issue 1170 12 August 2025

PAULINE’S PLACE

Don’t put your foot on the clutch !!

We were across the table from one another – a man whom I had known for three years. He was checking Health and Safety details regarding his business. That’s what he said anyway as he read the papers before him. we had become friends and knew a little about each others background.

He muttered something about, “Did I know that recently children on farms were no allowed to collect eggs by themselves?” I replied, “Yes but just secod hand news.”

I think he was referring to recent announcements tightening the risk laws relating to children working on farms – maybe child exploitation with family members.

I have since checked and the quote he was remembering was from The Minister of Workplace Relations and Safety.

” ‘Practical safety changes coming for family farms’ and one of the aspects it looks at is, “Making space for children to safely learn and contribute to farm life in ways that are safe and age-appropriate”.

I asked what work did he do as a child around the house?

“I was six when I learned to drive a tractor. It was on dirt

roads – a Fergusson 24. This is how my dad helped me drive that thing. “Don’t put your foot on the clutch; there is no foot plate. If you do, you’ll fall under the wheel and you will be killed.” He would set it in second gear for me which is where it stayed. Within a year, I was driving two miles down the road on a Sunday, and I would help connecting up the harrows and herring the paddock.”

When chain herring paddocks, Dad would say, “If you fall off the tractor, you will go under the wheel, so don’t fall off and when you are finished, turn off the key and come to the milking shed.” My friend looked pensive. “I loved working with my father”.

I got to thinking about my farm life as a child.

There were quite a few of us on our pineapple and banana farm. I had a few jobs as a preschooler and one of those was collecting the eggs. Older sisters were in good supply but sometimes with school hours, there was just me and I had to face Old Tom by myself. Tom was an aggressive rooster. He really disliked me. He sensed my fear. Collecting eggs can’t be done with speed. It was a big hen coop – truly organic and free range (we didn’t use those names then) so the quiet

approach – not disturbing Tom was the only one I knew. I became an expert in crouching behind the hen hut and reaching stealthily for the eggs.

One day Tom flew in a rage at me and left quite an indent in my tummy. Two broken eggs and many tears later I sobbed my account to mum. It took me a a week to return. The option of not going back was never discussed. My father advised me to carry a stick and use it to defend myself and that Mum’s big yellow raincoat would make Tom cautious. It sort of worked. I looked like a creeping scarecrow and I got some respect from Tom. I gained confidence but my eyes never left that rooster and my stick was held tightly.

I felt more danger when I went to get the milk with my sister. We had to avoid the bulls in the paddock. There were no electric fences just barbed wire which meant rolling carefully under or bending low to go through the fence. We were always mindful, passing the billy full of milk through the fence to the other. Having a very kind older sister being in charge took the worry away. Even when the barbed wire found some flesh, I never really felt unsafe.

But it was the second part of the ‘get the milk’ task where there was real danger.

It was more my sister than me who felt the danger. The older boys on the farm came too close and watched my sister too carefully. My sister always carried a stick. She did not tell me she was afraid. But I knew the feeling of danger. We called it a Moses stick. When she had the stick and the milk billy I could not hold her hand, so I learned to be the billy carrier so I could hold hands with her. Her really good trick was to not go to the cow shed first but to the house where the boys’ mother was. My sister would mention a a hole in the fence on the other side of their farm she had seen and this rather tough mum would tell

her boys to go immediately. Then we would speed to the cow shed, meet the dad to whom we paid the money for the milk and then be on our way being sure to get under that barbed wire fence to our farm – without harm.

Life was like that. We didn’t talk much about it but learned to be watchful.

Where was health and safety?

I didn’t know how much I knew about surviving from growing up on the farm until I travelled alone and led sports teams and choirs. I knew could manage my fear in some areas, and I could plan for a risky situation. This really helped me stay safe.

My friend across the table could fix anything, drive anything, and he took risks. He is strong and in his seventies.

We both remember the names of people who were our school friends who did not live to adulthood. Most of the deaths were from a lack of health and safety. I was surprised to see that there are not fewer deaths not but that young people die from different causes to those in my young years. Real safety is elusive. Health and safety is a careful balance between resilience, risktaking, alertness and being able to be safe and self-aware.

will be closed 20 - 22 August restocking the shop for our Spring launch Celebration on Saturday 23rd August.

ISS pass in the west from 6:52pm. Monday, 18 August: The Moon lies to the left of Jupiter and Venus at dawn. Tuesday, 19 August: The crescent Moon sits to the left of the two bright planets with faint Mercury much lower down. Wednesday, 20 August: A crescent Moon lies just below and to the left of Jupiter at dawn. This week Jupiter will rise higher each day and actually catches up with brilliant Venus on Wednesday, 13 August in the pre-dawn sky. The two brightest planets will be a lovely sight in binoculars. Meanwhile the Moon can help us locate Saturn over the weekend and sits right beside it on Tuesday and we also have two ISS passes on that night as it travels at 8km every second and only takes about 90 minutes to come around the Earth again. Thursday provides two passes once again.

Tourism Whitianga – what could it be very soon?

“Make no small plans – for they fail to excite the imagination of everyday men and women (original - ordinary men).” – Frank Lloyd Wright (famous American Architect)

Continued from front page

BY ALAN HOPPING

Beautiful New Zealand is on show to our international visitors, domestic travellers, and our young.

We need to inspire and excite our young to establish achievable goals and aspirations.

We need to encourage dream makers and risk takers.

We need to silence the dream breakers and free ourselves from a life of mediocrity.

The Informer has worked hard on signage for our Peninsula. Signage is the most basic and primary form of communication to travellers. It can inform, create anticipation, pointing the way for travellers especially tourists, onwards, to great destinations.

Look at our signage on the Coromandel Peninsula. You think it’s okay? Are you serious?

Look for example at the words at our Kopu-Hikuai Highway.

Is Hikuai a destination??

It’s no more exciting than a destination to the Kopu roundabout itself.

Kopu Hikuai should be changed to the Great Eastern Highway.

The Pacific Coast Highway Ngati Maru, would flow along the western seaboard from Thames north to Coromandel and further north.

With signs indicating the Thermal Ocean Village, the increase of our off-season visitors numbers would be immediate (right around the peninsula) and more school leavers and others would be able to keep their jobs through winter.

LET’S BUILD FOR THE WORLD TOMORROW

The promise of a world tomorrow through social and economic growth is totally achievable. But we must first change our attitudes and develop a determination for the future which is not mired by poor decision-making using fear or prejudice as a cowardly yardstick at the cost of tomorrow’s great success story.

Our beautiful Te Aroha (Mountain of Love) and its geothermal Domain languishes, as does the Coromandel Peninsula, with high unemployment. Our schools and

Thermal Ocean Village

colleges must be ready to engage the players of tomorrow – many of whom may be from China. Thus, the need for Mandarin.

Set aside fear and prejudice; become part of tomorrow’s success story.

Let’s develop strong multinational Outreach at every opportunity.

Plymouth is very clear about what they have got that others don’t have (thanks to CFM for the photo).

We have all the assets required except the mindset – We can do this! Communication with our RTO is imperative and this needs to be a step in the only direction going forward TCDC obligations must be to facilitate the upgrading of signage throughout the peninsula. All we

ask of the council, is modern and informative signage.

„ Alan Hopping has lived for 46 years in Whitianga, working almost seven days a week, for the last 40 years in tourism related businesses. In the past 18 years he has created and developed The Lost Spring to be a world-class Day Spa and Geo-Thermal Resort.

Whitianga

New

Chinese Forest Owners visit Coroglen Forest Local lifeguard club wins patrol award

BY DAVID INNES

Kapowai Kiwi Group [KKG], established in 2002, traps 3000 hectares in Coroglen and Whenuakite for kiwi predators, stoats and weasels and rats, and has been successful in slightly increasing kiwi numbers over the last 20 years. The projected release of kiwi raised under the auspices of Operation Nest Egg [ONE] will ramp up kiwi numbers substantially.

Three fifths of KKG area of operations is in Coroglen Forest. This forest like others in NZ has passed through the hands of several owners before the current owners, China Forest Group [CFG].

Last year CFG took over direct management of the forest from previous NZ managers. Through the work of CFG forest Operations Manager, Mr Andy Dong they contacted KKG and asked to visit Coroglen Forest with KKG to see for themselves the conservation work of KKG.

Mr Dong has previously worked for World Wildlife Fund in China and elsewhere, protecting tigers snow leopards, and panda, he speaks flawless English and so was an ideal person to liaise with.

The visit was arranged for 30 July

with plans to walk a trapline in the bush and then drive one of the 4WD tracks in the forest where traps are laid.

