to buy anything from the locals. This is not true and what this group has done is testament to this. Your group earned $13K from one long weekend and directed it all into the local community. Opening up the school means so many more spaces than the 18 measly freedom camping spots usually on offer.

Positive people:The Motor Caravan Associa-

tion people spend a lot of money on local events, markets, and local activities when they visit. I hope this news helps non-campers understand that caravaners, particularly those in a club, want to help the communities who provide them a park and a shelter.

A BIG thank you to the Whitianga Branch of the NZ Motor Caravaners Association for the work to help so many vehicles park in the school grounds and for the great donation to the local Whangamata School.

Ann-Marie (right) with her high tea friends Vicki and Rhonda.

TAIRUA

Tairua Winter Warmer

Evening The Old Mill Waterfront Café, Tairua

Wednesday, 18 June – Dining starts at 6.00pm-9.00pm

Check out our facebook page for the menu

$58 pp – RSVP – 07 864 9390 / www.oldmillcafetairua.com or bookings@oldmillcafetairua. com

Celebrate Matariki with Tairua Library Thursday, 19 June

Poi Making. Adults 1-2pm, Children 3-4pm. Learn and create amazing poi made from recycled materials.

Come and celebrate – All day kai sharing, produce swap and homemade kai table to celebrate Matariki. Soups, breads, kumara cake and more.

KUAOTUNU

Kuaotunu Matariki event

5.00am!

Saturday, 21 June, Winter Solstice day

Come to the Kuaotunu Library on your left on the main highway. Lots to see before dawn this year. The telescopes will show you a lovely crescent Moon, crescent Venus, Saturn, Southern Cross, etc; plus a sausage sizzle, hot coffee and maybe a crunchie bar. Matariki Lantern night

Kuaotunu Rudolf Steiner Kindergarten

5.30pm–7.00pm Thursday, 26 June

Stating with the traditional story of The Stars told with puppets. Then join a community walk with hand-held lanterns from the Kuaotunu Kindergarten gates, over the Kuaotunu River footbridge to the Reserve for a bonfire and sausage sizzle. (Everyone is invited). $3 gets you a sausage with bread + tomato sauce. Enjoy some songs around the bonfire All proceeds

are to support our local Kindy. RSVP for catering purposesadmin@kuaotunukindergarten. co.nz 2023 lantern night at Kuaotunu.

WHITIANGA

Matariki Whanau Day –Mercury Bay Museum 11A The Esplanade, Whitianga Friday 20 June –10.00am-3.00pm

Join us in the Museum for a day of fun and being together!

Our Matariki exhibition is ready to go!

Explorers - will have a badge to earn! Koha/Donations welcome for entry to the Museum

THAMES

Thames No Exit Band, The Junction Hotel, 700 Pollen Street, Thames Friday 20 June 8:00pm

Free admission, All Ages

Licensed

Thames Holistic Wellbeing Expo

Thames War Memorial Civic Centre, 200 Mary St, Thames Saturday 21 June, 10:00am-4:00pm

Healers, Readers, Crystals, Jewellery, Rongoa, Spiritual & Wellness products, Gifts & Crafts. Free admission. All welcome.

Thames Museum

Wednesday 18 June to Tuesday 19 August, Thames Museum will host Rūaumoko - Restless Land.

This is an interactive exhibition developed and toured by Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa with the Natural Hazards Commission Toko Tū Ake. It features earthquakes and volcanoes and emergency preparedness.

WHANGAMATĀ

Whangamatā will host 3 days of activities featuring workshops at the Memorial Hall and a Hāngī and concert at Williamson Park.

Run by Whangamatā Community Marae Committee and the Whangamatā Arts Collective Hāngi Kai & Prep, Hāngi & Concert Williamson Park (if wet in Memorial Hall). Tickets are just $10 each for a delicious hāngī with veges, stuffing, pork, chicken, lamb, fry bread and steam pudding! Friday 20 June, 1.30pm

Get your tickets now @ Eastern Coromandel Community Services and Whangamata Information Centre. Get in quick, they will sell out.

If you’re out of town, get tickets emailed from Whangamatā Information Centre or email chair@wcm.maori.nz

Creative Matariki craft workshops in the Memorial Hall – Friday 20 and Saturday, 21 June

Sunrise kite flying at Onemana Beach - Matariki viewing sunrise and kite flying Sunday 22 June, 6.15 am

COROMANDEL

Coromandel Town Matariki Gala

Coromandel Area School

Thursday 26 June

4.00pm-7.30pm

Games, Kai, live music, & entertainment for the whole Whaanau – CASH ONLY.

PAUANUI

Pauanui Frisky Business –Flashback to the 80’s Night Pauanui Club, 31 Sheppard Ave, Saturday 28 June7.00pm

A show and party covers band - experienced musicians with a passion for the 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s to now musical eras. Matariki Glow Show

Whangamata Memorial Hall, 326 Port Road, Whangamata Saturday 12 July - 10:00am and 11:30am Tickets - 0800 BUY TIX (289 849) / www.eventfinda.co.nz/ tickets

A one-off show a heart-felt uplifting musical experience

Three local Coromandel-based music artists Dylan Wade, May Love and Nur Peach. These three have strong connections with the Whitianga and Mercury Bay area. This show is a one-off event, a heartfelt uplifting musical experience.

Don’t miss it!! Let’s make it a full house – for a great show on Friday, 20 June.

Message from Hon Scott Simpson

MP For Coromandel

The Coromandel is gearing up for another long weekend, with Matariki being observed this Friday. And even though it’s winter, I’m sure that there’ll be people coming to our region to make the most of the extra day off and to celebrate the Māori New Year in their own way.

Down in Wellington, the Government has announced that we’re refocusing WorkSafe from an enforcement agency to one that supports businesses and individuals. WorkSafe is the agency responsible for workplace health and safety, and over the years it has taken on a clipboard mentality with many employers and employees finding it very difficult to engage with them. They will continue to enforce existing laws, but we want to ensure that they are focused first and foremost on productivity and supporting businesses.

The changes have started immediately, with the launch of a Road Cone hotline, where the public can report the excessive use of road cones in temporary traffic management. This can be done online at: https://www. worksafe.govt.nz/notifications/ road-cones/

In other news, last week I attended Fieldays at Mystery Creek and I was encouraged to hear so much optimism from farmers and growers about the present and future of the primary sector.

I caught up with plenty of locals who were there to showcase their products, network with likeminded individuals, and to see the latest innovations on offer. It only takes a few moments with these men and women to be thoroughly impressed by their passion and dedication to producing quality products to feed consumer demand here and internationally.

