issue 1173 2 Sept 2025

Sunday, 7 September

Every Wednesday night from 5pm Pork, lamb, chicken or beef Buffet salad and sauce bar Bookings recommended

A man who loved his community through music and his bass

BY PAULINE STEWART

”Iwas there at the beginning of the Kerepehi Brass Band. Now I am the only one left.” That was what Rowan Garrett said in July this year. And

now he is no longer. The last of the founding members of the Kerepehi Brass Band was farewelled by a very large crowd at Twentymans Chapel in Thames last Saturday, 30 August. He died in Ohinemuri House, Paeroa on

26 August, in his ninetieth year after seventy years of providing the gift of brass band music to every town centre on the Peninsula, Hauraki Plains and across the Waikato. He was a giant in brass music

especially for this region. With 79 years of membership of the Kerepehi Brass Band, he filled every role – Chair of the Board, Band Leader, Tutor, Secretary, Conductor, Librarian. Continued on page 7

LOU SIKKING page 2

GRASSY MANGIN page 3

PAULINE’S PLACE

A word about ‘stale, pale and male’

This message to all readers is squeezed in by three men Rowan Garrett, Lou Sikking, and Grassy Mangin. They all fit the description of ‘stale, pale and male’. This is a currently popular phrase used by some to describe a certain segment of the male population to whom those who use the phrase, feel these word are an apt description o fthe men in their focus or men in general.

Sometimes that phrase has crossed my mind but very rarely. I have experienced the arrogance ad innuendoes of insensitivity and superiority of some men. However, I am against classifying the white men that I know and many of them are the same age as me – I guess it is the stale age. In my teens and early working years, even at University I was insired by many men – who were older, and white. The reality is that I see a number of white men in their older years who are totally movitated to work selflessly in their communities to improve things. I observe in

them and in their attitudesgentleness, compassion and passion, humility, creativity and care. I see it expressed in so many ways and on the Peninsula and on the plains, I have seen that so much of the projects and community work and the social services of clubs is done by men whom you could say fit this description.

It‘s a fallacy. So many generalisations and clever phrases just don’t apply and they kill the possibility of a meaningful relationship. The three men you will read about have all died. All three led very different lives. All tried to live fully until the last. Retirement was not opting out from life or a wish to be stale and irrelevant. They loved a cause and they loved their community. Not one of them was perfect and sometimes they erred magnificently. However, so do brown and tan men and young men and women in every sector. So let’s leave the phrases out and look for goodness and genuine care. It will help you see more and it will help you vote.

What can I do to make a living here in Whitianga?

Louis Theodore (Lou) Sikking – the man who changed the face of Whitianga died on 5 August. He was 88.

BY DOROTHY PREECE

Lou Sikking was born in 1937 in Nederhorst den Bert, in the Netherlands, second eldest of seven children. At 18 he was conscripted into the army, and posted to the jungles of Suriname, in Dutch Guiana for two years. In 1958, having developed a taste for adventure, Lou applied to emigrate to New Zealand. It was on the voyage out that he first met Marianne, a young lady he would come to know very well. Marianne’s father worked for United Empire Boxes, and soon Lou was working there too. The couple were married and lived on the North Shore where daughter Miranda and son John-Paul were born.

Whitianga story begins The family took holidays at Cooks Beach, and they first visited Whitianga in 1973 when Miranda cut her foot on an oyster shell and they took the ferry to the doctor on Buffalo Beach. One look and they were hooked. Lou

By Alastair Brickell

low in the west. It is at its best from 5:31am and continues as the Moon sets. When the Full Moon rises again in the evening it will be

just above and to the left of Saturn. Tuesday, 9 September – The Moon now sits below Saturn. We have a lunar eclipse (sometimes referred to as a ‘Blood Moon’ in the media) at dusk on September 8 when the Earth’s shadow covers the Moon. This causes sunlight to refract around the Earth with our atmosphere removing the blue component just leaving the reddish glow. In a couple of weeks we will have a

approached real estate agent, Stan Holland with the words, “What can I do to make a living here?”

There began the story that led to many future developments in and around Whitianga’s main street.

First came Kingfisher Lodge in Lee Street, 6 motel units that soon became 13, on land that had previously been the Mulberries campground. Marianne recalls doing all the motel linen in her own laundry, “There was no alternative back then.” Soon afterwards Lou decided his guests needed more eatery options, so they developed

the Kingfisher Restaurant on Albert Street, where Smitty’s Bar now stands. That property he later expanded into the Westpac Mall development. Lou also arranged bus tours for their guests. Wanting to give them the complete package, Lou and Marianne bought the Mobil gas station in Monk Street (now Gull), and Marianne often made beds, served gas and cooked for the restaurant all in one day.

After 30 years, the Lee Street motels were demolished, and with typical foresight Lou replaced it with the Twin Cinemas and a block of shops.

Very early on, Lou Sikking was invited to join the Whitianga Lions Club, which he threw himself into with his usual full-on enthusiasm. Lou earned many Lions accolades, the most prestigious of which was from the Lloyd-Morgan Trust Prize “for outstanding contribution and service to Lions.”

Every Christmas Lou could be seen pushing a

wheelbarrow full of crayfish, selling tickets for the Lions raffle. He was made a Life Member in 2016. One tongue-in-cheek accolade read, “For his ability to rally Lions and his honesty and directness in the expression of his opinions and ideas.” Lou did not mince his words. Through Lions’ involvement in the Mercury Bay Museum Trust Board, Lou was appointed Treasurer and here too, he brought innovation to the displays and set the Museum finance on its feet.

Despite his full-on business schedule, Lou found time to own a yacht and sail it, and he developed a taste for ‘adventure flying’ with John Stephenson and the Mercury Bay Aero Club.

In recent years, and failing health, Lou Sikking has been content to tend his garden. He leaves his wife, his son and daughter, and four grandchildren – along with a memorial legacy of a bustling Whitianga main street.

Grassy dies suddenly at his fire station

BY LISA WHITEMAN, FIRE FIGHTER

It is with deep regret that we share with our community and beyond the passing of our much-loved brother, Grassy (Peter) Mangin.

To know Grassy was to know loyalty, humour, and heart. On Friday night, 29 August, we lost not just a firefighter of 50 years, but a brother, a mentor, and for many of us, family. His boots may be empty, but the space he filled in our lives never will be.

Grassy dedicated more than 50 years of his life to serving as a volunteer firefighter fifty years of showing up, rain or shine, sirens or silence, giving his time and his heart to the job and the people who stood beside him. A lifetime of courage, commitment, and stories that could make you either laugh until your sides hurt or bring tears to your eyes.

He was the quiet guy, and sometimes the not-so-quiet guy, who was always right there teaching, guiding, and sharing his wisdom. You’d often find him in the middle of truck checks, showing the new ones the ropes, passing on his tricks of the trade, and making sure everyone lifted their skills. He asked a lot of you to turn up, train hard, give it your best, but in return, he gave and shared with you everything he knew.

To many of us, he wasn’t just a firefighter. He was a mentor, a locker buddy, a mate, and for some of us like me, an extra uncle.

