The Marlin Junior Boys rugby team won their premiership. They played Waihi on Saturday in the semi-final and won! They are now Year 4 Thames Valley Rugby Champions. They couldn’t wait to get back to Lyon Park from Te Aroha to tell everyone the news. The crowds were still watching the Senior A’s win against Hauraki North (HN).
100 GAMES CLUB BLAZERS PRESENTED: Six members of the Mercury Bay Rugby Club were presented with their 100 game Club Blazers following the games. It is quite an achievement as a player to clock up 100 games.
THE MCCLINCHY SHIELD:
In the centre of the photo is the Trophy for the Senior A’s Competition across Thames Valley. Ten years ago, the Mercury Bay Senior A’s won that cup. The young men in this photo with their embossed blazers were in that competition. Well done to everyone!
More on page 27
From left to right: Cody Hamilton, Harley Hanning, Harry Finnerty, Regan Crosland, Conor McVerry, Maui Paurini receive their 100 Game Blazers.
The Mercury Bay Junior Rugby team, The Marlins. From left, Bayley, Kelly, Parker, Sean, Jayde, Rio, Ryder, Reeva (hidden behind Blake with trophy), Koby, Dontae, Jonah and coaches Kody Hamilton and Ryan Eccles.
PAULINE’S PLACE
Stress, stress and more stress
BY PAULINE STEWART
How could I feel so stressed –two hens – and a cat – that’s a breeze. The hens have names, but in the names is that little message as to how precious they are to the owner – meet Saffron and Sage.
In the morning, they require a plate of wheat – about 1/4 of a cup. In the evening, they have pellets with boiled water poured over them. Simple - but no. If there are too many pellets and not quite enough hot water the hen has pellet mixture sticking to its beak. Not good. They spend time wiping the pellet mixture off their beaks by scraping across the entry board to their feeding hut. Then they walk away
A regular extra are the spinach and beetroot leaves that need to be held in my hand so Saffron and Sage can peck at them. Sometimes their pecking results in too big a piece and it falls to the ground. If I hold the leaves tight the hens peck the right amount. If I pick the pieces up and hold them in my fingers – they often peck my hand. I don’t mind as it bites rather than hurts.
I’m running short of spinach leaves – more stress. They like
rice and some baked pumpkin with the skin left on.
When the time is 4.30pm soon to be dark and I haven’t fed them – overwhelming stress.
I open the gate and profusely apologise. Apart from running more quickly to greet me in the morning, they seem the same.
OMG! I have worn my office shoes into the chook pen – tiptoeing and rubbing on the grass reduces the issue somewhat.
Their water – this is a simple job but I need to add a little white vinegar.
Kiti Bit is a beautiful cat – she meows little. But stress is there regarding food for Kiti Bit. For breakfast, there’s the yoghurt that needs a small amount of beaten egg mixed into it. It’s best to beat a couple of eggs and keep the mixture in a jar in the fridge. A soup spoon of yoghurt and not too much egg, nor too little.
Then, 10 seconds in the microwave warms it just right for Kiti Bit’s cat ‘palette’ .
Second course, but placed on the same plate, is a half can of very good quality cat food. The other half of the small tin rests on the toaster ready for the evening. The ants won’t make it up there.
The evening cat feeding pro-
cess is less worrying. There are myriad plastic zip bags in which is the same amount of chicken fillet all cut and ready for Kiti Bit. They sit neatly in the freezer. Take two out and let them slowly defrost in the fridge so there is one for each night. Put packet in the microwave for 10 seconds.
I place chicken in Kiti Bit’s bowl along with the other half of the cat tin contents. She loves chicken and eats a bit. Sometimes I stare at the yoghurt mix - it’s still on the plate – what a waste!
Tonight, I’m home rather late. I sense she is offended that I haven’t been around, leaving in the dark and coming home when its dark. I get that look of disapproval. She sees me, and then takes off through the cat door to
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One night she didn’t come in at all. Sleepless night over the cat?
The next night, cat arrives back home, the food is still there. I’m sitting on what is really her couch. She is purring, and now I know what will fill her with relaxation. She is right close to me, purrs and then starts to pad with her paws on my chest. This is her prep and then down she goes for a sleep. I remain still for her and all is well.
In the morning – all the food has been eaten. Great cat and it’s going to be a great day.
But there’s more stress. This time I am thankful for the cat.
Keys to the house – very important. But sometimes important things get missed. I have left them in the office. I am standing there in the darkness on the enclosed deck of my current home - with computer bag, handbag and house bag. The security light provides me only 10 seconds to see what to do. What I am not going to do is drive back from Simpsons Beach to the office.
I sheepishly look around in case anyone can read my thoughts or see what I am about to do. This house’s cat door is a break in the sliding window. The slide is jacked hard by a piece of fitting timber
which no one can move except if and when they get inside.
It doesn’t look wide enough for an adult human to me. I feel the stress, “What if I get stuck? Easily solved. Carry your phone – you can call if you are stuck.
Boots and all, raincoat and all, I mounted the table, pushed myself through the cat door (a very deep inhale), stood on the kitchen sink and jumped to the floor inside the kitchen.
I turned on the kettle and smiled to myself. Life is okay. Morning is along way away.
I felt elated. Life is not so bad. Stress is gone…. for now!
Many of you face stress every day – about much more than a cat, two hens and a cat door.
I found this matter of feeding animals and getting it right to be a change in what does stress me and in a strange way, little things, worked out, worked through and finally done well, bring a kind of peace and hopefulness to the day. Those little things make the world turn around.
I can only speak for myself. I miss my husband Stan until it hurts physically, and tears come but then the stress and sadness of that moment pass. It will come again, but it will be okay.
sky. There will be many Chinese Tiangong and International Space Station (ISS) passes to enjoy this week but, as usual, timings may change especially towards the end of the week if they have to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above.com for updated timings. Tuesday, July 1 – The First Quarter Moon has climbed to be half way between Regulus and the bright star Spica with Mars well below it and from 7:19pm we have a very short ISS pass in the SW. Wednesday, July 2 – There is a good long ISS pass in the SW from 6:31pm moving right beside the Southern Cross. Thursday, July 3 – The Moon now sits just below and to the left of Spica in Virgo and we have a bright ISS pass from 5:42pm on the SW and then again at 7:19pm low in the west. Friday, July 4 – We have a long ISS pass from 6:29pm in the SW. Saturday, July 5 – Another long bright ISS pass from 5:40pm in the SW. Monday, July 7 – We have a long low ISS pass from 5:38pm in the SW. Tuesday, July 8 –There will be a Tiangong pass from 5:59pm in the SW. Wednesday, July 9 – Full Moon tonight.
Newspaper Layout: Diane Andrew
Stress! Image Chat GPT
Too important for politics
BY MAYOR LEN SALT –THAMES COROMANDEL DISTRICT COUNCIL
These comments represent the views of myself, as the current Mayor, and as a member of the Local Waters Done Well Working Group. They do not represent an official statement on behalf of Thames-Coromandel District Council, our staff, Chief Executive our Council or our Elected Members.
WATER, WATER, WATER
Over the next days, weeks and months, our Council will be making some critical, future-faced, decisions which are, without doubt, the most important decisions that this council has had to make in many decades. They will set a pathway for the management of Council’s water revenues, infrastructure and a significant amount of our asset management. The decisions that we have to make are, in many ways, ‘too important for politics’.
So what does that mean? Isn’t politics at the heart of everything in a modern democracy?
Maybe so. There are, however, some decisions that Councils and indeed, Governments, need to make that are clearly too important for partisan or party politics. Some decisions that need us all, as kaitiaki, as custodians of our future assets and the environ-
ment of tomorrow, to clearly understand our responsibilities towards the generations that are coming behind us, and to ensure that what we build now, and what we leave behind for those future generations, is the best it can be on every level.
The Local Waters Done Well legislation that councils were required to follow made clear a number of options and steps:
1. Status quo was not an option. We had to change we the way we operated
2. Council revenues needed to be “ring fenced” and used only for waters
3. The Commerce Commission would regulate these financial requirements (and would charge Councils a levy for doing so).
4. Taumata Arowai, the Water Regulator, would monitor compliance and quality at local and national level, and would charge a levy for doing so.
5. All councils would be required to submit a Water Services Delivery Plan to the Department of Internal Affairs by 3rd September 2025.
LOCAL WATERS WORKING GROUP
A number of months ago, TCDC formed a ‘Local Waters Done Well’ working group. This group consisted of 3 key elements: a) A senior leadership team with
representatives of our financial, infrastructure planning, and asset management staff.
b) Representatives from our leading water consultants, Martin-Jenkins and project consultant Ian Morton
c) A governance team including the myself, Deputy Mayor Terry Walker, and Mercury Bay Councillor John Grant.
d) The team engaged with Hauraki Coromandel Iwi across the rohe and was able to gain some valuable insight into the mana and the importance of the whakapapa and the tikanga of water and the
depth of meaning that this has to iwi Māori of Te Tara o Te Ika a Maui.
This team began by meeting every two weeks and then moved to weekly meetings as the deadline for making critical decisions got closer.
Our Council, and previous TCDC Councils, had always taken a longterm view and invested wisely for the future. We were in a strong position to examine our options, and, most importantly, to make choices which would leave our residents and ratepayers of today and of tomorrow in a strong position, no matter which pathway we decided on.
We had the benefit of strong advice, in-depth modelling of future costs and benefits and the ability to make decisions for the ratepayers of tomorrow, not just today.
While our Council had the option to choose between a standalone model or a combined/ collaborative model with neighbouring councils, the government had consistently indicated a clear preference for councils to be working together in order to model and identify future cost savings and operational efficiencies.
All of these factors had to be taken into account as part of our decision process.
So, what does the future look like?
As a team and as a Council we needed to ask ourselves a number of key questions.
1. Will water services delivery/ water management (particularly stormwater) look the same in 10…20…30 years as it does now?
2. What could be different?
3. Does AI have a role to play – for example in future customer service?
4. IOT The Internet of Things –for example - where water leak sensors are talking to water management systems which are talking to internet enabled infrastructure in the same way that traffic lights are managed by smart computer systems. If there a future where flood management systems are significantly more sophisticated than they are now for example?
5. Are costs spread between 200,000 connected consumers rather than 5,000 connected customers likely to deliver procurement savings and benefits?
6. Can forecast efficiencies happen be delivered over a medium to long term period, allowing consumers to enjoy the future benefits of scale?
There is still a lot of work to do, and a number of questions still to be worked through. However, we are well on the way towards a future where our water services will be delivered in a future-ready and cost-efficient manner.
