The Mercury Bay Boating Club is facing a true nautical nightmare. Their shoreline is literally vanishing, and The Informer had a conversation with Club Commodore, Philip Hart, to find out how the Club was progressing with its battle to locate their home.
Where the Boat Club building once sat, with a flagpole, concrete plinth and strong deck, now there is ocean at high tide. Once they could set up a marquee, but that land is now submerged, due to the encroaching sea. This shrinking coast saga is a common challenge across
New Zealand, but for this small, volunteer-supported club, it has meant mounting bills and endless discussions about solutions.
Commodore Philip Hart provided a summary of the club’s options, emphasizing a resilient, albeit humorous, outlook for the future.
“We can sail without a building,” he chuckled, highlighting their determination to keep the spirit of sailing alive despite the encroaching tides and disappointments regarding options.
Mercury Bay Boating Clubestablished 1948 – challenger,
with Sir Michael Fay’s backing, for the 1988 America’s Cup. The very first time NZ for a short time had its hands on the America’s Cup and the name Mercury Bay Boating Club remains inscribed as challenger. This was when the current building, now on stilts and in a waiting bay, was erected. The Boating Club is made up of cruising and racing sailors young and old. They have a very successful young sailors training programme. The passion for the sea, the challenge of ocean racing is the lifeblood of the club.
Continued on page 3
PAULINE’S PLACE
“Don’t
My
write about politics!”
husband Stan would tell me this, so I am sneaking it in.
BY PAULINE STEWART
“WHY STAY THE COURSE?”
A recent online newsletter about the update on the TCDC 10 Year Long Term Plan has the heading, “Year Two – we are committed to staying the course.”
Is staying on course the best course? I met a woman in the grocery store car park last week. She was bright and positive and called out to me. We did not know each other. “I am stocking up on butter,” she called. I responded, “Good on you.” Her reply - “I heard in some places it’s $17 for a block. It will happen here. I love butter. I don’t want additives.” A few minutes later I did check the butter price. It was somewhere between $9 and $10 with “SPECIAL PRICE” tags everywhere. Whatever our choice of spread or taste in cooking condiments, we are all aware that the price seems too high for what we are getting and too high for a country celebrating its dairy food production prowess. That is why the woman I spoke to had decided “staying on course” was not
appropriate for her, she needed to change course.
Back to the online letter from TCDC about the new financial year’s report on the Long-Term Plan (2024-2034 – available on their website). The letter states “It continues to be a time of significant change and uncertainty across the motu/country with fast moving legislative transformation, continuing international economic fluctuation, cost of living pressures, and growing requirements and complexities in the public sector. But we are committed to staying the course we set in our 2024-2034 Long Term Plan.”
There isn’t anyone who would not agree with their description of life. My question is if everything around me is changing, do I maintain the path already set or is there room for changing course? It could be questioned whether the TCDC should continue their course on issues such as the significant rating increases they are imposing, or should they try to understand the extreme hardship they are imposing on many ratepayers?
SPECIALPRICE
Everyone who is standing for election is talking about change. However, what is the change we are seeking? Perhaps it is time for local people to use the power that is intrinsically theirs, simply because the present course we are on is NOT working. Perhaps it is time for local people to drive change.
Whose fault is the current situation? I don’t think the blame can be placed on any one person’s shoulders but if it is to change, then the responsibility does rest with local people and with the local government path we have for Community Board members. They are elected to advocate on the people’s behalf to their Ward
Councilors who in turn must speak for them on the full Council who in turn advocate to central government. Just accepting legislation handed down does not help communities. We have a Member of Parliament. We have Councilors and we have Community Board members, let’s make them work properly.
I went searching on the TCDC website trying to find some images and explanations of spatial plans to represent each town and community in our Peninsula, also Hauraki as we are becoming more connected to Hauraki.
I found none beside which I could place the detail of the Long-Term Plan headings to see if we were on track or ‘on course’. Thinking about ways to engage people to vote is a priority. I can’t help but think that the Long-Term Plan on its own would at best bring an obligatory, resigned vote for candidates espousing more of the same – the status quo.
I did find one spatial plan which has been prepared by a group in Hahei and at their own cost. However, it had not been endorsed by TCDC. It looks exciting and
hopeful, but they will need practical support from the permission givers and active engagement for reality to be on the horizon.
I see Thames has a spatial plan, but it seems as if it is more in the jurisdiction of office staff and not in the hands of the local people to carefully readjust and or expand their town’s spatial plan details.
Interestingly, the predictions on population growth for Whitianga are expected to exceed Thames by 2031. Should we be accepting that?
For Whitianga; what are we doing in terms of practical development of our infrastructure? Or if we are Thames; what are we doing to bring about a better economy? I am relieved that Adrian Catran, Chair of Thames Community Board has said last week he is standing again with one key reason being to get Totara Valley housing underway. What I was looking for were imaginative visions of how each town might develop and look in 20-25 years. That’s the timeframe in which I feel I could participate for some of that period. Continued on page 7
its left. However, Matariki is quickly lost to view as the sky brightens. The evening sky has slightly reddish Mars on show in the west with similarly faint Mercury much closer to the horizon. There will be several 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, 8 July: There will be a long bright Tiangong pass from 6:08pm in the west.
Wednesday, 9 July: Full Moon tonight. Thursday,10 July: There is a long Tiangong pass in the west from 5:52pm. Sunday, 13 July: The almost full Moon sits high above slightly yellowish Saturn and to the left of the bright star Fomalhaut before midnight in the east while in the morning we have a long low ISS pass in the north from 6:18am tracking just above Venus. Monday, 14 July: The Moon is now closer to Saturn and below Fomalhaut while very early risers from 5:30am have a low ISS pass in the north moving right beside Venus. Tuesday, 15 July: Saturn sits just below the Moon near midnight and from 6:17am there is a long ISS pass in the NW. Wednesday, 16 July: Saturn is now above the crescent Moon towards midnight and from 5:30am there is a bright ISS pass in the north.
Mercury Bay Boating Club’s continuing saga
Continued from page 1 ORIGINAL
“The Boating Club’s lease on Buffalo Beach was with the Council. It was the generous rent for a community non-profit club, but the terms of the lease included the Boating Club being responsible for any damage including the possibility of rising seas. TCDC, two years before Cyclones Hale and Gabriel TCDC had prepared a quote for the cost of putting a rock wall in front of the club - $650,000. The Resource Consent and preparation would have been $300,000, and building the actual wall was estimated at another $300,000. This option would have financially capsized the club.”
On two occasions the residents who were preparing their Resource Consent to build a wall (across 18 homes) had offered for the Boating Club to join them in their building of a protective. rock wall. This would have meant a sharing of costs but still significant cost. Previously there was another option presented for the Club, to move further up the beach, but this option had disappeared.
CYCLONES,
SANDBAGS, AND A SUDDEN RELOCATION
“Cyclone Hale, a true party pooper, took our deck away. And Cyclone Gabriel was hot on its heels. The community rallied like a fleet of tiny tugboats. We sandbagged,
we hauled blocks, and at the eleventh hour, just before Gabriel hit, we organized a truck to pick up the entire clubhouse and move it back 50 meters! And mischievous Gabriel promptly washed away some of the very spot where the boating club used to be.”
OPTION – A SHUFFLE BACKWARDS
“After that little adventure, we applied to move it back even further, to future-proof the Club on Buffalo Beach. The Club stirred up the neighbourhood with individuals channelling their inner not in my backyard vibe. The local iwi had considered the new venue 50 metres further back of the Boating Club building but there are heritage factors making for lengthy wait times. We were looking a bit like a deflated spinnaker. Then,
like a beacon in the storm, Grant McDonald, club member, surveyor and guru of kids’ sailing, pointed out a little strip of land near the marina, conveniently zoned for marine activity. A glimmer of hope.
“Public meetings were held; people and some organisations voiced their objections. There was a Hearing at which we needed to defend our case. This process was exhausting. The Boating Club was in rough seas. But throughout, there was also a lot of support from the community”
OPTION – THE MARINA ESTUARY & DOC MANAGED STRIP OF LAND
“Welcome to bureaucratic negotiations. The Club has paid, so far, nearly $30,000 for hearings, drawings, consents, surveyors, lawyers. The good news? DOC has appar-
ently spent the same amount, in their efforts and have discussed making our contribution to that a very small amount.”