I grew up knee-high to a grasshopper in the Te Aroha station, running around with his kids as one of the original “fire brats.” We were lucky to be raised in that extended family.

Nothing made him prouder than his children, especially his two boys who stepped into the boots themselves and carried on the family tradition in the Te Aroha Brigade. You could see his pride in every word when he spoke about their progress and their passion.

Grassy’s service record is remarkable: from running waterways competitions, to adding RCR to his belt, to the countless achievements he notched up alongside his brother, Spida. One of the greatest moments was watching the two of them side by side receive their 50-year service medals together. They were often mistaken for each other, but the truth is, they were two legends in their own right.

Grassy had the biggest heart. He was a stoic, steadfast presence who cared deeply for his people, was respected by all, and loved by many. On the rugby sidelines, though, things got a little more animated. He had a reputation for morphing into the “second ref” who spotted every move on the field. By the end of the game, he often ended up standing on his own because his second reffing got a little intense and very passionate, to say the least. It became a running joke about who was

A BIT OF HISTORY

brave enough to sit near him once the rugby kicked off.

And then there were his dance moves one in particular that was pure Grassy. He had this trademark routine where he’d strum an imaginary guitar with one of his long legs. It was equal parts ridiculous and legendary, and once you’d seen it, you could never unsee it.

At the station, though, he was the real deal: a true brother in arms.

We here at Whitianga Brigade have lost a genuine legend. We send our aroha to Te Aroha Brigade, where Grassy first began his service and was such an integral part before moving to the beach to be closer to his brother.

Our love and thoughts are with his children Sarah, Richard,

Rebecca, and Dave, his muchloved grandchildren, his brother, and all of his whānau.

Fifty years of service is a rare thing but Grassy’s real legacy can’t be measured in medals, drills, or callouts. His legacy lives in the firefighters that stood beside, the whānau he loved, the mates who’ll still hear his voice in their ear when they’re training, and the laughter that echoes whenever someone strums an imaginary guitar with their leg. That’s how he’ll stay with us.

Rest easy now, Grassy. Red Watch have got you. Your shift is done, your watch complete. Your brigade will carry it from here

With so much love and respect SFF Whiteman

„ Adapted from the Whitianga Fire Brigade Facebook page.

Fifty -two years ago, Gary Mangin (known to everyone as Spida), joined the Fire Brigade in Te Aroha. Three years later, his younger brother Peter Mangin, known to everyone as Grassy, also joined the Te Aroha Fire brigade. Grassy had served 50 years in December 2023 and Spida, had served fifty -three years. In April 2024 both men received their 50 years Fire Service Medal together at the Whitianga Fire Brigade. Spida had just put his Fire Service Medal aside to wait for his brother. “This is so we can receive them together. It is worth waiting for. That’s the way it has always been for us. We are two brothers.” We think of Spida, Grassy’s family and his Fire Brigade family across this community and this country, at this difficult time.

Grassy pictured with his daughters at last years’ Whitianga Fire Brigade event where he received a 50 years service medal. He received his medal with his brother Spida.

Spida and Grassy December 2023.

Four Square Coromandel’s

Chris Beard named Local Hero at the 2025 Charlie Awards

Chris and his wife Becky have owned Four Square Coromandel since 2021. Life is busy for the young couple, who juggle running a business and family life with their three sons, Freddie, aged 6, Beau, 4, and Jordy, 2. At the end of last year, they completed a store upgrade and new layout, designed with customer convenience in mind.

The store employs around 33 staff, growing to 40 over the busy summer season, and offers a unique free rural delivery service to support residents across the peninsula. The store supports a range of small suppliers, with products from local honey producers, Naughty Bean Coffee and Coffee Lala, as well as firewood from the Coromandel Lions Club, (which gets 100% of proceeds of firewood sold instore). The Beards are also about to secure a deal to stock craft beer from a local brewery.

The couple previously owned Four Square Tokomaru Bay, where Chris was also very active in the community. Living in a small, remote community, he learned that when something goes wrong, help can be a long way off – and sometimes you’re it. Among his other contributions to the community, he became a volunteer firefighter, an experience that was both confronting and character building at a hectic time when the Beards were starting their first business and preparing for the arrival of their first child.

This isn’t Chris’s first accolade – Four Square Coromandel has also been named Best Four Square Store at the Foodstuffs North Island Co-op Awards, and he also won Four Square’s inaugural award for local service to the community. For Chris, it’s the Local Hero award that means the most.

“It’s a privilege to be able to give back to the community that supports us. That’s what gets me on to the shop floor every day.”

Concert Pianist comes to Whitianga

Emerging concert pianist, Michael Song, is coming to Whitianga Sunday, 28 September to perform at St Andrews By The Sea. Michael is distinguished by his passion for narrative and expressive performance. His musical interests were nurtured from a young age under the long-standing mentorship of New Zealand pianist Flavio Villani. He went on to obtain a Bachelor of Music with First-Class Honours at the University of Auckland, studying with Rae de Lisle, where he received multiple Top of the Course Awards in historical performance, classical theory, and music pedagogy. He completed his Master of Music Studies in Performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, studying under Paul Rickard-Ford, Head of the Piano Department. During which, he explored improvisation alongside classical performance and, in 2024, was awarded the highly competitive George and Margaret Henderson Scholarship.

Michael was a representative in the 2018 Rönisch Auckland Secondary Schools Piano Competition and a semi-finalist in the prestigious 2021 Lewis Eady National Piano Competition. He has performed at numerous music festivals worldwide, including the 2017 Australian International Music Festival, the 2022 Lewis Eady International Music Festival in New Zealand, and the 2025 Music at Château d’Aix in France. He has also presented recitals across New Zealand and Australia and appeared in a wide range of collaborative concert settings. Nowbased in Auckland, Michael is the director of Piano Studio 33. In the Tales concert series, Michael will be presenting a unique collection of some of the most evocative program music of the late Romantic era, complemented by spoken commentary that reveals the tales behind each piece. In this programme, you will encounter magical creatures such as fauns and water sprites in the

enchanting piano vignettes of French composer Cécile Chaminade; witness the journey and trials of a prince and princess in Frank Bridge’s four-movement suite A Fairy Tale; and experience the thrilling Russian folktales of Zolushka (Cinderella) and Ivanushka the Fool through the exquisite musical narration of Nikolai Medtner’s Six Skazki (“Six Fairytales”). This programme invites listeners into a realm where music transcends abstraction, offering vivid glimpses into timeless tales shaped by fantasy, legend, and the enduring human fascination with story. Tickets available at the door or please book at www.pianostudio33.com. Sunday 28 September, 3.00pm. St Andrews By The Sea, Whitianga. Adults $30, Concessions and students $25. Enq: 027 271 6182.

Above: Four Square Coromandel owner Chris Beard, right, collects his Local Hero award at this year’s Four Square Charlie Awards. Below: Chris with his children at Santa Parade 2023.