“I love this work. I love it to bits”
BY PAULINE STEWART
Adrian Catran, manager of Twentyman Funerals is not offering these words about his life’s work and the fact that Twentymans Funerals has served Thames and the greater Coromandel and Hauraki since 1867 of which Adrian has spent the past 33 years in ownership and in that time the company has handled over 10,000 deaths.
No, these are Adrian’s words when he refers to local government politics. Adrian is at present Chair of The Thames Community Board, and he is standing again for the Thames Community Board at the local elections in October.
WE ASKED ADRIAN WHY LOCAL POLITICS IS SO IMPORTANT TO HIM
“Firstly, Community Boards are extremely important to me. You have a hands-on approach to the community you live in, which you cannot get being a councillor. We have to feel and breathe community if we want to achieve the very best. One has to believe in the process and keep on pushing. My family has been here since 1868. They came out as Cornish tin miners to go gold mining. They were short people and good for working in tunnels which was the type of gold mining that was dominant in this area. All six brothers came out to be employed in the gold industry. They came from a small town called Ludgvan near Penzance in Cornwall.
“Remarkably, all six brothers came here to Thames. It’s unbelievable really. They mostly lived in Campbell Street or Upper Albert Street and later they had shops in Grahamstown.
Secondly, to live in Thames and to call it my home are the most natural things in the world for me.”
Back to local politics: “I was first elected to the Community Council in 1979. When it changed from a Borough to a District Council in 1985 - that was part of a major restructuring of local government in New Zealand - my uncle, Uma McDonald , sat outside the then Public Trust office trying to get enough signatures on a petition to turn around the decision. He was a strong local government man. Cr. Uma MacDonald and I
would verbally argue to get the opportunity for Boards to attend a district council meetings. My memories of talking about local politics around the extended family table are vivid.
“I was first elected on to the District Council in 1992. Alasdair Thompson was the Mayor. He was a good mayor, qualified accountant and a Social Credit man. From 2004 to 2010, I was Deputy Mayor under Mayor Barriball [the Councils first female Mayor and the youngest Mayor in NZ]. I thoroughly enjoyed that Council role and in representing TCDC at Environment Waikato [Regional] Council with roles in roading and Civil Defence. As a Council we did some mighty heavy lifting in that period including wastewater plants on the eastern seaboard and agitating for the new Kopu Bridge.
“I have served three terms as a district councillor. That means you are also on the Community Board of that ward. I have stood for Local Government in various elections but not always elected [missing out twice], but that’s part of politics. If you believe you can make a difference, you don’t give up.
“I have grown up in politics. I could spend my entire day, every day, on local politics.”
Adrian talked about his constant thinking as to what is needed now; what needs to be
“One of my priorities will be the Totara Valley Development. In fact, a key reason I am standing is to ensure that it does happen!”
done to be more ready for the fast-changing future. “By 2030, 41% of the Thames and Peninsula’s population will be over the age of 65. That is just five years away. We have to take into account the needs of all people in our ward with particular attention to those over 65, across all services, including housing, social services and medical needs. Housing is right at the top of the list to ensure we have enough accommodation for those involved in the health sector, education and industry. We need housing / accommodation for those serving the organizations who take care of the elderly and to ensure people with families are able to move to Thames which means that schools, businesses, trades people all benefit from more people in town.
The district is very diverse with over half of our ratepayers being absentee ratepayers, which brings a whole different set of challenges to those elected; things such as water supplies, rubbish collection, wastewater and roading to name but a few.
For the Boards, I want to see
the delegations that Community Boards had as per Local Government Act. 2002. We did not get a Terms of Reference following the elections in 2022. Presently, all five Boards on the Coromandel Peninsula do not have a current term of reference [working off the 2019 model].
As Boards, we need to get those delegated responsibilities in parks and reserves, swimming pools, sports fields, libraries, civic halls, airfields, all the things we raise a local rate for. In previous years, an Area Manager, Board engineer and Board Secretary would keep us up to date with the delegations, such as costing, were contractors meeting KPI’s, urgent works to be done on essential services, like roads, footpaths, pool upgrades to name but a few.
“My request is, ‘Give us back our delegated authority.’”
“Going forward, one of my priorities will be the Totara Valley Development. In fact, a key reason I am standing is to ensure that it does happen! This proposed development has been a possibility and a probability for far too long [since 1977]. Thames needs more sections, good housing, and it needs it quickly.
“Our current Community Board in Thames has four elected members and then there are three ward councillors appointed. Sometimes, and this is a general statement, the councillors do
not always support their Boards around the Council table. Basically, the Council has no direct control over a Community Board. We don’t hire staff, own or dispose of land, set rules or own our own bank account. As per the Act, our main role is to represent, and act as an advocate for our particular wards and Council can refer matters to the Board for discussion.
“I want to say to The Informer that Thames Community Board is the best board. We put heart and soul into it. We have experience and knowledge of history on our side. I enjoy every small victory such as the water fountains which also cater for pets – [that was a three-year battle], there are the TPAT sculptures, the flags back in Pollen Street, the establishment of Explore Thames project following the 26A closure, Porritt Park playground rebuilt, increased ground maintenance at Rhodes Park and I guess at the top of the list [for me!] the removal of The Vibe from between Queen and Pollen Streets.
The replacement of the Thames Centennial Pool has been a somewhat debilitating task for the Board, taking up much staff/ advisors/Board time and finally we have collated all the information, reports, engineering etc and asked the District Council to take over the task of replacing the pool.
“Experience and leadership are critical to the roles of the Community Board members and to councillors. We need leaders who have had at least one previous term as elected members [Community Boards are the springboard for Council]. Having time to do the work is also a critical aspect. This is a public service that we do. As Chair of the Community Board, I would spend more than 20 hours a week talking, planning, phoning.
“With four Council Wards on the Peninsula and small communities near all of them, of course tensions arise. There is tension between Thames and the eastern seaboard block for example. My personal view is we could solve it with a name change - not Thames Coromandel District Council but Coromandel Peninsula District Council - one word less, (CPDC) and my hope, much less tension around the Council table.
Adrian Catran, Chairman of the Thames Community Board, stands on the land where he believes the Totara Valley development will become a reality.
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Celebrating 20th Doc Edge Festival
BY JUDY BAILEY
We find ourselves at a point in history when reliable information is more important than ever. With that in mind, it’s time to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of New Zealand’s Doc Edge Documentary Festival.
Over the past 20 years, Doc Edge has grown from a small, passionate gathering of filmmakers, to an internationally respected platform that encourages courageous, provocative storytelling from across the globe.
Documentaries not only entertain us but also have the power to stimulate debate and inspire real change. They also, crucially, when the world is so divided, encourage understanding between people.
Among this year’s offerings is ‘Os Barcos’, the story of a Brazilian favela, where Monica’s openair restaurant has become the place to be, much to the disapproval of its wealthy neighbours.
This is a beautiful tale of dignity and survival.
From here at home comes a gripping story of justice and perseverance, ‘Mana Moana Mana Tangata’, which chronicles Maori struggles against the system to reclaim their fishing rights.
And don’t miss ‘Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror.’
It’s a son’s intimate exploration of the show’s history and of his father, the genius who created a cultural phenomenon that’s
become a beacon for those who’ve ever felt marginalised.
Doc Edge celebrated the 20th Anniversary at a gala night at SkyCity Theatre last Thursday, 26 June with STRANGE JOURNEY: THE STORY OF ROCKY HORROR to an incredible crowd. (Story below)
There are so many films, ninety in all, and all with a unique story to tell. They come from countries as diverse as Cuba and Israel, the Czech Republic and Afghanistan,
Japan and Norway, as well as Britain and the U.S.
AVAILABLE ONLINE
Many of the screenings will be followed by question-and-answer sessions with the film makers, adding a whole other dimension to the viewing experience. And happily, for those of us on the Coromandel all this will be available online, for you to view at home with the click of a button.
More than forty international
producers and directors are here to present their work and with the festival’s Oscar qualifying status, a number of those who win awards at the festival will be eligible for Oscar nominations.
The Doc Edge Festival is truly a viewing feast, one that will, as the team says, ‘Broaden your mind, give you a more nuanced understanding of the world and may even result in your becoming ‘Sapiosexy,’ a term used to describe those who’ve become so smart, it’s downright sexy!’ I hope you’ll enjoy this special 20th Anniversary offering as much as I intend to!
Rocky Horror Show lives – the documentary on its creator
Born in Cheltenham, England, Richard Timothy Smith’s family moved to Tauranga, New Zealand, in 1951 when his father, an accountant, decided to become a sheep farmer.
Watching horror and science-fiction double features in nearby Hamilton, Smith added an interest in acting to his love of rock and roll. He moved back to England in 1964, tried singing, then became a movie stuntman and fringe theatre actor.
He changed his name to O’Brien (his beloved maternal grandmother’s name) one day while on the phone to British Actors Equity, to avoid confusion with another Richard Smith. He met director Jim Sharman in 1972, when Sharman cast him in the dual roles of Apostle and Leper for the London stage production (transferred from Sharman’s native Australia) of “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Working again with Sharman on a production
of Sam Shepard’s “The Unseen Hand,” O’Brien mentioned a new rock musical he’d been writing called “Rock Horror.”
The play went into rehearsals as “They Came from Denton High,” and at Sharman’s suggestion, was retitled “The Rocky Horror Show” before opening in June 1973. O’Brien stated that when writing the stage play, he actually envisioned himself playing Eddie, but ultimately the powers who were, felt he would
Three Doc Edge movies
be a better fit for Riff Raff.
“When you do something like ‘Rocky’, which is undefinable somehow, it always becomes difficult to lose that. Not that I have any interest in saying goodbye to ‘Rocky’. I absolutely adore being involved and a part of something that is really a phenomenon. And I have no problems with that at all. If it overshadows anything else, I can understand completely why and again it doesn’t worry me.”
The opening night of Doc Edge with Strange Journey: The Story of Rock Horror; Judy Bailey, the Mother of our Nation, when it comes to news and broadcasting, lives locally.
Richard O’Brien
Food Delivery: Fresh from the West Philippine Sea. The risks faced by Filipino fishermen.
Mighty Indeed. Three remarkable women push the boundaries of science in Antarctica.
The Lions by the River Tigris. A city with 8000 years of history struggles to reclaim its soul.
Do you have more produce than you can consume?
BY MICHELLE FARMER
It was called Monday
Meals offering a generous, healthy and tasty community meal very Monday night from St Andrews Community Church in Albert Street Whitianga. This is a much appreciated, community service under the umbrella of the Mercury Bay Community Trust.
NEW NAME – MANAWA
KAI
Now it is fittingly called Manawa Kai. Maureen Kerr, one of the Manawa Kai team and a volunteer with
the work of the Trust has an important message for the community.
