‘MOMENTUM’ IS NEEDED TO BUILD A BETTER FUTURE HERE
BY PAULINE STEWART
Our rates are unlikely to ever be enough, and the fees you pay for your basic services will probably just cover that - the basics.
At the same time, funding from central government is not as plentiful as it used to be or as much as many hope and expect, and given the current deficit, that is unlikely to change any time soon, if ever.
We all share in this, no matter the way you see the world or which leaders you support.
This region we live in is topclass and unspoiled, but it needs development of the kind that will enable its natural resources to be highlighted and easily accessed, with the minimum of disturbance and the maximum of income generated along the way.
I say ‘momentum’ is needed, and in some ways, I am referring to a combined energy and focus of people and government, local and national; but right now, and more immediately, I am referring to the Momentum Community Foundation.
With confidence, I believe the Momentum Community Foundation is needed here on the Coromandel Peninsula to build a better future.
Over a year ago, Peter Farmer of Farmers Auto Village wrote in ‘Your Summer’ magazine about a philanthropic endowment fund he was working to establish on the Coromandel Peninsula which would provide a means for people to leave a legacy to, or invest in, needed projects and
activities in their community.
Peter assisted in establishing a similar and very successful fund in Tauranga. Now he is living in Whitianga, Peter is focussing his energy and vision on setting up such a ‘Future Fund’ for each town on the Coromandel.
Fire erupts at Oceans Resort
The fire erupted in a top floor apartment of the Oceans Resort in the early hours of Monday morning, 2.31am, 21 July. Firefighting appliances from Whitianga, Kuaotunu and Cooks Beach responded with Whitianga providing three units. The fire was brought rapidly under control within 20-30 minutes.
There have been several progress reports here in The Informer and a presentation at Whitianga Business Association to a group of 70 members, plus many supportive discussions.
Continued on page 3
Roly Chaney, Fire Chief for Whitianga, reported that an inspection resulted in the fire being due to ‘undetermined cause’. The heat was so great that all evidence of what could have caused the fire had been incinerated. The tenants at the time, and who were present when the fire started, were not hurt or injured. However, they have disappeared and are not locatable.
One of the residents commented that there have been issues reported, concerning the tenant(s) who had been there several weeks. Impeccable references enabled the tenant(s) to stay. Another resident reported, “It was a pretty scary night.” Everyone was evacuated promptly as there was no certainty about how far or quickly the fire could travel. No one was hurt.
Later Monday morning, the Fire Chief, Roly Chaney returned with Station Officer, Darren Hartley to check the situation and inform the fire inspectors who were on site.
The fire soon after in broke out.
Roly Chaney and Darren Hartley back for an inspection of the fire.
PAULINE’S PLACE
Aussies – they are too soft and slow! Part One
BY PAULINE STEWART
We had been living near Paeroa in the Karangahake Gorge for three months. The year was 1993. It was early January. We were making friends. John was one, as well as his family.
We were Australians who had come from St Ives, Sydney for a stint of work and refreshment in New Zealand countryside.
John loved the outdoors. He was a roading and bridge engineer. He knew a lot about the local area and loved the history. He had told us about Kauri dams. We were interested. He invited Stan, me and Walker (at the time, 7 years) to come on a short hike to see a couple of Kauri dams.
He and two of his teenage sons would come with us – they were great outdoors boys and we had already met them briefly.
After checking the day before on what to bring for the Saturday hike, Stan said John was well prepared and very relaxed about arrangements. He would pick us up. We could bring a small lunch and plenty to drink as it might take a little longer than a couple of hours.
I prepared picnic food – sandwiches, cake and fruit. I wanted
to be prepared for this day with new friends and not look as if we didn’t do much hiking. My backpack was full. Stan suggested to not overdo the preparation. I often took too much.
When we arrived at our starting point somewhere between Waihi and the Karangahake Gorge, John offered to carry my backpack. I noticed the boys, Michael and David were carrying a drink bottle but nothing else. John had a small bag in his hand. I thought, ‘Kiwis are tough. They don’t need
to eat.’ David, the older one of the boys, smiled at my full pack. “It’s just a walk,” he said.
John’s boys ran ahead. Walker knew he couldn’t keep their pace and walked with us as we took our time walking in beautiful shady forest and chatted.
After an hour and half, we reached our first kauri dam. John’s knowledge was encyclopedic – the history and engineering information was fascinating. It was also time for morning tea. I brought out the cakes and buns.
Our kiwi friends who didn’t need anything were keen to share our food.
I did think to myself that this might be the turn around point. John soon said it was time to move on so we could keep to schedule.
Another hour of walking and a pointed question from Walker. “John, are we going back soon?” A few minutes later, we reached another Kauri dam. John waxed eloquently about the dam and how it worked. Stan was absorbed. Walker asked the same question again. We kept walking. John said, “Don’t worry Walker, we don’t have to turn around, we are going to end up at a different
place and my wife will pick us up and take us back to our car.“ Phew! I was relieved as we had now been walking for four hours.
“Lunch everyone,” said Stan. “What’s for lunch Dad?” said Michael and David.
I thought to myself that the boys had planned on being back home by now. “Would you like a sandwich?” I offered. They politely thanked me and took two sandwiches each. That left Stan sharing his with John and I vainly hoped Walker would not eat all of his.
It was truly beautiful bushland but no sign of a road or a car. Where would John’s wife be picking us up? An hour after lunch, we were at another Kauri dam.
My interest had faded. Michael and Davd kept reappearing from being up ahead. They were sort of checking on what was taking these Aussie city dwellers so long. Stan asked John, “Where are we actually headed, John?”
“Well, it is a little further than I remember, Stan, but we are on the right path. It is also taking a little longer. We are going to come out near Mount Te Aroha.”
“Mount Te Aroha?? Stan nearly choked. Walker had given up asking, “When will we get there?” Part 2 next week
By Alastair Brickell
on the horizon and the Pleiades or Matariki.
Tuesday,
Moon now sits half way between Mars and the bright star Spica in Virgo. Venus still shines brilliantly in the eastern dawn sky while fainter Jupiter lies much closer to the horizon but ruses a bit higher each day. Slightly yellowish Saturn rises in the east around midnight but is quite faint. A
New vision for The Coromandel
Peter’s
and the team he has recruited as Fund Champions and look forward to seeing the project develop into a real changemaker for the Coromandel.
BY JANICE LAPWOOD
Momentum Waikato Community Foundation exists to simplify and enable local philanthropy. It is one of 18 community foundations in New Zealand, and we are here to make the Waikato region, from the Coromandel down to the King Country, a great place to live.
All community foundations provide ‘smart giving’ – the opportunity to donate or bequest to an endowment fund that is then prudently and professionally invested, with the scale of the foundation’s portfolio ensuring larger and more certain returns over time, with constituent funds annual income then being available to grant out to projects and charities based on the Fund’s Deed of Gift.
We can’t do it alone, so this goal can only be achieved through our Fund Champions for each of these Funds.
• Coromandel Peninsula Future Fund
• Coromandel & Colville Future Fund
Peter Farmer, of Farmer Auto Village, initiated the drive for a Coromandel based fund
• Mercury Bay Future Fund
• Tairua & Pāuanui Future Fund
• Thames Future Fund
• Whangamatā Future Fund
These have been established with assistance from the Thames Coromandel District Council (TCDC), which is keen to see these philanthropic funds grow for each of its wards and the whole Peninsula through the generosity of individuals and organisations coming together for the common good.
The purpose of these six new Coromandel Future Funds is to create place-based funding
sources that will support community projects and programmes in the respective areas, through building up significant donor-led funds managed by Momentum Community Foundation.
Specifically, to promote the social, environmental, and cultural wellbeing of Coromandel communities, and to deliver on the aspirations and community outcomes of the Coromandel, as identified by locals.
These place-based Funds can receive donations for endowments (perpetual giving), and also for pass-through funding to projects or causes in the community.
BENEFITS OF DONATING
Make a bigger impact, together.
• To provide a key safety net in the Coromandel funding ecosystem for future generations.
• To create the greater leverage opportunities and impact that happen when givers collectively support a common project or activity or place.
• To support ongoing distributions that support charitable, social and environmental activity in the Coromandel.
SUPPORT THE FUTURE OF YOUR DISTRICT
Giving to the Fund can be by:
• Gifts-in-Wills, also called a Bequest
• Donations of cash and assets
• Trust and Incorporated Society resettlements. Grants will be made annually by each Fund’s Distributions Committee, which is made up of representatives from the community and Momentum Community Foundation.