CFG were not deterred by the weather forecast for heavy rain and indicated that they would visit on that date whatever the weather.

TWO UTE LOADS OF SENIOR MANAGERS

So, on 30 July, two ute loads of senior managers from CFG plus a small press contingent arrived late but in good order after an enforced large detour due to a slip on the Kopu-Hikuwai Rd. Amazingly, the weather after midday was fine, sunny and warm.

A small KKG. contingent welcomed CFG. at 112 Rangihau Rd with very important support from Paula Judd of ONE who supplied wonderful slides of trained kiwi dogs locating male kiwi, egg lifting, young and adult kiwi, and gave a presentation on ONE.

KKG gave a brief presentation on their work which Mr Dong translated into Mandarin. The high lights for the CFG group were a photo of a stoat and a fresh dead possum.

Our group from CFG were of mixed ability and experience so required some assistance in the bush but all moved very briskly.

The bush was fresh and green after rain, the Kapowai river was raised and the current strong. The bush rang with Mandarin as the group chattered among themselves. Periodically we came to DOC 200 traps which we cleared and reset with fresh eggs.

After 40 minutes we returned to the vehicles and drove to a nearby locked forest gate. The 4WD track thus accessed was recently set up as an extra trap line. The clay track was sparsely metaled, steep in places and with partial blocks from tree falls so CFG certainly needed their 4WD utes. Again traps were cleared and reset and CFG got an example of the trapping work required in semi-mature pine forest. 40 minutes later we all emerged on to SH 25 and CFG set out on the long trip via the detour back to Auckland.

CFG learnt of the extensive work done by a volunteer group in their forest.

KKG learnt that some Chinese foresters care very much how they are seen by New Zealanders, want to be good citizens, and want to do what they can to preserve the NZ environment.

„ KKG acknowledges support from WRC, WWF, Project Kiwi and Pub Charity.

the honour of the opening and closing karakia for the occasion; Taimania Hinds, Club Chair and Carter Hodge, Club Captain with the awards received.

BY SANDI LOWE

Our Hot Water Beach Lifeguard Club won the Coromandel Patrol Award for the 2024/25 season!

We attended a fabulous evening at Papamoa Surf club last weekend and take great pride in receiving this award. 16 year old Meg Harper was also nominated for U19 Lifeguard of the Year and made it through to be a finalist.

Our stats for the 2024/25 season are as

follows:-

• 3,812.50 hours which is a combined total of volunteer and paid lifeguard hours

• 18 rescues

• 28 assists to safety

• 4 major first aids

• 33 minor first aids

• 4 searches for missing people

• 1,118 preventative actions involving 78,526 members of the public.

China Forest Group participants – Mrs Suli Yang General Manger, Mr Yihang Liu Deputy General Manager, Mr Xngzheng Deputy General Manager, Mr Yue Dong (Andy) Forestry Operations Director, Mrs Jing Wang, IMD Department Manager –with members of the Kapowai Kiwi Group.

Above: Left to right Tracey Brown, Slade HarperRookie, Carter Hodge, Lotti Harrison, Chloe Wilson, Taimania Hinds, Sandi Lowe, Meg Harper, Rachael Brown, Milly Lamason. Below: Taimania Hinds had

An unlikely bond – two cultures, a wide ocean and a war apart

This true story is a testament to the power of human connection and a commitment to friendship.

BY SARAH-JANE LEE OF WHITIANGA, USING GAY HOLMES’ AND TOAN’S NOTES

In the early 1980’s, a Kiwi woman, Gay Holmes, was living in Singapore with her husband Brian, who was stationed there as a soldier serving in the New Zealand Army. Their two daughters, Leanne and Sandr, attended the New Zealand forces school. Gay’s life intersected with that of a Vietnamese boy and his sister, refugees from the war-torn country of South Vietnam who had become separated from their parents. This is a story of an improbable friendship that began in the most challenging of circumstances.

Toan Huynh and his sister Thao, were among the many children housed at the “Children’s House” for Vietnamese refugees, a special place for those who had survived perilous journeys on rickety boats and whose parents were still in Vietnam. They were known as the ‘boat people’ and came across the ocean for years after the Vietnam war ended in 1975. Toan’s own harrowing journey lasted seven days, with only rainwater to sustain them.

ESCAPE ATTEMPTS

“When I met Gay in the Singapore camp, that was my eighth boat trip attempt to escape,“ says Toan.

I accumulated too much toxin (drank filthy water from the river). It took a year with medication for my body to cleanse. This was a terrible experience for me as a13-year-old.

keeps a well-worn copy of her Vietnamese-to-English medical translation of medicines and how much to dispense phrasesa tangible reminder of their time together.

attached to them,” says Gay.

A new chapter in Toan’s life emerged when he and his sister found out that he was to be repatriated to Hawaii to live with his uncle. This was going to be another major cultural shift, immersing him in the American way of life.

“It was very sad saying goodbye but we promised to keep in touch,” says Gay. It is a promise they both have kept to this day, 42 years since they said that goodbye In Singapore. This unlikely promise has been kept, strengthening the bond between Toan and his family and Gay and Brian. It started with letters after that first parting.

Zealand. One particularly memorable day was spent on a sheep farm in Taihape with Gay’s father, Grandpa Lou, where Toan learned to blade shear sheep. Toan and Brian also went rabbit hunting on the farm, creating another lasting memory.

“The previous seven attempts to escape, I did not make it to the sea. I was captured by the Vietnamese Communist police force on the sixth boat attempt. I spent 6 months in prison, together with others who committed different levels of crime. I had no family visit rights. The guards chained my legs to a heavy bar in the cell. They let me out once a day to shower. When I returned to my home in Vietnam, I developed rashes on my body because

We are three

Toan, by now fifteen, and his younger sister, found temporary refuge at the Hawkins Road Refugee Camp, Singapore.

Gay was a volunteer nurse at the camp’s clinic. Despite the significant language barrier, a special connection formed. Toan’s warm smile and broken English captured Gay’s heart. “They became my special friends,” says Gay. “Toan would appear at the clinic to see me, closely followed by Thao. I really looked forward to seeing them.” To this day, Gay

Mobile ‘High Tea’ Service

We come to your location of choice in Whitianga

During his stay at the camp, Toan and his younger sister were taught essential life skills of western culture in terms of cooking, cleaning, and self-grooming. They were so quick to learn the English language. Not knowing where their parents were or what kind of future awaited them, meant the regular visits and the kind attention from Gay were a comforting and reassuring fixture in what had been a chaotic and traumatic world for them. “They were attached to me and I became

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

Simply choose the date and time, gather your favourite people, and let us create a truly special experience for you in the comfort and convenience of your own home.

Toan would write letters from Honolulu and so the friendship across the two families developed. Toan and his sister were finally united with their parents five years later. who had also had perilous journeys trying to reach their children.

Over the years, Gay and Brian made trips to Honolulu to reunite with Toan and his family. They visited Toan in Seattle, and stayed with the family.. Toan was building his career after graduating from the University of Hawaii.

In 1995, Toan saved up enough money for his first visit to New

Toan went on to develop his career in the biotechnology industry, where he is responsible for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of medicines. His work has taken him around the globe to companies in South Africa, West Africa, India, Russia, and Asia. He is married to Tawnie, a pharmacist at the local hospital in Seattle. They live in a lovely home with their two children, Colin and Cara, are now young adults.

This year, Gay celebrated her 80th birthday. Toan made the trip from Seattle to be with Gay and her family and friends for this very special birthday and to affirm their cherished, long-distance friendship.

These days Gay and Brian live in Whangapoua and Toan and families communicate and share news on Facebook messenger and phone calls. Their connection has transcended distance and time, built on countless shared memories. Toan calls it ‘an unbreakable bond.”

READY? SET – CHANGE

The guards chained my legs to a heavy bar in the cell. They let me out once a day to shower.

Above: 1995 – Toan Hyunh and Gay Holmes; 2025 – Toan Hyunh who came from Seattle for Gay’s 80th Birthday. Below: One of the many boats crammed full of refugees escaping from Vietnam.

TRAVEL WRITER – SARAH-JANE

What’s so great about Matamata

The town racing ahead.

NINE AWESOME MATAMATA AND LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

1. Hobbiton Movie Set: Visit the world-famous movie set where hobbits, wizards, and elves roam free. You can spend an entire day here and still not see everything – mostly because you'll be too busy pretending you live on a tiny green hill.

2. Wairere Falls: Hike to the tallest waterfall in the North Island. The views are so stunning they might make you cry a little, or maybe that's just the spray.

3. Heritage Trails: Step back in time and discover the remains of 19th-century gold mining sites. It's like a scavenger hunt, but with more history and less running.