“Can you help support our community in a particular way with food? You will be welcomed and appreciated at Manawa Kai.”
Manawa Kai is a voluntary organisation and supplies meals to the community on Mondays and organises the Mercury Bay Day Camp. The members are keen to contact owners of properties who have surplus fruit or vegetables. Maybe you can’t consume all that you produce.
Maybe you spend time away from your property and food goes to waste. Maureen says Manawa Kai could use your surplus produce in their own food preparation or redistribute it to those in need. They are willing to respectfully harvest it themselves if you would like. Manawa Kai want to become more efficient with food recovery and therefore help avoid waste.
If you think you could help, please contact Maureen on email maureenkerr62@gmail. com or 0272466164
We now have a variety of villas to choose from – and all are within walking distance to Thames’ shops, cafes, and walkways. The perfect location to enjoy your fun-filled retirement.
Our spacious villas provide you with plenty of warmth and light and garden patios to enjoy. There are a variety of layouts to choose from including 2 and 3 bedroom villas, and 2 bedrooms with a double garage. All residents enjoy the use of the Village Community lodge and participation in all activities and amenities at your leisure. Living the lifestyle, loving the choice... ALL ENQUIRES WELCOME, VIEW OUR VILLA OPTIONS TODAY!
Volunteers for Manawa Kai preparing the takeaway meals.
NZWindows thrives in a bigger space
The Informer visited NZWindows Coromandel to thank them for their long association with the newspaper, sponsoring The Tides.
Paul and Sheree Mason were pleased with the newly renovated and redesigned office and showroom. Back in 2022 NZW Coromandel moved to a bigger location at 1 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga, a chance to have a showroom and the space to store joinery and make balustrades. The new showroom is now complete.
“It’s been great seeing the showroom come alive,” says Sheree. “Being able to display and demonstrate the wide range of products – the doors, types of glass to choose, balustrade styles and the colour and hardware options; it’s easier for clients to visualise their project, their build or renovation. We now have plenty of parking at our new site.”
Paul is the Manager, and Sheree assists in a part-time capacity. She is also the administrator for Save The Kiwi. They both loved Whitianga long before management of NZWindows Coromandel occurred. Before Paul and Sheree moved to Whitianga they would holiday here. “We loved fishing, diving and the beach, and in 2008 we decided to make the move and live here and start a family,” says Paul.
“Glynn Judson, original owner of NZWindows Coromandel at the time, was looking for a sales rep
and he took me on. I enjoyed the work and the company’s values.
After several years as the sales rep, I took over as manager when Glynn retired.”
“We are a sales branch of NZWindows and get great support from the owner, Kevin Allum and the leadership team who are based in Tauranga.
“Our windows and doors are manufactured in either of NZWindows Tauranga or Hamilton factories. We receive multiple deliveries a week. Our turn around is up with the quickest in the country due to our size. Customers that are not based in Whitianga also have the option of visiting our other sales branches/ showrooms in Hamilton, Tauranga, Auckland, Wellington or Whakatane.
“We also supply and install
balustrades and frameless glass shower screens, as well as maintenance and reglazing older joinery. Double glazing on new builds is a regulation requirement now, but we can still supply single glazed joinery, especially if it’s going into a shed or garage.
“We provide a great back-up service for new joinery, as we are in most towns on the Coromandel weekly. With new house builds, we can supply the joinery without the glass, and once the builder has installed the joinery, our team will glaze the glass onsite. Our factories give us great service, they have an amazing technical team. We can manufacture joinery that other factories steer clear of because we have a wide range of skills. We are one of the largest aluminium joinery suppliers in New Zealand – aluminium win-
dows and doors are our specialty.”
Paul is proud of the business he manages; he supplies to a good proportion of the builders on the Coromandel Peninsula. “We can service across the Coromandel as far as Whangamata through to Ngatea and Paeroa”.
Paul explained some of the new products and new technology coming through. One particular product that is very popular and very impressive, is the ‘over wall sliding door’. “The door slides back over the cladding – a very attractive and flexible design feature,” says Paul.
“Digital lock sets that operate by Bluetooth from your phone have also become a normal part of new builds and renovations. The smart locks have grown in popularity with several options”.
When asked about challenges,
Paul explained that some sites have tricky access, and some are very remote and off grid. Getting large windows and joinery on site, requires a can-do attitude.
“Keeping a steady flow of work is a priority and can be a challenge in the current climate,” says Paul. “I enjoy the people who work here. Our team of seven are a great bunch and very experienced. We have lots of amazing loyal customers whom we have been dealing with for many years that I would also like to thank for their continued support.”
Paul still finds time to go fishing and enjoys golf and squash. NZWindows is a sponsor of the Squash Club and heavily involved in supporting the club.
Call the NZWindows office or visit the showroom. See details in the advert below.
Paul and Sheree Mason, of Whitianga NZWindows; Richard and Paul preparing for one of their weekly deliveries; Basker Modern Beach Kitchen, Whitianga, features the windows and joinery supplied by NZWindows.
More from the Writers Festival
Paddle, pedal and foot – a long way round
BY KASPUR FRANKE
Ginney Deavoll, Author of
The Long Way Round, is an accomplished local artist who has illustrated two children’s books all whilst being an avid adventurist. Miss Deavoll’s enthusiastic love for adventure was self-evident at the conference.
“I just love being out on a journey and an adventure long and slow. Being there with all of the incredible landscapes it’s really inspiring.”
The Long Way Round documents through writing, photography, and painting Ginney’s and her husband’s 2012 jour-
ney as they travel by “Paddle, pedal, and foot” around New Zealand’s South Island.
Along the way they encountered stormy seas, Great Whites, and hiked and carried their kayaks through thick, relentless bush, often times not coming in contact with other people for days or weeks.
“What struck me about the people we met was that money wasn’t a thing. You’d meet someone and it was instantly about sharing. I think to be in that area, you have to be a really interesting person.”
Ginney carried a dry bag with her supplies and at the end of the day would write and visu-
ally record her experiences.
“We never looked at the whole journey. We never knew what was coming next.”
However, there were two rules to the adventure. “If it wasn’t fun we’d stop. It’s gotta be fun. The second rule was, we’d always stick together.”
Later, when facing particularly dangerous seas, they would add a new rule – “Choose the safe option. If any one of us were feeling uncertain. Choose the safe option.”
Asked about her inspiration to undertake such a daunting adventure, Ginney cited another book written by three Kiwis, “Unclaimed Coast”
which she had read multiple times as a teenager. The book chronicles the adventures of three friends as they became the first persons to sea kayak around South Georgia Island.
“I read it and re-read it over and over again and I always thought, ‘I’d like to make something like that.’ Ironically, Mark Jones, one of the authors of the book later contacted Ginney to seek advice about kayaking around Fiordland.
While her preferred academic subjects were maths, science, and art, Ginney admits that she is not a natural writer.
“I am the least likely person to have written anything out of
An abundant gardner with an abundant kitchen
BY KASPUR FRANKE
Niva Kay, alongside with her husband Yotam Kay, is the co-author of two books, The Abundant Gardner and The Abundant Kitchen.
She is the founder of the award winning, Coromandel based, organic market garden and education centre, Pākaraka Permaculture. She is also a professional multi-disciplinarian who has worked in digital media, photography, film (establishing The Rebel Film Collective as well as producing/directing the film High Tide Don’t Hide) and is currently working on a PHD in video game design with an emphasis
on sustainable futures.
“Everybody eats, it really does touch all of us,” says Niva who has travelled the world and worked at various organic food collectives and who spoke about the injustices and inefficiencies of various commercial food growing and distribution systems.
“We can learn how to produce things. We can advocate for ways of changing the food system but also at the same time, literally be growing soil and growing food.”
Originally Miss Kay had not thought about writing a book until she was approached by an Allen & Unwin publishing agent at one of her home gar-
dening workshops where she had a pamphlet, and was asked if it could be turned into a book.
“Can you write it in three months?” “Sure,” replied Miss Kay to the amusement of the audience. Her and her husband eventually asked if they could take an extra month.
“It was pretty intense. We were writing like crazy. The good thing is there was two of us, so we basically tag teamed it. One person was writing while the other person was reviewing it. We were basically writing around the clock to meet the deadline.”
When speaking about the recipes in the books, Niva spoke about the challenges and
importance of getting the measurements right for a wider audience.
“When I’m generally making food, I don’t know, I don’t usually follow a recipe, I often go by feel. But when writing a book you have to be on top of it. Everything has to be precise because you need to make sure that someone who doesn’t already know how to do it can follow your recipe and definitely get a good result.”
Currently Niva is focusing on her PhD with a heavy focus on a sustainable future. Without a doubt, a third installment to the Abundant series is highly anticipated.
Niva was one of our featured
my class in school,” she stated. However, Ginney has found her work to be rewarding and is currently developing plans for a new book featuring art, stories, and of course lots of adventure.
Ginney Deavoll spoke at the third interview session of Meet the Authors as part of the Peninsula Writers Conference and was interviewed by Leo Magri.
local authors in the Peninsula Writers Festival 2025. She was interviewed by Fabian Roberts as part of the ‘Interview the Authors’ series of the Peninsula Writers Festival.
The books written by these two local authors are available at Paper Plus, Whitianga.
Ginney Deavol, author, with Leo Magri and her book The Long Way Round.
Niva Kay, author, with interviewer Fabian Roberts, holding The Abundant Gardener and The Abundant Kitchen.
TRAVEL
TRAVEL WRITER – SARAH JANE
School Holidays in the Coromandel: Top budget-friendly ideas for kids
School holidays are here, and suddenly, your home has become the ultimate hangout for those small, energetic humans we call grandkids, nieces, and nephews. Brace yourself! To help you navigate the organised chaos without breaking the bank, here are eight budget-friendly ideas for fun in and around the Coromandel.
1. TOP BILLING: WHITIANGA BIKE PARK – FREE ADVENTURE
Discover a true hidden gem in the foothills, just past the industrial estate and over a charming one-way bridge. The Whitianga Bike Park offers regenerating bush trails, complimentary use of upcycled bikes (available in all shapes and sizes), and even a whimsical tree adorned with teapots, adding to the sense of adventure. The best part? Entry is absolutely free. Donations are warmly welcomed to support the dedicated volunteers who make this park possible.
2. SELFIE HEAVEN: THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA –SCENIC SNAPS
The entire Coromandel Peninsula is a canvas of breathtaking views and quirky spots. Challenge the kids to capture the beauty without themselves in the frame – just the scenery! Explore the main streets of Whitianga, Coromandel Town, and even venture further afield to Colville and Thames. Get them snapping away to create a vibrant collage of their holiday adventures.