THE PRICE OF PARADISE (AND OUR IMPENDING DOOM)
“Finally, DOC came back with a Yes! You can have your consent! But here’s the kicker: the fee is $10,000 a year, climbing to $20,000 in three years’ time.”
That is the DOC price for Paradise, but Philip Hart understands if the council owned the land, it would be a mere $350 a year. There are other conditions to the lease as well The Club needs to renegotiate with DOC, or we’ll be selling off the club’s treasured collection of slightly used life rafts.
“Yes, we have permission, but no, we absolutely cannot afford it. And the clubhouse, bless its salty heart, means we must maintain a publicly accessible booking system. That means we can’t deny bookings, which is great for the community, but we’re a volunteer group! We barely have enough manpower to remember where we parked the rescue boat, let alone manage a public booking system. It’s almost as if we have been given consent knowing full well it was fiscally unacceptable.”
The question for the Club is, how can they pay for this? Even if DOC lowered the lease to $2,000, the costs of insurance, utilities and maintenance will put the annual cost of the clubhouse at
over $10,000. Previously the Club had hall hire revenue of $5,000 a year to help offset this cost but that was largely made up of weddings which can’t be held at the Dundas site. The open accessibility booking system is a beast the Club is not equipped to tame.
“And the biggest problem of all, the one that makes my hair stand on end more than a rogue wave: the insurance company has refused to cover us. So, even if we put it back where it was, or where it used to be, it would simply be swept into the sea.”
NEXT STEPS: THE CLUB
The Club is an important community asset providing sailing programs of all levels and a Club House facility that is used by other community groups. So what steps do the now take in their battles? Phil Hart reports.;
We are
• holding a special general meeting to discuss the next steps following the lease agreement.
• working on fundraising to support the relocation process, although we recognise the enormity of raising $400,000 in a depressed economy with many other worthy causes competing for funds
• actively engaging with the community to address concerns and ensure a smooth transition.
• also working with various entities, including the Waikato Regional Council and Ngāti Hei, on the project.
The clubhouse is currently on blocks awaiting the decision on its future.
Friday Night Shenanigans... Chase the Ace, Meat Ra es & Complimentary Nibbles!!
Game Vault, giving fun in school holidays
Whitianga has a new indoor entertainment option ideal to keep the kids occupied over the school holidays and of course, after school and at weekends.
Game vault operates seven days per week. Located on Joan Gaskell Drive (next to the Stihl shop), they have 22 arcade games (more on the way, too) where you can win tickets to convert into prizes or save them up for an even bigger prize.
Air hockey tables and glow-in-the-dark mini golf are front and centre, so there really is a plethora of options to keep kids and teens occupied. It even caters to toddlers with its’ soft play area and has the added benefit of coffee and cakes for caregivers to indulge in while the youngsters are playing.
PARTY DEAL
Annual Annual Model Show ModelShow
GREAT SCHOOL HOLIDAY SPECIAL “FRIDAY FLICKS & FUN”
If you show your movie ticket from Mercury Twin Cinemas over the school holidays, you can get a discount – with $5 mini golf
Another ideal offering is their children party options, which you can do self-serve or fully inclusive (including epic pizza add-ons from Forbidden Pizza). This is a great idea that gives the kids something special to do and also eliminates the hosting-at -home dilemma.
or five free tokens with any purchase. Proprietor, Krissy Robinson, one half of the team alongside Darren Prole who operate town’s excellent mini golf course ‘Wild Wood’ says, “By supporting two local businesses at the same time such as the cinema and our arcade – you’ll be total winners!”
an exceptional reputation. Just look what our recent customers have to say!
“NZ Move It team were incredibly careful with my fragile items - the care was very evident! Nothing was too hard to assist with - I highly recommend their services”
P. McNeill, 2025 (repeat customer)
“The guys were both really nice. They arrived on time and the move went perfectly. They were efficient and worked hard. It could not have been a better experience (and I have moved house almost 50 times over the years!)”
R. Preston, 2025
“The boys were marvellous. Couldn’t fault them!”
T. and L. True, 2025
The eighth Whitianga Modellers Club Exhibition in Whitianga Town Hall will be full on this coming weekend in July. There are also miniature houses, matchbox toys, porcelain dolls, magical creatures and mini scenes
ProudlySupportedby: ProudlySupportedby:
This weekend – Trains, boats planes, ships, Lego and more
ProudlySupportedby:
This represents the
creations of 30 different exhibitors who are all experts in their field. Over 500 visitors are expected to come and explore the exhibition and enjoy all of its moving parts. Ken Gibson, one of the main local exhibitors, has fantastic train layouts to
display.
The principal organiser, Damon Christensen of Diode Electrical is himself an exhibitor and a modeller. We thank him for his outstanding work and his organising team and modellers. This is a wonderful school holiday exhibition.
Pacific Island Resort - The Lost Spring, Thermal Ocean Village
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Warren Harris –Wazza The Legend Part One
BY BEVERLEY SHEPPARD
The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council recently spotlighted Warren Harris on their Facebook page. Wazza, as he is affectionately known, has been a member of the Council for 25 years and a member of the Executive Council for several years. The Facebook post tells the story of Warren having salt in his veins and a lifetime of stories behind the rod.
A long-time member of the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club (MBGFC), Warren brings experience, dedication, and a deep passion for the sport, especially when it comes to mentoring weigh masters across the country. This year Warren retires from the Council and retires from being the MBGFC Patron. His 25 years of dedication to Game Fishing is worthy of serious acknowledgement.
The FB post goes on to say that Wazza’s go-to lure is a Redgill now but originally it was a Williamson green and yellow.
One of those days? A 265.5kg blue Marlin that took 2.5 hours to land – a club record that was
held for 10 years.
While others dream of distant destinations, Warren keeps it close to home. “Mercury Bay and the Bay of Plenty – nothing beats it.”
The Council goes on to say that Warren joined the club for the camaraderie but stuck around to help guide the next generation, ensuring every Weigh Station runs with accuracy, fairness and pride. Wazza is a legend in his own right.
I work a few hours a week at the MBGFC and have attended a few raffle nights on a Thursday. Warren was one of the first members who began to talk to
me and as I sat with him and his lovely wife Annette a few times, I began to feel a sense of the great respect the club has for Wazza, and he for the club. He spoke to everyone with such a warmth, a sense of quiet confidence and a great sense of fun. His knowledge on all things game fishing, boating, accurate following of NZ Sport Fishing Council rules is prodigious and his professionalism always a part of his dealings. The MBGFC is very fortunate to have had such a member, a committee member, Past President, Member of the NZ Sports Fishing Council and Area Trainer.
BEGINNINGS:
Life for Warren Harris started out in Papatoetoe in South Auckland in 1947. His Dad enjoyed his fishing and first began taking Warren out on fishing charters on the MV Florence Kennedy. Warren’s first boat was a self-made canoe. From the canoe, Warren graduated to a bigger Canadian canoe; then to a little Z class yacht; then to a Mischief yacht to sail around the Hauraki Gulf. By then, Warren was hooked. He sold the yacht to buy a
WINDOW & DOOR REPAIRS?
19-foot 6-inch plywood boat which then was replaced by a Fi-Glass Baron. Talking with Warren is a lesson in boats and fish. He has a lifetime of fish he has caught, boats he has had, boats he has built and certificates he has achieved. Might be time for that book!
Warren moved to Tokoroa where he began as a Stock Agent for Dalgety NZ Loan. Various other vocations were followed until he went to the Paper and Pulp Kinleith Mill. He worked hard as a Production Supervisor and management rewarded him accordingly.
Warren bought his first block of land in Kuaotunu in about 1978 and started building his holiday bach. He loved it there. This period of life was very busy - three children, every day working in Tokoroa and then building his house on the Coroamandel. When Warren wasn’t on his boat, he was scuba diving for scallops, crayfish and abalone (Paua).
Warren’s next launch was called The Amarillo.
Next week: Part Two - Warren Harris - three game fishing clubs, the big catches, and the Weigh Master challenge.
No politics!