A thriving primary sector is good for farmers and the wider community, especially in regions like ours which have a proud tradition with the industry. It continues to be the backbone of rural economies across the country.

In the past year, food and fibre exports brought in over $10,600 for every Kiwi, with dairy exports alone contributing $4,700 per person.

Our Government is backing farmers by replacing freshwater rules, reforming the RMA, halting costly regulations, removing agriculture from the ETS, and expanding free trade agreement.

At the Budget we also announced Investment Boost, which enables businesses to immediately deduct 20% of the cost of a new asset, on top of depreciation, meaning a much lower tax bill in the year of purchase. This gives tradies, farmers, and other businesses a tax incentive to invest in new tools and equipment to boost productivity and lift wages.

This is part of our Government’s commitment to growing the economy so Kiwis have more opportunities to succeed.

studio@taraking.co.nz 0210391086 @tarakinginteriors tarakinginteriors www.taraking.co.nz

Embassy of FriendshipCelebrate Matariki together

Honour the beautiful tradition Maori culture brings us.

Friday Eve, 20 June 5.30pm till 10pm 5 Coghill Street, Whitianga

5 Coghill Street is newley renovated venue of Steffen Lindner. It is the home of his Counselling and Psychotherapy Services, as well as a workshop and seminar venue and perfect for boutique events . It is ideal for the Matariki event – meeting people, sharing food and drink and good local music. Reflect on what the year has brought, take time to be grateful for what is and

plant the seeds for the year to come.

Sharing of food and music7.00pm-10.00pm

Bring a plate of food and drink to share. Limited to 30 people.

Koha $10-$20. Hosted by Steffen and Rozemarie. Doors open at 5.30 but the evening begins at 6pm.

Children welcome.

Enquiries: 022 085 3121

Steffen’s massage room and chatting room.

Council confirms switch to a Capital Value Rating

THE COUNCIL’S RELEASE

From 1 July 2026, Thames-Coromandel District Council will transition to a capital value-based rating system. This means rates will be calculated on the total value of a property — including both land and improvements — rather than land value alone.

The decision was made at the Council’s recent meeting following a formal consultation process. Councillors considered three options:

Option 1: Retain the existing land value system;

Option 2: Shift to capital value, with the Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC) becoming a fixed percentage of the general rate.

Option 3: As above, with changes to targeted rates for rubbish/recycling and roading/ building control to better align charges with the services they fund.

A total of 650 submissions were received during the March–April consultation period, representing around 2% of all ratepayers. Over half (56%) supported retaining the current system, while 40% preferred either of the capital value-based options. Submissions often focused on personal financial impacts, with many citing fairness, equity, and affordability.

Some respondents expressed concerns that one part of the district would end up subsidising another part in a shift to capital value. Respondents from both the east and west sides of the district expressed this contention. Some comments also reflected the misconception that a shift to capital value was primarily intended to

increase Council’s rates revenue –which it will not.

There was robust debate amongst councillors about the principles of fairness, affordability and equity, and to what extent Councillors should rigorously be guided by the feedback numbers as opposed to considering that feedback alongside those principles.

THE VOTE:

Council voted 6-4 in favour of Option 3 – switching to capital value plus changes to targeted rates, to 4 against.

Those who voted in favour:

Mayor Len Salt, Cr. John Grant, Cr Gary Gotlieb, Cr John Morrissey, Cr Martin Rodley, Cr Robyn Sinclair.

Those against the proposed change: Cr Deli Connell, Cr Rekha Giri-Percival, Cr Peter Revell, and Deputy Mayor Cr Terry Walker.

RESULT:

The change will not increase Council’s total rates revenue, but individual ratepayers will see differing impacts. Approximately one-third of ratepayers will experience increases of more than 2%, one-third will see minor changes under 2%, and one-third will see a decrease of more than 2%.

PUBLIC COMMENTS ON PROCESS AND DECISION

Some respondents raised concerns that one part of the district could end up subsidising another. Although Council disingenuously reiterated that the move is not intended to raise more revenue, it’s clearly a move to extract more income from East Coast communities.

In making their decision, the Council’s propaganda stated that Councillors weighed the feedback alongside broader principles of fairness and systemic equity. The question is “what are these principles of fairness?”

Is it fair to raise the rates of a superannuant on a fixed income by $400 per annum, as the Council’s calculator showed? That is a week’s income for that superannuant. During the consultation process when asked to define what they meant by “fair” council staff stared at the wall and could not answer.

Another important point which should not be ignored in this matter is the question of conflict of interest. A matter which comes down to the wire, in terms of voting, and affects us all, should involve disclosure of how the councillors are personally affected so we can be sure this had no impact on the decision making process. Alternatively why hurry, have a referendum at the upcoming election.

STATEMENT FROM ONE RESIDENTS AND RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION:

“It’s been a great box-ticking exercise for Council. We spoke. They listened. Then they did what they were going to do anyway!”

STATEMENT FROM A VISITOR TO THE INFORMER OFFICE

“The proposed move aims to make rates fairer by better reflecting ratepayers’ ability to pay. How would Council know anybody’s “ability to pay”?

“My rates will increase by $250 because apparently I can afford to pay the extra.”

A COUNCILLOR’S STATEMENT TO THE INFORMER

“Councillors spend a great deal of time being briefed, reading the many papers from residents and analysing the different backgrounds and views. We have had long discussions as a Councilors. We are elected have to make hard

and informed decisions that will bring the widest benefit longterm.”

SECOND

DWELLING ON PROPERTIES REVIEW:

Council also resolved to update its Rates Remission Policy, rethinking their approach to second dwellings on properties. The Council opted to change the Rates Remission Policy to increase the automatic remission for the second Separately Used or Inhabited Part (SUIP) from 50% to 100% for properties with two habitable units where the second one meets the criteria of a minor dwelling (like a granny flat). This amounts to a small increase in rates for most ratepayers to offset the increased remission.

MORE RUBBISH NEWS

From 1 July, Thames-Coromandel District Council will increase some fees and charges to reflect rising service costs and align with neighbouring districts. The Pay As You Throw (PAYT) rubbish tag will rise by 25 cents to $8.25, though existing tags remain valid. A new $5 minimum fee will apply at weighbridges at Refuse and Recycling Transfer Stations. Charges for disposing of general and green waste will also increase. Fees for 60L and 20L rubbish bags remain unchanged at $5 and $2 respectively. More details on these and other updates are available at www.tcdc.govt.nz/fees.