4. Karangahake Gorge: Walk through regenerating forests and marvel at the breathtaking scenery. If you're lucky, you might even spot a wild kiwi, or a local who's just as excited to see you.

5. Lake Karapiro: Get your aquatic fix at this stunning lake. You can go kayaking, fishing, or just sit on the shore and contemplate the meaning of life.

6. Firth Tower Museum: Explore the largest open-air farming museum in New Zealand. It's like a time machine, but with more tractors and less flux capacitors.

7. Gliding Lessons: Learn to soar through the sky like a majestic bird (or a really cool paper airplane). It's the perfect activity for when you're feeling adventurous and want to get a new perspective on life. Piako Gliding Club at Matamata Aerodrome, 9km north of Matamata town. It is about 40 minutes’ drive from Hamilton offers trial flights on non-raining Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays. Trial flights and vouchers can be booked any day unless otherwise mentioned. Fly with an experienced, qualified instructor. Give a Trial Flight voucher to someone keen on learning to fly.

8. Part of Hauraki Rail Trail. There is now a cycle trail from Te Aroha to Matamata. A trip to the Waikato region would not be complete without exploring this shared trail cycle trail. The Tower trail shared pathway between Matamata and the Firth Tower is a chance to enjoy the shade of enormous oak trees as you stroll the two km flat path passing thor-

oughbred horse stud properties.

9. Opal Hot Springs: Relax and unwind in natural mineral water. The only thing better than a hot soak is a hot soak with a cold beer in your hand.

MATAMATA THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS (MOVIE BUFFS)

• The collection is augmented by a significant early cinema collection

• A memorable and well-constructed exhibition of the impact of war on the locals as well the pre-European Maori activities in the area

• Attractive potager garden, shady trees and plenty of space for picnics

• On the boundary fence is the Te Aroha shared trail, a wide foot-

path encouraging visitors to walk the 2 km from the town centre to the Firth Tower

• Over 13 heritage buildings (entrance fees apply)

• Heritage gardens are free to wander

MATAMATA GREAT SELFIE LOCATIONS

• A three-tonne metal horse and jockey statue on Matamata’s main street, the statute is in the middle of the main street’s median strip

• Firth Tower heritage buildings and capture your face in an illustrated photo board

• Hobbiton where posing against a hobbit hole round door is a must

• Wairere falls is a perennial favourite for outdoor enthusiasts

• Matamata visitor centre is a surprising favourite with its themed Hobbit exterior

FESTIVALS AND MARKETS

Keep up to date with Matamata events, see https://business.matamatanz.co.nz/events.

The Matamata Country Markets are held on the second Saturday of every month.

WHERE IS MATAMATA LOCATED

Matamata is nestled at the base of the scenic Kaimai Ranges and is the centre of a thriving farming and equine industry. Horses form part of an important bloodstock region.

MATAMATA, WAIKATO NZ WHAT TO DO NEARBY?

Matamata is conveniently located close to Rotorua (68 km), Waitomo Caves (102 km) and the regional hub of the Waikato, Hamilton (62 km). Additionally, the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga and Mt Maunganui are only 51 km distance over the picturesque Kaimai Ranges.

From Thames, Matamata is only 86 km.

This is in the centre of Matamata.

Sip, Dip & Paint

H a p py H o u r Sw i m s : 1 - h r sw i m Fri d ay & S u n d ay : 4 .0 0 p m - 7.0 0 p m

Sip, Dip & Paint

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R e l a x , u n w i n d a n d i n d u l g e a t N Z ’ s n u m b e r 1 D a y S p a .

C h o o s e f r o m o u r m a s s a g e s ,

D i l o F a c i a l s , o r t r e a t y o u r s e l f t o a

l u x u r i o u s 2 5 - h o u r d e l u x e e x p e r i e n c e

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J o i n u s f o r a m a g i c a l a f t e r n o o n o f c r e a t i v i t y , c o n n e c t i o n , a n d r e l a x a t i o n , a l l s e t i n t h e e n c h a n t i n g s u r r o u n d s o f T h e L o s t S p r i n g

H e r e ' s w h a t ' s i n s t o r e :

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PURE FIJI

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W h e t h e r p o s t - w o r k o u t , p r e - m e e t i n g , o r

Overnight search and rescue - Hikuai valley training

BY FEE MURPHY, KSAR

Saturday 2 and Sunday 3

August saw a group of nearly 40 Search & Rescue volunteers converge on the Hikuai Community Hall for a Search & Rescue training weekend.

The exercise was organised by Dean, the Chairman of Kuaotunu Search & Rescue (KSAR) and involved search volunteers from Tairua, Pauanui & Whangamata (TPW), Waihi, Thames, Waikato Police and the Amateur Radio Emergency Communications (AREC). Shannon, from KSAR and her dog, Tiny were the Lost Party (LP).

The Incident Management Team (IMT) started at the Hikuai Hall on Saturday at 9.00am and the Field search teams turned up at 10.00am and were immediately deployed into the field to start searching for our LP.

The IMT is divided into several groups to manage the search. The Police controlled the whole operation, with the following teams: – Intelligence, Planning, Operations, Communication, Logistics, SARtrack (IT mapping specialists).

While the Planning and Operations teams familiarised themselves with the search area the Intelligence and Police were

involved with interviewing family and friends of the LP. The idea is to find out as much as possible about the LP so we can assess the likelihood of her whereabouts.

For example, our LP was very fit, part of KSAR herself and had very good bushcraft and knew the area very well. However, she was only equipped for a day walk so had limited warm clothing. It was generally agreed that she had probably injured herself and that was why she had not returned from her tramp.

Once this information was obtained, Planning and Operations could determine various areas to search and tasked the Field teams accordingly.

The field teams were dropped off at the search area and applied various search techniques and

tracking skills to locate our LP, communicating back to the IMT when they found anything that might be a clue to where she might be. Slowly a picture builds and search areas are identified and then disregarded to gradually draw in the “net” and find our LP.

Unfortunately, we did not find Shannon on the first day, so she had a cold night out (not really, she was at home!) But the rest of us camped out after a good feed, ready to resume searching the next day.

Luckily, Shannon was found by mid-morning with a broken ankle (fake) and was stretchered out by the field teams.

All in all, a very successful exercise that brought the participating Search & Rescue groups closer together.

Thames

BEDROOM

Living the lifestyle, loving the choice...

Clockwise from top left: Fee & Justin – intelligence; Getting ready to extract the LP; LP with a broken ankle; Cave search.

IMT set up at Hukuai Hall.

Water Bills – non-metered homes paying too

BY PAULINE STEWART

We have set out responses regarding a resident’s concerns over her water rates. In 15 July issue of The Informer, an article was published recounting the journey of another resident’s account of the unfairness relating to the way TCDC calculates unmetered residences. The TCDC response to that is set out below. Water rates calculations are not equitable. There is acknowledgement of this by some in Council, (see below) but it has been put in the ‘too hard basket.’

TCDC’S RESPONSE TO THE INFORMER ARTICLE JULY 15 TCDC would like to exercise its right of reply to the water rates article in 15 July issue. (The Informer held back publishing for two weeks.

TCDC CLARIFICATION OF INFORMER WATER RATES ARTICLE

The article in the 15 July 2025 issue of the Informer about water rates and charges was written without input being requested from TCDC. Some of the ideas presented warrant clarification, so that Informer readers gain a full picture of the situation.

The meters for Whitianga and Whangamatā townships were purchased in 2020 with the central government’s Three Waters Stimulus Grant funding. Meters

and manifolds were purchased and installation in Whitianga began in 2021. There was sufficient funding to replace basic existing toby (valve) installations. This would typically be at locations where we were replacing a single toby with a new single meter/manifold. More complicated toby installations (e.g. one toby isolating two or more properties) were identified and included in a list for future unbundling. We did not have the funding to unbundle these more complicated toby installations as part of this project. Currently, 3,471 water meters in Whitianga are being read. There are 544 properties identified as either requiring unbundling, or currently being checked or still to be assessed.

We now have Long Term Plan capital funding to undertake this unbundling work in Whitianga starting in 2027/28 financial year. We will also look at retrofitting smart meter technology onto the installed meters to allow them to be read remotely. Two systems are being investigated. The objective is that over a period of time all of TCDC district will be metered and usage will be recorded using smart meter technology. Currently, about 11,500 properties in the district are metered, and about 9,500 are not. The properties metered in Whitianga pay the volumetric charge per cubic metre (1,000 litres) of water used -$1.71 (not $1.62 as

the Informer article states), plus the fixed amount per separately used or inhabited part of a rating unit of $577.73 (not $580.86 as the article states). Editor: We calculated on the proposed figures rather than the actual figure which was not available to us at the time. What a big deal to point out a difference of $3.13 when we are speaking of hundreds of dollars. This is the fixed amount for the 2025/26 year, as set in the Annual Plan. The volumetric charge per cubic metre of water use is also set by our Council through the Annual Plan.