Continued from page 2
Every time I go past a field of boat trailers stacked along the Whitianga estuary I feel like grabbing a spatial plan and searching to see where else they could sit for whole entire days and nights. I think about what beauty we could enable on the estuary for all ages of residents and visitors to enjoy.
With the LTP by which “we are staying the course,” can we place our detail of basic services set out there against a beautiful vision of each town and community on the Coromandel and in Hauraki? This is a question prominent in my mind.
With the elections looming, I’m looking forward to candidates elucidating a vison of what they think their region could become and be cognisant of the services needed to enable that vision. Saying they stand for change is not enough anymore. Everyone is hurtling through change. However, there is a complacency in some areas of our society – the message of which is – “Let’s leave things like they are – it’s comfortable for me and my friends.” That is perhaps the most dangerous form of stagnation in a community. But there are many others who, if you paint a picture of the vision and the changes needed, they will choose ‘living’ over ‘comfort.’
We need those dreamers, and we need leaders, accountants and vocational workers to back them. Public service is about working beyond what you sign up for. Don’t stand to be elected in any group unless you are willing to become a servant of the people and have a love for the people. These are hallmarks of democracy.
Warren Harris
A warm winter’s interlude of wine tasting
BY MICHELLE RHODES
Two neighbouring stores in Albert Street, Whitianga collaborated to present a very successful French themed wine tasting on Wednesday 3 July. Whitianga Fine Wines and Spirits have been with us for 5 years, stocking wines from all over the World. It’s a beautifully presented store. The owners Gary and Reema together have over 15years’ experience in the industry.
Making a wonderful paring next door was Well Stocked Deli with local organic and imported artisan produce from around the world.
Alex, the owner, a Brit and living in NZ for 27 years, has an extensive background in Food, Wine and Event Management. She catered many years for the yachting industry in Auckland.
Wines were provided by Rowan Hall of Euro Vintage Wines. He introduced three reds, a Rose and a delicious Viognier, my favourite of the night. Canapes and dessert bites were exquisite, provided by Alex and team show casing French cheese, pate, chutneys and caviar on locally made breads.
Followed by nougat and liquer chocolate sample bites.
It was magnifique! Attended by 35 clients and customers of both Well Stocked Deli and Whitianga
Fine Wines and Spirits, it made a fun and informative experience for all. For August Whitianga Fine Wines would be collaborating with well stoked deli once again for their Italian wine evening. To be invited, please register by emailing shop@whitiangafinewines.com. Numbers are limited due to space available.
Elevate Fitness marks a milestone
Nicole Downey is no stranger to fitness and teaching it, with over 9 years of experience including 18 months of teaching in Mercury Bay.
Nicole aims to build a community within the fitness classes she teaches; these classes being in various locations such as the Whitianga Town Hall and Hot Water Beach Holiday Resort. They are designed for any stage of fitness with NicoleI working to make people feel comfortable in their
Join a class
• Rehabilitation chair exercise every Monday and urday 9am at the Whitianga Town Hall, $10 per class.
• Aqua aerobic class at Hot Water Beach Holiday Resort, every Monday and ursday, 11.30am. $20 per class including a hot spa to nish. Cardio, toning, strength workout in heated swimming pool.
New Class
Starting Tuesday 22 July, 9am, at the Embassy of Friendship House, 5 Coghill St, Whitianga. Cardio, fun, dance, jazzercise moves to funky music.
Phone Nicole Downey 021 0265 2693
@elevate. tness.2025
class and to build confidence. The aim is to help people of any age and stage to become fit and confident in themselves.
Nicole says, “A major is getting people inspired to actually know how important it is to keep their body moving.” The classes she provides are fun and people mix and mingle, creating new friendships.
The exercises are practical and include functional strength training with attendees able to repeat
exercises at home.
Water classes are held at the Hot Water Beach Holiday Resort. It may involve a small drive but there is a heated pool and at the end of the class a nice hot spa which students can enjoy.
Nicole says, “It is a great workout no matter what your level of fitness. It is great for people who have got current, or past injuries and it is not hard on your body.”
The heated pool sessions
are with both swimmers and non-swimmers who can all do the exercises safely. The 45-minute lessons, and 15-minute spa session that follows, are great for building cardio strength and are popular with arthritis sufferers as they are gentle on joints.
Nicole is pleased about the support she has had saying “The community has been really welcoming and very supportive. The Medical Centre has been fantastic.”.
Alex Sampson, centre, with her team – husband Mark Sampson and Megan (Adele missing from photo); Gary and Reema, owners of Whitianga Fine Wines and Spirits we co-hosts of the evening.
TRAVEL
TRAVEL WRITER – SARAH JANE
Help with taming travel jitters: Tips for nervous explorers
Here are eight tips for a calmer journey. Let’s banish that delightful game your brain plays called “What If Everything Goes Horribly Wrong?” Thanks to a steady diet of headlines screaming about wars, natural disasters, and the occasional oops-a-daisy airplane mishap, that little knot of anxiety in your stomach can quickly morph into a full-blown terror. Just the thought of trying to explain “extra pickles, please” to someone who thinks “pickles” are a type of exotic bird is enough to send you into a tumble.
1. WALKING STYLE: OWN THAT LOST LOOK
If you find yourself a bit turned around, here’s a secret: act confident. Stride purposefully in any direction, as if you absolutely know where you’re going (even if you don’t). The beauty of this approach? Eventually, you’ll either magically stumble upon your destination or, even better, discover a fascinating new neighborhood that isn’t on any map.
2. GOOGLE MAPS NAVIGATION
Get a head start by practicing with Google Maps’ navigation. Trust us, it’s better to accidentally get ‘lost’ on your own street while honing your tech skills than in a foreign city. You might even discover a new coffee shop a block away, or at least avoid getting totally turned around on your own street!
3. SOUVENIRS & PAYMENT ADVICE
Souvenirs: When it comes to souvenirs, here’s a golden rule: never, and I mean never, buy anything from a street vendor that looks suspiciously like it was dug up from a historical site last Tuesday. Unless, of course, it’s genuinely, undeniably, ridiculously cool. In that case, absolutely go for it. Just... don’t tell anyone NZJane gave you the green light. And when you do, always pay cash. Let’s be real, “mass tourism” is often just a fancy way of saying “mass-produced trinkets.”
4. OVER-PLAN (IF YOUR BRAIN DEMANDS IT!)
For those of us whose anxiety is best soothed by a spreadsheet and a perfectly colour-coded timeline, this one’s for you! If having every single second of your trip
meticulously mapped out helps you breathe, then go wild. Know where you’re sleeping (crucial!), how you’re getting there (also crucial, unless you enjoy surprise walking tours with your luggage), and even what questionable local delicacy you’ll attempt to eat each day. Embrace that detailed itinerary – it’s your personal anti-panic shield!
5. UNDER-PLAN (IF YOUR BRAIN PREFERS CHAOS!)
On the other hand, if the mere thought of a rigid schedule sends you into a cold sweat, then congratulations, you’re a free spirit! Book your accommodation and your transport (unless you enjoy sleeping on park benches and hitchhiking with questionable strangers), but after that? Pure, glorious, unadulterated freedom. Leave your days wide open for
spontaneous whims, accidental discoveries, or simply perfecting the art of doing absolutely nothing. Sometimes, the best travel stories start with “I had no idea where I was going, but...”
6. STAY CONNECTED (SO THEY DON’T SEND A SEARCH PARTY)
Look, your loved ones are probably already picturing you wrestling a grizzly bear or accidentally joining a cult. Do them (and your future self, when they inevitably call the embassy) a favor: let them know your basic itinerary and check in regularly. A quick text saying “Still alive, just ate something questionable!” goes a long way. It stops them from dispatching a drone search party, and it reminds you that there are people back home who actually care that you haven’t been eaten by aforementioned grizzly bears.
7. MINDFULNESS & RELAXATION (BECAUSE SCREAMING IS FROWNED UPON)
Before you even step out the door (and definitely during those moments when you’re convinced your plane seat is shrinking), take a deep breath. Or ten. Practice deep breathing or meditation techniques before your trip, so they’re second nature when you really need them. It’s like a mental superpower that helps you stay calm when the airline loses your luggage, your hotel room smells faintly of old socks, or you just realized you packed eight left shoes. Better to breathe deeply than to unleash a stress-induced scream that makes everyone else uncomfortable.