Glitz and glam masquerade for the MBAS seniors

Colleges

The theme at Mercury Bay Area School last

night was ‘Glitz and Glam a la Masquerade’ held at the Whitianga town hall.

An extravagant range

of ball costumes – some elegant, some amazingly outlandish, some simply beautiful, some very individual, made a delightful glitz and glam occasion.

The head students and prefects work hard to organise the programme, decorate the venue, ensure a good supply of suitable food and drink, safety for all students, inclusion of all students and then there is the clean-up

which is no small feat. In this, parents are huge supporters, right down to cleaning the toilets after the ball is over.

This happens everywhere in small communities throughout New Zealand. Whitianga is proud to know that Mercury Bay Area School with its head students and prefects, give their best in time, initiative and leadership to bring about a good ball. They did just that.

And everywhere there were teachers dressed in their masquerade costumes supporting the occasion and ensuring that the students have a great time.

Congratulations to the key members of this working team – Sienna Reader – Head Girl, Cameron Lee – Head Boy, Mila Smith de Zeeuw and Euan Stewart – Deputy Head Boy and Kizzy Samson – Wellbeing Student Leader.

Coromandel Our

from Thames-Coromandel District Council

Coastal restoration and rewilding – Matarangi

Together, we're restoring the Coromandel’s coast – starting in Matarangi – to improve dune health, increase native habitat, and build resilience to erosion and climate impacts.

Beginning in June 2025, sections of the Matarangi dune front will undergo transformation over the coming years through foredune planting and rewilding eﬀorts

– this includes halting mowing, planting native species, controlling weeds and pests, and reshaping the dunes.

The coastal restoration programme supports priorities identiﬁed in the Shoreline Management Plan (SMP)

Project and meets obligations under the Wildlife Act 1953, the Reserves Act 1977, and the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement 2010.

Our restoration programme will:

✔ Rewild back dunes by reducing mowing to let nature take the lead and by planting native ﬂora

✔ Increase and improve habitat for native lizards, birds and insects

✔ Support climate adaptation and community resilience What you may see:

• Areas where mowing has stopped to allow native growth

• Volunteers and contractors planting and maintaining dunes

• Signage explaining the work

While some areas may temporarily look a little wild, rest assured – it’s part of creating a healthier, more resilient coast. It will take approximately two-three years for the new habitat to establish and mature.

We know this is a change, and it may raise some questions. That’s why we’re committed to on-going communication every step of the way.

This is a team eﬀort. We’re working closely with local community groups, iwi partners and Waikato Regional Council to deliver this work. We’re also grateful for

the local restoration and reserves groups, beachfront residents, iwi partners and the wider community helping bring this vision to life.

Working bees and planting events are an important part of this project – we’d love your help.

Stay informed and get involved by signing up to our e-newsletter, follow us on Facebook and see our website for further details – tcdc.govt.nz/coastal-matarangi

Rubbish and recycling fees

From 1 July, the cost of a Pay As You Throw (PAYT) rubbish tag for kerbside collection will go up 25 cents to $8.25. You can continue to use tags bought before 1 July.

In addition, we’re introducing a $5 minimum charge to use weighbridges at Refuse and Recycling Transfer Stations that have them when disposing of general or green waste.

The charge to dispose of large 60L bags of rubbish remains unchanged at $5. Small 20L bags (the size of the old plastic carrier bags) stays at $2 per bag.

Mercury Bay Volunteers Celebration

Wednesday 18 June – 12.30pm Whitianga Community Service Trust, 2 Cook Drive

For more information and to RSVP visit tcdc.govt.nz/volunteerweek25

Check out updates to fees and charges for other services at tcdc.govt.nz/fees

Matariki tāpuapua, Matariki hunga nui Matariki, the cold and wet season, a time for gathering people

~Friday 20 June~

Kerbside Collections

There are no scheduled Kerbside rubbish collections on Matariki public holiday Friday 20 June. tcdc.govt.nz/kerbside

Our Refuse Transfer Stations are open on Matariki to their usual hours of 8.30am – 4.30pm. tcdc.govt.nz/rts Council offices and district libraries Closed on Matariki Friday. You can still contact us on customer.services@tcdc.govt.nz or phone us 24/7 on 07 868 0200.

Dog rules

Please keep your dogs on a lead in our town centres. There are oﬀ-leash dog exercise areas across our district. tcdc.govt.nz/dogownerguide

Enrol to vote in our local election or find out if youʼre eligible at:

Our local body elections are taking place on 11 October 2025. Our communities will have the chance to shape local decision-making by standing as candidates or casting their vote. This year, our voting arrangements include the Mayor, nine councillors, and a Māori ward councillor from the new Te Tara o Te Ika Māori Ward. Empower yourself and your community by ensuring you’re enrolled to vote in this year’s election. You can check or update your enrolment details at vote.nz Own a property here but don't live here? You may still be entitled to vote as a non-resident ratepayer. Visit tcdc.govt.nz/elections to ﬁnd out more.

Remember, if you’d like to vote in Te Tara o Te Ika Māori Ward, you’ll need to enrol in the Māori electoral roll ﬁrst through vote.nz

Find out more about enrolment and the election at tcdc.govt.nz/2025-elections

THROUGH THE PORTAL

Does Mercury Bay have a vision?

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

With the local body elections coming up this year I started to ponder the prospect of the region having an agreed vision, thus enabling rate payers to make their voting decisions based upon who, they thought, would work best to enable this vision to be met. Vision statements have been around for some time and often look good, but nothing is done about them. It’s a little bit like having a flag but never running it up the flagpole. A vision needs to be at the forefront of decision making and be backed up by a sound strategy to enable that vision to be met.

As an example, let us look at something we should understand; the nation’s power supply. This important aspect of our daily lives does not appear to have a vision, just a target about renewable sources which are currently about 85%. But a Government set a target of 90% by 2025 and 100% by 2030. The problem with having targets but no vision is that you can make stupid decisions such as the previous Government’s one to kill the hydrocarbon industry in New Zealand. If we had a

vision such as “New Zealand is to be 100% self-sufficient in electricity production and produce more than is needed to keep our population comfortable and our business community expanding,” then a strategy would not include killing the hydrocarbon industry until it was not needed, to ensure our vision was realised. So let us have a look at how this could work for Mercury Bay. First we need a vision so I will kick things off by suggesting; “Mercury Bay is to be the best coastal region in New Zealand providing secure, comfortable life styles for residents, prosperity for our businesses and a future for our children.”