We understand and recognise the concerns around how our

rates are set. This was something brought up by our Councillors when our Annual Plan 25/26 was adopted last month and we are considering ways to address this.

The way we set our (water) rates is complex and involves a significant process. Editor: Significant or not, it can be done – it seems the source data is not correct followed by a lack of robust checking and an unsubstantiated differential ratio. When was there a review and who did that review?

The setting of our rates was legally reviewed prior to adoption on 24 June and adheres to all aspects set out under the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002.

Editor: Does not mean it is correct – legally reviewed means nothing. There should be declaration of review of ratios.

We don’t expect people to necessarily understand the intricacies of this process but a good place to start is our Long Term Plan 2024-2034, in particular the Revenue and Financing Policy, and the Rating Funding Impact Statement of the 25/26 Annual Plan – both are on our website www.tcdc.govt.nz. We would be happy to break this complex subject down in more detail if this helps to clarify matters.

From TCDC Communications

STEP INSIDE WHITIANGA'S NEW LANDMARK

Experience our new architectural showhome in the coveted Whitianga Waterways. A light-filled, contemporary masterpiece designed for effortless coastal living, where every space flows seamlessly to the water’s edge.

Opening Friday September 5th 2025

Open Hours Friday-Sunday, 11am-3pm, 55 Leeward Drive, Whitianga

COUNCIL HAS TO DO MORE

The council adopted its Annual Plan 24 June, 2025.

Quote from that council meeting:-

Once the Annual Plan is adopted, the system of water rates assessment is locked in.

The Council acknowledged there was devil in the detail but was assured it was all legally correct.

Councillor Rekha raised concerns about the way unmetered sites are being rated. She was asking for clarity around the fairness of the way that has been established.

DISQUIET

AT COUNCIL

MEETING FROM SOME RE FAIRNESS OF WATER RATES SYSTEM:

Thank you very much to the council as we can see by the above response that the problem is starting to be fixed – water meters have begun to be installed. Human error perhaps has initiated it. How good it is that Auckland Council has admitted human error in their calculation of their rates. It will be heartening to see what can be done to enable a fairer and more equitable rating system by the next Annual Plan 26/27.

Staff explanation at Council meeting

“There is a process followed whereby council establishes the budget requirement going through all expenditure line items, and the additional costs

that have been added in.

A number of additional costs have come into the water space.

The expected level of revenue from those volumetric sources and fees and charges is then forecast and taken off that expenditure amount as the rates revenue requirement.

For water supply, that has generally been at a .5 differential on those properties that are connected and metered. For properties that are connected and unmetered, the differential is 1.

“There isnt the scope to be looking at it right now. But if that differential is considered unfair, then it can be looked at in time.”

One is left wondering just how much time? Some Councillors were still not convinced.

Councillor Deli Connell: Regarding Matarangi, as a community, they are seeing a $300 plus in their basic rate when their water consumption is quite low. They want meters now. They are not going to be happy with that explanation. They are mildly horrified by the jump in water service charges.

Mayor Len Salt: “There isn’t anything we can do in terms of this resolution but it has been flagged as something we can have further discussions on.

Councillor Terry Walker: The jump is quite large. We have had meters sitting in a shed for three years and we are asking for this job to be done.

So the increase you have seen in the water space is a consequence of the rising costs sitting within that space, and the amount that we increase that forcast revenue is only increased generally by CPI which has not moved at the same level as Council’s costs.”

Council was informed that to change those differentials is something the Council can look at going through a process and a consultation if that change is significant.

Councillor Rekha Giri-Percival: I’m not sure I’m okay with the explanation and it is unfair. it is unfortunate we have had meters sitting in a shed for all this time. This needs to be a priority.”

Councillor John Grant: Re Mercury Bay – I do remember the setting of rates and the roll out in MB of water meters and the impact it would have. I can see we are charging an average amount for those who are unmetered. Having two different structures is an uncomfortable thing.

If we can ask staff to put this on the agenda for further discussion so as to accelerate this process. Editor – to state ‘average’ is an understatement by Councillor Grant.

The situation for Matarangi (referred to by the Councillors at 24 June meeting) There are 1512 connections in Matarangi – unmetered. There are only a few metred properties in Matarangi. People are charged a set amount. They are charged two line fees. The problem is the rate of increase in water usage is much less than the cost of servicing water. The cost of metered water usage is $1.71 per cubic metre. Matarangi people are paying $577 for the fixed charges as everyone does across the district. But those with no metre, $577. 73, as stipulated in the article 15 July – this amount is added across all unmetered properties on the Peninsula. This was also stated in the article 15 July. The amount of water you can buy for $577 needs a family of five with long showers every day to use that amount of water.

CONCLUSION

The person in an unmetered residence is being seriously disadvantaged by the way TCDC is setting the rates.

To say, “we don’t expect people to necessarily understand the intricacies of this process but a good place to start is our

Long Term Plan – Revenue and Financing Policy, and the Rating Funding Impact Statement.” is a little high-handed, encourages a person to give-up and does not address the fact that some are being overcharged. It is simply not the ratepayers fault that they do not have a water meter, particularly as there have been a stack sitting in a shed somewhere.

The current councillors, some of whom are standing again may need to reassure the voting residents and ratepayers that they do have some say in fixing this debacle and that it will not wait until the 27/28 financial year when water meters are planned to be installed. For 544 residences or complexes in Whitianga, the water rating system is wrong. There could be grounds for these rate payers to demand a refund based on the average usage of a household that is being metred over the period of time they have been extortionately charged. That’s a lot of money paid which was rightfully the ratepayers.

We get excited about new developments such as The Esplanade in Whitianga or a new recycling transfer station but the basic matter of very few smart meters in the entire region and 9,500 residents with no water metres at all, needs to be addressed now.

The 15 July article referred to above, will be published adjacent to this issue of The Informer on the website and on Facebook.

Friday Lunchtime Concert features Thames High School’s music students

Thames High School students are once again preparing to take the stage for their annual free Friday Thames Music Group concert on Friday, 22 August 2025 at 12.15pm. Thames High School’s music students are looking forward to presenting a diverse concert showcasing a sampling of what they are doing in their department, from their very newest beginners to their most senior instrumental-

ists and singers.

This year’s performance will include some developing new junior bands, a new group of international students, and some new instruments will be featured. There will be another world premiere performance from Year 11 composition students and once again performers will be students from Years 9 to 13.

Thames Music Group is delighted to offer our local

high school students this opportunity to perform publicly and share their joy and enthusiasm for music with our community.

Details: Thames Music Group’s Free Friday Concert series presents Thames High School Music Students, Friday, 22 August, at 12.15pm, St George’s Church, Thames. Free entry – koha gratefully accepted. „ Contact: thamesmusicgroup@yahoo.co.nz.

Woody Dean at Mercury Bay Club

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Woody Dean, one of NZ’s finest solo entertainers, and a great favourite in Mercury Bay, recently celebrated his 60th Birthday. It wasn’t planned by Woody and Lee (his wife), but organised by the Mercury Bay Club. It was an excellent night and a 6 year old who was celebrating her birthday with her family joined in!

So who is declared winner? The good Lord or the TCDC?

BY GORDON T

It was a nice sunny day recently that encouraged me to go for a walk, deciding my purpose as being a stroll down to the river mouth of the village’s main river. I was curious to see how humankind, represented by the TCDC, was progressing with its battle to alter the good Lord’s will regarding the point of entry of the river to the ocean.

Upon approaching the area I sat at a barbeque table for a wee rest and took out my hip flask for a rejuvenating tipple when, surprise of surprises, the Baptist pastor came along and sat beside me.

“I see the good Lord has provided once more” he said while keeping his eyes fixed on the hip flask. Resigning myself to the inevitable, I offered, but he declined. I took a thirsty swig. “Are you here to see the good Lord’s triumphant work with the river mouth?” he asked. I nodded. “Sort of, I was really wondering how the TCDC were progressing with their battle to keep the river

mouth in place.” The Pastor took a quick breath then announced, “If you want to battle God’s servant, Nature, you had better bring along people with strength and wisdom. I haven’t noticed the TCDC hiring such people.” He was a mix of cynicism and hopefulness.