Rowan built a band and community

In 2020 he received the Queens Service Medal (QSM) for his outstanding service to brass music and the wider community. Dame Patsy Reddy, when presenting his medal, was thrilled to tell Rowan that her father was one of the founding members of the Kerepehi Brass Band with Rowan. Rowan was also a member of Salvation Army Band, and the Thames City Band. His oldest son, Paul, spoke of his father in these word; “The love and dedication he showed his family was beyond reproach. His dedication to the Band and his community and wider family was in every way, exceptional.”

From an interview with The Informer ROWAN TELLS OF HIS BEGINNINGS IN BRASS MUSIC – THE BEGINNING OF THE KEREPEHI BRASS BAND

“We started in the old supper room of the Kerepehi Hall in the town of Kerepehi on the Hauraki Plains.

I was ten and was having music classes and Mr Vivian, my teacher, said we are starting a band on Saturday and would you like to come along. I went along. It was 18 months before we got instruments. This was after the war so there were no instruments available. We started learning the fingering for brass instruments on a 12-inch ruler and three clothes pegs You got a great sound out of that. You also had to show which fingers you were putting down. It was only children, and it was a boys band then. When the band started, there was quite a group from Turua and Kerepehi. At the time, there was a brass band in Paeroa. It didn’t change to a brass band until the fifties.

I didn’t ever worry about what instrument I got to play, but I did start on cornet and then tenor horn. We played whatever the band master told us to play. In 1950 the Band Master said I would be better on bass. I went on the bass and he was right.

I would carry my bass to practice on my bike by strapping it on my back. I practised in the butcher shop before the Kerepehi Hall was built. There was nowhere else to practise.

My parents encouraged me, and they didn’t have to worry too much about my practising as a teenagerI was practising up to three hours a day. My parents were behind me in everything. Also, I practised instead of doing homework.

I had a brother Gray who was a very good baritone player, and he played in the Army band as an 18-year-old.

We never set out to be a competitive band able to compete in all the brass band competitions, but rather we chose to be a band that serves the community. Some bands would recruit other brass players from other areas to be in a band competition.

There would not be any bands who would provide so many buglers for local Anzac services. One year there were 11 Anzac services. I managed to play at three of the services and some of our members attended others.

In my life I am most proud of the QSM. That’s really about the band and the people.

When visiting Rowan in the local hospital, The Informer posed the question:

WHY HAS THE KEREPEHI BRASS BAND LASTED SO LONG?

Rowan’s response: “I have never doubted the band and its role. It livens up a community and it entertains the community. We had at the core a good group of people and good leadership. That has kept the band going. I had a fundamental belief that the band had to keep going. I can be hard case and stubborn. I have never

doubted the band and its role in enlivening the community.

The band plays an important civic role, and we take that seriously. We always have. There is an understanding that being in the band means being present for a number of civic ceremonies, parades, fairs and festivals. It is more than a duty, we love it, and it brings us together. Anzac Day is the most important day of the year for the band.” The band has played for Anzac Day services all around the Waikato since 1949.

Rowan did not mention this, but it is known that he has missed only three Anzac Days since he joined the band. “My wife Vivian’s birthday is on Anzac Day and I have never been at home. The first time we had that day together was during covid.”

“The band has always been a place for friendship. We help each other. I still want to hit 80 years in the band. I have 11 months to go.”

Rowan died with ten months to go to his 80 years in the Kerepehi Brass Band. The Salvation Army officer, Ann Brunskill, who lead the service, concluded, “He was grateful, reliable, consistent, trustworthy he felt in all challenges and trials, he was in the company of God”.

What he stood for in his love of music and community will last beyond all our lives.

This information was prepared with the help of Heather Ohagan, one of the long-time members of the Kerepehi Brass Band and a long-time resident of Paeroa. Heather joined the band after bringing her children to learn.

Rowan in his room at Ohimemuri Hospital.

Above: Rowan on the right with his brother Gray in their band uniforms.

TRAVEL WRITER – SARAH-JANE

Holiday Hacks: Celebrate without the chaos

Spring is just around the corner – travelling in New Zealand or anywhere.

PHASE 1: THE BOOKING

BONANZA

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty.

• The grand design: First, pick a direction. North, south, east, west – it all works, as long as it’s away from your work. Figure out how many kilometres you’re brave enough to drive and where you want to crash for the night. Pro tip: Don’t pick places that are just "major towns". Pick places with delicious-sounding food.

• The "To-Do" list: Time to play tourist! Lock down your key attractions and guided tours. Calculate the time needed for each activity and be honest. That "quick" museum visit will probably take half a day, especially if it has a gift shop.

• The hotel hustle: Now for the fun part: booking. Work out how many nights you’ll need in each spot. When you book, consider this a pro-level chess move: check the hotel's direct website. They often hide specials there like a secret handshake. Also, tab open sites like Booking.com and Airbnb for activities. Remember to consult TripAdvisor reviews because you don’t want to end up in a room with a five-star rating and a three-star pest problem.

• The "Instagram Moment" investment: Book those must-do activities – the ones that will make your friends jealous and create fantastic photo mempories. If it's a popular spot or peak season, book it!. Websites like Viator.com (great for day trips as well as ideas what to do) are your best friends here. Tip: Viator has flexible cancellation options.

• Passes and printouts: If you’re visiting a national park, grab your passes now. Buy them, print them, and save them on your phone. Nothing says "I'm a seasoned traveler" like having a park pass ready to flash without having to dig through your glove compartment.

• Leave room for spontaneity: We’re all about a solid plan, but don't book every single second. Leave some wiggle room for those glorious, spur-of-the-moment discoveries. You are the captain of this ship, not a tour guide on a rigid schedule.

Whew! Your trip is officially booked. Now, let’s make sure you don't get lost.

PHASE 2: THE PRE-TRIP PEP TALK

You've got the itinerary. Now let’s get ready to roll.

• The analog advantage: Download your route maps, but don't forget the ultimate throwback: a paper map. Yes, a real one you can write on. It’s perfect for when your GPS decides to have a meltdown in the middle of nowhere and your phone has zero bars.

• Safety first: Make a list of emergency contacts and send it to a few people who you trust not to panic.

• Road trip rhythms: Curate the ultimate road trip playlist. Noth-

ing kills a vibe like your co-pilot's questionable taste in 80s ballads.

• Chase the light: Check sunrise and sunset times for those perfect photo ops. Because if you didn't get that perfect golden-hour shot, did you even go?

• The safety blanket: Consider getting a roadside assistance plan with your rental car. It’s the "just in case" plan that will make you feel like a responsible adult.

PHASE 3: THE ACTUAL JOURNEY

You're finally on the road. Now the real fun begins.

• Snack smarts: When you stop for petrol, remember the golden

rule: that donut might look delicious, but those granola bars are a better long-term investment. Your stomach – and your wallet –will thank you.

• Toll talk: There are a few toll roads in New Zealand. It is all paid for online. Your registration plate is recorded so don’t forget to pay. There are sometimes alternative and quite scenic routes. Most countries have tolls so be aware as to paying for it. Your hire car bill will generally include it.

• The night drive dilemma: Consult your sunset times. You might not want to drive after dark, especially if you can’t spot a deer until it’s standing on the hood of your car which happens on New Zealand forest roads.