8. THE OFFICIAL LINE: NZ & AUSTRALIA GOVERNMENT TRAVEL ADVICE
Both the New Zealand and Australian governments provide valuable online advice portals for travelers. For New Zealanders, that means checking in with your benevolent overlords at SafeTravel.govt.nz.
Think of SafeTravel as your super-powered travel guru, courtesy of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). Before you even think about packing that suspiciously historical-looking souvenir, hop onto their website. Here’s why it’s less “boring government advice” and more your personal travel safety net.
MUSINGS FROM THE VILLAGE
Technology to aid the search for productivity
BY GORDON T
My old gardener was looking a bit morose the other day. He had done a solid 45 minutes weeding in the front garden and was enjoying a fresh cup of coffee, beads of sweat dripping, but not smiling and not talking. I asked him if he was ok and he nodded. However, he then explained he needed to make more money. Apparently, my gardener’s wife’s shopping habits were putting pressure on the family budget; a common problem for many.
“Your issue is productivity,” I told him and went on to explain my understanding.“Productivity is how much is earned in a given time period, and the general way to improve this is by technology”. He gave me a look of total incomprehension, so I carried on. “I’ve been thinking of an idea which may be the answer to your current problem.”
My gardener brightened up at the thought of a solution to his problem and motioned for me to continue, which I did.
“The people providing lawn mowing services in the village are a noisy bunch. If they aren’t waking you at 8.00am mowing the
neighbour’s lawn, they are turning up just as you have sat down on the patio with the vicar and a freshly opened bottle of sherry. They are necessary but annoying, so I have come up with an alternative which a bright entrepreneur such as yourself could benefit from.” My companion was starting to look enthusiastic and asked me to explain.
“What the village needs is some-
one to offer a robot-based lawn mowing service. Once a week a robot turns up, quietly spends a few hours mowing the lawn then disappears. Job is done and life is not disturbed”.
I could see my gardener was thinking about this when he asked me “How would the money work? Robots must cost a bit?” I explained to him that a robot lawn mower costs about $2000
so at $30 a mow he should have covered the cost within 14 weeks, presuming 5 mows a week.
“Crikey!” he exclaimed “So after 14 weeks I can just sit back, relax, and count the money. Is that what productive means?” I nodded and went on to explain that if he had a fleet of 10 to 15 robots he would be quite comfortable, and his good lady could shop to her hearts content.
Another cup of coffee was called for, with a wee drop of sherry for flavouring, and the conversation continued with my gardener asking me detailed questions. Firstly, it was about sign writing, as robots would need to be identified and of course be an advertising source. We came up with a few name suggestions but settled on DOG Lawns, DOG standing for Doddery Old Geezer. You could launch a few advertising jingles around that name. We also discussed delivery, getting 10 to 15 sites each day could be an issue but together we came up with a solution, - drones!
The concept was taking shape with launching a couple of drones with a DOG in their grip and, upon delivery, returning for the next one. They would only need to make half a dozen trips a morn-
ing, and another for pickups a few hours later. Should be quite achievable. But my friend and gardener could see a problem which he pointed out; this being space for storage as there wasn’t a lot of spare room in their cottage. This took a bit of thought but I became inspired by thinking about old solutions to such problems and announced the solution to him.
“You need a pigeon loft above your shed” I said. He nodded; “That could work. We would need a comfortable chair, good TV and a fridge but we could make that work”. We spent a bit more time discussing the design of the loft; launching area, storage requirements, TV size and so on. The plan was coming together and my companion pencilled up a list of tasks that were needed before launching the service. There was quite a bit to do but, having provided the inspiration, I felt he could look after things from here. Enthusiastically, just before midday, my old gardener drained his sherry and announced he had work to do and must depart. As I saw him off, he turned to me and said, “That was four hours for today;” and departed. Productive indeed!
POLICE REPORT WHITIANGA
BY CONSTABLE MICHAEL CARTER
June 2025
Quite a busy month for all staff the past month with some high-profile events being dealt with.
GENERAL:
A number of burglaries have been reported in the wider Whitianga area on private and commercial properties. This includes the Mahakirau Forest Estate incident that had been placed onto the local Facebook page. Two of these persons have since been arrested with one being remanded in custody. The third person will also be charged soon.
A stolen vehicle was located on White Street during the month which was also found to contain a shortened rifle and a large quantity of various calibres of ammunition.
A person was arrested at the time and is facing serious charges in court.
There have also been several reports regarding retail crime and dishonesty offences. Enquiries are continuing with relevant CCTV footage to identify these individuals and potential charges. Shoplifting is a serious crime, and penalties carry a term of imprisonment.
ARRESTS:
• Male charged with Unlawfully Possess Firearm and Ammunition,
Unlawfully Gets into Motor vehicle, Possession of Methamphetamine
• Male charged with Burglary x3, Unlawfully Takes Motor vehicle x2, Unlawfully on Property, Theft, Driving While Disqualified x5
• Female charged with Burglary x3, Unlawfully Gets into Motor vehicle, Unlawfully on Property
• Male charged with Assault and Intentional Damage, and 3x Breaching Bail conditions
• Male charged with Failing to Stop x3, Burglary, Driving While Disqualified x3, Dangerous Driving x2, Sustained Loss of Traction, Fraud
• Male charged with Burglary
OCCURRENCES:
Several Family Harm reports were made to police during June in the wider area. These incidences ranged from minor verbal arguments to serious assault allegations. Several people are facing
court charges for breaching their Protection Orders.
TRAFFIC:
Well, everyone certainly observed several extra police vehicles in and around Whitianga near the end of the month. Several vehicles were stopped and issued with various infringement notices. Unfortunately, this didn’t stop people driving while intoxicated, 10 in total over a 4-day period.
Two drivers have been charged with Driving with Excess Blood Alcohol, and another 11 for Driving with Excess Breath Alcohol
A couple of persons also thought they weren’t required to stop for police and subsequently had their vehicles impounded for 6 months. They are also facing charges in the courts.
Police are targeting Restraints, Impairment, Distractions and Speed this month.
COROMANDEL RESCUE MISSIONS
1-30 June 2025
26.06 Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of an elderly male patient suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thame Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition. 29.06 Tairua Crew tasked to Tairua. Crew were stood down enroute.
BY MALCOLM CAMPBELL
Little boys and politicians Christmas Shoeboxes help children think outside the square
Little boys were usually known for mischief. For instance, taking to pieces somebody’s watch and being unable to reassemble the watch – that was mischief. Doing all this mischief was for no good reason.
As a member, for many years of The ‘Cessna Pilots Association’ based in the USA, much was learned about general aircraft maintenance and how to care for the aeroplane to keep it in top condition. What the owner could do was strictly limited, similar to the watch. Unless the owner knows lots about watches and aeroplanes, don’t touch them!
The scene goes further, during the World War II, the four engine Hudson Bomber built in the USA was used extensively for anti-submarine ‘U-boat’ patrols. The problem was that the utilisation of the Hudson Bomber was very poor, more time was spent on maintenance, than on patrol. The Hudson was a very good aeroplane, so what an earth was keeping the machine grounded so often? An English Professor carried out a detailed study of service records. The answer was glaringly simple. “When the aircraft comes in for service, ask the pilots and crew for any defects and don’t touch anything else.” In other words leave well alone.
The downtime was caused by the engineers dismantling systems that had been operating perfectly and were not in need of service .
They were reassembling the same systems incorrectly. The utilisation of the Hudson went up a whopping 60% once this process was stopped. This relationship between ‘action and reaction’ has been highlighted before.
Until 1989 there was an excellent system of Local Government.
The rivers, drainage and waterways were under the stewardship of Catchment Boards, whose members were living close to the rivers and waterways. Towns had Borough Councils, the Councillors living within the town. The same applied in the Counties. The Catchment Boards were the juniors on the block yet had been alive and well for fifty years and Boroughs and Counties a long time before that. In every case local people well aware of local issues were the members of Local Government.