I responded. “The block wall seems to be holding up and stopping the creek from moving further south. I guess the TCDC of yesteryear was capable of such things”. The Pastor looked at the wall and again, slightly disapprovingly, at my hip flask. I took a good swig. He remarked, “That wall will not last. Nature cannot be tamed. It is Nature’s will that rivers always reach sea exactly where God wants them to”. That got me thinking. I responded thoughtfully “Well that doesn’t work with the Dead Sea. That sea is still looking for an exit. Some plan; instead of adding to an ocean, your God has created a salty puddle. You seem to be ignoring humankind’s victories over nature in places like the Netherlands. Seems the Lord’s

plans can be controlled, or maybe God is just random.”

“Random! Random! Wash your mouth out,” the Pastor replied. After a brief pause , he continued. “All of God’s works are planned. It cannot be any other way. Do you think God created the universe by accident?”

I ignored his question but continued to challenge the idea of a higher plan. “What about genocide - of Jews in Germany and by Jews in Gaza? Invasion and slaughter in the Ukraine. All

planned?” I questioned. The Pastor breathed deeply before saying, “The Jews have just proven that God’s plan is to make humankind capable of learning works. It is just that the way Israel has applied these lessons is probably not intended, and Russia has already been sent its first warning by the good Lord”.

I had to raise a quizzical eyebrow to the last statement so the Pastor explained “The earthquake and tsunami off the coast of Russia, a very stern warning from

our Lord.”.“Possibly,” I responded before continuing. “The Russian politicians are thousands of miles from that point. I think that just confirms your God is random in his/her actions”.

The Pastor was starting to get. Impatient, and he protested. “If you want random, just look at your local council. They have shown that they can build walls to control the oceans and rivers, and then they announce that their thinking now is that everybody should retreat. A ‘Managed Retreat’ they call it. Looks more like bureaucratic surrender to me.”

The Pastor had certainly given me reason to think. How were we going to protect our village and homes from the forces of nature when both sides in the battle are guilty of seemingly unplanned random actions?

Maybe we just need better forces on our side - strength and wisdom. Possibly, we should let private enterprise run things, A dance partner that is light on his/ her feet can often provide a better outcome.

Whitianga’s Tsunami Vulnerability

Recent tsunami warning highlights failures in emergency planning. This critical warning was ignored.

BY D YEOMANS

As tsunami risk assessments across New Zealand become increasingly urgent, few places stand out with more vulnerability – and less meaningful preparedness – than the township of Whitianga. Identified nationally as susceptible to multiple natural disasters including tsunamis, coastal inundation, localised flooding, earthquakes, and fire, Whitianga faces a perfect storm of risk. Yet, despite years of warnings and community calls for action, the town remains exposed, underserved, and dangerously under-equipped.

The recent tragedy in Kerr County, Texas, serves as a global cautionary tale. In that case, the town of Comfort installed a modest but effective siren system that saved lives during a flash flood. Just 20 kilometres away, in areas where sirens were not installed, multiple lives were lost. The cost of each fatality-when considering legal, emotional, and economic fallout-was estimated to exceed $1.5 million USD. The cost of indecision will continue for years to come.

All for the want of an $80,000 USD early warning system.

LESSONS FROM ABROAD, IGNORED AT HOME

If ever there were a moment to

learn, it is now. Just as Kerr County officials failed to act before disaster struck, the Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC) appears poised to repeat history. Despite overwhelming evidence and public concern, the Council has downplayed the efficacy of sirens – claiming they are outdated – while ignoring the availability and performance of new-generation all-hazards sirens currently used in countries like Denmark, the U.S., and Japan.

Modern sirens no longer rely solely on a single tone; they are multi-signal, GPS-synced, battery-backed, and capable of addressing numerous hazards in real time. Their installation

is not a nostalgic gesture, but a scientifically backed, life-saving infrastructure investment. The council’s stance – that sirens are ineffective in today’s environment – is not only misleading but fundamentally dismissive of the latest technology and best practice in integrated emergency management.

A DISCONNECT FROM PUBLIC SENTIMENT

Public feedback in Whitianga and surrounding communities has repeatedly underscored the desire for a comprehensive, integrated emergency alerting system. Residents want sirens to complement mobile alerts, not

replace them. The existing reliance on cell phone-based warnings leaves gaps for vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, tourists, and those without service during power outages or in airplane mode.

In contrast, an integrated system involving sirens, mobile alerts, digital signage, and community drills, as seen in advanced warning models abroad, offers

Assurance for people, clarity, and the few precious minutes needed to evacuate from tsunami-threatened lowlands. In Whitianga, such a system could mean the difference between life and mass casualty.

THE COST OF COMPLACENCY

The question for the TCDC is no longer financial. As the Kerr County experience shows, the cost of inaction is greater than the price of preparation. Whitianga, with its growing tourism economy, tight coastal geography, and limited exit routes, is uniquely vulnerable. A tsunami arriving from the Kermadec Trench could strike the region in under an hour. Without a coordinated warning system, escape becomes a race against chaos.

Even beyond the immediate loss of life, the long-term impacts—on property values, insurance availability, tourism confidence, and community trust – would cripple

the region for years.

TIME FOR A FUTUREFOCUSED SAFETY STRATEGY

This is not a call for sirens alone. It is a call for foresight, for science-based leadership, and for proactive investment in community safety. The TCDC must reassess its outdated narrative around emergency alerts and engage with proven, modern systems that integrate multiple modalities. The era of choosing between sirens and texts is over. Comfort, Texas, chose preparedness and saved lives. Kerr County hesitated and paid in lives and livelihoods.

Whitianga must now choose its path. Delay is not neutral. It is a decision. In a place as exposed as the Coromandel Peninsula, indecision could be deadly.

CALL TO ACTION

I don’t want people to wait to be told. I am hoping people will begin some action. Public submissions, community forums, and engineering reviews must be fast-tracked. Safety infrastructure is not an optional add-on; it is a core responsibility of local governance. The Thames-Coromandel District Council must commit to installing a modern, integrated emergency management system before tragedy forces its hand.

A photo of a siren in Denmark and soon to be installed in Northland.

Meetings for the candidates

THE DUNES GOLF CLUB, MATARANGI

This Sunday, 17 August 4.00pm-6.00pm Meet the Mayoral candidates.

Second meeting Sunday, 24 August, 4:00pm-6:00pm. Meet the Councillor and Community Board members standing for election in Mercury Bay Ward. Tony Fox will Chair these meetings. The bar will be available for

and snacks.

THAMES WARD CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR, THAMES WARD COUNCILLORS AND THAMES COMMUNITY BOARD MEMBERS

Saturday, 30 August, 12 noon at Thames Civic Centre.

MERCURY BAY WARD CANDIDATES FOR COUNCILLORS AND COMMUNITY BOARD MEMBERS

Saturday, 30 August, 2:00pm-4:00pm at Whitianga Town Hall.

PAUANUI & TAIRUA SOUTH EAST

GENERAL WARD CANDIDATES WE ASSUME FOR MAYOR, COUNCILLORS AND COMMUNITY BOARD MEMBERS

Saturday, 6 September, 10:15am at Pauanui Club, Sheppard Ave, Pauanui.

COROMANDEL TOWN CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR, COUNCILLORS AND COMMUNITY BOARD MEMBERS

Wednesday, 24 September, 5:00pm at the Combined Clubs, Woollams Avenue, Coromandel.

WHANGAMATA

Saturday, 27 September. Time TBC. Whangamata Club, 328 Port Road, Whangamatā.

Candidates

CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR

• Steve Hart

• Denise Messiter

• Patrick Kerr

• Peter Revell

• Len Salt • James Subritzky

CANDIDATES FOR TCDC COUNCILLORS

Coromandel-Colville General Ward (1 vacancy)

Robert Ashman, John Morrissey.

Mercury Bay General Ward (3 vacancies)

Tony Brljevich, Deli Connell, Rekha Giri-Percival, John Grant, Flemming Rasmussen, Peter Wood.

South East General Ward (2 vacancies)

Denis Beaver, Mark Drury, Neil Evans, John Freer, Kurt Jarrett, Alison Smith.

Te Tara o Te Ika Māori Ward (1 vacancy)

Michael Barlow.

Thames General Ward (3 vacancies)

Steve Baker, Scott Bright, Fiona Cameron, Greg Hampton, Steve Hart, Cole McDowell, Kishan Raikwar, Martin Rodley, Robyn Sinclair.

COMMUNITY BOARDS

Coromandel-Colville (4 Vacancies)

Jean Ashby, Susanna Borgstede, Kim Brett, James Castle, James Davis, Kate James, Gavin Jeffcoat, Alexei McDermott, Danny Topia.