• The breakaway: It’s not a race! Take a break every 1.5 hours. Get out, stretch your legs, take a selfie, and enjoy the scenery. Your body and your mind will appreciate it.

• Embrace the unexpected: Be spontaneous. See a weird roadside attraction? Pull over. A local recommends a restaurant? Go there. The best memories are often the unplanned ones.

• Talk to strangers: Ask a local for directions or for their favourite hidden gem. They’re usually much more helpful than your GPS and can tell you where the good food is hiding.

• The windshield wisdom: Enjoy the journey, not just the destination. Soak in the moments of "windshield time" with your travel companions. The conversations, the music, the quiet contemplation – it's all part of the adventure.

Who really runs the Community Board

BY RICHARD-SHELFORD WOODCOCK

WHAT A COMMUNITY BOARD CAN AND CAN’T DO

Every three years you elect the Mercury Bay CB alongside the Mayor and our Ward Councillors. The Community Board’s(CB) legal role is to represent community interests, provide input into council services, and make submissions on the district’s Long-Term Plan. But CB's only have the powers that the Council chooses to delegate. They cannot employ staff, set rates, or adopt bylaws. Their authority is defined in the Delegations Register, a rulebook Council updates each term.

WHO CHOOSES THE CHAIR?

One question often asked is: who picks the Community Board Chair? The answer is that Community Board members themselves elect their Chair and Deputy Chair at their first meeting after an election. That vote includes both the elected community representatives and the ward Councillors who sit on the Board.

In Mercury Bay, that means seven people, four CB members plus three Councillors vote on who leads. Councillors are not “outsiders”; they are full Board members with the same voting rights.

COUNCILLORS HOLD SWAY

It’s no surprise many locals feel

Councillors dominate the Board. Several factors feed this perception:

Numbers: With three Councillors alongside four CB members, Councillors hold almost half the votes, including in the Chair election.

Two hats: Councillors sit at both tables – the Community Board and full Council. They influence local debates and then also decide at Council on delegations, budgets, and policies that define what the CB can do.

Control of delegations: Even if the CB wants to act, it cannot exceed the powers set by Council. If Councillors at district level resist more autonomy, the CB becomes advisory.

Information flow: Staff report to the Chief Executive and Council, not the Community Board. Councillors often frame how

information reaches the table. Put together, it’s easy to see why people say the CB is steered more from Thames than from Whitianga.

WHEN EMPOWERMENT WAS REAL

It wasn’t always this way. In the early 2010s, Thames-Coromandel District Council trialled a genuine empowerment model. Community Boards were given delegated authority with ring-fenced budgets over harbours, halls, parks, toilets, cemeteries, and even some roading. They could green-light projects up to set thresholds without waiting for Council sign-off.

The impact was immediate. Decisions were faster, local priorities advanced, and residents felt their board mattered. For a time, empowerment wasn’t just a slogan - it was lived reality.

WHY IT’S HARDER NOW

The Local Government Act 2002 allows councils to delegate many responsibilities, but it also sets firm limits. Boards cannot adopt the Long-Term Plan, set rates, borrow, or hire the Chief Executive. Even where delegation is possible, challenges remain: Budgets: Council is responsible for rates and spending. For real power, funds must be ring-fenced and reported transparently.

Staffing: A CB cannot employ staff, so service delivery always runs through Council management.

Fairness: If each board spends differently, service levels across the district can become uneven.

Legal limits: Big capital projects must stay at the Council table.

A WAY FORWARD

Despite hurdles, steps exist to bring empowerment back:

• Strengthen delegations so the CB control more local assets and services.

• Ring-fence local budgets with

transparent reporting. Allow CB to monitor service delivery through clear agreements.

• Attach CB resolutions to Council reports so local views are visible in district-wide decisions.

• Conclusion: Trust the community

„ Richard is standing for Community Board in the Mercury Bay Ward. His article is intended to apply to all Community Boards in the TCDC.

Local Hereford sale a success!

What an awesome day we had. A nice spring day with the sun shining. The sale was well supported by locals, with five bulls selling to locals. We sold five bulls to Hereford

studs around the country with the top bull going to the South Island. Altogether, 16 out of 17 bulls were sold.

Thank you

Bryce and Sue Hooton, hoot4bee@gmail.com

ENVIRONMENT MATTERS

BY DIRK SIELING

Following the scallop rahui, which was initiated by Ngati Hei as a result of depletion through decades of overfishing it is time to consider whereto from here.

Scallop recovery has been patchy and further assessment is still needed. The Minister is looking at re-opening the fishery at some stage, and if he follows the advice from officials, dredging will be allowed for commercial fishers and banned for recreational fishers, who will be allowed to hand gather only.

We have already lost the scallop festival and our commercial dredgers as a result of a quota management system that simply does not deliver, with crayfish, orange roughy, scallops and blue cod some of the species proving the point. Following the rahui and

consequent closure we now have a great opportunity for an alternative plan to manage scallops.

We can ban all dredging and resume scallop harvesting by

ELECTION UPDATE

individually gathering scallops either by human hand or AI controlled artificial hand. There would be a massive reduction in wastage and the benthic envi-

ronment disturbance would be kept at an absolute minimum. All undersize scallops would be left undisturbed to grow to harvestable size.

The 80m deep bed of Colville, which could not be harvested by human hand, would need to be left undisturbed pending future research. The discovery of this scallop bed has more than likely contributed heavily to the loss of scallops in other areas of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park as current patterns would indicate that spat from this bed, located in strong currents, settles in other areas from Opito to the Barrier Islands. The depletion of this bed could also explain the patchy nature of the recovery.

Part of the new plan would be for the government to recompense existing quota holders by buying out all quota and then leasing out new quota to commercial

operators who would have to fish their leased quota themselves, thus supporting small scale operators that would not be subject to the whim of larger quota holders. Such a shift would undoubtedly drive up the cost of scallops which is a small price to pay for the environmental improvements. Arguably the quality of the scallops would improve if they are handpicked. A side effect of higher prices for scallops would be the opening up of an opportunity for scallop farming which has been happening in other parts of the world for some time now. Scallop farming would undoubtedly be a very successful enterprise in New Zealand (look at our mussel and oyster industries) but hasn’t happened because it has been cheaper to simply scrape them off the seafloor with outdated heavy Victorian box dredges which has a led us into the current predicament.

Waikato Regional Council candidates for Thames-Coromandel region

WARREN MAHER

Rates Control Team

My principal place of residence is in the Thames-Coromandel General Constituency area.

As a longtime resident of this region, I am seeking re-election to continue work on rates control, environmental management, public transport and flood protection and drainage. As your Councilor, I will ensure we deliver accountable transparent decision making and deliver practical value to our ratepayers.

It’s time to cut costs, such as the $16.9 million spent annually on consultants or the $2.5 million prior year surplus not returned to ratepayers, but withheld for future use on a possible project?

I believe we need to focus on

in-house expertise and local community knowledge.

Our Peninsula environment, both on land and sea is our greatest asset, so we must prioritise

its future protection. This is why I have championed initiatives to improve our water quality, enhance bio-diversity and bio-security.