3. RAIN, KIDS & SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: INDOOR ESCAPES
Don’t let a bit of drizzle dampen the fun! The Coromandel boasts
several fantastic indoor escapes, perfect for curious minds when the weather packs up.
• Mercury Bay Museum in Whitianga: Housed in a fascinating former dairy factory, this museum is packed with local history, including early 20th-century equipment that offers a glimpse into the past.
• Coromandel School of Mines and Historical Museum in Coromandel Town: Step back in time in this intriguing museum, partly housed in a former jail. Delve into the Coromandel’s rich gold mining and logging history.
• Thames - A ‘City Break’ Treasure Trove: If the kids need a change of scenery, hit the highway to Thames. This historic town offers a rich treasure trove of museums, actual gold mine tours, and a charming main street to explore.
4. EXPLORE LOCAL CEMETERIES: WHERE STORIES LIE BURIED – ATMOSPHERIC PHOTOGRAPHY
For a quiet and contemplative outing, visit one of the Coromandel’s intriguing cemeteries. Beyond their serene beauty, these sites offer a quiet connection to the past. They’re also great photo locations, with evocative, lichen-covered headstones telling silent stories. Many historic cemeteries were chosen for their commanding views, and these are no exception. Tararu Cemetery and Thames Cemetery are particularly noteworthy.
5. WHO CARES IF IT’S DRIZZLING? RAINCOATS & KUAOTUNU BEACH FOSSICKING!
Low Tide Fossil and Rock Hunting: Grab those raincoats and head to Kuaotunu Beach at low tide for an exciting fossil and rock
hunt! The rock pools at low tide beautifully illustrate ‘zonation’ with different life forms thriving in different tide zones. Use your Google search to identify your finds. Keep an eye out for interesting gems and unique rock formations too. The name of the nearby Black Jack Conservation Reserve offers a hint of the area’s mining past – who knows what treasures you might unearth?
6. BOARDWALKS: ACCESSIBLE OUTDOOR EXPLORATION!
Boardwalks are a fantastic option for kids to explore the outdoors, keeping feet free from sand, mud, or wet ground. Enjoy enhanced views from an elevated perspective, whether it’s of the ocean, a tranquil wetland, or a town skyline.
• Whitianga Beach Boardwalk: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Whitianga Beach Boardwalk. This accessible, relaxed
walk, perhaps with an ice cream in hand, offers a classic beach town atmosphere.
• Long Bay Kauri Walk: A popular, easy walk through native forest near Coromandel Town, noted for its well-maintained track, likely featuring some boardwalk sections.
• Murrays Walk: Located in the Kauaeranga Valley, this raised boardwalk takes you through native plantings and wetlands, offering a peaceful nature experience.
• Tairua River Trail: Beginning at the eastern end of the trail on Pauanui Waterways, make your way over the boardwalk, and the walkway will take you up the harbour with tranquil views and wetland wildlife.
7. CATHEDRAL COVE: THE INSTAGRAM FAVOURITE
We haven’t forgotten the iconic Cathedral Cove! Find out with the kids why this stunning natural archway and beach is a hot favourite with overseas visitors. Always check DOC alerts for track status before heading out.
8. WHAREKAHO (SIMPSONS) BEACH: SUN, SAND & SHADE Wharekaho (Simpsons Beach) is a stunning iron-sand ocean beach located just north of Whitianga. It’s renowned for its safe swimming, intriguing rock pools, and a beautiful fringe of mature Pohutukawa trees providing ample natural shade. Winter walks are great for dramatic skies, powerful waves and softer light. With these ideas, you’re wellequipped to make the holidays memorable and fun for everyone, proving that the best adventures don’t always cost a fortune. Enjoy the chaos.
Live amidst a conservation paradise
Here’s a rare chance to
Feel secure in the knowledge that the only way to drive into Mahakirau Road is through an electronically gated entry, providing privacy and peace of mind for you and your family.
This beautiful 17.55 hectare property at 13 Mahakirau Road offers privacy, tranquillity and a deep connection to nature. The lodge style timber home boasts three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a large open plan living area with cathedral ceilings. The master suite, with walk in wardrobe and en suite captures serene bush views.
Outdoors, a Dutch barn and a character-filled games room with its own open fire provide extra space for your hobbies.
More than just a home, this is an entry point into a living, breathing ecosystem. The Mahakirau Forest Estate comprises roughly 600 hectares of native forest divided into 24 covenanted properties. Bound by the Manaia Kauri Sanctuary and the Coromandel State Forest, the area is rated as a ‘Key Ecological Site’ of international significance by the IUCN. Its biodiversity is second to none: the rare Coromandel striped gecko, Hochstetter’s and Archey’s frogs, North
brown kiwi and North Island kākā call this forest home.
Strong resident populations of kererū, tūī, bellbird and morepork fill the air with song, while mature kauri, rimu, totara, and other native species tower overhead.
The Mahakirau Forest Estate Society (MFESI), formed in 2001, actively protects and restores this unique environment. Its pest control programmes and conservation efforts have made the area one of the Coromandel’s best preserved ecological treasures.
Here, you can walk amongst
epiphyte laden trees, listen for rare bird calls and experience the wonder of an untouched natural environment - right at your doorstep. Yet you’re just 15 minutes from Coromandel town and its amenities.
With its unique heritage and captivating surroundings, 13 Mahakirau Road is more than a property: it’s a chance to secure a piece of one of New Zealand’s most special landscapes.
CONTACT:
Caro Reid, Harcourts Coromandel - 021 0291 5531.
Paeroa – Arkwright’s Antiques, 4 Square Waihi – Waihi Information Centre and Gold Discovery Centre
Thames – Pak n Save, The Green Grocer, Richardsons Real Estate, Aeroview Garden Centre, Superprice Furniture, Goldfields Shopping Centre
Tairua – 4 Square, Surf n Sand Takeaways, Bayleys Real Estate, Gull Service Station, Super Liquor
Coroglen – Coroglen Tavern, Whangamata –Tango’s Shoes, Whanga Books, Challenge Service Station
Whitianga – New World, Woolworths, 4 Square, Gull Service Station, Z Service Station, Tango’s Shoes, Stephensons Pharmacy, Mercury Bay Pharmacy, Liquorland, Well Stocked Deli, Whitianga isite
Coromandel – 4 Square, Coromandel Oyster Company, Super Liquor, Coro Liquor, Coromandel Information Centre, Coro Super Saver, James & Turner
Kopu – Mobil Service Station
Also general stores at Taruru, Te Puru, Tapu and Colville
Island
Waikato Regional Council report
June 2025
BY WARREN MAHER
Rates: It is a topic that we are seeing a lot about in the media lately. On this subject, I have some good news and some not so good news. Firstly, the good news - Waikato Regional Council has a number of policies around rate remissions which can apply to community organisations, including sporting and recreational organisations.
At the recent Finance Committee meeting, the Committee approved rates remissions for the Coromandel Living Trust, Coromandel Hub and the Bizarre Opportunity Shop. These groups are recognised for their community work in housing, disability, budgeting, foodbank and a grant scheme benefiting the Coromandel Region. They join 10 other Thames Coromandel organisations that receive rate remissions. Information is available on our website regarding eligibility.
On the downside, my motion to return the $2.5 million surplus from the 2023/2024 to ratepayers as a rate reduction of 1.7% was voted down; the vote was 7 to 7 with the Chair, Pamela Storey, using her casting vote to keep the money in Regional Council for some unknown future use.
Tuesday’s Council meeting saw a vote to leave Local Government NZ. Vote went 6 to 5 (with 1 abstention) in
favour of leaving. My vote to leave was based on a number of issues. One being membership and expenses which cost over $122,000 per annum. Secondly, WRC also belongs to Te Uru Kahika which is an organisation comprising 16 Regional Council’s, and I believe this is far more relevant to WRC than membership in LGNZ. Also, LGNZ’s finances show a loss of over $577,000 in 2023 and a loss of over $258,000 in 2024, so not a prudent organisation to retain membership in. As I write this, a motion to overturn this decision has been filed, to be presented at the July 2025 Council meeting which is highly disappointing, especially after one presentation at a Council meeting and 2 subsequent work shops to outline costs and benefits. It is of note that only four councillors attended the last workshop online.
IS BEING AN ELECTED MEMBER THE JOB FOR YOU?
It’s time to stand. E tŪ!
Local elections are this October. This is your chance to stand for district or regional council and represent your community. If you are passionate about your community, and want to make a difference, make your stand.
NOMINATIONS OPEN Friday, 4 July
NOMINATIONS CLOSE 12 noon on Friday, 1 August
To find out more visit: tcdc.govt.nz/elections waikatoregion.govt.nz/elections
Monday, 23 June was the opening of the next funding round for the Environmental Initiatives Fund. This is a fund of $300,000 for projects up to $40,000, which enhance the ecologi cal outcomes, by providing education and community awareness on the benefits of preserving and restoring the regions unique native biodiversity. So, if you think your organisation may qualify, then head to our website to apply before Monday, 21 July, 2025.
Standing for Council I would like to take this opportunity to inform read ers of my intention to stand again as the Thames Coromandel Councilor for the Waikato Regional Council in the upcoming elections.
I would also like to thank you all for your support over the last 3 years. I have very much enjoyed engaging with the many different Community groups and Residents throughout the Peninsula and helping support the incredible work that you all do for the betterment of our region.
Big catch for 6-year-old Haze
Having chaired 2 Committee’s and been a member of 3 others, I have gained insight into the workings of Regional Council and can identify the areas where economic efficiencies can be futher improved to produce better outcomes for the Ratepayers. I look forward to continuing to work with like-minded Councillors to achieve positive outcomes for the region in which we live.
This awesome 6-yearold caught this massive snapper in Whitianga last weekend off his poppa’s boat. Haze Lowe hooked the snapper, and it nearly took him overboard but with Dad’s help, they reeled it in together.
Weighing in at a mighty 10 pounds, he is very proud of his catch. Haze is 7th genera-
WHAT DO YOU STAND FOR?
tion Whitianga. All his family prior to him –his Dad, Poppa, Great Granddad- have all been excellent fishermen, passionate about our ocean and respectful of it. From his Mum, Jodie; “You can see the same passion and skill has been passed down the line to young Haze. He is a very keen fisherman!”
Come along and learn everything you need to know about becoming an elected member.
CANDIDATE INFORMATION BRIEFINGS
SATURDAY, 12 JULY 2025
WHANGAMATĀ: 10am – 12pm Whangamatā Service Centre, 620 Port Road, Whangamatā
TAIRUA: 1.30pm – 3.30pm St Francis House, 248 Main Road, Tairua
People interested in standing in the Thames-Coromandel District Council and Waikato Regional Council elections are invited to attend candidate information briefings to hear about the electoral process (the dos and don’ts), responsibilities and expectations if elected.