The people of any district had little difficulty in contacting members of any of the bodies listed. We truly had ‘local’, local government. But along came the meddling wee boys
in the form of politicians Sir Geoffrey Palmer and Simon Upton, who through arrogant ignorance , dismantled the whole system throwing pieces away hither and thither.
Office buildings built for Catchment Boards at ratepayer’s expense are now in private hands. This was a well-functioning operation wasted. The Borough Council Office ,where there had been a relatively small staff, was totally inadequate for the expanded District Council staff.
As for the Regional Councilover five hundred staff and an office more like the Ritz than a council office, administering a worsening environment, while impeding small town development. We have arrived at the same situation as the ruined watch and the grounded Hudson Bomber, simply because the little boy politician meddlers in Wellington could not leave well alone. Worse still, it has taken these meddlers thirty years to realise they ruined the community.
IF IT AINT BROKE DON’T TRY TO FIX IT. !!!
BY DOROTHY PREECE
With mid-winter Christmas parties now happening, Robyn Balfour’s thoughts are turning to shoeboxes – specifically, boxes for Operation Christmas Child.
Samaritan’s Purse is the Christian charity that takes Christmas boxes throughout the world to a huge number of children who, due to third world poverty or remote locations would otherwise receive no Christmas presents.
300 CHRISTMAS BOXES FROM COROMANDEL PENINSULA
Last year an astounding total of almost twelve million boxes were distributed to children around the globe, 300 of which came from the Coromandel Peninsula.
The boxes are distributed through Christmas parties. The whole community is invited to the party, and every child gets a box.
“Children love shopping for the boxes, and it teaches them to spare a thought for those less fortunate,” says Robyn.
Quantities of empty shoeboxes are now available from St Patrick’s Catholic, St Peter’s Anglican, Whitianga Baptist, Crossroad Church and St Andrew’s Church and Opshop. Recommendations about the toys and essentials that are so much appreciated are included in the boxes.
DROP OFF POINTS FOR FILLED BOXES:
Whitianga: Coghill Café, Whitianga Hardware, St Peter’s and St Andrew’s. Pauanui: The collection point is Pauanui Information Centre.
Tairua: Contact Anna 021 0378 371
Whangamata: Contact Doreen 021 159 5855 All boxes must be returned by mid-October.
Robyn is the local co-ordinator for Operation Christmas Child and she wants to remind people that the school holidays are a good time to get our youngsters involved in thinking of those in poorer countries. She wants to encourage families to take the children shopping for the little gifts that can bring so much joy to others who have almost nothing to call their own.
Malcolm Campbell with his son Ewan and The Coromandel Informer editor Pauline Stewart.
Fourth candidate for Mayor
On 4 July 2025, Denise Messiter announced her candidacy for Mayor of Thames-Coromandel in the 2025 local elections.
As an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM), Messiter offers a distinct perspective, focusing on community-driven change and inclusive values, that will be seen as an alternative to the other mayoral contenders.
In her statement, Messiter outlined her reasons for running: “I’m not here for a title. I’m here because things need to change –and fast. Our infrastructure’s failing. Our projects are behind. Our communities are being left out of decisions that shape their future.”
Denise emphasised the resilience of the district’s people, adding, “It’s time for leadership that reflects that. Leadership that listens, acts, and delivers.”
Messiter pledged to uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi as “a living commitment,” protect the environment with “action,” and demand transparency, particularly on mining and foreign investment.
“I won’t make empty promises. I will show up, take responsibility, and do the work,” she said, concluding, “This is our moment, for clarity, for courage, for change that sticks. I’m Denise Messiter, and I’m ready to lead Thames–Coromandel forward.”
To the folk who see many aged people unable to reach goods on the top shelves at the supermarkets. Just asking for help gets an immediate helpful response.
To the drivers who wait patiently for mobility ride-ons to cross the road on street corners.
To the pedestrians on the Buffalo Beach footpath as they share this walkway with bicycles, e-scooters, dogs and e-bikes. No accidents noticed so far. With a scenic view, enjoyed.
REAL CHANGE REQUIRED
Iam standing for Council in the Mercury Bay Ward in this year’s Local Government Elections. I do this because I care and after careful consideration and significant encouragement from diverse groups in our community.
My wife and I live in Kuaotunu. We are deeply involved in and form part of community groups and initiatives, all with a focus on giving back to the community. It is who we are, part of our fabric. Over the past decade, we have created local jobs, invested in business, bought and sold properties, and built and subdivided. Mercury Bay is home.
STATUS QUO – NOT AN OPTION
If you want more of what you have had in the last three years: +36% rate increases amid a cost of living crisis, planned debt tripling, quadrupling of interest costs, and a lack of transparency and openness: vote for our three incumbent councillors. They did! I stand because I am concerned about where we are going. Bureaucracy, like rust, does not sleep. With little or nothing to show, we:
(i) Have an ever-increasing, centralised Council bureaucracy (headcount and cost);
(ii) Have a Council culture lacking “can-do attitude”, shielding behind an opaque, thin veil of blaming central government, whilst neglecting to serve the residents/ratepayers paying their wages and who represent their entire (professional) reason for being;
(iii) Spend money we do not have; and
(iv) Lack of accountability.
Many local community members struggle to afford their rates, being forced to forgo necessities in order to stay in their homes. We face significant challenges. Difficult calls are required. TCDC must be put on a disciplined, fiscally sustainable path. We need to work within our means.
Voting for me is a welcome departure from the status quo. I stand for real change.
REAL CHANGE REQUIRED
I believe in local decisions by locals. We can and must do so much better.
My vision for Mercury Bay is one rooted in our unique identity, environment, and a commitment to sustainable growth. I believe in cherishing and protecting our distinctiveness while fostering controlled and targeted growth.
To become economically sustainable, we need to enact business- and community-friendly policies, including some rezoning of public and private land, creating opportunities for private enterprise to invest and generate well-paid jobs, and fostering growth in our building, conference, hospitality, and accommodation sectors. Enabling conferences, events, and destination activities, especially during the shoulder seasons, provides tourists with more reasons to visit. Our focus must be on quality over quantity, not an infinite number of tourists, but tourists who stay longer and spend more. Controlled, targeted growth
enables us to build a larger Mercury Bay business, ratepayer, and resident base, in turn affording us better private and central government-funded, Whitianga-based services (such as healthcare, active retirement living, palliative care, and rescue helicopter availability), which enhances the quality of life for everyone.
IMPACTING REAL CHANGE
In life and the law, seeing a debate in a broader context can help avoid misunderstandings, unproductive arguments, and speaking past each other.
There is no place for party politics in local government. What is at stake is too important to get wrong. Common sense and coming together are required.
As a Mercury Bay Councillor, I will be but one of 11 Council voices (in the 2025/28 electoral term). We need systemic change. To achieve that, we need likeminded, competent people in the room. As a lawyer and advocate, I mediate and litigate. I bring disagreeing parties together to achieve resolution.
WHY VOTE FOR ME?
I have a proven, successful business track record. I bring a results-focused, no-nonsense approach to governance, anchored in financial, business and legal acumen; and a steely determination.
I STAND FOR:
(i) Common sense, and getting things done.
(ii) Accountability (making every dollar count: results and value for money); (iii) Back-to-Basics (core Council services only).
I WILL DELIVER:
(i) Ratepayer Value: Vigorous, relentless focus on Council’s core purpose, business and spending.
(ii) Fiscal Prudence: Limit rate increases to CPI or 3% p.a. ; (iii) Local Empowerment: Community-led, cost-benefit-based services funded by local targeted rates.
Your Choice: Want Real Change? Vote: Flemming Rasmussen. Visit: https://www.linkedin. com/in/flemming-h-rasmussen-7754842/
I have cultivated contacts and established dialogue with likeminded existing and potential new councillors in Mercury Bay and all other Wards to bring about the required change. We need your active support, voice and vote!
Local lawyer and businessman Flemming Rasmussen, Kuaotunu, standing for TCDC Mercury Bay Ward Councillor
Flemming Rassmussen keen to make changes.
A successful Writers Festival
Both writers were interviewed by Greg Hampton, owner of Carson’s Books in Thames and their books are available at Carons Bookshop, Thames. Look for Russell Skeet’s work on John Reed’s life coming out at the end of July. Thanks to the Peninsula Writers festival for making these interviews with local authors and of published works possible – enabling the writers to be among us and their stories to come to life personally.