I believe economic, social and cultural values can all be balanced to enhance our unique diverse part of the Waikato.

0274 734 835, w.maher@xtra. co.nz

JASON ROXBURGH

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Thames-Coromandel General Constituency area.

Kia ora koutou. I’m standing for Waikato Regional Council to represent Thames-Coromandel with a focus on the environment that sustains our way of life and economy, including aquaculture, farm-

ing, tourism, and forestry.

I have proudly lived and worked here for 25 years, and bring extensive knowledge of the issues landowners face, our communities and environment, strong knowledge of Council’s roles in catchment and river management, flood protection, biodiversity and biosecurity, and future growth and development planning. I’m committed to genuine partnership with tangata whenua, and to supporting the many community and Iwi groups already working hard to protect our harbours, rivers, and forests.

Jason Roxburgh.

My priorities include genuine collaboration with community, environmental and economic resilience, and improving water quality and climate resilience. Through collaboration, transparent decision-making, and practical solutions that balance environment care with economic needs, I will advocate for a thriving Thames-Coromandel where people and nature flourish together.

027 535 8327, roxatlarge@ hotmail.com.

Warren Maher.

60 years of building the community

Whitianga Lions Club Inc will be celebrating its 60th Charter Anniversary late September.

In September 1965, several local men attended a meeting at the then fire station that resulted in the formation of the Whitianga Lions Club.

Now, some 60 years later, the club is about to celebrate its 60th Charter Anniversary on Sunday 28th September at the Mercury Bay Club. Over the years the club has had some 254 members. Until 1976, the membership was only men, but in that year, women were welcomed into the club. Currently the club has some 27 members of which 5 are women.

Some of the most significant things the club has done over the years were:-

• Raising the money and purchasing the old dairy company, which today is the Mercury Bay Museum. Raising the funds to provide Xray services for the community,

• Building the original children’s playground next to the wharf at no cost to the ratepayers,

• Surveying and develop-

ing a number of walks like Paul’s Hill to Sailors Grave, from Ferry Landing to Flaxmill bay via Whitianga Rock.

• Most recently, thanks to the generosity of the community, $350,000 towards the provision of a 3D mammogram facilities in Mercury Bay raising the money jointly with the Mercury Bay Lions Club.

In total, the club has raised and distributed over $5,000,000 in facilities and benefits to the community.

Past members and supporters are welcome to join the festivities and for further information contact Gordon Barnaby secretary at either whitianga@lionsclubs.org.nz or Phone 07 866 2433.

Hato Hone St John operations at new Waihi station begin

Waihī residents will now see ambulance crews and Community Health volunteers working out of the newly built St John Waihi (Hato Hone ki Waihīhī) ambulance station, following a blessing of the property.

In the early hours of 23 August, Hato Hone St John employees, volunteers and local iwi me te whānau whānui came together at 21 Johnston Street to mark the operational opening of Waihī station – ahead of a community opening planned for November.

The blessing included the gifting of the name Hato Hone ki Waihīhī by local iwi representatives.

Known as Waihī today, the town’s name was shortened over time from Waihīhī. Given Hato Hone St John’s long-standing history with the community, this naming maintains a connection between the past, present, and future.

The original Waihī ambulance station, which was built during the 1970s, was

ageing and no longer fitfor-purpose. It was taken down at the end of 2023 to make way for a new “home away from home” for local ambulance crews. Waihī ambulance operations temporarily relocated to 32 Hazard Street during the vital rebuild.

The new facility was supported by generous donations from the Waihī community and the general public across New Zealand. Most recently,

funds were raised during Hato Hone St John’s 2024 and 2025 “Light the Way” Annual Appeal and a “111 Challenge” that saw donors commit to an activity, such as cycling 111 kms or baking 111 cupcakes.

Julia Te Huia, Hato Hone St John Group Operations Manager – Coromandel South, is incredibly to have achieved their end goal.

„ Adapted from a press release 27 August 2025.

look what our recent customers have to say!

“NZ Move It team were incredibly careful with my fragile items - the care was very evident! Nothing was too hard to assist with - I highly recommend their services”

P. McNeill, 2025 (repeat customer)

“The guys were both really nice. They arrived on time and the move went perfectly. They were efficient and worked hard. It could not have been a better experience (and I have moved house almost 50 times over the years!)”

R. Preston, 2025

“The boys were marvellous. Couldn’t fault them!”

T. and L. True, 2025

Members of the Lions Club.

Whitianga Skate School returns with Muster Day

Free community event brings skateboarding back to Whitianga.

BY SEAN REILLY

The Whitianga Skate School is rolling back into action this spring, with a special muster day planned for 10.00 am, 20 September at the Whitianga Skatepark (weather permitting).

The Skate School caters to children aged five and up, from complete beginners to advanced skaters. Sessions include girlsonly groups as well as mixed-age groups, giving every child a space to grow at their own pace.

More than just skateboarding skills, the programme is designed to build resilience, confidence, and an “I can do it” mindset. Skateboarding can be challenging at first, but with guidance and encouragement, tamariki quickly gain the skills they need to ride the local skatepark independently and with confidence.

To support newcomers, the Skate School provides skateboards and helmets for those who are keen to give it a try. Every day, children are also treated to afternoon tea kindly provided by the local Woolworths supermarket.

The Muster Day on September

20 will be an excellent opportunity to meet and greet, enjoy some food, and try out the ramps. Sean will be offering free lessons and advice for all interested, making it the perfect opportunity to try skateboarding in a safe, supportive environment.

Regular lessons run after school from Monday to Thursday:

• Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays: 3.30–4.30 pm and 4.30–5.30 pm.

• Wednesdays: 2.30–3.30 pm, plus the two usual afternoon ses-

sions.

Looking ahead, I am excited to reintroduce Skate School sessions for the homeschool community on Fridays, with two to three classes planned, depending on demand.

“With a bit of help, kids can achieve amazing things,” says Sean. “I love seeing them push through challenges, support each other, and gain the confidence to ride on their own.”

For more information or to register for lessons, call 022 164

0015 or find Whitianga Skate School on Facebook or Instagram (@whitianga.skate.school).

Whitianga Skate School operates under the umbrella of The Guided Journey Charitable Trust.

„ Editor’s Note: Skate School founder Sean Reilly has previously run the programme for over two years before taking time away with his wife and family to reflect and enjoy exploring other parts of Aotearoa with his whānau. Now, Sean has returned and is excited to relaunch the programme in

the community he calls home. The Mercury Bay community is very pleased to have sean and his family back. His skills and care for children and their families have been greatly missed in Whitianga’s town centre.

Sean holds a degree in teaching and has over ten years of experience working with children of all abilities and backgrounds. His passion for mentoring young people and his love for skateboarding make the Skate School a unique opportunity for the community.