MOMENTUM CONTACT
Janice Lapwood is General Manager: Endowments , Momentum Waikato 022 151 2854 or janice@momentumwaikato.nz
CAMBRIDGE - A GOOD EXAMPLE TO FOLLOW
The Cambridge Community Charitable Trust has got together with Momentum Waikato, to establish the Cambridge Community Fund, an endowment that will generate investment income for charitable activities and projects in the Waipa centre. The Fund was officially launched on 16 October 2024. Inaugural Fund Champions David Cooney and Kevin Burgess say it’s the ideal scenario –a Cambridge-focused charitable
fund enabled by a region-wide philanthropic investment entity.
“The Cambridge Community Fund is a cost-effective way for local people to leave a legacy forever to their town,” says Kevin, who is well known locally as a pharmacist, trustee on various boards and athletics supporter.
David says the Cambridge Community Trust was founded in the early 1990s to raise significant enough capital to make a meaningful difference in the town.
“Over the years we received grants/bequests from the community, but a similar number of funding requests were received.
“It has been a hand-to-mouth existence and our long-term goal of creating a meaningful capital base was difficult. There needed to be a different model and a better way to achieve the goal of establishing a long-term endowment fund for Cambridge. That’s why we looked into the community foundation approach.”
It’s never happened before – all body and flavour
BY PAULINE STEWART
The body and flavour were in eighteen beers. These beers were separate entries in the annual Mercury Bay Homebrewers Club tasting competition. Every beer entered into the competition, tasted by the three judges, was determined to be full of flavour and body. Points were so very close resulting in multiple winners – three first places, three second places and two third places. It was the first time this had happened in 46 years of the Mercury Bay Homebrewers Club’s existence.
Saturday, 19 July from 12 noon at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club was a relaxing and joyful time for the members and friends of the Homebrewers Club based on friendship, a long history of excellent brews and the amount of home-made brew, of course available only to the judges.
There is also Wine and Liqueur tasting sections but traditionally these do not attract as many entries. It was decided to present one winning entrant for Wines and one for Liqueurs.
The judging is not a quick pro-
cess. There is a minimum amount of beer from each entry to be consumed to enable the judges to fully evaluate the particulars of taste.
Then follows a period of waiting in between tasting each beer to enable a neutralising of the previous taste.
THREE NOTABLE STARS OF THE DAY
The first star was Boyd Casker who won a first, second and third place for his three different entries in the Home Brewed Beer Tasting as well as first place in the Liqueurs.
The second was Neil Reynolds
28
who is President of the Homebrewers Club and who has been a key organizer of this competition for the last ten years.
The third is John McQuillan who began the Mercury Bay Homebrewers Club in 1979 and was President for almost twenty. John was one of the judges at Saturday’s competition and also introduced an hilarious auction moment prior to the generous raffle draws.
A big thank you to Sponsors: PC Electrical, Drainage Systems (Stu McFarlane), Smitty’s Sports Bar & Grill, Harbour House Café, Glass House Emporium, Mainly Casual,
Thank you to Mercury Bay Bowling Club for their premises and hospitality.
RESULTS:
Beer: First Place – Cameron Thomas, Stuart Tucker, Boyd Casker.
Second Place – Sam Astwood, Boyd Casker, Laura Spencer (absent)
Third Place – Robert Spencer and Boyd Casker
Best Wine: Nigel Thomas Best Liqueur: Boyd Casker.
Tickets only $70 available from the bar includes 5 Marisco Wines
Antipasto Platters
Olives, gherkins, stuffed bell peppers, feta cheese, blue cheese, chorizo, pepperoni, bread & crackers.
5 Choices of Set Menu Main Meal
(1) Braised Brisket - Tender slowly cooked brisket in a rich savory-sweet teriyaki glaze. Topped with crunchy pinenuts served with potato gratin, glazed carrots & green beans.
(2) Peri-Peri Roasted Chicken served with potato gratin, glazed carrots & green beans.
(3) Pan tossed egg noodles with a colourful mix of red capsicums, crunchy beansprouts, mushrooms, baby corn, tofu & spring onions, topped with roasted peanuts & fresh corriander leaves.
(4) Slow Roasted Pork Belly with golden crackling served with sweet pumpkin puree, elevated with a vibrant fresh salsa & drizzled with a rich gravy sauce served with potato gratin, glazed carrots & green beans.
(5) Fish Turban - Fish rolled with a prawn, sundried tomato & almond filling, served on a buerre blanc sauce served with potato gratin, glazed carrots & green beans.
2 Choices of Dessert
(6) Home made donut with raspberry coulis, ice-cream, topped with crumble.
(7) Sticky Date Pudding served with whip cream & ice-cream.
Please choose meals prior to buying tickets.
Tickets available from the bar, limited tickets
From left: judges - Steve Epsworth, Stuart McFarlane, John McQuillan working to distinguish and judge the particular tastes of 18 beers; Boyd Casker, the club member with the most wins. Well done Boyd!; Nigel Thomas (R), winner of best wine, with Neil Reynolds.
Pourer, Neil Rose very careful to provide the exact amount to each judge for each beer.
Geothermal Pools
Happy Hour Swims
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Opening Hours: Thursday & Sunday 9.00am to 7.00pm
Friday & Saturday 9.00am to 9.00pm
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Relax, unwind and indulge at NZ’s number 1 Day Spa.
Choose from our massages, rejuvenating Pure Fiji Vitamin C and Dilo Facials, or treat yourself to a luxurious 2.5-hour deluxe experience like no other.
Book in Today! dayspa@thelostspring.co.nz
Ph: 07 866 0456 (ext 2)
THE LOST SPRING
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Crafted with Dilo, Coconut, Macadamia, and Sikeci Oils.
Whether post-workout, pre-meeting, or daily reset, this is skincare without the noise.
Available in two signature infusions: Mana'ia - A clean, masculine scent with subtle depth.
A delicious platter accompanied with a Glass of wine - $22.50 or with one of our selected cocktails for - $27.50
A punch of worldly flavours – come Sip, Savour and Socialise.
A vailable Thursday and Friday’s as a lunchtime special
Citrus Lime & Mint - Bright, modern, and energising.
“Meet the Mayoral Candidates” meeting
Sunday, 3 August 2025 at 2.00-4.00pm, Whitianga Town Hall.
PREPARED BY TONY FOX ON BEHALF OF WHITIANGA RESIDENTS’ AND RATEPAYERS’ ASS. INC.
The following questions are what the candidates will be answering, and they have all received them to give appropriate time to prepare. There will be other meeting the candidate meetings for Mayoral candidates which we will promote in The Informer. Residents and Ratepayers from across the Peninsula are invited.
INTRODUCTORY QUESTIONS
A. Why are you standing, and what experience and value do you bring to the job?
B. Any Political Party Affiliations?
WHAT IS YOUR POSITION ON THE FOLLOWING 10 MATTERS?
1. Your vision for the district
• How are you going to achieve it?
• Specify initiatives and actions.
2. Transparency/Openness
• Specify initiative, actions.
3. Council Core Business
• Services Council should be involved in?
• Services Council should NOT be involved in?
4. Economics
• Specify your rates policy. – calculated and based on
Meet the candidates
Gathering at The Dunes Matarangi
These are to cover the people in Whangapoua, Matarangi, Kuaotunu but everyone is invited.
Meet the Mayoral candidates – Sunday, 17 August, 4.00pm- 6.00pm. Meet the Councillor and Community Board members standing for election in Mercury Bay Ward. Sunday, 24 August, 4.00pm – 6.00pm. Tony Fox will be Chair of this meeting. The Dunes will be available for evening meals.
Enquiries: 021 866 045
Local Voices Take the Stage – Open Mic
This coming Wednesday, 23 July at the Monkey House, Whitianga. An evening of words and wit.
This is a laid-back evening for local creativity - writers, poets, and storytellers - to celebrate the art of words. It’s a relaxed, creative jam where local legends and first-timers share their words with a friendly crowd
There are no judges, no pressure. Whether you want to grab the mic or just chill in the corner with a coffee (or something stronger), the Monkey House has you covered.
Doors open at 6:30 PM. The mic fires up at 7 PM. Entry is free but a generous Koha is appreciated.
weight: UAGC/General/Targeted Rate
– ward distribution
• Specify your rating model preference – would you revisit LV vs CV rating?