A wealth of knowledge and life
BY KASPUR FRANKE
Russell Skeet is a well-known local historian who has self-published five limited print booklets on regional history.
He was interviewed by Greg Hampton in front of a packed audience at the last day of the Peninsula Writers Festival. He served in the Hauraki Battalion and was a Territorial Force Officer in the New Zealand Army and has been a member of several local civic organizations. His latest manuscript “Beyond Gold: John Reed – Thames Timber Merchant and Ironmonger” is his most ambitious project yet and tells the story not just of
John Reed, a Victorian era businessman working in post-colonial Thames, but of the greater economic and cultural forces at play in the Thames region, as well as greater New Zealand and beyond.
“Lives don’t exist in isolation they exist within a much greater context,” stated Russell, who originally expected the manuscript to be a short twenty or so page biography of Mr. Reed’s life.
This notion got expanded to 217 pages and a decade of writing as Russell began to do more and more research into Mr. Reed’s role and contributions within the Thames community.
“To understand the influence that shaped his business and the decisions that he made, you needed to know what was happening in Thames and for that, you needed to know what was happening in the province of Auckland within which Thames was located. To know what was happening in Australia was also key, because John Reed was doing business in Australia.”
It was this local and wider world view along with his close approximation to the Reed family that inspired Rusell to write the book.
“I worked for Reed Brothers Hardware for fifteen years. It’s a family-owned firm, five genera-
tions and I was really interested in the dynamics of a small family business – how it survived from go to now.”
Russell spoke about the parallels and patterns of John Reed’s life and his business to today.
“The thing that I discovered in doing the research is that life is a repetition of patterns. The things that actuated John Reed, the circumstances in which he found himself in Victorian times are no different than the circumstances we find ourselves in now because it’s a pattern. It’s a cycle. It’s a rise, plateau, fall, and restart.”
“Beyond Gold: John Reed –Thames Timber Merchant and
Stephanie brings history alive
BY KASPUR FRANKE
Stephanie Parkyn is the author of three best-selling historical novels: “Into the World”, “Josephine’s Garden”, and her latest, “The Freedom of Birds”.
Born in Christchurch, Stephanie has a PhD in Biological Sciences from Waikato University, She has previously worked as a freshwater ecologist and began her professional writing career in Tasmania before moving to the Northern Coromandel where she currently writes and co-hosts The Northern Coromandel Writers Escape and other writers retreats and workshops.
“I always wanted to write. From
when I was a kid age nine, ten I was writing stories.” Said Miss Parkyn when asked about her unusual path from Environmental Scientist to published historical fiction writer noting, however, that there were in fact more similarities than one would think “Research is about looking at the broader information that’s out there and pulling it together into a story. In science you are telling the story of your research.”…
“There’s a sort of some level of crossover in that scientific training that I had to bring me into historical fiction research.”
All three novels feature strong heroines and female characters and are based on French histor-
ical accounts taking place within a chronological Napoleonic era timeline from 1790 to 1815 but are meant to be read as standalone books.
Stephanie discussed her research. “I’d never done any history at school, so this was all brand new to me. I knew about the French Revolution as a concept but not the detail of it. I even went to France often travelling to various locations where my characters may have lived and read translated journals from some of the historical figures. Being able to read these actual journals from that time was invaluable. They just come to life for you, and you want to know what happens.”
Greg (interviewer) asked about the writing process and length of time for each novel (Into the World took seven years).
“The trouble with historical research and trying to turn it into a story, is that there is so much information you can put in there that you can swamp the whole thing.” As for the development of her characters Stephanie said, “You’re with them for so long that they kind of become real for you and you just respond in the written form how you think they would act in real life.”
Stephanie has just finished a completed draft of her next novel about the first woman to climb Mount Cook.
Ironmonger” is scheduled for print at the end of July and will be available at Carsons Bookstore Thames.
Russell Skeet, historian, with his interviewer Greg Hampton of Carsons Bookshop.
Stephanie Parkyn is helped by her interviewer Greg Hampton in displaying her three books available from Carsons Bookshop.
The Peninsula Writers Festival committee – Christine Christie, Lesley Preece, Jane Thomas, Shirley Smith, Mabel Murie and Anne-Marie McDougall at the opening night at the Mercury Bay Twin Cinemas.
21. Small bunch of flowers (4) 22. Spaces (between) (4)
Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/ photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@ theinformer. co.nz to reach us by 12.00 noon on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly. Last week’s winner CONGRATULATIONS Anita Stokes
Sudoku instructions
Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once. For last week’s solutions see the Classified section
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 10.30am-12.30pm 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.
Mercury Bay Community Choir – Mondays 6.15pm8.15pm, 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.
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.
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 2.30-3.30pm, Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.30-11.45am, Intermediate classes Wed, 12-1.30pm; . Contact Cecily 027 294 1750 or Kathy 027 4321 353 Zumba – Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk St.
GROUP INFO
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
Local makers, art, gifts, kai & more. Support local. Make midwinter magic. Vendor enquiries: rainbowwarriorlife@gmail.com OUR LEGAL SERVICES INCLUDE: PROPERTY - COMMERCIAL - FAMILY COMMON LAW - PERSONAL - FINANCING TRUSTS - ASSET PROTECTION - NOTARY PUBLIC
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
TRADES & SERVICES
TRADES & SERVICES
St Andrew’s Church Hall
Friday 18-Sunday 20 July
9:30am-3:00pm daily
All Mercury Bay Craft groups and individuals are Invited to display and advertise their work. No charge – koha appreciated.
To book - Contact Annie Lynch: 07 866 3711 or 027 322 3332 standrewswhitianga@gmail.com
Advertise your upcoming Annual General Meeting in The Coromandel Informer Phone 07 866 2090 sales@theinformer.co.nz
CLASSIFIEDS
QUALIFIED CARPENTER
POSITIONS AVAILABLE FOR EXPERIENCED OR CONSTRUCTION MINDED
ROOFERS AND SCAFFOLDERS
offered to suitable and committed staff. Must be eligible to work in New Zealand. Applicants please email: info@penroofscaff.co.nz
FULL TIME POSITION
We are a 7 day week business, open 9am-4.30pm. We are looking for a person with a passion for gardening, combined with exceptional customer service skills. A good level of physical fitness and the ability to heavy lift repeatedly is required. Hours for this position are 9am-4.30pm Tuesday to Saturday.
What does ‘Buy Local’ mean in a time of recession? Answer: Community and Resilience
BY TYREE CONNOR
When times are tough, the choices we make have greater implications than ever before and one of those choices - buying localbecomes more than a slogan, it’s a lifeline.
In an economic downturn the pressure is on everyone. People watch their spending, business try to stay afloat, and communities fight to stay together. We look for the cheapest options to make every cent count. But those cents have power, especially when they stay close to home.
stability for local jobs, clubs, and community initiatives.
your role in supporting our community.
Advertise your job vacancies in The Coromandel Informer Phone 07 866 2090 or email sales@theinformer.co.nz
If you think this role would suit your skills then please email your application, including a current CV, to the Manager: Megan Semmens meganblsupplies@yahoo.com
72 Link Rd, Hot Water Beach, RD1, Whitianga 3591 Phone 021 717 564
WHITIANGA COMMUNITY SERVICES TRUST SOCIAL SERVICES CENTRE
IS LOOKING FOR TWO
TRUSTEES
TO ASSIST IN THE SMOOTH GOVERNANCE OF THIS CRITICALLY IMPORTANT AND GROWING TRUST IN THE MERCURY BAY
We are looking for individuals who share our values, have governance experience, and are ready to contribute to our strategic direction and impact.
We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas:
· Accounting and Finance – Strong financial literacy and/or Chartered Accountant designation, with the ability to contribute to sound fiscal oversight and sustainability.
· Human Resources – Experience in people and culture, organisational development, or governance-level HR, including change management and workforce planning.
· Marketing and Communications –Strategic marketing, brand development, media relations, or stakeholder engagement, with the ability to support visibility and public trust.