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Pauanui-Tairua Community Board candidates

Three occasions to meet the candidates representing SouthEast General Ward for Council and for Community Board:

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

2. Saturday, 6 September 1:453:45pm Tairua Hall, Tairua

3. Saturday, 27 September, 10:00am. Whangamata Club, 404 Port Road, Whangamatā.

PAUANUI/TAIRUA

SOUTH-EAST GENERAL

WARD CANDIDATES FOR COMMUNITY BOARD (4 seats, 5 candidates)

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

GEORGINA BOND

Pāuanui has always had my heart

– from childhood summers at our family bach to making it my permanent home eight years ago. This community has shaped my life, and now I want to give back.

I’m standing for the TairuaPāuanui Community Board to help ensure our communities have a strong voice and to champion what we value.

I began my journalism career covering council meetings and local issues, which instilled a lasting respect for strong local representation. I have 20 years’ experience in media and corpo-

rate communications with large corporates, public relations agencies and the Thames-Coromandel District Council, developing expertise in communication and stakeholder engagement.

I’ve co-founded the Pāuanui Half Marathon, helped deliver Pāuanui Summer Festival events, and serve on the volunteer committees for the Pauanui Surf Life Saving Club, Pāuanui Preschool and the Pāuanui Club.

My ties reach Tairua and Hikuai through kids’ sport, recreation and community groups. We are fortunate to live in one of the most special parts of New Zealand and I’m committed to being a fair, dedicated voice on the board and working together to shape our future.

I’d be honoured to represent you.

WARWICK BROOKS

I have decided to stand again for the Tairua Pauanui Community Board not to make grand promises, but to continue serving with integrity and practicality.

I believe in steady honest representation that puts service before promises- not to chase headlines but to the best of my ability to get things done. My approach is simple, to listen carefully, speak plainly and act responsibly. I’m not here to stand on a soap box and offer flashy promises that cannot be delivered.

For several terms Community Boards have seen a gradual decline in both value and effec-

tiveness in their representation to Council on behalf of our communities. They provide the link between the grassroots people of our communities to council, something that has been eroded over time. However, I note that some of the Mayoral candidates are advocating for greater power for our Community Boards, so I remain optimistic and offer an ongoing commitment practical thinking and a genuine respect for our communities voices.

If re-elected, I’ll continue to represent you with integrity and honesty maintaining the character and environment we all value and keep advocating for what makes Tairua and Pauanui strong, ensuring transparent decision making. E-mail: w.brooks@xtra.co.nz.

MICHAEL BUSH

I’m an engineer & resident boat builder, Coastguard volunteer, and proud Pauanui local. I’ve called this place home since my school days at Hikuai, and I care deeply about the future of our shared communities - Pauanui, Hikuai and Tairua – the harbour, the beaches, the valley and the people who call this paradise home.

I’m putting my hand up for the Community Board because I think we need someone who listens and isn’t afraid to speak up. I’ll work to ensure our rates deliver the quality of services and facilities we expect, I will talk to our residents to identify and support local projects people actually want, and I will guard against wasteful spending.

Of particular importance is the Tairua River Trail, keeping our harbour safe and navigable, improving boat parking in Tairua, maintaining Hopper’s vision for Pauanui, and pushing for better council maintenance across the area.

If elected, I will actively advocate to ensure our new Mayor and Councillors empower community boards with a stronger, more meaningful role in shaping both the annual and long-term planning for our ward. Our communities deserve to be heard, respected, and genuinely involved in the decisions that shape their future.

Georgina Bond.

Warwick Brooks.

Michael Bush.

Pauanui-Tairua Community Board candidates cont.

My name is Chris New. With my wife and children, I moved to Tairua in 1981 and have proudly called this community home for over four decades.

Together we ran a successful Plumbing & Drainage business before retiring three years ago I have served as a Volunteer Firefighter for 44 years including 23 years as Chief Fire Officer. I have also completed three terms on the Tairua-Pauanui Community Board. I remain deeply committed to our area and its people. My top priorities are keeping rates affordable, ensuring the council operates efficiently, and managing upcoming infrastructure costs wisely. It troubles me when I see Council Contractors abusing the system

as some have in the past. The cost of our solid Waste Disposal is out of hand, I am amazed at how little say the community board has in the decisions made in our area. Not having our own councillor sitting at the big table in Thames is a definite disadvantage. I urge everyone who is eligible to vote in our local body elections and make your vote count. Local support helps to continue delivering practical results and strong stewardship for our community.

BARRY ROBERTS

I retired from teaching in 2016 after a 38-year career, 30 as a principal of various schools.. My wife and I bought Blue Water Motel in 2016 which we owned and ran successfully until its sale

in 2022. Currently I have a small part time business doing handyman work and a few lawns. I have an academic, business and practical background. Sue and I have lived in many communities large and small over my lifetime and we chose Tairua as the place we wanted to stay. Tairua and Pauanui have the sea on their doorstep and the river and mountains at their back door, making them ideally placed for a myriad of outdoor activities..

I have served on committees in all the communities that I have lived in, most recently with the Information Centre and Business Association here in Tairua. As a sitting Community Board member I want the chance to serve another 3 years and to strive to make more traction on community issues.

I have the knowledge and skills to either be an effective member or a leader of successful organisations and groups. My previous experience includes working on small to national level events in organising and governance roles. Phone: 027 227 6236.

MICHAEL BARLOW – MĀORI WARD CANDIDATE

Ko wai au? He uri tēnei nō Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Hikairo, me Ngā Puhi. Ko Michael Barlow ahau. Tihei Mauri Ora!

I’m honoured to represent our whānau and communities in the Te Tara o Te Ika Māori Ward. As a proud descendant of Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Hikairo, and Ngā Puhi, I bring deep roots, lived experience, and a strong commitment to community-led governance.

With over two decades in frontline operations and leadership across Kura, Kōhanga Reo, and not-for-profits, I’m focused on practical service and building strong relationships. In this inaugural term, I’ll work in partnership with iwi, hapū, and local organisations to ensure tikanga, priorities, and aspirations are reflected in council decisions. I have a passion for community and believe in the power of people coming together to create lasting change. Together, we can build a future that honours our past, embraces innovation, and strengthens the connectedness across generations.

OTHER CANDIDATE MEETINGS

THAMES

Sunday, 14 September, 2:00-5:00pm at Te Kura Tuarua o Te Kauaeranga, Thames High School auditorium. The event is hosted by The Basket Hauraki, Te Whāriki Manawāhine o Hauraki, and Transition Town Thames.

COROMANDEL TOWN CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR, COUNCILLORS AND COMMUNITY BOARD MEMBERS

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

TARARU VILLAGE, THAMES

Friday, 3 October, 10:00am. Community Centre, Tararu Village, 109 Wilson Street, Thames.

MAORI WARD REFERENDUM PANEL

Saturday, 6 September, 11:00am-1:00pm, St George Anglican Church Parish Hall, 602 Mackay Street, Thames. A facilitated panel of three speakers.

COROMANDEL COLVILLE WARD CANDIDATES WILL BE PRESENTED IN THE INFORMER NEXT ISSUE

CHRIS NEW

Chris New. Barry Roberts.

Whangamatā Community Board candidates South-East Ward Council candidates

WHANGAMATĀ WARD CANDIDATES FOR COMMUNITY BOARD

(4 seats, 6 candidates)

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

MARK DRURY

I am seeking re-election to the Community Board, but I’m also seeking election as a Councillor in the South-Eastern War.d

Please see Mark’s photo and statement on the right.