SUNDAY, 13 JULY 2025
COROMANDEL TOWN: 10am – 12pm
Coromandel Town Service Centre 355 Kapanga Road, Coromandel Town
THAMES: 2pm – 4pm
WHITIANGA: 5pm – 7pm Mercury Bay Service Centre (rear of building) 10 Monk Street, Whitianga
elections@tcdc.govt.nz tcdc.govt.nz/elections
Thames War Memorial Civic Centre 200 Mary Street, Thames
Warren Maher
VILLAGE MUSINGS
Do we really need Regional Councils?
BY GORDON T
Iwas in a local establishment the other day, quietly having a beer with a few distinguished gentlemen who seem to reside at that establishment, when the topic came up of the Government indicating that they would do away with the number of Councils, having us deal with only one. This seemed a popular move to everybody in the whole group as they all pay about $500 every year to the Waikato Regional Council, with no apparent benefit being realised.
Our mate Olive, not his real name; it stands for ‘Oracle of Local Industry Ventures and Establishments’, piped up to explain that the Regional Council employs the Harbour Master, controls the water ways and does all sorts of other stuff. Maybe he had a point, but I generally feel the
value of a politician is not in what they claim they do, but the benefits and value we actually receive. I said to Olive, “Forget what they say they do. What benefit does the’ Village’ receive from Waikato Regional Council involvement?”
This forced Olive to screw up his face as he pondered his answer. Finally, he responded. “They tow the diving platforms out to Brophy’s Beach and Cooks Beach every spring and bring them back at the end of summer.” The gardener, who was quietly drinking, responded quickly. “Is that all we get for $500 each? I could swim them out for less than that!”
Now I knew the Gardener couldn’t swim a donut past the surf, but before I could comment, Olive added, “It’s worse than that. One of the platforms is needing repairs so they only towed one out last summer, and we didn’t get a discount”.
I quickly added, “Not only are they of little benefit but they can be a hindrance. Just look at how long it took them and the TCDC to decide they could fix the ‘Shark Bite’ - about 18 months”. The Uber man, who had been quiet to that point, added, “It seems they only gave consent for one load of rocks, because it looks like they only filled half of the ‘Shark Bite’. We couldn’t help but agree with him.
The conversation paused. Olive, who was first finished his beer, started diverting attention from himself whose round it was. I broke the quiet. “We all seem to agree the Regional Council seems to be as useful as teats on a bull, but how about the Council, what benefit are they to us all?” There was a general lack of comment at that point until the Gardener responded, “Wealth distribution – they take a bucket load of cash
from all of us on the East Coast and spend it on Thames; but that’s hardly a benefit.”
Olive was in his oracular element here explaining to us that the Council looked after water, sewerage, roads, parks and all sorts of other things. I had to interject though, stating “They obviously perform some needed functions, but they waste heaps of money on “consultation” exercises they always ignore and do what they wanted to do originally, producing magazines in competition with local companies doing the same thing, increasing staff rather than curbing expenditure and tightening their belt. The list goes on and on”.
Olive finally came back with the next beer so I could stop talking and take a sip. The Gardener filled the gap pointing out “The Council should be able to tow out the diving platform without raising our
rates by $500” to which the Uber man responded, “Don’t bet on it”. The conversation carried on with everyone making a few points but in general agreeing that things could be more efficient and cheaper for us if we only had the one Council to deal with and logically that should be the District Council. The general concern was now back with the existing District Council we have. As the Uber man pointed out, “How can you trust this Council to be careful with our money, they just look like women on a shopping frenzy. Rates are going up at more than twice the rate of inflation next year, and then there is the capital rating increases they are ramming through despite 56% of the community being against it. How can they be trusted with our money?”
“Well,” Olive responded, “There is an election coming up.”
New chapter begins for Mercury Bay Club
BY TYREE CONOR
The Mercury Bay Club (MBC) proudly demonstrated its strength and community spirit at its recent AGM, with an impressive turnout of 166 members. It was a strong show of support for a 10.00am meeting on a Sunday morning, as members gathered to thank the outgoing committee and welcome the new leadership team.
All committee and non-committee roles have been successfully filled, with long-time member Kelvin Conaghan stepping into the role of President. His experience and dedication promise steady leadership and continued growth for the club.
The outgoing committee is also handing over the plans and groundwork they’ve laid for the new carpark and internal building improvementsprojects that are expected to take shape over the coming year.
Several key topics were discussed during the meeting to help shape the club’s future direction. Notably, work is underway on a new constitution, designed to modernize
the club’s rules and provide greater clarity for all members. A Special General Meeting will be held later in the year to consider its adoption, and members are encouraged to stay tuned for updates.
With engaged members and
new leadership, the Mercury Bay Club looks forward to a positive and productive year. Linda Fraser who ably chaired the meeting and who has been President of MBC was thanked by the gathering for her work and leadership.
U12 GIRLS
GAUGING INTEREST
1x Training Thu 10 July 4-5
1x Friendly Sat 12 July 10-11 Moewai Sports Park Beginner level, no fees
If we have enough keen we will enter the second half of the U12 7aside season against Te Rerenga, Tairua, Whangamata and Hauraki Plains
EMAIL: mbfootballclub@gmail.com
The new Mercury Bay Club Committee Roger Simpson (V Pres), Wayne Rutherford, Lindsay Wain, Glenn Matthews, Cheryl Andrew, Debbie Ross, Emma Gaunt, Charlie Cunningham (V Pres), Brenda Ward, Kelvin Conaghan (Pres), Linda Fraser (outgoing President); Linda Fraser is presented with thank you flowers and gifts; Alan Proctor, right, the new interim manager of MBC was introduced to the gathering.
Nanny Near U – Care you can count on
Trusted Care on the Peninsula
Families now have access to a trusted, experienced childminding and dog-sitting service with Nanny Near U – a caring, community-focused service launched by a local, autism-aware registered teacher.
The journey began when The Lost Spring opened many years ago. Parents wanting to enjoy the hot spings and the day spa needed to find good childcare options.
At the time, the founder of Nanny Near U was managing the Whitianga isite, where frequent requests for childminding sparked the idea to offer a safe, flexible and affordable solution for parents and caregivers.
Nanny Near U offers childminding for all ages, including infants and children with additional needs. With professional experience and autism aware-
ness training, the service ensures a safe, inclusive environment tailored to each child.
The service also includes dog sitting, perfect for visitors and locals alike who want peace of mind while enjoying time away.
Whether you’re planning a spa visit, night out, or simply need reliable daytime care, Nanny Near U is ready to help.
Booking is easy. Simply provide the names and ages
of the children, any allergies or medical conditions, your address, and the date and start/finish time required. The rest is taken care of with warmth, professionalism, and years of hands-on childcare expertise.
Whether you’re a visitor to Whitianga or a local in need of a helping hand, Nanny Near U is here to support your family with genuine care.
To inquire or book, phone 021776039.
300 new trees at Whitianga Bike Park
The Whitianga Bike Park recently hosted and supported the Mercury Bay Area School planting day! The school’s efforts in growing and nurturing their native seedlings has resulted in 300 native plants being planted with the Bike Park this year! This project was supported by Thames Coromandel District Council
Both the Bike Park and the school are proud of the part they have played in this project -environmental restoration. Their efforts have had a positive effect on habitat creation, biodiversity and water quality and also on the young people and volunteers who took part in the planting.
This was all organised by the Trees for Survival Charitable Trust. The Trust works with the land owners who work very hard to prepare for and maintain planting. In this case it was the MBAS students and the Bike Park Manager, Jon Maud and his team of volunteers.
The Bike Park is a wetland area that flows out down a stream and into the Whangamaroro River which flows into the Whitianga harbour. Behind the bike park is a large area of native bush so this planting will create more habitat for native wildlife.
The weather forecast was way out as what was meant to be occasional light showers turned into torrential rain.
The children even though they were wet through really got stuck in and they managed to get most of the 300 plants in, leaving a few for the Bike Park volunteers to plant later. Thank you to Jon for collecting the plants and organising
the site and to the other Bike Park volunteers for preparing the site and providing a sausage sizzle.
Plant Maintenance: Following the planting day, plant growth will be monitored once a year for two successive years after planting by the Trees for Survival (TfS)facilitator. The facilitator advises landowners to release plants from weeds and grass as required to encourage plant survival. A large variety of trees were planted with an extensive report on each species.
Koha/Donation: Trees for Survival Charitable Trust relies on donations to continue to run our programme and greatly appreciate any koha /contribution to help cover the cost of the plants planted. Donations can be made via their website www.tfsnz.org.nz/donate or directly to Trees for Survival Charitable Trust 02-0223-0161944-000. Email: info@tfsnz.org.nz.
Donations are tax deductible and receipt provided.
Compiled by Jane Nightingale - Trees for Survival facilitator and Paul Maskery MBAS Teacher
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to enable members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest/concern. Please keep them to 200 words or less. These letters do not reflect the editor’s view. The editor reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.
in coastal environments and near centres of population, and satellite instrumentation which gives much greater spatial coverage across the world’s oceans. Of course, Mr Brickell has previously dismissed satellite measurements, which I am sure he would embrace if they supported his point of view. But of course they don’t.
The work of NASA scientists on sea level data doesn’t happen in isolation. As noted in previous letters there are thousands of scientists around the world, including within New Zealand, across numerous institutes who are working in this field. Here are some further useful links, and there are many more:
In the TCDC email titled, Staying the Course, dated Wednesday, 25 June, the Council makes much of the fact that they have “stuck to the average 7.7% district-wide rates increase we signalled for Year 2 of our Long-Term Plan”, as if this is some sort of major achievement for which the ratepayers should be grateful.
New Zealand’s inflation rate for the year ending 31 March 2025 was 2.5%. In what world is an increase of three times the national inflation rate something to be proud of?
Fixed income ratepayers are not getting an increase in their income to cover this sort of increase. I currently pay 25% of my pension just on rates, and this is going up incrementally by far more than the inflation rate.
You want a budget plan?
1. The inflation rate for the previous financial year is your budget increase cap.
2. Stick to basic services, roading, water, sewerage and waste. Social services are not your job. If communities want to beautify, modernise, promote local business, assist them with fast tracked permits and advice. Communities can raise the funds themselves and provide working bees in order to help themselves and their communities.
3. If the Government is pushing changes to local council for which you don’t have the finances, then push back, in conjunction with other cash strapped councils, for the Government to find affordable solutions.
Set an annual goal to work within your means, with no exceptions. If you don’t have the money, DON’T DO IT!