• Specify your view on Quality of Council Spend/Waste.
• Specific areas where OPEX efficiencies can/must be achieved.
5. Economic growth
• Specify your Policy and Initiatives by Ward
6. Council Committees
• Committees to maintain/dissolve/establish.
• Policy Areas by Committee, no. of EMs
7. The Prime Minister has stated a Vision for Local Government:
encompassing greater devolution to local communities.
• Do you agree with this (Y/N)? Why? IF Y how would you work to instigate this?
8. Housekeeping
• Existing Standing Orders: Fit for Purpose? What would change, if anything?
• Code of Conduct: Fit for Purpose? What would change, if anything?
9. Maori Ward
• Confirm your vote on 31 October 2023 and at 3 September 2024 Council Meetings.
• What are you going to vote in the binding poll and why?
10. Other - Who Pays For
• Thames: Aquatic Centre;
Coastal/Shoreline Protection; Pollen Street infrastructure upgrade.
• Coromandel/Colville: Sugarloaf Wharf upgrade/budget overrun; Blue Highway; Ferry connection Auckland to Coromandel return.
Please see how you can enrol and vote this election go to tcdc. govt.nz/2025-elections or see ad page 14.
Informer Craft exhibition
Crowd-pleasing skills and crafts on display
BY DOROTHY PREECE
Sunshine brought the crowds into St Andrew’s Church last weekend, to view the wealth of creativity on display from local craft groups and enterprising individuals. The annual ‘Made by Hand’ crafts exhibition included everything from a crocheted Christmas tree to stunning earrings made from rubber inner tubes and feathers. There was even a 45-year-old work in progress – a matinee jacket that the baby never got to wear, which only just got finished. St Andrew’s Church pews made display stands for the many exquisite knitted blankets and patchwork quilts, together representing
Vanessa
years of careful work. Three spinning wheels and a sock-making machine provided fascination and skilled entertainment for the watchers. As well as sharing their
enthusiasm with the visiting public, the crafts-people sparked inspiration from each other, exchanging ideas that will no doubt appear in next year’s exhibition.
Check
Steve Hart, Thames
Peter Revell, Thames Patrick Kerr, Whangamata Mayor Len Salt, Thames Denise Messiter
Margaret Henry and
Dooley demonstrate the spinners’ art; Delwyn Alexander at her fascinating sock-making machine.
TRAVEL
TRAVEL
WRITER – SARAH JANE
Your Best Holiday Yet? Staycation is the new dream getaway: no travel required
What’s the secret to a memorable staycation? The answer is a shift of perspective: convince yourself that your couch isn’t just furniture, but a first-class experience designed to whisk you away from your work routine. Give your mind, body, and soul a backyard boost.
Here’s a few tips for staycation success.
ROUTINES ARE TO BE BROKEN
• Holiday dress required: Dig out that “I Love Rotorua” or “I Love the Coromandel” t-shirt, throw on the ridiculously bright resort wear (why on earth did you buy the outfit in the first place). Those work clothes have a one-way ticket to the back of the cupboard.
• Who cooks on holiday? Relax and eat out at the local restaurant, indulge in morning tea and order pizza for breakfast. Your fridge is on holiday as well. Pre-holiday prep includes stocking up on cold beer, chilled wine, that sparkling water that is probably overpriced and cheeky indulgent chocolate.
• Breaking news: Housework, chores and property maintenance have been declared ‘non-essential activities’ for the duration of the staycation. If the budget allows, employ a temporary cleaner also known as hotel housekeeping.
THE “PRE-HOLIDAY” PREP: CREATE YOUR LEISURE BUNKER
• Set an “Out of Office” Reply (Even for Yourself!): Mentally (or literally, if you have a work email) put up a barrier. Communicate to family and friends that you’re “on holiday” and unavailable.
• Declutter and Clean Before it Starts: This is crucial as it’s difficult to relax with dirty cups littering the coffee table. You’ve dramatically reduced your carbon footprint by ditching the flight, you’ve now earned the moral high ground to hire someone else to deal with the dust bunnies. Think of it as carbon offsetting.
• Stock Up on Supplies: Imagine hitting the beach only to realize you forgot your sunscreen. Now imagine hitting your couch only to realize you’re out of emergency
chocolate. The horror! Buy everything. Groceries, snacks, a metric ton of coffee, every streaming service known to humanity, and enough bubble bath to fill a small swimming pool. The fewer reasons to “run out” for something, the better.
• Plan, But Don’t Over-Schedule: Have some ideas of what you’d like to do (local attractions, themed meals, movie nights), but leave plenty of free time for spontaneity and relaxation. You are to do absolutely nothing but holiday at home, without guilt.
TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE:
• Create a “Holiday Zone”: We decorate for parties … Now’s the time to let your inner self loose.
Think of it as a party for one (or two, if your significant other is playing along), where the only theme is “maximum comfort and zero judgment.” “Who knew those ‘Christmas’ fairy lights would turn your bathroom into such a surprisingly cool retreat?” Welcome to your resort.
YOUR DIGITAL DETOX, YOUR RULES
• Forget the phone use debate for a bit. You’re in charge. NZJane won’t snatch your device or make you do a digital cleanse. Just try to use it like you would on holiday: for quick photos and important calls, not constant scrolling.
BEHAVE LIKE A TOURIST: ADOPT A HOLIDAY MINDSET
• Explore Your Local Area Like a Visitor. Remember to wear ‘I love …” T shirt stating to the world you are on holiday.
• Go to the local museum and find out more about the place you live in
• Go for a short drive to nearby towns and places, spend the day pottering
• Take a selfie in front of statues, objects and scenery. It’s amusing, especially when it’s in your backyard. Taking pictures helps solidify the “holiday” feeling and creates memories
• Look for visitor brochures or local event listings – what would a visitor do?
SELF-CARE, MIND & BODY
• Indulge in Hobbies: Read that book, start that craft project, play an instrument, or learn something new online.
• Connect with Loved Ones (Intentionally): Have dedicated quality time with family or friends without the distractions of daily life.
• Movement and Fresh Air: Even if it’s just a walk around the block, getting outside and moving your body can significantly boost your mood.
• Practice Mindfulness: Take moments to simply be.
• Reflect and Journal: Write down what you’re grateful for, your staycation experiences, or your thoughts without the pressure of productivity.
Whitianga isite gets tech upgrade thanks to Pub Charity grant
The Whitianga isite Information Centre has received a heartening boost thanks to a generous grant from Pub Charity Limited, which funded the purchase of two new desktop computers and a laptop. This upgrade is a welcome step forward in helping the centre support our community and the many visitors who come to discover the beauty of Whitianga and the Coromandel.
With new technology now in place, the friendly faces at isite can continue providing the kind of warm, knowledgeable service that makes Whitianga such a special place to visit. Whether helping plan a holiday, book accommodation, or share local secrets, the team’s job just got a little easier- and a lot faster.
“We’re so grateful to Pub Charity for recognising the value we bring to our local community and visitors alike,” said Andrea, an isite team member. “This grant helps us stay connected, efficient, and ready to welcome people with open arms.”
It’s amazing to see local busi-
nesses and organizations coming together with Pub Charity Limited to uplift places like Whitianga. Grants like these don’t just fund services - they fuel belonging, connection, and pride in the region.
The isite would like to acknowledge the Admirals Arms, Smitty’s Sports Bar & Grill, The Coroglen and Whangamata Sports Bar, our
iconic venues who partner with Pub Charity to shape a stronger Hauraki Coromandel region.
AROUND THE REGION
WHITIANGA OPENING HOURS
Whitianga isite opening hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm, Saturday 8.30am to midday. Closed Sunday.
There are two isites and six Information Centres on the Peninsula and Hauraki. isites: Waihi isite and Gold Discovery Centre and Whitianga isite. Information Centres: Pāuanui, Whangamatā, Thames, Tairua, Coromandel Town, and Paeroa.
Andrea and Sheryl of Whitianga isite
SeniorNet Whitianga – a non-profit, all volunteer group of seniors dedicated to supporting seniors togetthemostoutoftheirdigitaldevices(smart phones,laptopsandtablets).
TERM THREE CLASSES (16 JULY –17 SEPTEMBER)
at seniornet.whitianga.admin@gmail. com or call her on 021-022-62504.