· Commercial Strategy – Business development, innovation, or revenue diversification experience, especially in not-for-profit or purpose-driven environments.
· Not-for-Profit Governance – Board experience in charitable, community, or membership-based organisations, including a solid understanding of governance best practices.
· Governance in Times of Change –Demonstrated ability to lead and govern through organisational transformation, including cultural change, strategic renewal, digital evolution, and structural shifts. Skills in risk oversight, adaptability, and long-term stewardship are highly valued.
· Accounting and Finance – Strong financial literacy and/or Chartered Accountant designation, with the ability to contribute to sound fiscal oversight and sustainability.
· Human Resources – Experience in people and culture, organisational development, or governance-level HR, including change management and workforce planning.
· Marketing and Communications –Strategic marketing, brand development, media relations, or stakeholder engagement, with the ability to support visibility and public trust.
· Commercial Strategy – Business development, innovation, or revenue diversification experience, especially in notfor-profit or purpose-driven environments.
· Not-for-Profit Governance – Board experience in charitable, community, or membership-based organisations, including a solid understanding of governance best practices.
· Governance in Times of Change –Demonstrated ability to lead and govern through organisational transformation, including cultural change, strategic renewal, digital evolution, and structural shifts. Skills in risk oversight, adaptability, and long-term stewardship are highly valued.
Board Member Expectations:
– Attend monthly Board meetings
– Participate in committees or special projects as required
– Serve a three-year term (voluntary role, with expenses reimbursed) with a possible renewal for two further terms
– Actively contribute to governance, strategy, and oversight.
To apply please contact the Trust Secretary, Peter van der Putten for an application pack on 07 866
peter.p@wsct.org.nz.
Phone 07 866 2090 or email info@theinformer.co.nz
This means spending your money at locally owned businesses rather than out of town or online. From local cafés to local tradespeople because they are part of our community. They employ local people, contribute to local causes, and reinvest their money back into the place we all call home. This has the multiplier effect: every dollar spent at a local business typically circulates within the community multiple times. It creates economic
Not to highlight the negative but during a recession local businesses often struggle the most. Their margins are tight. When we choose to support them, we’re helping a neighbour pay their staff, cover the rent, and keep the doors open.
You might be thinking, “Buy local” sounds great but isn’t it more expensive?” Sometimes yes but not always. Many local businesses are competitively priced, and even small purchases make a difference – buy when you can, where you can and recognise
If you’re really stretched, consider supporting local in other ways: share a business Facebook post, leave a positive review, or spread the word when you receive great service.
This is an investment in our community and our people. So, when you plan your next purchase, ask yourself: Can I keep it local?
Tyree is on the Board of the Mercury Bay Business Association and also Members Advocate at the Mercury Bay Club.
Pop up art exhibition - a must see!
BY GINA BARRETO DIRECTOR
We are so excited to share some amazing updates about our ongoing Matariki Show.
Matariki in MorrinsvilleWaikato Wide Collective, 27th June to 20th July 2025
One particular artist, Ben Whitaker, is featured. “I have been surrounded by art; my mother was an educator and arts advisor, “says Ben.
“My father was a shearer and holder of whakapapa. My nana shared our whakapapa. Getting to know who I am, has given me grounding and security”.
The Morrinsville Gallery is excited to announce our new connection with two inspiring art initiatives operating in Thames, namely Vessel and The Ngākau Carving Symposium.
Vessel is a gallery located at 752 Pollen Street in Thames packed with work from their talented collective. It is definitely worth a visit. We are so grateful that many of these artists have contributed to our Morrinsville exhibition that celebrates the spirit of Matariki.
As the centre of community art
in the Matamata-Piako District, we are thrilled by the enthusiastic response from over 65 artists of all generations, ranging from amateurs to professionals. Discover the rich and diverse interpretations of Matariki created by artists from various areas across Waikato, including Morrinsville, Te Aroha, Matamata, Thames, Coromandel, Te Awamutu, Tamahere, and Hamilton, all of whom have contributed to this artistic call-out.
Our dedicated Curator, Elizabeth Borrows, is leading this
project, with the support of our wonderful volunteers. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to MPD Creative Communities NZ and the Matamata-Piako District Council for their generous support, which has made this exhibition possible. We are passionate about creating a welcoming and vibrant space for both locals and visitors in Morrinsville and throughout the beautiful Waikato region. For more information, please contact us at info@morrinsvillegallery.org.nz
Ben Whitaker, artist and teacher at the Morrinsville exhibition.
MOTORING
What ever happened to mainstream sedans?
The most common Police car is now a wagon and not a sedan.
BY JACK BIDDLE
Firstly, a bit of good news for the new car industry in New Zealand. After months of stagnant or declining sales, there was a resurgence of activity in June which led to a healthy increase of around 26 percent over the new registrations recorded in June 24 according to the Motor Industry Associations (MIA) recently released numbers.
The 11,862 sales recorded for June 25 were also the second-best month year-to-date (YTD).
While the majority of those sales came from businesses, there was also an increase YTD (2196) from the private sector which is no doubt a sign some of the marketing activity undertaken by the new vehicle distributors in general is having a positive effect along with an increase in consumer confidence moving forward.
Business sales made up around 56 percent of total sales in June while private sales were just shy of 35 percent. Government and rentals made up the remaining registrations.
The CEO of the MIA, Aimee Wiley, says the Government’s Investment Boost initiative announced as part of the 2025 Budget cannot be discounted as a positive factor behind the resurgence in new vehicle sales during June.
“The June quarter ANZ Business Investment Survey showed central government policy as a key driver for firms planning to invest, and this likely refers to the Investment Boost announced in the May Budget. A MYOB survey of more than 500 small and medium sized businesses in May put passenger vehicles, including cars, vans and utes, at the top of the list of new assets to purchase. Further analysis of the June numbers shows the lift has come from rental, business and private buyers alike.”
So, things are looking up for the new passenger vehicle market which is only getting more and more competitive with the constant arrival of new Chinese brands to the New Zealand market.
Talking to the technical staff at one new vehicle franchise in Tauranga recently about the overall quality of the new Chinese brands in general, their comments overall were pretty positive. Extended warranty periods are also another bonus for potential buyers across the various brands and making the Chinese brands worth at least a look for many including private and business consumers.
Back to the headline. What ever happened to mainstream sedans?
Well, in a nutshell, global manufacturers build to meet demand and overall, the demand for mainstream sedans just isn’t there any-
more, particularly in countries such as New Zealand and Australia where SUVs and utes consistently top the sales charts. Our lifestyle lends itself more to these types of vehicles which offer benefits such as more versatility, increased interior space, higher seating positions and higher ground clearance. The alternative choice is often a wagon like the Skoda Superb which has become a common sight on our roads over the last few years as a frontline police vehicle replacing the old Commodore sedan.
Interestingly, while the popularity of sedans is declining in some regions such as ours, they still hold a significant market share in several other countries, particularly in the United States, China, and parts of Asia. Their popularity is due to factors like larger and spacious roading networks and the perception of better overall road handling and comfort. One of the biggest downsides in even considering these vehicles for countries like New Zealand, is they are built in a left-hand-drive format and with little demand, the cost of a right-handdrive conversion at the factory makes it all too hard and uneconomical for overseas manufacturers.
CURRENT MARKET CONSUMER TRENDS
YTD-
Top Six Segments
Another way to view the market currently is to look at the top marques and models
by sales and percentage
So not a sedan in sight, and highly unlikely it will ever change any time soon.
Does that mean an aging mainstream sedan will increase in value then?
Not really unless it is a sought-after, last off the line model or a high-performance speed brand out of the likes of Europe, Japan or Australia.
Have to say though, one of the nicest cars I have driven was a Toyota Camry sedan. It is a lovely all-round car and one to recommend either new or used if you wanted to buck the trend.
SPORTS
MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB
Thursday, 3 July
Winners: Wayne McNeill and Betty Russell.
Runners up: Alan Henderson, Sandie Morris and Jan Harvey.
Good Sports: Sue Webb and Lee Pudney.
MERCURY BAY SQUASH CLUB
We recently held the finals for our first series of business house for 2025. A huge thanks to our five sponsors for their generous support once again.