This vision, or another version of it, is what we aspire to and what we aim to achieve. Some may argue we already have. Behind this vision, we need a strategy -some detail of what we want. For example, a comfortable lifestyle for some residents will include enhanced medical services. A future for our children may involve a growth in the business community and a higher level of education to be provided. Recent decisions could be considered in terms of whether or not they fit in with the community’s vision. For example the wharf expansion project you would think does fit in as it relates to the

prosperity of our businesses. The recent announcement on trying to become carbon neutral is however totally irrelevant and therefore we should not be wasting time and money on such frivolity.

In a perfect world, each ward in our district would set its vision and be empowered to ensure all decisions relating to the ward are made, and approved, by the Community Boards, with the vision to the forefront. An example of how this could work is with coastal protection from erosion. The Community Boards should receive an annual budget for such matters which relate to providing secure life styles for residents.

They would decide on priorities and accordingly make decisions based upon these priorities and the budget provided. Council Staff would carry out the necessary tasks. Please note; I am suggesting that Council staff are not the decision makers here. They are to be Public Servants.

In such a decision- making environment, it would be interesting to see what work program would eventuate. Would the requirement for a block wall protecting Buffalo Beach, a block wall promised by the Mayor at a public meeting, be given the priority it deserves or would the gardening project planned for Matarangi Beach remain the number one concern? Whatever the decision made, it is a community decision, not a bureaucratic one made many kms away.

I guess this is food for thought and it would be great to see Community Board candidates think on this and maybe promote their vision at the upcoming election. This would give voters something concrete to consider and possibly be a precursor to electing a unified Community Board which becomes effective for their threeyear term and perhaps beyond that.

ENVIRONMENT MATTERS

Ocean protection needs action

BY ROSS LIGGINS

Many of you will have seen David Attenborough’s final documentary film “Ocean” which is currently in cinemas. At the beginning of the film, he shows us how, over many decades, the state of our oceans has systematically declinedmainly the result of human action. Whether by overfishing, destructive fishing methods, land-based run-off or climate change, it is shocking to see how we are decimating our once pristine ocean environment.

The footage showing the close-up workings of a bottom trawl net was particularly disturbing, with David Attenborough’s cameraman saying it was the most extreme example of human-induced environmental destruction he has seen in a lifetime of filming. Also heart breaking, were the scenes of remote fishing villages in third world countries whose fishermen’s catches have greatly diminished due to the incursion of huge international fishing fleets scooping up a once sustainable fish population. Then there are the fast-dying coral reefs that can’t tolerate the ocean warming phenomenon and are becoming bleached ocean deserts, a probable result of climate change.

The final part of the film is more uplifting as David outlines the possibility and hope that the

damage can be turned around. David explains that the ocean will recover very quickly if given the chance; if we stop these damaging fishing methods, especially bottom trawling, if we set aside large areas of our ocean as no-catch zones and limit the amount of land-based development pollution from industries like construction, manufacturing and forestry that finds its way into our marine environment.

His film shows the results of doing this in various areas of the world, where protection is not only helping the ocean environment recover, but is also benefiting fishing and tourism interests because there are more fish and a healthy marine environment. Finally, he urges us to take notice of the UN Oceans Conference taking place in Nice, France in June, hosted by France and Costa Rica.

According to the UN, the overarching theme of the Conference is “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean”. The Conference aims to support further and urgent action to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development and identify further ways and means to support the implementation of SDG 14 (detailed aims of the UN policy). It will build on existing instruments to form successful partnerships towards the swift and effective implementation of

“….Our outdated marine protection legislation is no longer fit for purpose, and proposed reforms have languished over decades.”

Helen Clark The Guardian

ongoing processes that contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of the ocean.

One of the target aims is to ensure that by 2030, at least 30% of coastal and marine areas, especially those important for biodiversity, are effectively conserved and managed through protected areas.”

So, while Australia, and other countries, are laying the foundations for reaching these targets, and given the fact that we have already committed to them, where do we stand now?

Well, the Guardian quotes Helen Clark, former director of the UN Development Program as saying, “New Zealand is the only coun-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

IT’S A RIP-OFF

I am on a pension. Every year we get a winter energy payment of $40. Why is it whenever we get this payment the power goes up? Two months ago my power bill was $130. Last month it was $192, and I live by myself. This happens every year. It’s about time the government looked into this

Paul Mason Whitianga

A SERIOUS CRIME AND GOOD INFORMATION

I was reading an article in The Informer called Pauline’s Place and strongly disagree with the comment where she stated that making the vaccine mandatory without disclosing risks etc was almost criminal. It wasn’t almost criminal. It was a serious crime and very criminal.

I know of an incident where Alzheimer’s developed almost immediately after the COVID shot and same thing, they all in denial.

I know of several examples – eg a mother’s breast hurt straight after and they told her it was her bra – well it wasn’t. Follow the $$$$$$, I was told. I have been quite shocked at what I’ve seen, even up here in Colville where

I’ve lived and been very involved for many years.

On another matter, I love Malcolm Campbell’s articles – he makes so much sense. It would be nice if a councillor or Environmental Official would take note. There is a lot of local info in the articles and Letters to the Editor, and it is such a change to see both sides of debate printed fairly in the media; so rare these days. Keep up the good work.

Kelvin Port Jackson

POSITIVELY MERCURY BAY –SYNOPSIS

I launched this project early 2025. – placing a box in different places asking for positive comments or ideas about Mercury Bay. Most of the comments, and there were many, related to wherever the box was placed. We loved the comments, but we hope for more comments to be about the whole of Mercury Bay. We will try something different when we resume in the Summer months I share with readers some of the comments received recently.

This was a letter

“With the upcoming water system being reviewed and the imple-

try still bottom-trawling on seamounts in the South Pacific, and twice now, the current coalition government has blocked international proposals (which, notably, New Zealand had originally tabled) to restrict this damaging practice, prompting international concern.

“Most significantly, plans to establish a vast Kermadec Rangitāhua Ocean sanctuary off the coast of New Zealand’s most northerly islands have been abandoned. Had the sanctuary gone ahead, it would have brought us halfway toward the 30% protection goal and safeguarded one of the few remaining pristine places on Earth….Our outdated marine protection legislation is no longer fit for purpose, and proposed reforms have languished over decades.”

Currently, less than 1% of our ocean zone enjoys high protection status.

With our current industry-friendly minister of fisheries devising new legislation concerning fewer cameras on fishing boats, quota management rules benefiting the industry, reduced public consultation, to name a few; how, may I ask, are these measures designed with a view to reaching our obligated protection targets of 2030?

We only have 5 years.