SeniorNet Whitianga is focusing our Term Three sessions on individual tuition for Seniors. If you just got a new smart watch, laptop or smart phone, (whether it is an Apple or Windows/ Microsoft/Android product), make an appointment to get together with one of our tutors for an informative but relaxing session. In 45 minutes, you’ll be surprised how much you can learn about your device. Three One-on-One sessions are held every Wednesday during Term 3. Choose a time that suits you, starting from 10:15am, 11:15am or 1:15pm. Each session costs $8. Attention Apple Users! If you want to find out more about your iPad or iPhone, sign up for an informal group session with fellow Apple enthusiasts. All welcome whether you’ve just started using an Apple/Mac or are experienced. You’ll pick up all sorts of handy hints from Pam, our tutor for all things Apple. Enjoy a cuppa while you share ideas and information. We run two Apple User groups which meet on alternate Wednesdays from 2:15pm until 4:15pm. Each session costs $10. If you’re interested in any of these sessions, please get in touch with our super-efficient Admin, Sheryl. Email her
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Each Term, SeniorNet Whitianga aims to bring you a special session on a topic of interest to the community. Recently, Jess Corkill, Librarian with Mercury Bay Library, spoke to an interested group of our members. Jess gave us a lively and informative presentation about the many helpful resources the library has available on-line. Participants brought along their tablets and smart phones for a fun session where they learned how to access best sellers, magazines etc. from the comfort of their living rooms. SeniorNet is very grateful for the participation and support it receives from people like Jess who give up their time to educate the community about all the wonderful resources available to us. (We are currently working on special presentations for Terms Three and Four. Watch this space for more information.) If you’d like to meet our fantastic tutors and volunteers, come along to our Drop In Session, on 13 August at 1:15pm. (Look for our ad in The Informer, 5 July edition.)
Our classes are held at Whitianga Social Services Building at 4 Cook Drive. Parking available.
PAUANUI PINK WALK - rain, hail or shine event
Readers may recall Pauanui being ‘painted pink’ last October. This very successful event is returning for 2025.
BY JODIE, PAUANUI PINK WALK TEAM
We are super excited that entries are NOW OPEN for this fun event in Pauanui. This event was introduced in 2023 as a result of Business Recovery Cyclone and Relief funding, in collaboration with TCDC. The huge success of that event saw its return for 2024 where entry numbers doubled!! It was therefore a ‘no brainer’ to include the event on Pauanui’s Event Calendar for 2025 and Pauanui is planning to paint the town pink once again on Saturday 27 September.
So, get the date in your diary, gather your friends and family, dig out everything you own that is pink, and get your tickets now! The event is not a race, is open to all ages and
is in support of a great cause - the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. It is a rain, hail or shine event and is sure to be a FUN weekend in Pauanui.
You can enter online; https:// events.humanitix.com/pauanuipink-walk-2025 or if you'd prefer, pop into the Pauanui Information Centre who can also help you out. Entry fees are $25 per adult and $10 for children under 15.
And the fun doesn’t stop at the walk! Our extremely supportive local businesses have plenty of pink themed surprises to keep you fed, hydrated and in with a chance to win over the weekend.
Make sure you follow the event Facebook page for all updates on the weekends program https:// www.facebook.com/PauanuiPinkWalk.
Local film-maker and his movie come to Twin Cinemas
BY ANNE-MAREE MCDOUGALL
We are delighted to welcome local filmmaker Matt Hicks and his crowd-pleasing new comedy, The Tavern, to Mercury Twin Cinemas on Friday, 25 July at 7:00pm for a special fundraising screening in support of the Marlins netball club
A small-town comedy with a big heart, The Tavern is the story of friendship, loyalty, and the outrageous lengths people will go to save the things they love – like a pint and a place to call home. Think scheming, silliness, and that classic Kiwi charm. “The film’s pretty offensive and enjoyable nonsense. If you’re looking for The Piano or Power of the Dog, this is not for you. It’s more a hark back to silly Adam Sandler or Will Ferrell stuff – but in a Kiwi pub,” says Hicks.
This film has been enjoying sell out sessions at the Tivoli in Cambridge since the premiere in May and Hicks is about to take it on the road down south. Somewhere it’s not going, is Auckland. “This is on the basis that it is hard to find a car park in Auckland, the coffee in Auckland is over-priced, and it hap-
pens to be filled with a whole bunch of Aucklanders.” This makes our Whitianga screening a rare and exclusive opportunity and one not to be missed! We’ll leave the last word to Matt – “Leave your morals and maturity at home and come out
for a great night laughing at stuff you shouldn’t.” Personally, I can’t wait!
Watch ‘The Tavern’ trailer, R16 https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=YtxtUALzusc –Warning, some content may offend some people.
For a great punk rock night at Whitianga Town Hall on Saturday 19 July. Everything looked funky and Corrosive Moses lauched their new single to a packed audience.
She is not easing up any time soon
Keeping brain and body active is her key motivator for a healthy and long life. Local Whitianga resident Anne Knowles celebrated her 87th birthday recently and has no plans or intensions to ease up any time soon on what is currently a well-balanced, enjoyable, healthy and disciplined lifestyle.
BY JACK BIDDLE
Staying active both from a physical and mental perspective has always played a big part in Annes daily regime, more so since her husband Malcolm passed away suddenly in 2008 which left a large gap in her life.
“We use to do a lot of tramping and jogging together and I still have fond memories of several long and enjoyable tramps on Mt Ruapehu. I continued walking after Malcom passed away but eventually my artificial hip was causing me problems. Also, I injured a knee after falling carrying a laundry basket, so swimming and riding my e-Trike became part of my daily exercise routine from around 2005 onwards. There was no way I was ever going to give up on regular exercise. I just had to find activities that were enjoyable, created less impact and kept my body parts moving.”
Living in an apartment and resort block which has an outdoor heated swimming pool at her disposal, allows for an early morning start with between 60 and 75 minutes of nonstop exercise most days. That’s often followed by a 10-to-12-kilometre cycle ride along the beachfront
on her e-Trike when the weather allows.
Regular exercise also means there are no guilt trips when it comes to sitting for hours absorbing herself in her love for completing difficult jigsaw puzzles along with reading or getting out and playing competitive bridge.
“I read somewhere that activities like puzzles use both sides of your brain at the same time. Well, all I can say about that is it definitely keeps my grey matter fully challenged for many hours on end,” says Anne.
Anne’s connection with Whitianga dates back to 1962 when husband Malcolm took up a role in teaching at what was then called Mercury Bay District School. They had originally left London in 1960 by ship and Malcolm had initially spent two years teaching at Queen Elizabeth College in Palmerston North before arriving in Whitianga. In 1968, they decided to head for the far north and spent 37 years in Kaitaia, where Malcolm taught at the local college before they made the call to retire back to Whitianga.
Overcoming hardship and keeping a positive mindset has been a hallmark of Anne’s life. As a child living in Middlesbrough England, she lived in a terrace house with no connected hot water, no bathroom and an outside toilet. A tin bath, which was also used as the outside washing tub, was brought in on a Saturday night and filled with water boiled from an outside tub. This allowed the five-member family to take turns having a much welcomed bath.
“We still made the best of what little resources we had and I have
always focussed on staying positive and as physically healthy and fit as I can be. It was a tough life which taught me discipline, determination and hard work will eventually make for a better life. Age is no barrier to keeping up those standards either, one just has to adjust and find new ways to exercise, stay motivated and to keep a positive outlook on life. For me the pool, riding my e-Trike, completing puzzles and playing bridge suits me just fine and makes me content.”
One tip Anne is keen to pass onto others living alone is keeping a St Johns alarm handy.
“I have two; one for around the house and the second one is amazing;- I can press two buttons and talk direct to someone who can provide help. It also has GPS, so if I’m driving for example and feel unwell, they can locate my position quickly anywhere in New Zealand. I put the GPS one on the side of the pool. It definitely provides me with some added peace of mind.”
Anne is certainly a great example of the benefits of living a busy but balanced life in an effort to maintain her independence, but also to keep both the mind sharp and the body moving all in keeping with her age.
Anne is following a lifestyle that gives her energy and purpose
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
SOLUTION TO PARKING FOR BOAT TRAILERS LIES IN MOVING COUNCIL BUILDING
Ongoing discussions about a) problems for parking trailers after launching at the present or b) new Esplanade launching ramp - could be alleviated somewhat by:-
Moving the Council cuilding to one of the under-utilized reserves we have in the area.
This would provide a substantial number of parks close to the ramp. The area might possibly include the vacant section where Admiralty House was situated and the freedom camping area and where the present Council car park area is.