Mercury Bay (4 Vacancies)

Kim Abrahamson, Rob Davis, Caroline Hobman, Bess Kingi Edmonds, Peter Mackenzie, Joanne Pullin, Richard Shelford-Woodcock.

Tairua-Pāuanui (4 Vacancies)

Georgina Bond, Warwick Brooks, Michael Bush, Chris New, Barry Roberts.

Thames (4 Vacancies)

Adrian Catran, Steve Hart, Stuart Hislop, Rob Johnston, Glenn Leach, Holly Mackenzie, Cole McDowell, Warren Sly.

Whangamatā (4 Vacancies)

Mark Drury, Neil Evans, Graeme Smith, Sally Smith, Terry Walker, Heather Watt.

Thank you for Meet the Mayoral Candidates meeting

BY TONY FOX

On behalf of the Whitianga Residents and Ratepayers Association (WRRA) I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who made this meeting possible.

Thank you to the candidates for taking the time to address us. I am sure that you all gave the audience plenty to think about before they head to the ballot box.

I thank CFM for their most generous support with the sound system and live stream. I have had many complimentary comments by way of feed back from those who have viewed the on-line stream.

Thank you to the Informer for your part in promoting the meeting and thank you to our members and everybody else who attended. An audience of about

200 shows that we do care about our democracy.

Lastly, but certainly not the least, my personal thanks to those members and non-members who helped set the hall up and then helped with the clean up along with those who took care of the registration process etc. Your efforts are very much appreciated and again demonstrate how many people we have in our community who are generous with their time and always prepared to help out. Please see details of the next meeting in Whitianga on page 17.

FORMAT It will be different. Each candidate will be given an allotted time to address the audience. At the completion of all candidate addresses there will be a ques-

tion-and-answer session. All questions will be written and drawn randomly.

Questions may be directed at one candidate, more than one candidate or all candidates. If you intend attending the meeting please think about what question you would like to ask, write it on paper and we will have a box in which to deposit all questions. We will treat all questions anonymously unless the author wishes to have their name made public. There will be NO questions from the floor. In closing, thank you once again to everybody who attended and helped with the running of the Meet the Mayoral Candidates. Your efforts are very much appreciated.

„ Tony Fox is Chair of Whitianga Residents and Ratepayers (WRRA).

Change of story leaves Storey with casting vote re leaving Local Government NZ

BY WARREN MAYER

Disappointment: In my last article I spoke of the decision by a vote of 6 to 5 to leave Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ). Unfortunately, a motion was raised to return the vote to the next Council meeting at the end of July 2025 and reverse the decision.

This motion was supported by eight councilors; the reason being given was that several elected members were absent when the voting was held on 24th June, and a report on the benefits of membership were to be presented. Firstly, the statement about several members not being present was an outright lie! Minutes clearly show on the day Councilor Hodge was an apology, and the 13 other councilors were in the meeting, with 11 voting, 1 abstention and 1 nonvote. Secondly, we had been through a recent workshop, as well as presentations from LGNZ, so there was nothing new presented to us. After discussion the vote was held, and with councilor Smith changing his vote, it was 7 to 7, leaving chair Pamela Storey to use her casting vote. Instead of sticking with the status quo, and

staying out of LGNZ, she voted to return, so now committing council and ratepayers in my view, to continue to waste money belonging to this organization LGNZ.

Aggravating this decision is the fact that councilors received hundreds of emails from concerned ratepayers stating DO NOT return to LGNZ. I personally received 1109 emails, and wish to thank all those who took the time to let your elected representatives know how you felt.

NATURAL HERITAGE FUND GRANTS TO TWO COROMANDEL GROUPS

On a more positive note, in last weeks Integrated Catchment meeting we approved a total of $1,658,108 from the Natural Heritage Fund towards six landscape scale environmental

Creative Communities Scheme funding open

projects. One of the recipients was the Coromandel Peninsula’s very own Whenuakite Kiwi Care group, who received $319,916 over three years for their work in pest control in the Whenuakite area as well as dotterel protection at Hot Water beach.

I had the pleasure of meeting with some of the driving forces behind this group and was shown around a small part of the area they protect. This area is used to show local children from the Whenuakite School how the trapping is done, and starting the kids off on their own journey to appreciating and protecting the environment. Also, in this year’s funding commitments is $80,000 to Thames Coast Kiwi Care, which is another incredible community group doing good things in the local environment.

As we head into spring, and hopefully some drier weather, the pressure will come off our flood protection schemes, allowing staff to breathe a sigh of relief that we haven’t seen the damage to the rivers and streams we suffered over the previous couple of years.

This is also the time our maritime team begins to gear up for the busy summertime period.

A welcome from Peninsula Penultimates in Whitianga fondly known as Penn’s (previously Probus)

The members of this club are a varied lot both in ethnicity and their ages.Member aged over 65 is not uncommon. The overall focus is on the qualities of Fellowship, Friendship and Fun.

A feature of each monthly meeting is to have guest speakers and the topics have been varied. For example The Workings of the Coast Guard and an invitation to their Headquarters at Whitianga; interesting speakers about the Mens shed; vintage cars and caravans, and the working of the WCST, known as the Community Centre. The lineup of interesting speakers continues throughout the year.

Regular group outings which enable members to get together are a much enjoyed feature. Some of these have included: A Pool Party and BBQ, the Troubadours show at Tairua, and Wheels Within Walls. Coming up later this year is a trip to Hamilton to a concert called Operatunity; Fabulous Fifties. Car pooling will be available as needed. Popular events include the Mid Winter Christmas at Smittys; long Weekend Monday get together for wine, fun and food, Xmas Dinner and Presidents BBQ both at the Golf Club.

Every 4th Monday of the month is the meeting day for the Penn’s which is held at the Mercury Bay

Bowling Club. A brief general meeting is at the start, followed by morning tea and then speaker. Lunch at a local cafe is optional afterwards.

We are looking to increase our membership as occasionally we must bid them goodbye. If you, or someone you know has recently arrived in town, is interested in meeting people or is newly retired we would welcome you with open arms and love you to join us.

We welcome people with a diversity of interests and experience. Of course we are open to people over retirement age, of all ethnicities and backgrounds. It is a great way to connect with people who may stimulate and challenge our thinking. „ For more information or to join Penn’s please contact Jo on mobile 021 264 3753.

Apply by Friday 29 August

Funding for creative projects and events that increase community participation in the arts.

Projects will need to include at least one of the following outcomes:

• Creating opportunities for local communities to engage and participate in the arts

• Support diverse art forms and cultural traditions of local communities

• Enable and encourage young people (under 18) to participate in the arts.

Mid Winter Christmas at Smittys.

ENVIRONMENT MATTERS

New Zealand to charge foreign visitors to visit famous sites

ADAPTED FROM RECENT PRESS RELEASES

The government plans to start charging foreign visitors NZ$2040 ($12-24) per person to access some sites. Initially, those would probably include Cathedral Cove/ Te Whanganui-a-Hei, Tongariro Crossing, Milford Sound and Aoraki Mount Cook – four of the country’s most famous natural attractions under a conservation plan. Foreigners often account for 80 per cent of all visitors at these sites.

The measures, announced by prime minister Christopher Luxon and conservation minister Tama Potaka, are part of a plan to create more jobs and boost wages.

Conservation minister Tama Potaka said, “Tourists make a massive contribution to our economy, and no one wants that to change.”

The fees are likely to be imposed from 2027.

Cathedral Cove Planting Day

This is the very first planting season for GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL – Kaitiaki, and it’s already making a mark.

Across the region, 1,264 native plants are being planted at 16 different sites, thanks to donations from you, your guests, and your customers.

We’re kicking it off with 296 native plants going in the ground at Cathedral Cove, and we’d love your help to get them planted.

Planting starts at 10.00am, Wednesday, 27 August.

This is a chance to show

what tourism can do for this place and start something we can grow year after year. Let us know if you’re coming to plant. Please RSVP. The award-winning Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park, who’ve donated 50 trees to this season’s planting, are also giving away a pool concession pass and Hotspot Pizza & Brews voucher (total value $130) to one of the planters on the day!

„ Contact Destination Hauraki Coromandel, 562 Pollen Street 3500, info@ haurakicoromandel.com.

GAMES AND PUZZLES

Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. 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 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.

Proudly sponsored by

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

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.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The increase in electricity costs has its origin in the reforms promulgated by the American, Friedman and which Roger Douglas actioned thirty-odd years ago and were furthered by MP Bradford. By privatising the power system and selling to the wealthy, it removed the welfare of citizens as a priority and replaced it with the profit motive that drives investors.

A number of entrepreneurs then took over the invoicing and instituted charges to increase their returns i.e. Increased unit charges, ‘smart’ meters, daily charges (availability charges) all to make certain of a return. A pensioner went from 30 cents per day to $1.20 per day.