And given that we inhabit a marine area and are part of the highly degraded Tikapa Moana/

Hauraki Gulf, I might also ask our local MP, former associate minister for the environment, Scott Simpson how he plans to put pressure on his colleague, Shane Jones, to achieve these targets. If you share David Attenborough’s dream in the last years of his wonderfully productive life, to bring our oceans back to their former glory, while still sustainably fulfilling the needs of a fish-hungry world population, I would urge that those dreams be strongly communicated to those in power through letters, petitions, submissions, protests and ultimately through the ballot box. Finally, we could instil into our children that life in the sea is valuable and essential for the survival of our oceans and therefore us - that catching cockabullies and sprats on the wharf and letting them flop around till they die and then throwing them back into the sea is not ok; that watching their parents keeping undersized fish or too many fish or dumping unwanted fish back into the sea dead is equally abhorrent; that seeing agricultural, construction and manufacturing pollution being allowed to contaminate our waterways and therefore our oceans must be challenged. Gradually, through education, and the aforementioned actions we may learn to respect and be thankful for all the oceans give us, and help them recover for the benefit of future generations.

less. These letters do not reflect the editor’s view. The editor reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.

mentation of the scheme, we need to include the following –

1. Green water tanks should be mandatory on new premises.

2. Catchment areas areas= existing or new to be included in the project

3. Reservoirs are a must for rural areas. “

Some comments from the four sites where boxes were placed.

Venue One - The Bike Park

“Hi lovely people. We have travelled from Tauranga to discover this wonderland. The kids had fun and we were amazed at how creative it is. Thank you for doing this for people. ‘

“I like to go up and down the hills-because it is bumpy. We had fun!”

“Who is the guy who was in Council for 15 years? Jeez; he can talk the leg off a table. But he’s okay!”

“The volunteers at the Bike Park are a cool bunch of dudes.”

Venue Two - PaperPlus Whitianga.

“The light in me sees the light in you. Bring light to the world.”

“You should always be kind and positive.”

“For me it is like being a boomerang. If you are kind it will probably

come back to you.”

“Corey loves the beach. It is so good for bike riding.”

Venue Three – 5 Coghill Street

“Be at peace and enjoy the beauty that is around you.”

“I am really grateful to be part of the meditation circle with Steffen and what he is offering in the mornings on Tuesdays and Thursdays.”

Venue Four – Playcentre

“Big or small, we do it all.”

“I love the Putt Putt golf!”

The sunshine that reflects radiance from the magnificent waters of Mercury Bay is all healingallow it to be.”

Noel Hewlett Whitianga

WWIII - WORTHWHILE KNOWING YOUR GEOGRAPHY

The Planet we are living on is dangerously on the edge of World War 3. It is under the control of evil Dictators with hundreds of thousands of lives being destroyed, and no end in sight.

Here in Coromandel, we are very lucky to live in paradise. However, all is not well. I read in the “The Coromandel Informer” that Whangamata correspondent Steve Latta has suffered great

stress and angst that on reading a story in “The Coromandel Informer” about an event at Buffalo Beach he had no idea where this beach full of Buffalos was. He endured the extreme inconvenience of having to Google this Buffalo Beach place to find out that it was in fact located in a place called Whitianga. He was highly critical of the writer, and suggested the paper should, maybe, be called “The Whitianga Informer” which I thought sounded quite good.

So, for the record Mr. Latta “The Coromandel Informer” is a privately owned and run business. It is not funded by the tax or rate payer. It does not cost you one penny, nothing, nada, not one brass razoo.

It is based here in Whitianga but gathers news and items all over the Coromandel area even including “Beach Hop” wherever that was? You may like to start your own local paper “The Whangamata Informer”. Good luck on that one.

So, to Pauline, and all your team working hard 24/7, thanks very much, we look forward to our weekly paper.

Douglas Anderson Whitianga

 The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to enable members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest/concern. Please keep them to 200 words or

Fiona Cameron stands for Thames ward at local election

Local woman Fiona Cameron will stand in the upcoming local body election as a councillor in her hometown of Thames.

Fiona says her decision to stand as a councillor in the 2025 elections has been a long time in the making.

“I grew up here. I am committed to this community. I would be honoured to represent the people of Thames in local decision-making on our council. I think our community wants positive change, and I can offer that.”

Fiona grew up in Kapanga/Coromandel before moving to Thames with her family as a teenager, where she attended Thames High School. After time spent outside of the peninsula, including several years in the United Kingdom, she returned in 2009 and established a business, Bounty Store.

Fiona is the mother of two intermediate-age girls who attend St Francis School and is currently the Chair of Creative Coromandel/He Mana Toi Moehau Trust.

With 30 years’ experience as a business owner, employer and manager in the arts sector, both in Aotearoa and the UK, as well as in community governance and leadership roles, Fiona believes she has a valuable mix of skills to bring to the table.

“I’m passionate about the peninsula’s communities, landscapes, histories and peoples, with qualifications in business, including management, marketing, and communication. I am comfortable working with diverse groups to enable community-led change, focusing on economic and social well-being for all people, whānau, and community.”

Her collaborative approach has strengthened relationships with Māori, local government, tourism groups, businesses, educators, and our creative sectors.

“I bring a genuine dedication to our communities and a deep respect for te ao Māori and our diverse cultural heritages. I believe that advocating for and nourishing these aspects will unlock the

full potential of our people and make our communities more vibrant, connected and thriving places to live”

“I know we have some big decisions and challenges ahead of us over the next three years and beyond. I am always ready to listen and to be a voice for the people I represent. I have the ability to assess and understand the often complex issues faced by council. I have the ability to lead with clarity and confidence, and to seek the right path forward for all, not just for the people of Thames but for the whole of our beautiful district.”

‘Just call in and have a coffee with us!’

BY FIONA TARRY

This seems to be our logo at our new Novus Glass branch that officially opened on Friday, 13 June at 733 Pollen Street, Thames. Our team is made up of friends and family (and a small dog called Maymay), so everyone who comes in, sees and experiences the happy environment in which we work.

Our top two technicians/ownersArmand Bornman and Greg Tarry, both bring over 20 year’s experience in the automotive industry. Armand and his wife, Anel, built up a successful mechanic business, and after adding windscreen repairs and replacements to their list of abilities, they wanted to branch into that area more.

My husband is Greg Tarry and we have been working together for the last 20 years operating a small, mobile windscreen repair and replacement service on the Coromandel Peninsula. Their combined skills have produced a Novus Thames Branch that prides itself on its high standard of work and friendly customer service. Our mobile service is ready to come to you.