Does the Council building have to be where it is?
How major a mission would it be to move the present building?
Could a park be established that could be used for parking at peak times??
The parking problem is only going to increase in years to come and this could help solve things.
There are several Council Reserves reasonably handy that could be used for a relocated building and Council vehicles.
I have mentioned this possibility to several friends and those that use the ramp and they have encouraged me to pursue the idea.
I appreciate that I am not conversant with the Long-Term Plan for the area and did not manage to make a submission to the launch-
ing ramp discussions (this was an afterthought over a wine) but anything might be possible, especially ‘mates rates” for Resource Consent. Ron Morgan, Whitianga
TO ACHIEVE HIDDEN GEM
Continued from last week
When promoting the Whitianga Sportsground as the hidden gem in our town and to progress further, the complex should be sold to private entrepreneurs or developers. In selling the site the Council could demand that the integrity of the site was maintained and the public reserve zoning be kept.
This would mean that potential buyers would complete the complex including offices, meeting rooms and an assembly hall. Furthermore to make the purchase of the sportsground viable and affordable, I would recommend the following:
1. That land adjacent to the site on the western side be purchased and zoned extra density housing
2. The buildings and sportsground could be rented or leased to give regular income to the owners
3. To be truly affordable the purchasers in the acquired private land for housing.
Footnote! The articles I have submitted are in no way professional in their writing. The findings are my personal thoughts about a problem in our community.
Noel S. Hewlett, Whitianga
THE REGULATORY STANDARDS BILL WHY SHOULD WE CARE?
This Bill is a brazen attack on our democracy, pushed by ACT’s small but loud extreme libertarian crew. With only 8.6% of the vote, they’ve manipulated coalition negotiations to force this Bill through, despite nearly everyone opposing it – 99.67%.
ACT then used “urgency” to advance it through Parliament. Out of 150,000 submissions and 16,000 people wanting to speak to the select committee, only 208 got five minutes each. That’s a shocking way to silence Kiwis.
Then you’ve got David Seymour’s “Victim of the Day” trolling stunt, using official Parliament logos to call critics “deranged.” That’s not leadership. That’s playground-level cheap shots from someone meant to represent all of us.
The Bill is not about “individual freedom,” but really lets big corporations put profits ahead of people, environment, and public good. Seymour claims it’s just a technical measure but then threatens to collapse the whole coalition if it doesn’t pass. No one threatens to nuke a government over something trivial.
A fringe party hijacking democracy isn’t how this country should work. The big question is, will Luxon stand up and stop it before real damage is done? So far, it doesn’t look promising.
Anton Taylor, Whitianga
WE NEED TO ACT SOON RE REVIVAL OF SCALLOPS
I fully support Ross Liggins’ letter in last week’s Informer, where he discussed conditions in the Hauraki Gulf.
Ross talked about the damage being done to the sea floor by mechanical fishing methods, such as dredges and trawls, so upsetting breeding and feeding areas for all sea life. He also talked about the disappearance of scallops from Mercury Bay, something of which I am very aware.
Many will remember the commercial scallop fishers mid-70s and 80s landing thousands of scallops from their dredging of Opito and elsewhere. They were able to continue with this process for many years and each new season saw adequate scallops for all, including recreational divers. This suggests that the scallops were able to sustain a breeding pattern providing takeable scallops, even on the now corrugated seabed.
The scallop fishermen had been using ‘hit and miss’ or memory tactics to carry out dredging but with the development of GPS, they were able to pattern drag the scallop beds with pinpoint accuracy. This left a sea floor surface of grooves and mounds, a perfect sediment trap, totally unsuitable for scallops.
At about this time, clear felling of pine forests was beginning on the Coromandel. For time
immemorial, forest erosion had been delivering topsoil to the Whitianga river drainage which then carried it into the ocean. But this material was part of the environmental infrastructure and did not provide any negative impact on the surrounding waters. However, with the pine felling a different sort of material has been generated, described as slash. This slash contains turpins which are poisons thus creating a toxic sedimentation which covers the former scallop beds and prevents scallop rehabilitation.
Similarly, some years ago, scallop beds in the Marlborough Sounds were overfished to the extent that they were closed by Fisheries with the assurance they would be operable again in a few years. But this never happened and research revealed that the toxic sedimentation fed in from the neighbouring pine forests had prevented the recovery. This situation is unlikely to change under present conditions.
We need to find a way of preventing toxic sedimentation getting into the sea, particularly in such an iconic place as the Coromandel Peninsula. To do this, there are many solutions which could be applied, ranging from much tidier, thoughtful methods of felling, to the development of sediment catchment areas or even the planting of native trees such as kahikatea instead of pine. But we need to act soon.
Chuck Edwards, Whitianga
Our
District Council
Nominations still open for Local Elections 2025
Our Chief Executive Aileen Lawrie featured on radio earlier this month to chat about this year’s Local Elections and what they mean for our communities and how people can get involved.
Listen to our Chief Executive’s CFM chat online at tcdc.govt.nz/elections or via our Council social media pages.
Nominations for the Thames-Coromandel District Council and Waikato Regional Council elections are open until Friday 1 August. Anyone interested in standing in this year’s elections can submit a nomination online or through one of our Council’s service centres to run for Mayor, Councillor or Community Board Member.
Anyone considering standing as a candidate in our district should check out our 2025 pre-election report. It will help you understand more about our Council – who we are, what we do and some of the challenges that lie ahead for us. You can read it here: tcdc.govt.nz/PER-2025 or grab a
WORKING TOGETHER FOR THE FUTURE OF MATARANGI COAST
Last month we held a drop-in session to outline the Matarangi Restoration and Rewilding Coastal Programme with the local community.
Our team went over the project’s goals and approach. Feedback was largely positive, with attendees acknowledging the importance of meeting statutory environmental requirements, including obligations under the Wildlife Act. Encouragingly, some locals offered to support future volunteer efforts, including helping with trap line maintenance and the upcoming planting event.
This engagement has been valuable in helping to address concerns and clarify misconceptionsparticularly the incorrect belief that no work is currently underway in Matarangi.
In fact, we have been actively working on weed control and infill planting along 500 metres of foredune between Ocean Close and the Village Green, with ongoing backdune enhancement also planned. The next phase will focus on the 700-metre stretch in front of the Pines, which includes the removal of invasive species such as gorse and lupins from the back dunes. We look forward to continued collaboration with local residents to protect and enhance this important coastal environment. We’ll be weeding and planting native dunes to support the health and stability of our coastline. To find out more and get involved see tcdc.govt.nz/coastal-matarangi
copy from one of our service centres or libraries.
If you care about your community, this is your chance to step up or encourage someone you trust to stand. The elections are more than just a vote. They’re a chance to shape the future of our communities and the places that matter most to us.
Stand for your people. Stand for your whenua. Stand for your future.
RATES REBATES
Applications for the 2025/26 rates rebate year from Te Tari Taiwhenua | the Department of Internal Affairs are now available. We’re holding a series of rates rebate clinics around the district if you’d like a helping hand to apply. Whitianga office: No appointment needed. Pop in anytime until 30 June 2026 during office hours at 10 Monk Street, Whitianga. tcdc.govt.nz/ratesrebate
Council covers cost for kids visiting Te Papa display
Our Civil Defence Emergency Management Unit at Thames-Coromandel District Council encourages you to explore the Rūaumoko – Restless Land display at Thames Museum Te Whare Taonga o te Kauaeranga. This display is touring courtesy of Te Papa and our teams think it's so awesome that we’re covering the cost of children visiting the excellent display.
There are plenty of interactive engagement tools plus heaps of information about what our local hazards are in Mercury Bay and elsewhere and how we can best prepare for them.
The museum is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 1pm. To make bookings, contact the museum via 07 868 8509 or thamesmuseum@xtra.co.nz.
The exhibition ends 19 August.
What’s coming to your backyard?
It’s nearly 31 July, when time runs out to register your dog before penalties apply. Avoid the queue, renew your registration online via our Thames-Coromandel District Council website at tcdc.govt.nz/dogs or
Check your 2025/26 property rates: tcdc.govt.nz/rid Register your dog online before 31 July 2025 to avoid late fees. tcdc.govt.nz/dogs
At the end of June, our Council adopted the Annual Plan for 2025/26, setting our project priorities and budgets. We’re mostly sticking to the course set in our Long Term Plan, but we had to make a few tweaks because of unavoidable cost increases and new government reforms, especially to water services. We kept the average rates increase to the 7.7% forecast in the Long Term Plan, and we raised some of our fees and charges to keep up with inflation or increases in the cost of delivering some services.