NEIL EVANS

I am a current Board Member. At the moment the Board’s main function is simply a Community Grants Committee to distribute $90,000 a year to Whangamata Community Groups. This is not the intention of a Community Board under the Local Government Act.

I’m also seeking election as a Councillor in the South-Eastern War.d

Please see Neil’s photo and statement on to the right.

GRAEME SMITH

Whangamatā has been our home for the past eight years. A welcome retreat after years in business.

I’ve been part of the Whangamatā Arts Collective for seven years, proudly watching it grow. Art connects a community. I’m a trustee of Creative Coromandel, the governing body for art events throughout our region. A rewarding six years on the Whangamatā Swimming Pool Committee allowed me to participate in the significant renovation and upgrade of our community pool. I enjoy supporting the Whangamatā Theatre Society. Their innovative productions clearly uplift people’s spirits.

I actively support the Whangamatā Community Marae and Wellbeing Hub initiative. Assisting to operate the Whangamatā Information Centre over the last four years was a real pleasure. Along with welcoming visitors, we had the opportunity to understand the wants and needs of our community. There’s always lots of work to do and I’d like to be part of that equation.

Phone: 027 497 4825.

SALLY SMITH

I’m standing for the Community Board because I believe in getting things done.

My positive attitude and strong communication skills, combined with a proven track record of following through on commitments, make me an effective advocate for our community.

My work with Enterprise Whangamata has connected me with

hard-working local business owners and dedicated volunteer groups throughout our town. These relationships have deepened my understanding of what our community needs to thrive.

I want to help shape Whangamata’s future – ensuring development is balanced and fair while protecting the special character that makes this place paradise.

I’ll bring practical solutions and a collaborative approach to every decision.

Ready to work hard for Whangamata’s future.

Call me for a chat on 022 151 0245.

TERRY WALKER

After three years on the Community Board and nine years as a Councillor for the South East Ward, including Deputy Mayor, I’m standing again to represent the Whangamatā, Onemana, and Ōpoutere communities.

My passion lies in serving the place I live in. I bring experience in process, project, and people management, with a strong focus on core infrastructure, community facilities, and supporting local clubs and initiatives. I understand the legislative changes ahead and how they will shape council priorities.

I’ve lobbied Council for key projects including the Community pool, Portable water modernisation, Public toilet upgrades, Stormwater improvements, and the Nib-kerb road programme. I’ve supported

Moana House, Harbour and Beach care, and securing land for a future Community Marae/Hub.

I’ve gained valuable knowledge to continue this work. It’s important we don’t lose momentum on projects already in the pipeline. I’ll bring genuine effort and commitment for the benefit of our community.

HEATHER WATT

I’ve lived and worked in this region for twelve years and care deeply about the people, places, and future of our community. I’m a New Zealand Registered Nurse with a Master’s degree in Adult Education, with over thirty years experience in the Health and Tertiary sectors. My work has centred on creating opportunities for young people and adults from diverse backgrounds. I’m currently a trustee on the Creative Coromandel/He Mana Toi Moehau Trust, where I advocate for the arts as a vital part of community life and identity.

I’m passionate about community development - supporting local initiatives, strengthening wellbeing, and helping ensure everyone has a voice, especially those who may not usually be heard. I believe in working collaboratively to build vibrant, inclusive communities that look to the future while respecting our unique local identity. I bring energy, experience, and belief in the power of people working together.

SOUTH-EASTERN WARD

COUNCILLOR (2 seats available, 6 candidates)

Covering Tairua, Pauanui, Onemana, Oputere, Hikuai, Whangamata.

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

DENIS BEAVER

The ward needs real leadership, not feel-good fluff. After three years as Deputy Chair of the Community Board, I’ve seen first-hand how weak decision-making and woke agendas have replaced common sense. It’s time to stop the waste, stop the spin, and get back to basics. Fix the roads. Collect the rubbish. Spend our money where it matters.

I’ve run businesses for over 25 years and worked with Beach Hop, the Business Association, and Community Patrol. I know how to make things happen.

I’m standing for Council because the Southeastern Ward deserves a voice that’s actually heard in Thames, not ignored. No more silent nodding or rubber-stamping. Our communities need action, not more reports and talkfests.

I’ll fight for ratepayers, push back on wasteful spending, and make sure the people - not the loud minority - are heard.

If you’re tired of the rubbish, I’m your guy.

MARK DRURY

I have learnt a lot about how Council works over the last three years being on the Whangamatā Community Board. I live in Whangamatā with my wife Sue. My career has been as a civil engineer and before retirement, I was the Chief Executive of the NZ entity of one of the largest global engi-

neering and environmental consultancies at that time.

I would like to have a role in ensuring that future generations have the same opportunity as I have to enjoy the natural and built environment here. With climate change and an increasing and hugely variable population, our communities have many challenges. We can’t afford everything that we want or need - so we have to prioritise, listening to and working with the wider community.

I believe that I can contribute to positive outcomes with my broad engineering and environmental experience combined with leadership and management skills.

NEIL EVANS

I am standing for Council because I believe the Council needs people who will question and challenge the status quo. Annual rate rises are simply unacceptable.

I have gained experience on the Whangamata Community Board over the last 3 years. It has often been an exercise in futility, particularly at times when Council disregards Community Board decisions. I will work to see Community Boards empowered to advocate effectively for local community issues.

I have knowledge of how local government works. I believe I can lead with honesty, transparency, and accountability and stand firm according to my values even under pressure.

As a lawyer I have significant experience as a mediator, particularly for non-profit organisations. Fighting for the issues rather than fighting people is important and I can do this. Ph: 021 035 223. E-mail: neilevansauthor@gmail.com.

Terry Walker.

Heather Watt.

Denis Beaver.

Mark Drury.

Graeme Smith. Sally Smith.

JOHN FREER

My objective is to be an effective representative on Council and Community Boards for Tairua, Pauanui, Hikuai, Opotuere, Onemana and Whangamata, encompassing reasoned, experienced representation on district policies and decisions.

I will advocate people are the heart of my “Communities Matter” strategy, with planned action on critical issues – community wellbeing, water, roads, rubbish – ensuring engagement determining priorities. We must move forward, the current model must change, relieving cost pressure on ratepayers, those living, working and doing business within the district.

I bring local knowledge and a wide skill set to this public role - a permanent resident, been a member of a residents association, a Trustee of the Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust, Whangamata Community Patrol, Whangamata Golf Club and Whangamata RSA member.

Senior roles with Independent Newspapers Limited and News Limited, Air New Zealand, and in sport in New Zealand – provide the experience and knowledge to appropriately govern Council.

Phone: 027 483 9426. E-mail: johnfreer07@gmail.com

KURT JARRETT

As a Tairua resident of four years with my family, we have settled and are enjoying making this home. Previously I’ve served on

school boards for a large high school, and sizeable primary, leading policy creation, finance portfolios, and working on longterm planning.