The government of the time made rules to protect citizens but took them away this year. Now power prices are 30% more than at the date of privatisation. As well as households, some businesses have not managed to cope.

The need for investor return (including our govt.) has slowed the provision of increased generation, despite rising need.

We need to have a new set of rules by the government to put citizens’ welfare and economic growth before profit, even though the recent solar and wind generation are coming on line.

Peter H. Wood, Whitianga

FLEMMING AT MEET THE CANDIDATES MEETING

Hello there Flemming, May I say thank you for a very sophisticated, well run, meeting. I truly enjoyed the precision of your rule settings – impressive! So, for future meetings of “Meeting the Candidature” can the model that you have demonstrated applies as well? So, may I encourage the Whitianga Rate Payers and Residents Association to hold more meetings, and “live stream” whenever possible. Keeping it simple, Thank you.

Dave, Mercury Bay

HIDDEN GEM – WHITIANGA SPORTSGROUND

In my previous article on the future of the Whitianga Sportsground, I was somewhat confused on the ownership of this “Hidden Gem”.

On researching I found that Council had the land from Day 1. Hoppers were asked/requested to develop a sportsground of high standard for outdoor facilities needed for the community.

The outcome was dramatic –Hoppers Development Company established a park that was equal to the best in the country with

rugby grounds, soccer grounds, tennis courts, netball courts and provisions for indoor activities. The land was zoned with Reserve Status by Council who, in their plan, would complete the development and put in meeting rooms, assembly hall etc.

A committee was set up to complete this programme and, whilst requesting funding from the ratepayers, have not been successful in any decision being made. It is similar to the Medical Centre debacle which was luckily resolved.

Back to the present – in my previous article I proposed that the Sportsground would have to be sold for the following reasons:

1. To pay back Hoppers/Waterways for work done to develop the sportsground concept.

2. For a private purchaser to complete the project and continue with the plans put forward to Council.

3. To protect the integrity of the plans to provide the best Sportsground in the district.

It can be done – let us just do it!

P.S. This will be my last letter on this project!

Noel

S. Hewlett, Whitianga

DAL MINOGUE ON MAYOR LEN SALT (INFORMER 29 JULY)

His attack on Len Salt is a baseless hit job that fails on all counts.

His claim that Salt, with just one vote, somehow bends nine coun-

cillors to an ideological agenda is absurd. Having a Māori ward was supported by 7 of 8 councillors, many right-leaning, with one abstention, and proves their independence. Minogue’s suggestion insults their integrity.

His claim that capital value rating is Salt’s “socialist” plot is ridiculous too. This decision also had strong majority support including right leaning councillor John Grant. Over 65% of New Zealand councils already use this system so it’s hardly revolutionary.

Minogue’s fiction of Salt’s “extreme left-wing” climate stance ignores that Council’s coastal protection projects closely follow the Coastal Policy Statement and coastal hazard guidelines both passed by a National government.

Climate change is science and physics and doesn’t care about left or right politics.

He’s also wrong about seawall funding; the council has repeatedly confirmed targeted “area of benefit” rates will be used. More scaremongering.

Adding to these blunders, Minogue ignores Salt’s solid performance as measured by an independent poll. In a Taxpayers’ Union-Curia poll last week, Salt ranked 20th out of 68 mayors. Minogue’s distortions deceive ratepayers, and his baseless claims crumble under even basic scrutiny.

David Gibson, Tairua

Flemming Rasmussen, MC at the Meet the Mayoral Candidates meeting.

TRADES & SERVICES

Rug Binding

David: 027 4994833

Tracey: 027 4907988

TRADES & SERVICES

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DEATH NOTICES

SIKKING,

Louis Theodoor

Relief Ferry Driver

COFFEE MORNING

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

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Protecting native species from introduced predators in Otahu

The Department of Conservation (DOC) in Thames is going to control rats, stoats, ferrets and possums over 7,200 hectares of the Otahu Ecological Reserve. This is scheduled for the first clear weather windows between 4 August and 31 October. Otahu is situated at the southern end of the Coromandel Range, to the south of Whangamata, north of Waihi and includes privately owned Mataora Bay. Native wildlife and forests need protection

Native species are fighting for survival due to predation from rats, stoats, ferrets and possums. Without protection, we risk losing the unique natural heritage and biodiversity within the Otahu Ecological Area. Native fauna species being protected include kiwi, kakariki, long-tailed bats, Archey’s and Hochsetters frogs and their habitat.

Our plan to protect native species

Through sustained predator control using 1080, there is a big increase in breeding success for native birds, their food source is more abundant, and the forest canopy is healthier

The safest and most effective method we have to control possums, rats and stoats over large areas is to use biodegradable cereal bait pellets containing 1080. This bait targets rodents and possums. Stoats are also controlled through secondary poisoning as they feed on the carcasses of the dead rodents.

Helicopters distribute bait pellets across the forest area along pre-determined and monitored flight paths using technology that enables accurate placement. This is the only viable method to control predators in the Southern Coromandel Range due to the vast and rugged terrain.

This operation begins with the distribution of non-toxic pre-feed bait pellets (sandy coloured). This prepares possums and rodents to eat the toxic bait (dyed green) that is applied afterwards. Both baits are about 16 mm in diameter and cylindrical shaped.

Consultation and permissions

DOC has consulted with hapū, iwi and key stakeholders including landowners adjacent to the treatment area.

DOC is delegated authority by the Environmental Protection Agency to decide applications for permission to use 1080 on land administered or managed by DOC. Permission has been granted for this operation. DOC has also received the required permission from the Ministry of Health. DOC ensures that all legal and policy requirements are met, and that any potential risks of the operation are managed.

Managing risk

1080 is poisonous to humans, domestic and game animals. In areas where the toxin has been applied, dogs are highly at risk until poisoned carcasses have disintegrated. This takes four-to-eight months or longer.

There will be warning signs placed at entrances to the treatment area immediately prior to the operation. Risks can be eliminated by following these rules:

DO NOT touch bait

WATCH children at all times

DO NOT EAT animals from this area or within the buffer zone outside the treatment boundary. The buffer zone is 2 km for deer and pigs, 200 m for rabbits, and 1 km for hares, tahr, wallabies and possums.

Poison baits or carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS

Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. These signs indicate pesticide residues may be still present in baits and poisoned carcasses. When signs are removed, normal activities can resume. If in doubt, check with your local DOC office. Please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs.

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

If you suspect poisoning, please contact:

• Your local doctor or hospital OR The National Poisons Centre: 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248 OR dial 111

• Seek veterinary advice for suspected poisoning of domestic animals. For more information

Please contact: Operational planner Ranger Biodiversity, Hauraki Office, 3/336 Ngati Maru Highway, Thames 0800 275 362 and thames@doc.govt.nz OR Epro Ltd, 0800 ASK EPRO and control@epro.co.nz

Visit the DOC website: More information about DOC’s National Predator Control Programme is available on our website www.doc.govt.nz/our-work/national-predator-control-programme Map of predator control area within Otahu Ecological Area

This map shows the area we are controlling rats, stoats, ferrets and possums to protect native species. You can also see operational updates and detailed maps of predator control on public conservation land on the DOC website. www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/pesticidesummaries the DOC website. www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/pesticide-summaries

Published weekly and distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula. Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of them are at the discretion of the editor. Contributions only considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name, phone no, email or residential address. Opinions expressed (esp. in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher and can be cut if too long.

Editor: Pauline Stewart (027 271 6182)

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Follow us on Facebook, Instagram& website @theinformernz | ISSN 3021-4114 (Print), ISSN 3021-4122 (Online), © 2022 Mercury Bay Informer Limited

1st XV – winner of the Coulter Cup 22-19

The 1st XV only just defeated Hauraki Plains College in a game that could have gone into overtime but a penalty kick was not converted giving Mercury Bay the victory. The Coulter Cup has been won by MB 3 times in its history, 2010, 2023 and 2025.

These players have been in the winning team twice. Leon Melde, Brynn George, Quinn McCleery and Mark Rowland.

Mercury Bay under 15’s win

L. Berry Cup 31-12

On Saturday Thames Valley Secondary School finals were held at Rhodes Park in Thames. Mercury Bay U15 played Paeroa for the L Berry Cup and won 31-12. The U15 boys played as a tight team unit and this was their best game of the season.

Annual Patron’s Cup

After two postponements to the Annual Patron’s Cup, Mercury Bay Bowls Club finally had a stunning Sunday, 3 August. Not a cloud in the sky greeted the Club singles bowlers. 28 vied for the annual Cup and three had perfect four wins but Wayne Edmonds had the better “ends” score and was presented with the cup by bowls club Patron, Pam Phillips.