WANT THE DETAILS?
What’s planned in your neighbourhood: tcdc.govt.nz/annualplan2025
New fees and charges: tcdc.govt.nz/fees
A Birthday event for a cause A Tribute to Tairua Troubadours
Mabel is inviting the community to her Birthday Party.
The reason she is even having a party is so she can raise funds for, and bring hope and warmth to, many less fortunate children in the Philippines. She is calling the birthday event, BIRTHDAY FUNDRAISING WITH A CAUSE.
A typhoon that raged through a part of the Philippines last year went largely under the radar as people’s attention is fixed on the Middle East and The Ukraine invasion. This typhoon ravaged areas where the relatives of many of our Filipino friends in Whitianga and on the Peninsula, live.
“I come from this area”, says Mabel. “I want to use my Birthday as a chance for us to come together as a community and make a difference in the lives of these young ones. I would like to touch the hearts and improve the lives of the Filipino kids in this area of Philippine. They are struggling for the basics in their lives. I believe that every child deserves access to necessities like clothing, shelter and food. I want to do my part to give back by providing them with the support they need.”
Please join Mabel for a Buffet Dinner and Live Music at $25pp on Saturday, 2 August 2025, Whitianga Town Hall at 5:30PM.
Your ticket purchase will help
provide the needs of the Filipino children. All food for the buffet birthday has been donated or paid for by members of the local Filipino community.
Mabel understands that not everyone can attend, but people can still support this need by donating or spreading words regarding her event.
“I am excited to share this evening with you and look forward to your support,” says Mabel.
“Small act of kindness can create a world of difference.”
Tickets available at Paper Plus, Whitianga.
Editor’s Note: Mabel Murie runs Paper Plus, Whitianga with her husband, Derek. Both are very generous to this community and work hard supporting many charitable events and causes in Mercury Bay.
BY LILY PAULSEN
The Tairua Hall is humming with excitement and people as we take our designated seats. Lights dance around the room which can fit approximately one hundred seated. Those lights dim and voices fade – the show begins.
I remembered vividly being part of the show in 2024. I was in the cast of Once Upon A Time, but this year they had a completely different and fabulous treat awaiting us.
The show, The Four Seasons- A Tairua Soap Opera, was about friends reunited at a school reunion and agreeing to meet up each season at the Easter Country Club Hoedown, Fireman’s Winter ball, A Spring Wedding and the Surf Club Summer Beach Hop. In between each scene were the hall cleaning comedy duo of Gina Easton and Rowena Burkinshaw. brought us a hilariously funny soap opera - the days of our lives.
The show had everyone in fits of laughter and high spirits and by the halfway intermission, the crowd was beaming. Jennie Turner, the director and script writer for the Troubadours, is truly gifted. The cast of seventeen was wonderfully humorous and talented and as always, the crowd was able to relate to characters, be entertained, inspired and laugh until they
could no longer hold in their liquid.
The show was very successful running form 19-18 June. The Troubadours always succeed in entertaining people as well as bringing people together, all the while fundraising for the Tairua Community and events. such as The Westpac Helicopter Trust.
Having run for over twenty-five years now, the community really appreciates this time of year knowing the Tairua Troubadours - a bunch of local members of the community, who are very talented, will get together to put on a great show for the wider community.
THANK YOU TO JENNIE TURNER AND TAIRUA’S FUNDRAISING
“We all win “ As a group the Tairua Troubadours have given back to
the Tairua Pauanui communities over $236,000. Of that, $100,000 went to Coromandel Rescue Helicopter, and it’s only as a result of a community effort, from the cast and crew volunteering their time, to the audience buying the tickets. Of course, none of this could happen if it weren’t for Jennie Turner writing the shows.”
Ex journo/columnist and now playwright, Jennie said, “We all win because I like writing the shows; the cast love performing, the audience enjoys watching and the recipients of the monies appreciate the donations. Plus, it builds communities as everyone comes together.’ Jennie is a trustee for Coromandel Rescue and the Tairua Troubadours have been associated with them since 2012.
“We’re just a bunch of amateurs from a small town, who don’t take ourselves seriously,” says Jennie.
The Troubadours are a diverse group of people from a cross-section of the community, who come together for a couple of months, ranging in ages from 2 years to 82, constantly evolving as new people come and others go, although once a Troubadour - always a Troubadour.
Jennie adds, “We have so much fun in rehearsals that we forget about the performances at the end.”
Gina Easton and Rowena Burkinshaw the hall cleaning comedians in The Four Seasons A Tairua Soap opera.
Mabel Murie
WHAT'S ON
OP SHOPS
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop –Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.
St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat 9.30am-2pm.
St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen St, Whitianga. 9.30am-1pm Wed-Sat.
Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-2pm. Donations welcome. SPCA Op-shop – 2 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 9am-4pm.
MONTHLY
AA Driver Licensing – Monday 28 July and Friday
8 August. 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 021 264 3753.
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.
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 – Meets Mondays 6.15 to 8.15pm at the music room Mercury Bay Area School. Start date 4th August. No auditions, no previous singing experience required. 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.
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.
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. Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 4.20pm, 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 Cecily 027 253 3088 or Chrissy 021 177 4226. 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.
Local makers, art, gifts, kai & more. Support local. Make midwinter magic. Vendor enquiries: rainbowwarriorlife@gmail.com
MUSINGS FROM THE VILLAGE
We Should Get Prepared for Rising Damp
BY GORDON T
The gardener called by recently. He must have been feeling fitter because he did a full hour before coming in for his morning break. I was pleased to see him though as I had a special job for him. Opening a couple of beers, I sat him down and told him I had been thinking about the property, to which he raised an eyebrow so I continued.
“I’ve been reading in The Informer about climate change and in particular, rising sea levels. Well respected climate authorities such as the Waikato Regional Council have been quoted as saying that sea levels will rise by 20cm to 30cm by the year 2050 and this is a concern.” Now the Gardener is not slow with figures, especially his hourly rate, so he quickly responded. “That’s a 50% variance on the 20cm estimate so modelling theory will tell you that it could be as low as 10cm. And if the Waikato Regional Council is so concerned, why did they muck around for 18 months before allowing the shark
bite to be fixed up?”
It was hard to answer that question so I didn’t bother, instead responding, “How much the sea rises is really guessing work, and the climate fellows with a greater knowledge of history will tell you there will be some glaciers coming sometime so it may not rise at all, possibly will get lower. The point is that I think we should prepare for something if that something does happen. If we prepare for the higher guess we should be
ok on the lower one.” Once again, the gardener raised an eyebrow, so I explained. “I want you to build a metre high ridge in the gardens along the boundary of the property. Plant them in something nice, don’t want it to look like a dyke even if that is the purpose.” The gardener looked confused and asked me, “Is that really necessary, you won’t see that sea level rise around here and the Council will have everything under control.” “That’s the
point,” I answered, “I can’t see the Council building a block wall along Buffalo Beach by 2050, so I think we need to be prepared for a gradual tidal surge.”
The gardener nodded, took out his pencil and made some notes before asking, “If you are that concerned about such matters, why don’t you get an electric car?” I looked down my nose at him and slowly explained, “Noisy cars are much safer. They warn people that they are coming. I’m concerned about our fellow citizens so that is why I paid for the larger exhaust on my car. It’s a safety measure.”
The gardener nodded and took a swig of his beer then replied, “But when the batteries fail on your electric car, rendering it useless, you could bury your car at the edge of the garden, your dyke would be more significant.” He may have had a point but I thought I would need to go through too many electric cars to make a full boundary dyke. He carried on. “You might need to buy a few more electric wrecks to make a full dyke, but it would be doable.”
I shook my head and pointed out I did not want to become a junk yard for failed climate technologies so we would proceed with the small bank I originally asked for. Having settled that we both relaxed and concentrated on our beers for a couple of minutes before the gardener broke the silence. “How do we prepare for glaciers?” he asked. I had to think about that, after all it seemed such a faraway problem I hadn’t really considered it. Eventually I responded. “So long as we get good warning we should be able to prepare. Maybe a CCTV feed from the Coroglen Pub would be useful. When we see a glacier sneak under the bridge, we can start preparing, get the firewood in, and train a husky, that sort of thing.” The gardener nodded, “Should work okay,” he said. “But if we want to get really prepared, and take advantage of the opportunity offered, maybe we should build the Village’s first curling rink and start practicing for the new life.”