After 10 initial hard-fought rounds the finals night was competitive but fun. The teams ended up in the following order:
Thursday, 3 July 1, Geoff Jervis & Ischelle Stevenson 65.63; 2, Rose Tegg & Sue Gill 62.5; 3, Steven Knowles & Terri Lipanovic 53.13.
MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB
9-hole Women – Gross
Tuesday 1 July
Div 1: 1, Audrey Vickers; 2, Jenny Layton.
MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS
24 players this week so 501 doubles were played. One team went through unbeaten in all 4 sets. They were Fletcher Bale and Todd Mosses being outright winners. Highest finish for the men this week 98, scored by Steve Pointing. No finishes over 50 for the ladies this week and no 180’s scored.
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday, 2 July 10 players today and it was Ian Baumgren, Bob Haase and Doug Pascoe with two straight wins each to challenge the finals. Doug won the drawn bye; therefore Bob and Ian clashed in the semifinal with Bob taking a close win and went on to meet adversary Doug in the final frame. A very close match this was with Bob snatching victory and the cash prize. Doug Pascoe runner up and with two wins Ian Baumgren, Peter Schultz and Peter Challis .
Saturday 5 June
8 Players today and a new format of round robin was played with Bob Haase taking the honours with 3 straight wins and won the cash prize . With two wins were Greg Murphy and Doug Pascoe who also had the highest break of 21.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Mahurangi Pairs Week 1
Tuesday, 1 July
North/South: 1, Judie Johnson and Bev Dickie 58.75; 2, Robyn Waters and Peter Hogg 57.92; 3, Lee Hughes and Ngaire O’Brien 55.83.
East/West: 1, Ann Knowles and Peter Clark 63.75; 2, Robyn Hogg and Tia Ormsby 57.92; 3, Maggie Urlich and Myra Hoogwerf 55.00.
MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB
Wednesday, 2 July
North/South: 1, Susan Swan & Tadek Gawor 58.33; 2, Pete Hogg Chris Hilford 57.29; 3, Anne Knowles & Sue Gill 54.69.
9-hole Mixed - Stableford 1, Rod Bott; 2, Gary Freshwater; 3, Les Walbridge.
NTP: Rod Bott
18-hole Women – LGU Rd4
Wednesday 2 July
1, Diane Eccles; 2, Jo Geoghegan; 3, Pam Price.
NTP #4: Barbara Bradley
NTP #18: Diane Eccles
Longest Putt: Julie Rutledge. 18-hole Men – Stableford
1, Rohit Ranchhod; 2, Steve Geach; 3, Willie Jones.
Twos: Willie Jones, Rohit Ranchhod, Dom Szparagowski
Gross – Div 1, Mark Boe; Div 2, Rodney Price
9-hole Mixed – Stableford
Friday 4 July
1, Roger Pheasant; 2, Eddie Lyle; 3, Paul Bradley.
Duxfield Cup – 4BBB Pairs
Saturday 5 July
Winners: Kevin Smith & Sam Murphy
18-hole Men - Stableford
1, Sam Murphy; 2, Dan Ray; 3, Jum Cusdin.
Twos: Mark Boe, Kevin Smith, Graeme Butler, Jim Cusdin, Steve Geach, Sam Murphy
Gross: Div 1, Sam Murphy; Div2, Graeme Butler
PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
9-hole Stableford, Fairways
Tuesday 1 July
1=, Steve Borlase, Ryan Cochrane; 3=, Catherine Borlase, Mark Bell; 5, Jo Geoghegan
Fairways
1=, Jill Huston, Anne Costello 18-hole Nett
Sunday 6 July
1, Steve Borlase; 2=, Richard Agnew, Richard Greenwood; 4, Mike Farrance. 4BBB: Steve Borlase and Richard Agnew
Guthrie Bowron.
Winning team of Business House Squash - Glasshouse. L to R: - Paul Mason, Maddy Watson, Jimmy Wightman, Winton Bebbington, Ryan Churches, Chris McLeod & Laura McLeod.
Congratulations to the junior Year 7 rugby team from Whangamata Rugby and Sports Club who are the Thames Valley Rugby Union Champions in their grade.
A titanic game for the rugby ladies!
BY MIKE TAYLOR
Mercury Bay Mako’s
Ladies Team made the long road trip to Te Aroha to play their quarter final on Sunday, 29 June.
This was an epic contest that had the large crowd captivated right from kick off. After an even start Te Paea Puha scored a brilliant solo try for the Mako’s traversing 60 metres in a searing run that split Te Aroha’s defence completely.
From there the contest ebbed and flowed with both teams combining strong defence and willing attack, but the Mako’s always holding a slight edge and retaining their 5 nil lead.
In the final ten minutes, with Mako’s still leading 5 nil, Te Aroha mounted several raids on the Mako line but were repelled by desperate tackling. This was truly white knuckle stuff.
Sadly, for the Mako’s, in the final act of the game Te Aroha scored and converted their try to win 7 –5 right on final whistle.
This was a savage blow for our ladies after holding the lead throughout, but heads were not bowed
and all players involved understood how brave and sustained their effort was. Te Paea was an awesome presence all day, Grace tackling and running extremely aggressively despite an injury, plus Gabby and Tori having their best games all season. In reality every player who took the field for the Mako’s made a statement on a very bonding day when defeat was somewhat undeserved but still character building nevertheless.
This drops the curtain for now on a first season
where rapid improvement and success have characterised our entry into the Thames Valley competition.
Thanks must go to our hard-working coaches Mark and Bruce who have mentored and taught skills very effectively. Also, the club for their support and lastly the public from whom we have felt high levels of engagement, warmth and support all year.
The ladies will return to action in the forthcoming Sevens event later this year.
Time for a birthday celebration after the game – Grace and Macca with the Mako’s Rugby team manager, Mike Taylor.
Mercury Bay excels at NZ Area Schools National competition
BY LEISA MCCLEERY
This year NZ Area School Nationals was held in Invercargill.
The first three days of tournament were the four regions -Northland, Central North Island, Top of the South, South of the South. Then there is team naming where the best of the south and best of the north in all codes are chosen to compete against each other on the final day.
Codes played are Football, Netball, Basketball, Rugby, Volleyball and Ki-o-rahi.
SELECTED PLAYERS FOR THE NORTH ISLAND TEAMS FROM MBAS:
Football: Arlo Hert, Ben Collins, Tom Lamason, Samantha Chamberlain, Ella Simpson, Malia Herbert, Ellie Mikkelson, Lila White. Rugby: Taingarunui (Ngaru) Hinds, Reo McQueen, Ty Willigers.
CONGRATULATIONS TO STUDENTS SELECTED FOR NZ AREA SCHOOL TOURNAMENT TEAMS IN INVERCARGILL 2025
NZ Barbarians Rugby: Ngaru Hinds and Ty Willigers.
Boys Football: Tom Lamason and Ben Collins.
Girls Football: Samantha Chamberlain, Malia Herbert and Ella Simpson.
We are extremely grateful for the funding received from Pub Charity and Aotearoa Gaming Trust for their generous support.
Well done to every single one of our athletes on your performance, sportsmanship and dedication to your code.
Editor’s Note: This is not just from your families and your school but from your whole community of Mercury Bay.
MERCURY BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC
Robert Lindsay Dip Phty(Otago) ADP(OMT), Dip.MT. Co-author of ‘Treat Your Own
Injuries / Post Surgery and Fracture Rehab Acupuncture Hand Therapy / Women’s Health Clinic Physiotherapists with the qualifications to provide excellence in physical health care 24b Lee Street, Whitianga (Next door to Pathlab) Kuaotunu & Hahei Clinics 0800 868 9579
MBAS Central North Island Squad – Back from left- Ngaru Hinds, Arlo Hert, Ben Collins, Reo McQueen, Ty Willigers, Jacob Chamberlain, Tyron Cummings, Tom Lamason; Front from left - Malia Herbert, BrooklynJade Mark, Angel Scobie, Samantha Chamberlain , Lila White, Meg Harper, Ella Simpson, Ellie Mikkelson, Millie Gold.
NZ Tournament team players: Ngaru Hinds, Tom Lamason, Ben Collins, Ty Willigers, Ella Simpson, Samantha Chamberlain, Malia Herbert.