Our other passion is volunteering our time in the communities in which we

live. Individually, we have all made this an important part of our lives. Hence, we all stagger the days we work so that we can participate in helping others and we choose to not open Saturdays so we can make our family life a priority.

We are here to provide a seamless service with a complete and personalised process and minimum disruption to you. Mobile technicians and preferred Insurance Supplier status keep us at the forefront of our industry. We’ll take care of it all so you don’t have to.

NOVUS Glass® are the leading National Glass Repair team. Our Superior technicians at NOVUS Glass® Thames will prioritise your claim, with a fully comprehensive service to suit your individual needs; – windscreen repair, windscreen replacement, glass restoration.

Cnr Cochrane & Pollen Street

Thames 3500

Phone 07 392 1919 thames@novus.co.nz

Opening hours Monday-Friday 8.00am-5.00pm

Fiona Cameron

GAMES AND PUZZLES

5. Natural (of food) (7) 6. Flying frame (4) 10. Nocturnal hours (5) 11. Printed greetings (5) 13. Facts as proof (8) 14. Estimating worth (7) 16. Cave chamber (6) 18. Browns in sun (4)

19. Belonging to you (4)

20. Drinks with tongue (4)

Proudly sponsored by

Name:

Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/ photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@ theinformer. co.nz to reach us by 12.00 noon on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly.

Last week’s winner CONGRATULATIONS Steve Harris

Sudoku instructions

Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.

Looking back on Community and the Helen Clark Foundation

BY MALCOLM CAMPBELL

One Issue of the Informer carried a reference to Communities in general and asked the leading question ‘Are communities in New Zealand Fraying?’ Asking the question was former Prime Minister Helen Clark with economist Shamubeel Eaqub and associate Rosie Collins and all of this under the mantle of the ‘Helen Clark Foundation’.

Digressing a little, Auckland University Professor, Natasha Hamilton–Hart making a submission on the notorious Waitangi Bill, made a remark which really hit home when she said New Zealand had vastly changed direction in 1980. This remark is totally correct; it signalled the virtual end of ‘private enterprise’ when

successive governments ushered in ‘centralised planning.’

The Muldoon Government began the process with a revamped Town and Country Planning Act in 1980 an Act that only lasted nine years, before replacement, effectively with the even more prescriptive RMA. Geoffrey Palmer brought the RMA forward. However, the Labour Government was defeated and National was elected.

Simon Upton ushered the RMA through Parliament, the change of government having no effect on the direction successive governments were steering New Zealanders and the economy.

For example, prior to 1980 if you wished to build a home, you bought a section and contacted a builder. That simple!

Once the RMA was cemented into place, your property now became the plaything of council staff, consultants, lawyers and even the Environment Court. Just look at the circus taking place over New Chums Beach. Now prior to 1980, we did have Communities.

In the district where I spent my younger year’s, people worked together. If the local hall needed repairs, locals did the repairs. They laid down tennis courts, cut unwanted trees in the school grounds. In fact, whatever needed doing, the ‘community’ did it. Working together, where pay or rewards were not even thought of, brought people together, created friendships.

Where heavy work was involved, the menfolk pitched in

often with their own equipment, the women folk with refreshments (just stating fact, no gender aspersions) Effectively, successive governments have destroyed ‘Communities’. As thousands of people have discovered, nothing is possible now without Council permission, so there is no place for any Community to put their heads together and proceed with a popular project, not even filling a hole in the foreshore at Whitianga.

They are simply not permitted to do so. It is that simple. The Helen Clark Foundation is part of the parliamentary parties that engineered the collapse of the communities. Let’s leave the last words to Albert Einstein, ‘You cannot expect the people who created the problem to solve the problem.’

Church Services

C3 Church Whitianga Join Us, Expect Miracles! Sundays 10am 22 Coghill Street, Whitianga

WHAT'S ON

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

OP SHOPS

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every MonSat 10am-2pm.

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

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

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

MONTHLY

AA Driver Licensing – Friday 13 June and Monday 23 June. 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 bi-

monthly for either coffee mornings or luncheons. Learn more about us by phoning Linda 07 866 5516 or our fb page Grey Power Mercury Bay/ Whitianga Inc.

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 – The Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling Club have had to move their weekly bowls games whilst the Cooks Beach Community Hall undergoes renovations, not to be deterred by this, one of their members offered the use of his garage for the Club to use and this is where they now enjoy playing and are thankful for having this as their venue. New members are most welcome, please contact Coral ph. 0212303944.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

Mercury Bay Pickleball Club- At the Mercury Bay Area School Gymnasium, Tuesdays Members Only 5.30-7.30pm; Saturdays Social & New Players 9-11am; Sundays All Players 3-6pm. Members, Visitors & Guests $5, a complimentary session is available to new players wanting to trial pickleball. Current membership only $10 to 30/09/2025 www.mercurybaypickleball.co.nz

Contact Tony 021426150. Moewai Sportspark sessions are weather dependant & advised on our facebook page Mercury Bay Pickleball. Matarangi (Matai Pl Courts) Thurs 3-5pm(Winter) 5-7pm(Summer) Saturday 9-11am Contact Grant 0223836351. Hahei Tennis & Pickleball ClubThursday & 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, 9.30-11.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881 or email linda_c@orcon.net.nz

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

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

Tai Do Martial Arts – Town Hall, Tues/Wed 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146.

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

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

Whenuakite Area Playgroup – 9.30am12.30pm every Wednesday morning at the Hahei Community Centre. Ages newborn-5years. We invite all parents, carers, visitors and grandparents. Contact whenuakiteareaplaygroup@gmail.com Whitianga Art Group – Every Thurs/Fri 10am4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.

Whitianga Menz Shed – Open Tues/Thurs, 9am-12 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South

Highway, past the diesel truck stop. All welcome. Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/Fri 9am-12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@playcentre. org.nz or 027 880 3947.

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

Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome.

Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss

Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information. 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, 12-1.30pm; . 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 – Coffee Morning, 11am on Thurs 26th June 2025 at the MB Club. Doors will open at 10.30am. All are welcome. Fresh scones, jam & whipped cream. $5 each. Any questions or to learn more about us 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.

TRADES & SERVICES

Tracey:

CLASSIFIEDS

DEATH NOTICES

PEACOCK, Cherie (nee Bennett)

22/6/1966-14/6/2025

Passed away Saturday June 14, in Whangarei after a battle with cancer.