Climate Reality Bites: Property Bailouts Ending?
BY DENIS TEGG
The recent recommendations to the government from the Independent Climate Adaptation Technical Working Group are a blaring warning siren for Thames-Coromandel property owners. Taxpayer or ratepayer funded bailouts for climate-related losses would be phased out over the next 20 years.
In our district, the signs have been unmistakable for decades –coastal flooding, erosion, and overflowing rivers have etched a clear warning. Our own Thames-Coromandel District Council's Shoreline Management Project has identified over 138 coastal locations at risk as seas rise, requiring billions of dollars for costly defences or planned relocation.
Yet many property owners still harbour a dangerous misconception: that if their beachfront or riverside homes fall victim to climate change, local councils or the government will come to their rescue with property buyouts or fully funded seawall defences. This assumption is fundamentally flawed. The era of government-funded climate bailouts based on property values is rapidly coming to an end.
This isn't just about red-stickered home buyouts; it also extends to public spending on protective infrastructure, such
as seawalls and stop banks. The only narrow exception would be for nationally significant assets or communities with extreme hardship. For the latter issue, this is a threshold that only a minority in our relatively affluent district with a high concentration of holiday homes are likely to meet. Instead, a stricter "beneficiary pays" model is proposed. If you benefit from a seawall protecting your property, you'll foot the bill directly, via targeted rates or private contributions. For many in Thames-Coromandel, where a large portion of homes already face threats from sea-level rise, coastal erosion, slips, and flooding, this is no theoretical concern: it's a direct threat to their financial stability.
Brutal local reality: Thames and the Thames Coast are at the top of the district's coastal hazard risk list, with consultants estimating protection costs to be over $600 million. Meanwhile, TCDC's Long Term Plan has been banking on a 60% contribution from central government to fund a Thames seawall. The sharp irony? Aileen Lawrie, TCDC's own Chief Executive, is on the very working group that just recommended that, within 20 years, property owners should not expect government funding for seawalls.
We can't keep kicking the can down the road. The next few
years are our last chance to face reality and make hard, necessary decisions. If your property is on a floodplain or close to the coastline, the message is simple: consider moving to higher ground. The warnings have been clear for decades; ignoring them now is more than risky- it's plain foolish.
Critics raise a valid concern that these proposals are unfair and would worsen inequality. In response, some advisors have recommended capped compensation, restricted to people's primary homes. Holiday homes would not qualify.
But regardless of what you believe about government or council responsibility, the reality is simple: they won't pay for everyone. The taxpayer or rate-
payer purse cannot – and will not – underwrite every bad property decision made in the face of such obvious dangers. This is the harsh trajectory the climate crisis has set.
This isn't about shaming past choices; it's about a necessary, urgent shift in mindset. Greater personal responsibility for climate risk is on the horizon. It means conducting thorough due diligence before buying a property, understanding the longterm costs and existential risks associated with living in vulnerable areas, and making concrete plans to relocate from high-risk zones before it's too late.
A transition period would give communities time to share risk information and plan for change, but it won't soften the immediate
financial hit. Once a property is labelled high-risk, its value plummets and your chances of selling it dwindle.
Additionally, relocation planning remains a challenging issue that has yet to be addressed. If these headline recommendations were meant to grab attention, they succeeded. We urgently need to decide when planned relocation becomes necessary, who makes that decision, and how we'll share the costs.
For most, there will be no bailout brigade coming to your rescue. Your preparedness _ or your inaction – will determine your fate.
Editor’s note: The plans for a protective sea wall for Thames in the 2024-2034 Long Term Plan mentioned above have resulted in some preliminary work being done. The projected cost is approx. $80m, so the 60% hoped for from Central Government is $48. However, the Attorney General has raised a flag on this item when reviewing the LTP. There is no promise of funds for this purpose. This is a dilemma for the 2km to 3 km proposed protection wall. Where does TCDC find that $48 m?
Denis is a retired lawyer from Thames, a former Thames Coromandel representative on the Waikato Regional Council, with a keen interest in how we adapt to climate change.
Te Puru after a storm. A low lying area very vulnerable to any rise in sea level.
Sudoku Puzzle
TRADES & SERVICES
TRADES & SERVICES
To be held on Thursday 31 July at 7pm at the residence of D.B. Innes at 112 Rangihau Road, Coroglen. All welcome.
Business:
1. To receive the reports from the Chairman 2. Election of Officers 3. General Business
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.
OF THIS CRITICALLY IMPORTANT AND GROWING
IN THE MERCURY
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 membershipbased 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 4476 or email peter.p@wsct.org.nz.
Pool & Outdoor
Lost Spring
a great job Opportunity available! Main tasks include assisting in the day-to-day running and general maintenance of the thermal pools, grounds, and general resort duties. This role suits a practical person with some mechanical and electrical knowledge, someone who is proactive and can be left to work unsupervised. Time management, reliability and fitness are essential.
Must be available to work weekends. Benefits of working with us:
- We offer competitive payrates
- Staff perks for the pools - Staff incentives - Discounts on Dining, Spa treatments and Retail Products
- A great team environment For interested applicants, please email your current CV and cover letter to support@ thelostspring.co.nz
Saturday, 26 July, 8.30am-1.00pm Homewares, furniture, biltong, baking, whitewear, heaps of clothing and more.
St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church 82 Albert St Whitianga (Opp Z) SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:00AM
Come, join the familyFind peace and friendship.
Enquiries: ph 022 1322 061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz Every Sunday at 9.00am at St Peter the Fisherman 7 Dundas Street, Whitianga ALL WELCOME
CLOSURE OF STREETS TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC
Pursuant to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure) Regulations 1965, notice is hereby given that the Thames-Coromandel District Council, for the purpose of the Rally of Coromandel event, will close the following streets to ordinary vehicular traffic for the periods indicated hereunder.
Friday 22 August 2025
Between 3pm and 8pm Blacksmith Lane and The Esplanade, from Albert Street to Monk Street.
Saturday 23 August 2025
Between 7am and 1pm
Kennedy Bay Road, from House 1424, and including:
All of Tuateawa Road to the intersection of Waikawai Beach Road
All of Waikawau Beach Road to the intersection of Port Charles Road Port Charles Road from the intersection with Waikawau Beach Road to the intersection of Colville Road
Between 10am and 7pm
The 309 Road From the Waterworks gate to House 1715
Between 11am and 6:30pm Tapu Coroglen Road From the intersection of SH 25 to House 436
Between 3pm and 8pm Moewai Road from the intersection of SH to the intersection of Abrahamson Drive.
All of Abrahamson Drive and Dakota Drive
An approved copy of the Traffic Management Plan including road closure maps may be requested from Thames-Coromandel District Council.
Aileen Lawrie CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Wendy of Coromandel Coastal Gardens is new to Mercury Bay. She has been a sheep farmer and soft landscaper for many years and is an excellent transformer of lack lustre and neglected spaces with excellent botanic knowledge. See adjacent advert.
Where to pick up The Coromandel Informer
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
Coastal Gardens
Wendy Dickson Landscape Gardener y Dndy Professional with 20+ years experience in soft landscaping and plant advice, pruning and general garden maintenance. Phone 0275 060 923 dickson.wendy32@gmail.com NOW’S THE TIME FOR PRUNING
Pauanui Beach knows how to throw a party –A Tribute to the 80s
BY LILY PAULSEN
On the last Saturday of June, an 80s Night was hosted in the Pauanui Club, the perfect outing for the community to get their jig on and dress up to the 1980s theme.
The night swung into action as the band kicked off with groovy 80s music, played and sung to perfection by the live band, “Frisky Business”, who are Auckland based, covering songs from the 80s, from Madonna to Whitney Housten.
The band focuses on delivering highly entertaining performances, nights full of energy and fun. They aim to not only sing songs but take you back to the 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s and embody the times of the ages. The seasoned musicians-vocalists, Huz and Lauren Filer, guitarist/sax player, John McNab, drummer, Christian Brenk,
and keyboardist, Daryl Cogger rocked the night away as bursts of colour darted across the room and the crowds draped in colourful 80s clothing joined in. The people sang along to well-known classics like “Take on me”, “I want to dance with somebody” and “Girls just want to have fun”. Some people took to the dance floor swiftly but the amazing vocals and strong beats took no time to draw everyone
in and soon the whole room was buzzing, including the staff. Lights trickled along the walls and fluorescent colours bled over the dancefloor, creating an enticing evening full of wonder and joy
The best dressed and best dancers were announced, awarded to the well-deserved participants Darrel Daiz, and Nicky, his sister. Daiz also received a special “Happy Birthday” from the crowd.