Ian Stewart
ENTRUSTING THE DECISION MAKERS?
I was struck by a phrase in Trevor Ammundsen’s article, issue 1162, ‘Does Mercury Bay have a vision?’. He said, “I am suggesting that Council staff are not the decision makers here. They are to be pub-
lic servants”
My initial reaction was “So true!”. Decisions are to be democratically made by the public, then put into practice by Council staff (in so far as budget allows). However, how are these democratic decisions to be reached and howare they conveyed to the Council to be executed? Would this be via the Community Boards? Would we have to have endless referend? Not everyone participates in them by any means.
Or is the democratic decision made when we elect the Council members and thereafter, we trust them to make decisions for us? Moreover in the same issue there was an article examining the Council’s decision regarding the new rating system which revealed that the respondents to their questionnaire on the different options clearly voted for option one and the council then promptly voted for option three! I appreciate that the respondents only made up 2% of rate payers, but the juxtaposition was stark.
I feel that if we are going to entrust these Council members with decisions, we need to know much more about them prior to election and possibly see statements of their position on specific issues which are pending during their term of office.
Brighid Southwell Kuaotunu
ELECT THE CONCH
Elections are coming. People stand up to be elected. People get elected and all those changes they promised to get your vote don’t happen. The same thing happens three years later when another lot of candidates raise their heads with good intentions to make change.
Again, there is no change. The system rules regardless of the personnel inside it. It is the system which needs change. A vote for a change of system might affect some real change in government which cannot be affected with a simple change of personnel.
The ‘Conch’ is the name given to an electronic opinion-gather-
ing device set up to assess public opinion. The Conch would publish results as from a referendum. 10,211 ratepayers in the Whitianga can be logged into the Whitianga Conch, cast their vote and see what everyone else thinks about it. The technology is already in place.
Voting and the results will emerge just seconds after the time limit. Cost is virtually free. The Conch’s results can then be used to influence council decisions. But who has the oomph to set one up? Who will stand up for election promising to set up the Conch in Whitianga’s Community Board?
The conch could be set up privately at home, but wouldn’t we rather see it in the hands of our local community board or, better still, our district council?
John Veysey Colville
LET’S GET BEYOND CYNICAL ANTI-CLIMATE CHANGE SCIENTIST AND SCIENCE OPINIONS
In his response to my previous letter Mr Brickell (3 June 2025) cynically headlined that “NASA readings keep the research dollars rolling in”.
In doing so he continues to parrot an anti-climate change science narrative that has been going on for about 30 years. This narrative has its origins in American right wing think tanks and oil industry supported interests. Mr Brickell might as well argue that anyone who is motivated to do good in the world, regardless of their profession, is simply doing so to keep the money rolling in. It is a very cynical, uninformed perspective.
My advice to Mr Brickell, therefore, is to stick to the science. The links I provided for the NASA website, which he dismisses out of a belief (blind perhaps?) in his superior knowledge, were found with a few minutes of my time. So, let’s go a bit further. The measurement and interpretation of sea level is an extremely complex and sophisticated undertaking. It involves use of both sea level gauges which tend to be clustered
Redwood’s battery-powered microgrid already runs cheaper than normal grid power. For New Zealand, using EV batteries this way could support our renewable energy goals, create jobs, cut oil imports, and save billions. Switching to EVs isn’t creating waste-it’s building a cleaner, smarter energy future.
Maureen
McGill Mercury Bay
In summary, Mr Brickell will find that I am very clear in my understanding that the work of NASA sea level scientists is aligned with that of scientists around the world. Dare he lift his head out of the sand and open his eyes? Perhaps that is too much to ask. This is the end of my communications on this matter.
Gavin Kenny, Whenuakite
WRONG IDEA ABOUT EV CAR BATTERIES
The idea that electric car batteries only last three years and then end up polluting landfills is a total myth. The truth is very different -and it’s changing clean energy around the world.
Redwood Materials has just built the world’s largest “second life” battery system. It uses 62 megawatt-hours of old batteries to power North America’s biggest off-grid solar data centre. These so-called “dead” batteries still have over 50% capacity left even after 25 years in an EV, showing they can keep working as energy storage before they’re recycled.
Redwood recycles batteries equivalent to around 250,000 EVs every year. That’s about 90% of all lithium-ion battery recycling in North America. This approach can easily be expanded worldwide, including in New Zealand as our EV numbers grow. The key difference: fossil fuels are burned once and gone forever, leaving air and climate pollution behind. EV batteries can be used over and over-first in cars, then to store renewable energy, then recycled into new batteries. That’s a circular system instead of a wasteful one.
TCDC AFFIRMS VOLUNTEERS
Thanks to TCDC, Community Board members, and Councilors for the Volunteer Get Together they put on.
Great to know that the many hundreds of volunteers within Mercury Bay are recognised. Without the volunteers, Mercury Bay and other communities on the Peninsula and in Hauraki would not survive. Thanks again. Jon Maud Community Patrol/ Bike Park, Mercury Bay JESUS ENLISTING
Having read Gordon T’s beautifully written piece (The Informer 24 June), I dare to say that it wouldn’t be inconceivable for Jesus to enlist mortals to do his bidding, according to His plan.
God bless you Gordon T. Dan Allen Whitianga
ALL BLAME ON BOTTOM TRAWLING?
Once again, we see bottom trawling being touted as the cause of the destruction of our oceans. The thinking seems to be that if an area isn’t trawled, the sea floor remains undisturbed, thereby marine life is in a state of utopia. Nothing could be further from the truth-regardless of what the learned David Attenborough might espouse.
Can Ross Liggins please explainWhy after a good storm scallops wash up on our beaches? Scallops that, incidentally, we were led to believe were virtually non-existent.
Logical thinking, and underwater observation, would suggest the ocean floor isn’t static, and the percentage of trawlable areas actually being trawled, is very unlikely to cause the massive destruction purported. Nature is resilient, and just like climate,is ever changing and evolving.
As recreational fishing increases exponentially, we need to step back and look at our own impact on fish stocks, and stop blaming commercial fishers-who just happen to be a dying breed. It’s time we stopped the blame game and hysteria creating hyperbole.
Gail Morgan Te Rerenga
ENVIRONMENT MATTERS
Welcome to Poison-Free Coromandel?
Is it past time to update Glyphosate’s risk assessment? The following information is taken from the COBY Report –Coromandel Our BackYard www.coby.nz It is a significant scientific report on ‘Caring for our lands without poisons’ Te tiakitanga o nga whenua hei paitini kore.
BY STEPHANIE MCKEE
THE BAD NEWS:
Did you know that New Zealand Food Safety wants to increase the maximum allowable residue(MAR) level of glyphosate in foods one-hundred fold? For whose benefit?
Not for the health and safety of consumers, that’s for sure. The Environmental Law Initiative (ELI) states:
“There are around 90 different formulations of glyphosate-based herbicide in Aotearoa. In many of these formulations, glyphosate is mixed with other chemicals that are designed to maximise glyphosate’s effects. Many of these co-formulants are known to be more toxic than glyphosate itself and can also act to increase glyphosate’s toxicity.”
The “forever chemical”, Polyethoxylated tallow amine, (POEA), is an example of a highly controversial co-formulant that is currently available in New Zealand despite being banned overseas. Some observers assume that the proposed increase in residue levels is in preparation for introducing genetically engineered, Roundup ready crops into GE Free Aotearoa.
JUDICIAL CHALLENGEGOOD NEWS:
The Environmental Law Initiative (ELI) is challenging the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) with a judicial review in the Supreme Court. The ELI’s case asserts that the EPA’s decision not to do an updated risk-assess-
Photo S McKee
ROADSIDE SPRAYING ON THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA
Last time I asked, our local Council was spending over a million dollars annually on road-side spraying on the Coromandel Peninsula, and the spray being used was AG-Pro Glyphosate 500. The manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) calls Glyphosate ‘ecotoxic; and instructs that it must be kept out of ‘aquatic systems’ .
“Prevent from entering drains, waterways or sewers. If spill does enter waterways, immediately contact local authority.”
Who do you contact when it is the local authority’s contractors themselves who are spraying hundreds of kilometres of roadside drains on the Coromandel Peninsula? Why should Glyphosate be subject to an updated risk-assessment?
The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, Te Kaitiaki Taiao a Te Whare Pāremata, Simon Upton, explains this clearly in his March 2022 report, ‘Knowing What’s Out There: Regulating the Environmental Fate of Chemicals’:
“The rules about how a chemical can be used shouldn’t be static – we need to be able to adapt as new information comes to light. Restrictions should be based on the latest science and informed by New Zealand-specific data on use and impact.”
judicial review and it should make alarm bells ring:
“There is evidence that glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides have negative impacts on a wide range of taxonomic groups including bees, soil microbiota, aquatic invertebrates, fish, non-target plants, terrestrial invertebrates, and vertebrates.
“Our application also collates independent scientific evidence of glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides’ impacts on the human nervous system, human endocrine system, and as a probable human carcinogen.”
POISON-FREE COROMANDEL, NOT ONLY ‘GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL’ BUT ALSO ‘GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH’
In 2023, COBY presented to the Colville Coromandel Community Board a proposal and vision for a Poison-Free Coromandel, putting the case that a poison-free zone would be not only good for our health but also good for eco-tourism, a growing niche market for Peninsula businesses.
ment on glyphosate is unlawful, given new scientific evidence and research.
The last time the EPA did a
proper risk-assessment on Glyphosate was in the 1970s and they cannot even find the records for it!
Some of this recent independent evidence about Glyphosate is very concerning. (Independent evidence is not funded and supplied by the manufacturer, Bayer.)
The ELI has gathered independent scientific evidence for their
Besides tourism, there is the local honey industry to consider. In 2021, Japan blocked shipments of New Zealand honey after testing found traces of glyphosate exceeding its standard of 0.01milligrams per kilogram. (6) Do visitors to the Coromandel really enjoy seeing all the road edges, drains, picnic tables and even children’s playgrounds with the toxic yellowed sprayed edges? Wouldn’t our tourist guests and local residents alike prefer to see a sign saying, Welcome to Poison-Free Coromandel?
Mercury Bay Business Association: Buy Local and Stay Connected
BY TYREE CONNOR
It may have been a stormy June evening, but that didn’t stop more than 50 local businesspeople from coming together for the Mercury Bay Business Association’s (MBBA) monthly Business After 5 event. This time, it was hosted at the Coro Club- offering the perfect setting to catch up, share ideas, and talk about what’s happening in our community.
Momentum Waikato: Each month, a different MBBA member hosts the evening, and this one was a real highlight. Alongside the usual mix of networking and good conversations, the Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC) took on hosting duties and invited Momentum Waikato to speak about an exciting initiative: the
Coromandel Future Funds.