SNOOKER

Wednesday, 6 August

There were 9 players. Den Rush and Dave Colman had 3 straight wins each to challenge the final frame. A great match was coming down to black to win with Dave grabbing the win and the cash prize. The two wins were Greg Murphy and Peter Challis and Dave Colman had the highest break of 30.

Saturday, 9 August

Eight players in the round robin and it was Bob Haase and Ian Baumgren with three straight wins each to challenge the final frame. This was a win to Bob who pocketed the cash prize. Runner up Ian Baumgren who also had the highest break of 20 and with two wins were Peter Schultz and Doug Pascoe.

MERCURY BAY FOOTBALL

Junior Mixed Versus Hamilton Boys Green 4:0

What a difference a week can make, as the Junior Mixed team play themselves back into contention with a 4:0 win against second place Hamilton Green. Mercury Bay and four other teams now have an opportunity with three games to go. Mercury Bay dominated from the outset, with Farae Gray following up a well taken opening goal by forcing an own-goal from a Hamilton defender. Tylar Cornwall also bagged a composed double to con-

tinue his impressive run of goals. A big thanks to our ref, supporters and parents who put on some sausages afterwards.

12TH GRADE RAYS

The 'Rays hosted the Paeroa Ranges in true 'four seasons in one day' kind of weather. The home side couldn't be touched in the first 15 minutes with an exquisite passing display which resulted in 4 goals. However, Paeroa fight back to draw 4 a piece at the break. Congratulations to Leo and Jaxson Players of the Day. Result with MB 6, Paeroa 4.

UNDER 12’S SHARKS An exhilarating end-toend game. Kayleb Cornwall scored a hat-trick, and Reef Havard added another goal. Dylan Field from Mercury Bay and Louie from Whenuakite earned Player of the Day honours.

EIGHTH GRADE

Saturday, 9 August saw us playing Whenuakite at home at the Sports Park. Jasmine Jones received Player of the Day for her amazing defence. Anabela Reilly was our other Player of the Day, she had excellent field position,

They were well supported by family, friends & school staff who all travelled over to support both teams.

Gracie O’Malley’s Triples

Sunday 10 August

28 teams from around the Coromandel took part in the Gracie O’Malley’s Triples.

Having the new carpet allows the Mercury Bay Bowls Club to host such events.

The winners on the day and the only team to win all four matches were Elaine Appleton, Vi King and Reg Wright from Coromandel.

CLUB DARTS

25 players this week, so 501 singles were played with one person playing as a single person team. One team went through winning all four sets after winning their last set in a battle against Karen McKenzie who was the single person team. The winning team was Beau Hamilton and Bill Bonnetto.

More sport next week

8th Grade Players of the Day – Jasmine Jones and Anabela Reilly.

Three cheers for Mercury Bay.

12th Grade Rays.

Wayne Edmonds and Patron, Pam Phillips.

manufactured aluminium windows and doors since 1990:

Thames Valley Hockey - two new names on the trophies

Our 2025 Thames Valley Hockey Senior Competition winners.

WOMEN: THAMES/WAITAKARURU SHARE NICHOLSON SHIELD

In the senior women’s grade final, a tight competition all season between the top two teams, didn't disappoint. A smooth road to the semi-finals saw Waitakaruru take control of the game early, against Morrinsville coming away with a 7-1 win and Ngatea Strikers, last year's finalists, struggled to dominate against a structured Thames side.

Grand Final: Thames headed to the grand finals for the second time in 3 years, with an 8-2 win. The Grand Final saw Thames again dominate with their trademark structured play. Despite chances and majority of possession, Waitakaruru led by 1 goal in the first half. Thames equalised in the second half, but time ran out for both teams to get the overall win. They share the Nicholson Shield with a first win for Thames and Waitakaruru adding their name to the shield for the 19th time since 1927. Umpires Ingrid Norman, Rachael Aitchison.

Result: Thames 1 Waitakaruru 1.

MEN: MARAMARUA – WINNERS OF STAN WILSON CUP 2025

In a repeat of the 2024 finals, the men’s grade saw top of the table Maramarua attempt to topple reigning champions Ngatea Swampies. The road to the finals was a close run affair with Maramarua just squeaking through semis with a 3-2 win against Thames team, The XMen. Swampies beat Hauraki North's Stickmen, who had been hard on the champion’s heels all season, with an impressive 5-1 win.

Grand Final: Maramarua were the first to score from a penalty corner but Swampies provided a late equaliser from a free hit to level it up. A frantic last 10 minutes saw both teams playing fast paced and intense hockey. After 4 or 5 shots at goal, saved by the in-form Swampies goalkeeper, Maramarua managed to tap it in. The Maramarua team in it's 2nd year and 2nd grand final hold the Stan Wilson Cup for 2025. Umpires Cam Loft, Jeremy Cryer.

Result: Maramarua 2 Swampies 1.

COROMANDEL RESCUE MISSIONS

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For the Auckland & Coromandel Westpac Rescue Helicopters

01.07

02.07

10.07

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Thames Crew tasked to assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 70’s suffering injury from a fall at home. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

Thames Crew tasked to assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 80’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.

Thames Crew tasked to assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 40’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.

12.07 Te Mata Crew tasked to assist a male patient in his 70’s. Sadly, the patient died, and crew returned to base.

16.07 Whangapoua Crew were stood down and returned to base.

23.07 Whitianga Crew tasked to assist a female patient in her 70’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Thames Hospital in a moderate condition.

24.07 Tairua Crew tasked to assist a female patient in her 30’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

25.07 Thames Crew tasked to assist a male patient in his 60’s suffering a medical complaint and in a minor condition. Transportation to hospital by helicopter was not required and crew returned to base.

26.07 Whangamata Crew tasked to assist a male patient in his 60’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.

28.07 Thames Crew tasked to assist with the interhospital transfer of a female patient in her 70’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown from Thames Hospital to Middlemore Hospital in a serious condition.

29.07 Whangamata Crew tasked to Whangamata to assist a male patient in his 40’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.

31.07 Thames Crew tasked to assist with the interhospital transfer of a female patient in her 40’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.

Top: Womens Champs – Waitakaruru in blue, Thames in green.

Above: Thames Valley Hockey Senior Mens Chamions 2025 Maramarua; Captain Luke Newbold receives the 2025 Stan Wilson Cup from TV President Vicki Coles.

Sports

Good news on all fronts –Mercury Bay Squash Club

BY LEANNE SALISBURY

It's been a busy month for the club with many members successfully participating in Thames Valley, Waikato and National events.

CHARLOTTE THURGOOD

A huge congratulations to Charlotte Thurgood who has been selected as the third seed in the 2025 Junior Squad for the New Zealand Secondary Schools Squash Team. They are taking on the Australian team in Cairns later this month.

The B Grade ladies of the club were ranked fourth in the Waikato took out the top seeds to win the Waikato Division One Interclub Championship. This is a significant commitment for our players who travel to Thames and beyond each week during the competition to play.

The C and D Grade ladies also competed and were Runner Up in Division Two.

In July the club entered a

C Grade Ladies team in the Waikato Superchamps competition. The winner of this event goes on to represent the Waikato at the national level. Our girls were pipped at the post in the final match for the weekend.

Thames Valley Shield Winners: The most recent achievement was the club bringing home the Thames Valley Shield, defeating the Te Aroha, Paeroa and Thames Clubs. This was only the second time in the 20-year history of the competition. The win was convincing with Mercury Bay taking out 7 out of the 12 grades after some fierce matches, often going to the wire. Competing in an event like this is a great opportunity for players of all grades, as the grades are recognised and contribute equally to the club win. This event is always held in Paeroa over four consecutive evenings. This shows the amazing spirit of the club and its members. Everyone was thrilled with the result.

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Phone or email for info E: info@whitiangaboatrepairs.co.nz

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Mercury Bay 2025 Waikato Ladies Interclub Champions. Back Row - Charlize Davy, Alyssa Davy, Christine Ewart, Larissa Davy. Front Row - Jody Costello, Kiri Moore.

Mercury Bay Thames Valley Champs. Left to RightDog Doc (Organiser), Sandi Matthews, Alyssa Davy, Kiri Moore, Jody Costello, Larissa Davy (behind), Shaylee Davy (front), Greg Bahr (behind), Charlize Davy (front), Daniel Tate, Lindell Tuhakaraina, Winton Bebbington.

Charlotte Thurgood is far right in this photo of the NZ team.

Charlotte in action. Now a member of 2025 Junior Squad for the NZ Secondary Schools Squash Team.