Disco balls hung from the ceiling, fairy lights danced through the room and drinks were enjoyed on the tables decorated with candles and coloured confetti.
There were many well thought out costumes, ranging from leg warmers and Joe-Dirt hair dos. Many rocked with the side ponytails, frizz and coloured mohawks – a fantastic fun night for everyone.
SPORTS
FOOTBALL
Senior Boys (Mixed): a win against Cambridge High School Invincibles
The Mercury Bay Senior splayed Cambridge High School Invincibles Senior Boys at Cambridge on Saturday. The first half was very competitive with both sides having multiple chances on goal. Mercury Bay led 2-1 at halftime. In the second half Mercury Bay was far more dominant and won 5-1. The whole team played extremely well, with everyone settled into their positions and contributing to the very good record of this team so far this year. Goal scorers for Mercury Bay were Curtis Treherne (2), Elijah Bianchi, Noah Palmer and Hyodo Taniguchi.
Junior Mixed – a win against Hamilton Boys 3-1
After a couple of weeks off, it was great to get back into the swing of things against Hamilton Boys. Mercury Bay were 3-1 winners on the day thanks to two sharp goals from player of the day Tylar Cornwall and another from Annabelle Klein. With the league being so competitive, Mercury Bay will need to continue battling their hardest each week as the games start to come thick and fast.
12th Grade Mercury Bay Sharks
The team embarked on a journey to Paeroa, participating in a thrilling match that showcased remarkable skill and sportsmanship from both teams. This game marked one of the most outstanding performances by Mercury Bay this season, with the team exhibiting exceptional unity, astute defensive strategies, and unrelenting effort. Notable successes included two goals each by Kayleb Cornwall and Reef Harvard.
Zeke Calder and Bradley Field received the Players
of the Day awards. The 12th Grade Mercury Bay 'Rays’
The team hosted a very physical Thames side who posed threats all over the park. The 'Rays played some very solid defence in the first half, Thames took the game up a gear in the second half and the 'Rays fought hard to keep up. Thames won the day despite a valiant effort from the home side. They should be mighty proud of themselves.
Congratulations to Jaxson, Levi and Saneo who picked up Player of the Day awards.
Mercury Bay 8th Grade Football
After all the rain we’ve had lately we were lucky to be greeted with a crisp but beautiful sunny day at the Sports Park Saturday morning for our games against Tairua. Both teams were well matched with all our games being very competitive. Albie McCarthy Keys received player of the day for his determination and involvement in the game and McKinley Hale for her amazing attacking skills and scoring a goal.
Canegallo & David Dylla 48. East/West: 1, Robyn Hog & Pete Hogg 59; 2, Norma Hart & Pat Doube 56.5; Chris Southwell & Geoff Jervis 53.
MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLS
Thursday, 17 July
Winners: Wayne McNeill, Lionel Lawrence and Jan Harvey Runners Up: Alan Henderson, Sue Webb, Sandie Morris and Betty Simpson.
Good Sports: Ray Rout, Merle Ward and Christine Mitchell.
MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS
Tuesday, 15 July
TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB
Shoe Pairs Round 2
Monday, 14 July
North/South: 1 Johanna Bonnar & Peter McNeil 57.50. 2, Peter McNeil & Robyn Waters 54.17. 3, Josie Feasey & Doreen Wernham 52.08.
East/West: 1 Rob Stewart & Ron Baker 64.58. 2 Ollie & Paula Gilbert 54.17. 3 Lee Hughes & Jocelyn Taylor 48.33.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Mahurangi Pairs Week 3
Tuesday, 15 July
Results: North/South: 1 Lee Hughes and Ngaire O’Brien 58.85, 2 Robyn Hogg and Tia Ormsby 51.04, 3 Jean Myles and Natasha Courtney 48.96. East/West: 1 Robyn Waters and Peter Hogg 60.00, 2 Ann Knowles and Peter Clark 54.38, 3 Dave Dylla and Sue Gill 52.50.
MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB
July Competition
Wednesday, 16 July
North/South: 1 Kathy Mol-low & Tadek Gawor 62.5; 2 Jenny Layton & Susan Swan 50; 3 Augusta
Saturday, 19 July
11 players on Saturday and it was Ian Baumgren, visitor Den Rush and Greg Murphy with the straightest wins to battle the finals. Den won the drawn bye and Ian despatched Greg to go through to meet our visitor Den in the final. However, it was Den on form and took the win and the cash prize. With two wins were Bob Haase and Wayne Malcolm who also had the highest break of 21.
THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB
Nine-hole Men Stableford
Monday, 14 July
A good turn out again this week with 22 players including two new faces. With these numbers, 501 doubles were played with a double to start and a double to finish. Four teams with 3 match wins each went through the 1 game play off. The teams were Steve Pointing and Ali Crawford, Greg Healy and Jordan Richardson, Mike Gillet and Chris Bennett, B.J (Sniper) and Eleanor Higgins. The highest finish over 50 was 92, scored by Jerry one of the new faces. There were no finishes over 50 recorded for the ladies. 180 scores proved elusive this week with none being scored, maybe next week!
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday, 15 July
Eight players on Wednesday and it was Dave Colman the only player with 3 straight wins to take home the cash prize. With two wins were Wayne Malcolm, Doug Pascoe and Peter Challis who also had the highest break of 22.
1 Lance Croawell 22, 2 Mark Deutsch 21, 3 Graham Kemp 20.
Eighteen-hole Men Stableford
Wednesday, 16 July
1 Ross Alexander 39, 2 Paul Barnard 37, 3 Brian Tomlinson 37.
Two’s: #5 Ross Alexander, #5 Paul Barnard, #7 Geoffrey Hill, #13 Rowan Toms.
Nearest the Pin: Dawson Hansen Nine-hole Men Stableford – (played on Friday)
Thursday, 17 July Paul Anderson 22, Steve Airey 20.
Saturday Haggle: Mixed Stableford
Saturday, 19 July
1 Norman Gilbert 39, 2 Peter Hunt 37, 3 Russell Barnett 36,4 Bev LeLievre 36.
Two’s: Russell Barnett #18th.
Nearest the Pin: Geoffrey Hill.
MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB
Nine-hole Mixed – Stableford Tuesday, 15 July
1 Les Walbridge, 2 Pat-
rick Gonthier, 3 Muzz Bennett.
Two’s: Eighteen-hole Women – Nash Cup. Wed 16 July
1 Chris Van Veen & Jenna Leach. 2 Diane Eccles & Marg Maher
Eighteen-hole Men – Stableford
1 Dominik Szparagowski, 2 Lachlan Tee, 3 Kevin Smith.
Two’s: Dave Enright, Sam Murphy
Gross: Div.One: Dominik Szparagowski; Div.Two: Lachlan Tee
Nine-hole Mixed – Stableford
Friday, 18 July
1 Eddie Lyle, 2 Patrick Gonthier, 3 Jeff Dixon. Eighteen-hole Men - Net. Saturday, 19 July
1 Greg Petrken, 2 Rohit Ranchhod, 3 Alan Henderson
Week ending 18 July (only one day’s golf played). Tuesday, 15 July
1 Mike McCann; 2 Robyn Hayward; 3 Brian Fellows; 4 Susan McDonnell.
PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
Nine-hole Stableford minus putts
Tuesday 15 July
1 Mark Bell, 2 John Hughes, 3 Brian Keucke, 4 Steve Borlase.
Eighteen-hole nett
Saturday, 19 July
1 Steve Borlase, 2 Ryan Cochrane 3 Callum Murray, 4th =Annelise La Roche, Catherine Borlase. 4BBB NETT: Catherine Borlase and David Young. Nearest the Pin: David Young.
Mercury Bay 8th Grade Football two players of the day –Albie McCarthy Keys and McKinley Hale.
Mitsubishi Heatpumps
Whitianga Boat Repairs
We specialise in woodwork repairs & maintenance, including teak decks & platforms, insurance and rot repairs, plus we fit new transducers, anchor winches, bow thrusters and more.
Mitch has over 40 years experience with an Advanced Trade Cert Wooden Boat Building qualification to back it up!
Phone or email for info E: info@whitiangaboatrepairs.co.nz