Speakers Janice Lapwood, Stephen Town, and Peter Farmer explained how the project aims to support the long-term wellbeing of our region. It’s a fresh approach to community investment-encouraging people to give not for profit, but for the benefit of Mercury Bay. The towns of Thames, Whangamata, Coromandel and Pauanui -Tairua are also having funds established. With this “smart giving” model, donors can choose exactly where their money goes, helping make a real difference in the areas they care about most. Inspiring people to leave a legacy for a specific benefit in their local region sparked a lot of interest-and some great conversations too!
The evening also gave a shout-
out to recent member successes and the ongoing Buy Local campaign. This campaign isn’t just about shopping. It’s about supporting our friends, neighbours, and the incredible talent right here in Mercury Bay. Buying local keeps our community strong, especially during the quieter winter months. It’s a simple but powerful way to show up for each other.
Mark your calendars - the next Business After 5 is coming up on Tuesday, July 8, hosted by Coromandel Lifestyle Centre, The Coromandel Informer, and Coromandel Chambers.
And starting in July, MBBA will also be launching bi-monthly speaker events – free for members! Each session will focus on a different topic, like business
accounting, health and safety, building strong teams, and more. There’s so much to be proud of – and even more to look forward to. Let’s keep supporting each other to build a thriving Mercury Bay, together. Contact mbba@whitianga.co.nz if you’d like more information or to join the association.
Editor’s Note: Every town on the Peninsula and in Hauraki has a Business Association or equivalent organisation. The Informer will be sharing news on what is happening for each of these. It is a time to act locally in our towns with our buying and leisure time but also in your region. It’s not a competition but a team of towns inviting the world to their door and to their out-doors.
Waiomu Playground shows the effect of the glyphosate-based herbicide spray used to kill grass and weeds that are difficult to mow.
Stephen Town from Momentum Waikato addresses the monthly After 5 event of the Mercury Bay Business Association.
Proudly sponsored by
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.
WHAT'S ON
OP SHOPS
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop –Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.
St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat 9.30am-2pm.
St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen St, Whitianga. 9.30am-1pm Wed-Sat.
Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-2pm. Donations welcome.
SPCA Op-shop – 2 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 9am-4pm.
MONTHLY
AA Driver Licensing – Friday 11 July and Monday 28 July. 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 Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. For more information, phone Gavin on 021 146 9203.
If you have an activity or group or the existing information is incorrect, let The Coromandel Informer know. Call 07 866 2090, email info@theinformer.co.nz. Our What’s On page is not guaranteed to run every week as often space is restricted. Consider paying for a classified advert if you want to guarantee your activity runs every week.
Mercury Bay Community Choir – 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 Club-Thursday & 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 – 9.30am-12.30pm every Wednesday morning at the Hahei Community Centre. Ages newborn-5years. We invite all parents, carers, visitors and grandparents. Contact whenuakiteareaplaygroup@gmail.com
Whitianga Art Group – Every Thurs/Fri 10am4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.
Whitianga Menz Shed – Open Tues/Thurs, 9am-12 noon. At the Moewai Park end of South Highway,
past the diesel truck stop. All welcome. Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/Fri 9am-12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@playcentre. org.nz or 027 880 3947.
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games. Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info.
Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome. Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.
Yoga for Everyone - beginners/retirees/inflexibles welcome. Mon 2.30pm, Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 8.45am, Fri 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25/90 minute session. Txt Rosemary 0274 489326 for info.
DANCING
Argentine Tango Dance Class – Fridays, Town Hall, Whitianga, 5.30-7.30pm. No prior experience or partner necessary. Text Sergio for questions 027 410 2454
Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran.com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm. Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Tuesdays beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.45-2.30pm; Thursdays absolute beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, 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 2.303.30pm, Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.3011.45am, 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 Thursday 21 August 2025 at the MB Club. Doors will open at 10.30am. All are welcome. Informative & interesting speakers. 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
TRADES & SERVICES
David:
NOTICE OF ELECTION AND
POLL, NOMINATION OF CANDIDATES AND CLOSING DATE FOR NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2025 ELECTIONS OF THAMES-COROMANDEL DISTRICT
COUNCIL
Under sections 52 and 53 of the Local Electoral Act 2001, I give notice that on Saturday 11 October 2025 the following elections and poll will be held by postal vote using the First Past the Post electoral system:
ELECTIONS
Mayor Election of mayor
Wards
Election of one councillor for the Coromandel-Colville General Ward Election of three councillors for the Mercury Bay General Ward
Election of two councillors for the South East General Ward Election of three councillors for the Thames General Ward Election of one councillor for the Te Tara o Te Ika Māori Ward
Community Boards
Election of four members for the Coromandel-Colville Community Board Election of four members for the Mercury Bay Community Board Election of four members for the Tairua-Pāuanui Community Board Election of four members for the Thames Community Board Election of four members for the Whangamatā Community Board Candidate names will be listed in alphabetical order on the voting documents.
POLL
The Thames-Coromandel District Council is required to hold a poll on Māori wards with the 2025 elections. The outcome of the poll will be binding and apply for the 2028 and 2031 triennial elections.
The poll is a vote to KEEP or REMOVE Thames-Coromandel District Council’s Māori ward.
NOMINATIONS
Each candidate must be nominated on the appropriate nomination paper. Candidates can complete and submit their nomination online at esp.electionservices.co.nz/lge2025/TC
Printed nomination forms are also available during normal business hours from Friday 4 July 2025 at:
• Council’s Main Office
515 Mackay Street, Thames
• Coromandel Town Service Centre
355 Kapanga Road, Coromandel
• Mercury Bay Service Centre
10 Monk Street, Whitianga
• Tairua Library
2 Manaia Street, Tairua
• Whangamatā Service Centre
620 Port Road, Whangamatā
• by accessing www.tcdc.govt.nz
• by phoning 0800 922 822
Nominations of candidates must be submitted online or in the hands of the electoral officer or an electoral official no later than midday on Friday 1 August 2025.
Each nomination must be accompanied by a deposit of $200 GST inclusive (payable by bank transfer, eftpos or cash). Online nominations require proof of the deposit to be uploaded as part of the submission.
A candidate may submit a candidate profile statement and photo with their nomination paper. All nomination material must be submitted together. Any candidate profile statement or photo will be included with the voting documents and sent out to electors.
An attachment to the nomination paper outlines rules and procedures governing candidate profile statements. The same information also appears in the online nominations portal.
ELECTORAL ROLL
The electoral roll to be used for this election and poll closes on Friday 1 August 2025 and can be inspected during normal business hours from Friday 4 July 2025 at the above Council locations. Enrolment for inclusion on the Residents Electoral Roll is conducted through the Electoral Commission.
Applications for enrolment should be made by:
• accessing www.vote.nz
• phoning 0800 36 76 56
Enrolment for inclusion on the Ratepayers Electoral Roll is conducted through the electoral office of the Thames-Coromandel District Council.
Applications for enrolment should be made on the prescribed from at the above locations, www.ratepayer.co.nz, www.tcdc.govt.nz or by phoning 0800 922 822.
Following closure of the roll, the electoral officer may, on application of any person who is or claims to be entitled to be enrolled or any other person or otherwise, make any necessary corrections to the names, addresses, abbreviations or marks appearing in the electoral roll.
Dated at Thames 1 July 2025
Dale Ofsoske
Electoral Officer, Thames-Coromandel District Council
Phone 0800 922 822
515 Mackay Street, Thames
Protecting native species from introduced predators in Moehau
The Department of Conservation (DOC) in Whitianga is going to control stoats, rats, and possums over 4,6274ha of the forest on Moehau. This is scheduled for clear weather between July and November 2025 (weather depending).
Native wildlife and forests need protection
Native species are fighting for survival due to predation from rats, stoats and possums. Without protection, we risk losing the unique natural heritage and biodiversity within the Moehau conservation area.
Native species living in the forest include Coromandel striped gecko, Coromandel kiwi and Archey’s frog, North Island robin/Toutouwai, kākā and kererū.
Our plan to protect native species
Through sustained predator control using 1080, there is a big increase in breeding success for native birds, their food source is more abundant, and the forest canopy is healthier.
The safest and most effective method we have to control possums, rats and stoats over large areas is to use biodegradable cereal bait pellets containing 1080. This bait targets rodents and possums. Stoats are also controlled through secondary poisoning as they feed on the carcasses of the dead rodents.
Helicopters distribute bait pellets across the forest area along pre-determined and monitored flight paths using technology that enables accurate placement. This is the only viable method to control predators in Moehau due to the vast and rugged terrain.
This operation begins with the distribution of non-toxic pre-feed bait pellets (sandy coloured). This prepares possums and rodents to eat the toxic bait (dyed green) that is applied afterwards. Both baits are about 16 mm in diameter and cylindrical shaped.
Consultation and permissions
DOC has consulted with hapū, iwi and key stakeholders including landowners adjacent to the treatment area.
DOC is delegated authority by the Environmental Protection Agency to decide applications for permission to use 1080 on land administered or managed by DOC. Permission has been granted for this operation. Permission has been granted from the Ministry of Health. DOC ensuvres that all legal and policy requirements are met, and that any potential risks of the operation are managed.
Managing risk
1080 is poisonous to humans, domestic and game animals. In areas where the toxin has been applied, dogs are highly at risk until poisoned carcasses have disintegrated. This takes four-toeight months or longer.
There will be warning signs placed at entrances to the treatment area immediately prior to the operation.
Risks can be eliminated by following these rules:
• DO NOT touch bait
• WATCH children at all times
DO NOT EAT animals from this area or within the buffer zone outside the treatment boundary. The buffer zone is 2 km for deer and pigs, 200 m for rabbits, and 1 km for hares, tahr, wallabies and possums.
• Poison baits or carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS
Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. These signs indicate pesticide residues may be still present in baits and poisoned carcasses. When signs are removed, normal activities can resume. If in doubt, check with your local DOC office. Please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs.
If you suspect poisoning, please contact:
- Your local doctor or hospital OR The National Poisons Centre: 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248 OR dial 111
- Seek veterinary advice for suspected poisoning of domestic animals. For more information
Please contact: Operational planner, Department of Conservation, Whitianga office, PO Box 276, Whitianga 3542, phone 0800 362 468.
OR EcoFX, Aerial Operations Manager, phone 07 873 8130.