Loved wife of Grant (Waipu) and loving and eldest daughter of June and Bob Bennett (Whitianga). Sister of Dean and Jodie Bennett (Hamilton) and Angela and Chris Gillham (Australia). Cherished aunty to nieces and nephews in New Zealand and Australia. Funeral service to be held at the Encounter Church, Bream Bay, 223 Marsden Point Road, Ruakaka on Thursday 19 June, at 3.00pm.

Lodge Whitianga 443

COFFEE MORNING

questions or to learn more about us phone: 07 866 5516

Section

In accordance with Section 33F of the

Transport

Act 2013 Waikato Regional Council will be removing SV ‘Blue Finn’ a 7m wooden vessel. This vessel is in an unseaworthy derelict state. The vessel was located on the Waitakaruru western stop bank on the 29th of May 2025. As an abandoned and derelict vessel, it will be removed under Section 33J & 33L of the Maritime Transport Act. To prevent removal and disposal the owner needs to contact the Harbourmaster 0800 800 401 by the 26 June 2025.

Section 33F of the Maritime Transport Amendment Act 2013 removal of abandoned vessel.

In accordance with Section 33F of the Maritime Transport Amendment Act 2013 Waikato Regional Council will be removing SV ‘Kuaka’, a 12 metre steel, ex fishing vessel. This vessel is in an unseaworthy derelict state. The vessel was located tied to the mangroves near the Coromandel wharf on the 20th of May 2025. All personal effects and electronic equipment were removed upon abandonment. As an abandoned and derelict vessel, it will be removed under Section 33J & 33L of the Maritime Transport Act. To prevent removal and disposal the owner needs to contact the Harbourmaster 0800 800 401 by the 27 June 2025.

SPORTS

FOOTBALL

Mercury Bay Senior Boys (mixed) played Thames Senior Boys at home Saturday, 14 June

MBAS led 3-0 at halftime. Thames scored early in the 2nd half, but two goals in quick succession meant the game ended 5-1. In defence, Malia Herbert and Fu Horiuchi worked tirelessly, while the midfield of Hyodo Taniguchi, Ben Collins and Shanti Wilson created many opportunities for their forwards. Goal scorers for Mercury Bay were Noah Palmer (2), Curtis Treherne, Joel Iggulden and Hyodo Taniguchi.

Junior Boys (mixed) Mercury Bay plays Hamilton

We played in Hamilton on an overcast day. It was a cagey game with end-to-end entertainment with both teams creating chances. Towards the end of the first half the Bay started to dominate and hold them in their own half but the final ball just lacking. Second half started out much the same as the first half but as the game went on, the Hamilton Team brought on fresher subs who started to make an impact, but the Bays defence held firm repelling attack after attack and frustrating their opponents. The game ended 0-0 but Mercury Bay were proud of their efforts against a top Hamilton team. A big thanks to stand in coach Mike, who gave all the kids player of the day for their teamwork.

Caption: see photos in sports

12th Grade Sharks played Tairua Friday night 13 June

The game that was very loud with both teams cheering their players on heartily. It was a very even good game with great duels throughout the field. Goal scorers Kayleb Cornwall x2, Reef Havard and Dylan Castle. Players of the Day were Luke Collins and Jackson Lewis

8th Grade Mercury Bay played Te Rerenga at Whitianga Sports Park Saturday, 14 June

The conditions were lovely and sunny for our games. The teams have come a long way since the start of the season. Jasmine Jones and Daphne Churches were our two Players of the Day. They both got involved with attack and defence and showed great determination and perseverance.

The MB ‘Rays played Te Rerenga Saturday 14 June.

Te Rerenga played the better first half and applied plenty of pressure on the ‘Rays defensive.

The ‘Rays found their attacking mojo and plenty of space to attack down the wings. Some scintillating crosses into the box found the forwards who buried the ball into the net. A great result coming the way of the home team.

Congratulations to Leo and Charlee for outstanding performances all over the park.

Stingrays Players of the Day - Leo and Charles.

COOKS BEACH INDOOR BOWLS

Report from 28 May

They have played their first Pairs Competition in the garage, Colleen Hunt and Sumer Bartlett were the winners and Frank Caulton and Keith Wright were Runners Up. Third place was Garry Oppert and Brian Hill and Good Sports were Tom Riddle and Judy Leabourn. Afternoon tea concluded this gathering.

Temporary accommodation for their indoor bowls.

MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS

18 players this week, so 501 doubles were played. Three teams won three of their four sets so a one game shootout final was played. The teams were Wayne Olson & Nan, Frank Holcroft & Terry Donaldson, Rex Donaldson & Richie Neighbours and Steve Pointing & Karen Aukett. Wayne Olson and Nan came away with a hardfought win.

Highest finishes this week were 54 for the ladies scored by Karen McKenzie and 84 for the men, scored by Stoney. No 180’s scored this week.

MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER

Wednesday, 11 June

Only six players today. The weather must have been too miserable for some to venture out. Greg Murphy and Ian Baumgren had two straight wins to challenge the final

third frame. Ian had a comfortable win here and took home the cash prize. Runner up Greg Murphy and others with two wins were Wayne Rattrick and Rob Rielly.

Saturday, 14 June

Only six players today and it was Wayne Malcolm and Peter Schultz with two straight wins to battle out the final third frame. Peter took a comfortable win over Wayne and took home the cash prize. Two wins were achieved by Wayne, and Greg Murphy. High break Peter Schultz with 22.

MERCURY BAY BOWLING AND SPORTS CLUB INC

P C Electrical Drawn Triples

Sunday, 8 June

The day was stunning and the play was “electrifying”. Teams from around the Coromandel took part and the winners were from Mercury Bay.

MERCURY BAY PICKLE BALL CLUB

League Q2

Round 11 - Tuesday, 10 June

Court 1 - 1, Hakan Nedjat; 2, Justin Woolley; 3, Jim Gavegan.

Court 2 - 1, Tony Minto; 2, Dan Emmott; 3, Grahame Christian.

Court 3 - 1, Eisaku Tsumura; 2, Helen Oram; 3, Ian Hogg.

Round 12 - Tuesday, 10 June

Court 1 - 1, Hakan Nedjat; 2, Justin Woolley; 3, Dan Emmott.

Court 2 - 1, Eisaku Tsumura; 2, Grahame Christian; 3, Janine Hayde.

Court 3 - 1, Richard Oram; 2, Rawiri Brightwell; 3, Ian Hogg.

MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

Thursday, 12 June

Winners: Keith Denney, Ian Sanderson and Philip Davies.

Runners Up: Alan Henderson, Lionel Lawrence and Pat Fisher

Good Sports: Ray Rout, Shirley Marshall and Sue Webb.

MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB

Championship Pairs round 7

Wednesday, 11 June

North/South: 1, Jenny Layton & Bob Schibli 57.5; 2, Alison Tichbon & Johanna Bonnar 52; 3, Geoff Jervis & Sue Gill 48.

East/West: 1, Robyn Hogg & Pete Hogg 67; 2, Lois Page & Ian Hogg 52; 3, Sheryll Robert & Susan Swan 46.5. Championship Pairs Round 3

Thursday, 12 June

1, Geoff Jervis & Ischelle Stevenson 73; 2, Ian Hogg & Chris Southwell 55.6; 3, Sue Gill & Rose Tegg 52.8.

TAIRUA GOLF CLUB

18-hole Scramble Stableford

Saturday, 7 June 1, Mark Corey-Wright; 2, Gary Nisbet; 3, Leon Smith; 4, Michael McCann. 9-hole Stableford

Tuesday, 3 June

1, Norm Hammond; 2, Kay van Lubeck; 3, Susan McDonnell; 4, Gabrielle Tucker.

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB

Coromandel Pairs, Round 1

Monday, 9 June

North/South: 1, Doreen Wernham & Lynnette Flowers; 2, Jocelyn Taylor & Peter McNeil; 3, Chris Death & Robyn Waters 54.58.

East/West: Ollie & Paula Gilbert 63.75; 2, David Wilkinson & Jill Huston 61.25; 3, Josie Feasey & Liz Young 52.08.

HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB

Bright Pairs Week 2

Tuesday, 10 June

North/South: 1, Denise Knutson and Ann Scott 54.29; 2, Johanna Bonnar and Sue Gill 52.14; 3, Jean Myles and Anne Knowles 51.43.

East/West: 1, Angela Butterworth and Robyn Waters 71.67; 2, Peter Hogg and Peter Clark 55.83; 3, Robyn Hogg and Alison Tichbon 51.25.

PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

9-hole par Round 2 – L Haycock Trophy

Tuesday 10 June

1, Mark Bell; 2, Steve Borlase; 3, Wayne Morrison; 4=, John Hamilton, Neil Robertson.

9-hole Stableford Cooks Beach Building Supplies Monthly Medal

Thursday 12 June

1, Wayne Morrison winner of MM; 2=, Lauren Stephens, Steve Borlase; 4, Mark Bell.

18-holes nett

Saturday 14 June

1, Dean Goodwin; 2, Al Sims; 3, David Young; 4, Wayne Radonich; 5, Donna Dinsdale.

4BBB NETT: Donna Dinsdale and Frank Geoghegan

TAIRUA GOLF CLUB

18-hole Scramble Stableford

Saturday, 7 June

1, Mark Corey-Wright; 2, Gary Nisbet; 3, Leon Smith; 4, Michael McCann. 9-hole Stableford

Tuesday, 3 June

1, Norm Hammond; 2, Kay van Lubeck; 3, Susan McDonnel; 4, Gabrielle Tucker.

MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB

9-hole Women - Net

Tuesday 10 June

Div 1: 1, Jeny Layton; 2, Audrey VIckers. Div. 2: 1, Jen Haycock, Felicity Sanders. 9-hole Mixed - Stableford

1, Kelvin O’Leary; 2, Patrick Gonthier; 3, Bob Holliday.

Twos: Patrick Gonthier

18-hole Men – Stableford

Wednesday 11 June

1, Patrick Gonthier; 2, Rob Baines; 3, Carl Mitchell.

Twos: Dom Szparagowski, Ken George Div 1: Gross - Mark Boe. Div 2: GrossRob Baines.

9-hole Mixed – Stableford

Friday 13 June

1, Patrick Gonthier; 2, Don Maguire; 3, Eddie Lyle.

18-hole Men – Stableford

Saturday 14 June

1, Greg Peterken; 2, Kelvin O’Leary; 3, Sam Murphy.

Twos: Tony Bartlett, Greg Peterken

Div 1: Gross - Sam Murphy; Div2 : GrossKelvin O’Leary.

8th Grade Players of the Day – Jasmine Jones and Daphne Churches.

Winners - Dale Tegg, Maisie Primrose, and David field.

Friday Night game for the 12th Grade Sharks and Tairua 12th Grade at Tairua.

SPORTS

THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB

9-hole Men Stableford

Tueday 10 June

1, Lance Croawell; 2, Ray Green. 9-hole Ladies Nett Day and Putting

1, Glenda Philpot; 2, Maree Cabaret 18-hole Men Handicap Strokeplay

Round 1: SN/JR – CHK Comp Nett

Wednesday 11 June

1, Mike Friis; 2, David Gaskell; 3, Nick Lambert.

Twos: Nick Lambert, Mike Friis

Nearest The Pin#18: Charlie Chilwell

9-hole Men Stableford

Thursday 12 June

1, Ray Green; 2, Paul Anderson.

Saturday Haggle Mixed 18 Holes

Stableford

Saturday 14 June

1, Chris Palmer; 2, Norman Gilbert; 3, Nick Lamber.

Twos: Mike Purchase, Allison DrakeWells, Chris Palmer, Tony De Coek.

Nearest the Pin Hole #18: Allison Drake-Wells.

Womens Rugby Mercury Bay

BY MIKE TAYLOR

Last Sunday 15 June, Mercury Bay Ladies team hosted the Coromandel Hornets Ladies team. This was a benchmark fixture for Mercury Bay as the Hornets have been operating for several seasons and set a high standard.

Ground conditions were affected by the recent rain, but thankfully the weather was reasonable for match day. As expected, Coromandel bought a big support group and a very respectable crowd rolled up to watch the local derby.

Coromandel started fast and scored two early tries. Mercury Bay bounced back with an excellent try by Te Paea to make the score 12-5. She made a beautiful break and beat several defenders in a searing run. The score remained 12-5 for 30 minutes but the Hornets scored before half time to take a 19-5 lead into the break.

The final score of 45-5, reflecting the experience and fitness of the Hornets who had dominance without at any point ever overwhelming Mercury Bay. We are still in the new beginnings stage as a team but yet the game strongly highlighted the fight, spirit and teamwork that has epitomised the group all year and continues to grow.

After match: The Club provided a beautiful meal and both teams made

COAST 2 COAST

generous speeches and renewed their friendships.

The Coromandel team presented to their hosts a very well-choreographed waiata as a message of gratitude for the hospitality and respect for their hosts and the team they played. There was no doubt the great game of rugby was advanced a little bit

Coming up: Quarter-final 29 June, and once again we thank the public for their support.