Visit the DOC website: More information about DOC’s National Predator Control Programme is available on our website www.doc.govt.nz/our-work/national-predator-control-programme
Map of predator control area within Moehau
This map shows the area we are controlling predators to protect native species. You can also see operational updates and detailed maps of predator control on public conservation land on the DOC website. www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/pesticide-summaries
CLASSIFIEDS
HAYE, Bruce Alexander
On 22 June, 2025. Soulmate of Janice, adored son of Janet and Graeme (deceased), devoted Dad of William and Laura, Louise and John, and Georgia, treasured Grandpa of
REQUIRED
We are looking for an energetic person to join our team in this friendly club environment. Managers licence (for sale and supply of alcohol) is desireable but not essential and the shi s available will include weekend work. Please direct enquiries to Alan Proctor on (07) 866 5576 or email - manager@mercurybayclub.co.nz
Phil – 0273 433023, Car, boat, campervan storage, 20 foot containers available to store your belongings. CONTAINER IT SELF STORAGE
Shed for rent - inc power, 7m x 7.5m $178 per week inc GST,17 Moewai Road, Whitianga. Ph: 0274 817 258
SHEDS
Whitianga Total Storage, opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660
To be held on Monday 11 August, 2025, at 5.30pm at Grace O’Malley’s. Come along and find out how you can help our club this upcoming season. We are needing coaches, committee member roles fulfilled.
Church Services
SPORTS FOOTBALL
Junior Boys (Mixed)
Soaked, defeated, but still having fun was the story when our mixed team was knocked out of the Junior Boys A Cup. Hamilton Boys has 10 teams, and we were away against a Div 2 side who played to a high standard and had plenty of subs available to them. Our Mercury Bay team is a lot younger and due to travel, illness and injury didn’t have any subs to make in the second half. Despite the odds, our team played well, and fought so bravely that they earnt the respect of their opponents and were applauded by the Hamilton team as they departed the field. A classy touch from a classy team, who knew they had been made to work harder than the 6:0 scoreline suggested. Good luck in the next round Hamilton, and well done to our warriors for sticking to our game plan. Player of the day was Tylar Cornwall who defended well and also sparked some attacks.
8th Grade Mercury Bay
Saturday 28 June
The boys travelled over to Whenuakite on Saturday. The kids all did a great job putting some of our new skills from training into action. Oak Sunn and Wallace Roberts were our two players of the day both getting very involved, contributing on attack and great tackles in defence.
and
12th Grade Sharks
Today we played Whenuakite. It was a brilliant game played by 2 teams with high intensity and lots of action. It was non stop from the first whistle keeping the parents on their toes. Players of the day for Mercury Bay were Jaxon Davies and Dylan Field and Kayleb Cornwall was given player
of the day from Whenuakite. Goals scored Kayleb Cornwall x 2, Reef Harvard x 2 and Luke Collins
10th Grade Marlins
Played Whenuakite at Moewai Sports Park on Saturday. There was a lot of goodwill and close goals for both teams. In the end
The Marlins won.
MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB
June Competition
Wednesday, 25 June
North/South – 1, Augusta Canegallo & Tadek Gawor 61.4; 2, Deidre Stevenson & Chris Southwell 53.6; 3=, Sue Gill & Susan Swan – Pete Hogg Chris Hilford 46.4
East/West – 1, Robyn Hogg & Jenny Laton 71.7; 2, Ian Hogg & Lois Page 58.8; 3, Johanna Bonnar & Pat Doube 54.2
Championship Pairs round 5
Thursday, 26 June
1=, Geoff Jervis & Ischelle Stevenson –Rose Tegg & Sue Gill 58.3; 3, Lois Page & Pat Doube
TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB
Coromandel Pairs, Round 3
Monday 23 June
1, Chris Death & Robyn Waters 63.24; 2, Celia Young & Nolene Kirkpatrick 56.19; 3, Maggie Ulrich & Ton Van Der Meer 55.14.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Bright Pairs Week 4
Tuesday 24 June
North/South: 1, Robyn Hogg and Alison
Tichbon 60.36; 2, Johanna Bonnar and Sue Gill 58.21; 3, Val Dwight and Carol Henwood 48.57.
East/West: 1, Maggie Urlich and Jeran Myles 62.92; 2, Dave Dylla and Sheryll Roberts 60.42; 3, Denise Knutson and Ann Scott 52.92.
MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS
18 players this week, so 501 doubles were played. Two teams went through winning all four sets, so a one game final was required. The two teams were Greg Healy & Karen Auckett and Wayne Olson & Karen McKenzie with Greg Healy and Karen Auckett winning with a good 70 finish from Greg. Highest finish for the men was 70, scored
by Greg Healy. No finishes over 50 for the ladies. Stoney and Rex Donaldson both scored 180’s this week.
MERCURY BAY PICKLEBALL CLUB –LEAGUE Q2
Round 15: Tuesday 24 June
Court 1: 1, Jim Gavegan; 2, Eisaku Tsumura; 3, Tony Minto.
Court 4: 1, Ian Hogg; 2, John East; 3, Allen Nicholson.
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday 25 June
Nine players on Wednesday and it was Greg Murphy and Wayne Malcolm with two straight wins to battle the third frame. Wayne took a comfortable win and the cash prize, and with two wins Greg Murphy (runner up) Ian Baumgren, Peter Challis and Peter Schultz .
Saturday 28 June
Eight players on Saturday and it was Ian Baumgren and Wayne Malcolm with two straight wins to fight out the final frame. This was a comfortable win for Ian who took home the cash prize. Two wins for Wayne Malcolm, Greg Murphy and Phil Jones who also had the highest break of 28.
MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB
Thursday 26 June
Winners: Keith Denney and Ian Sanderson.
Runners-Up: Ian Pudney, Sandie Morris and Ray Rout.
Good Sports: Merle Ward and Judy Cullinane.
THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB
9-hole Mens Stableford
Monday 23 June
1, Graham Kemp; 2, Paul Anderson.
Twos: Ray Green #Hole 5
Nearest The Pin # Hole 18: Steve Airey 9-hole Ladies 5 Club Day Stableford
Tuesday 24 June
1, Sue Karl; 2, Leanne Evans.
Twos: Leanne Evans on Hole 5 18-hole Mens Stableford
Wednesday 25 June
1. Norman Gilbert; 2, Allan Trow.
Twos: Peter Richardson #Hole 5, Murray (Muzza) James, Robin Fleming # Hole 7, Gary Bancroft #Hole 13.
Men – 1, Brian Fellows; 2, Matt Heath; 3, Dave Wallace.
Ladies – 1, Robyn Hayward; 2, Sue McDonnell; 3, Sue Poland; 4, Carolyn Williams, Jean McCann
MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB
9-hole Women - Putting
Tuesday 24 June
1, Jenny Cotterell; 2=, Audry Vickers and Jenny Layton.
9-hole Mixed - Stableford
1, Kelvin O’Leary; 2, Gavin Green; 3, Patrick Gonthier
Winners of the Nixon Trophy, Marg Maher, Diane
and
18-hole Women
Wednesday 25 June
Area Stableford
1, Diane Eccles; 2, Faith Stock; 3, Chris Van Veen.
Nearest The Pin #4: Janine Hayde
Nearest The Pin #18: Anitia Ellmers
Longest Putt: Donna Dinsdale
18-hole Men – Stableford
1, Graham Eccles; 2, Carl Mitchell; 3, Kevin Smith.
Twos: Richard Schofield (2), Trevor Hayde.
Gross – Div 1, Dave Enright; Div 2, Jack Coldicutt.
18-hole Men – Stableford
Saturday 28 June
1, Steve Geach; 2, Greg Peterken; 3, Willie Jones.
Twos: Sam Murphy
Gross – Div 1, Steve Geach; Div 2, Jack Coldicutt.
PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
9-hole Nett Round 2o Bonnar Trophy
Tuesday, 24 June
1=, Catherine Borlase, Donna Dinsdale; 3, John Hamilton; 4=, Richard Duckworth, Wayne Morrison.
18-hole Nett
Saturday 28 June
1, Callum Murray; 2, Annelise La Roche. 4BBB Nett
Callum Murray and Harry Van Der Putten.
Oak Sunn
Wallace Roberts 8th Grade Football Players of the Day
Eccles
Ananda Laberge.
Soaked, defeated, but having fun!
RUGBY
Saturday, 28 June was a great day for the Mercury Bay Rugby Club.
First the junior boys won their premiership. Just little guys and they travelled to Lyon Park, Whitianga after their away game to tell everyone the news. The crowds were still gathered as they were watching the Senior A’s win against Hauraki North (HN). The score was 44 for MB to 19 for HN.
The Player of the Day was Josh Courte-
nay. Both teams played fast and executed some good plays but the ball seemed to be extra slippery with both teams dropping or not managing some fast moving passes. Frustration was exercised by a small stoush but goodwill was the winner and the game went on.
The Senior B’s also won their game. Both the hosts, Paeroa and MB played a hard game with the resulting score17 to Paeroa and 25 to Mercury Bay.
10TH GRADE FOOTBALL
SENIOR A’S – MERCURY BAY VS HAURAKI NORTH
Proud father, grandfather and mentor for the rugby players of all ages and levels in Mercury Bay, Mike Hamilton congratulates the 6 recipients of their 100 game blazers.
The two Tenth Grade football teams, Marlins and Whenuakite. Marlins Coach, Rob Corkill is on the left; Theo Haywood enjoyed watching his sister Minnie play in the Marlins team. He had earlier played at Whenuakite with the 8th Grade; For Aric, an avid football player, it was a bit sad to have his last game with The Marlins. He and his family have loved Whitianga but it is time for them to return home to Sweden.
AMY BALME (CA) GEOFF BALME (FCA)
28 Lee Street, Whitianga
M Amy +64 27 373 1404
M Geoff +64 27 495 8923
E office@accountingbydesign.co.nz
Mobile ‘High Tea’ Service
We come to your location of choice in Whitianga
Our setup will feature a beautifully arranged table adorned with all things vintage – delicate china cups, saucers, and plates, complemented with �lowers. You’ll enjoy a delightful selection of bite-sized sandwiches, savoury treats, cakes, slices, and, of course, scones with jam and cream.
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OUR LEGAL SERVICES INCLUDE:
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14 Monk St, Whitianga 3510 www.renniecox.co.nz
whitianga@renniecox.co.nz
0800RENNIECOX (0800 736 643)
Facebook: Petals and Pearls Hightea Whitianga Instagram: petals_pearlshightea petalsandpearls2025@gmail.com
Ph Ann-Marie 021 053 4704
Whitianga Boat Chandlery
We stock International & Altex antifoul & marine paints, Propspeed, anodes, resin, fibreglass, TruDesign plumbing fittings and so much more!
Phone or email for info: info@whitiangaboatchandlery.co.nz
Phyll 027 4852036
Mitch 027 4852046
Whitianga
We are three longtime friends with a passion for vintage charm and timeless elegance.