As an active member and brigade secretary of the Tairua Volunteer Fire Brigade and member of the Tairua Pauanui Sports Fishing Club, I enjoy the community spirit of our towns and understand their local needs.

My career as an IT contractor in hospitality has given me first hand insight into the challenges facing our peninsula’s businesses. I will champion transparency with council expenditure, reviewing budgets with rigor, and ensuring fair assignment of ratepayer funds, supporting local businesses to build a thriving and sustainable future. I’m committed to representing the coast’s voice,

Tairua, Pauanui, Whangamata and the smaller settlements in the South-Eastern Ward.

ALISON SMITH

I’ve lived in Tairua 23 years, raised three kids - two attended Whangamata Area School - and was editor of the local newspaper HC Post for four years.

I helped get Tairua skatepark built and championed many community causes, winning a national journalism award for advocating protection of pink maomao fish.

I stand for transparent, community-driven decision making, delivering value for ratepayers - most of whom juggle unsustainable costs. As a lifelong surfer, volunteer and recent spearfisher, I understand the importance of our precious coastline to locals and bach owners alike.

I work part-time in environmental impact and seaweed restoration, bring 30 years’ local government experience across reporting, advocacy and engagement.

I’m strategic. I listen, and I communicate with respect. We need leadership that navigates differences without losing sight of our shared values. I love this place and I’ll work hard to preserve what makes it special while planning for what’s ahead.

Last week we accidently called Holly McKenzie, Cole McDowell. Holly is a candidate for the Thames Community Board. Her statement is in last week’s issue.

Neil Evans. John Freer.

Kurt Jarrett. Alison Smith.

TCDC set to fail final transparency test

BY GEOFFREY ROBINSON

Current TCDC councillors are set to close out their terms leading one of the least transparent local government bodies in New Zealand, as they stubbornly continue to conduct public-excluded “workshops” on major issues behind closed doors, out of public view, and without full public record of the proceedings.

At their final pre-Election Day meeting on 16 September, Council will consider a motion by Deputy Mayor Terry Walker on the topic of TCDC’s ongoing transparency deficiency. But Walker’s proposal seeks only to reaffirm the well-intentioned, but weak, current practice by council staff to post bare-bone “notes” after public-excluded meetings are concluded. The proposal does nothing to actually address clear guidelines for open meetings, transparency, and accountability in local government.

Any efforts to reform TCDC’s lack of transparency will now fall to the next Council and mayoralty, with the possibility of new faces around the meetings table and a commitment to changing a culture of secrecy in Thames that is out of step with councils large and small.

While no final resolutions are officially made in “workshops”, the regular hours-long meetings routinely address in detail most of the major subject areas dealt with by Council. Agendas include annual plans and budgets, district plan, rates review scenarios, district spatial plan, three waters options, community leases, and other topics of broad public interest. Detailed information and guidance are provided by outside experts and public officials. Opinions are shared, debate ensues, strategy is developed, and preliminary direction is given to staff - all behind closed doors. By steering staff in their development of proposals for eventual formal consideration, decisions are in fact being made.

Public-excluded “workshops” and briefings, like those held at TCDC, are a transparency loophole previously exploited by many councils. The practice prompted numerous complaints

to the Office of the Ombudsman, resulting in a comprehensive report released in October 2023. The chief ombudsman recommended that councils adopt a principle of openness-by-default for all “workshops” and briefings, with advance public notice, full agendas, public attendance, and a range of options for effective record-keeping and/or recording. Transparency supports accountability, encourages high performance, and increases public confidence in council leadership, the ombudsman noted.

In response to the ombudsman’s recommendations, councils across New Zealand acted quickly to either adopt new workshop policies to increase transparency, or reaffirm existing practices for openness. Within months, the long list of district councils proud of their open workshops spanned from Clutha and Timaru up to Matamata-Piako and Taupo. Regional councils from Horizons (Whanganui) to Bay of Plenty and Waikato all noted workshops being open to the public by default.

Much like at other councils, senior TCDC governance staff pre-

sented two options at Council’s June 2024 meeting to address the ombudsman’s recommendations for “workshop” reform. But with the Mayor and one other Councillor absent, those options for openness and transparency were outright rejected by Mercury Bay Crs Deli Connell, John Grant, and Rekha Giri-Percival, along with Coromandel-Colville Cr John Morrissey. The four Councillors, a 4-3 majority, voted instead to “do nothing”, retain “the status quo”, and to carry on with closed, public-excluded workshops.

Options for openness and transparency were outright rejected by Mercury Bay Crs Deli Connell, John Grant, and Rekha Giri-Percival, along with Coromandel-Colville Cr John Morrissey.

Comments made by Councillors before the vote would trouble anyone interested in public service accountability and good government. Cr Morrissey cited “the value of full and frank” discussions out of the public view and the benefit of “not worrying about what is said”. Open work-

shops would be “a noose around our necks,” he added. Cr Robyn Sinclair, who abstained, suggested Councillors “need a safe space to have difficult conversations …without a lot of scrutiny.”

Cr Grant went so far as to suggest it was “healthy” to “not be on the record.” Mayor Len Salt later stated he supported the secrecy vote he had missed.

Auckland changed policy in favour of open workshops on the same day TCDC rejected it.

Local boards including Franklin, Manurewa, Howick, Papakura and others followed suit. TCDC today maintains the dubious distinction of (lack of) transparency outlier.

It makes little difference whether Councillors vote to formally endorse the current sanitised “workshop” reporting at their September 16 meeting. Without decisive resolutions, “workshops” will continue to be closed to the public with no detailed record of what went on.

According to “workshop notes” of a March 27 meeting on water services delivery, “Council received a comparison of various options and their associated

financial benefits.” Exactly what those options and benefits might be remains under wraps.

Unlike normal meeting minutes, the posted “workshop notes” include what was said, but not who said it. The “notes” routinely state “It was noted” and “It was said” – but not who noted or said it.

Now that current Council members and the Mayor appear to have abdicated responsibility on openness and transparency, attention will turn to the newly elected leadership in the next term. TCDC already video records all hearings and all official Council, community board, and committee meetings and makes those recordings available online. This is an easy, efficient, and low-cost process and can become routine for all Council “workshops” as well -- if the will is there.

Voters in the current local body elections can play their part too.

The Chief Ombudsman’s full “Open for Business” report is at https://www.ombudsman. parliament.nz/resources/openbusiness-report-chief-ombudsmans-investigation-local-councilmeetings-and-workshops.

Screen shot of the TCDC full council meeting where Transparency was declined – November 2024.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

WHERE ARE THE BOATS AT KOPU WHARF?

Every time I drive over the Kopu bridge I look north at the commercial wharf.

This was a regional investment. It was to be a commercial success and self-funding. What a joke. I have only seen one small vessel tied up in all the time since it was installed costing someone (taxpayers and probably ratepayers) millions.

Anybody involved in promoting, supporting, approving or anything else connected with this financial disaster must not be allowed on any Community Board or as a TCDC Councillor. And especially not as Mayor.

Pete Bould, Whitianga RESPONSE TO DENNIS TEGG RE ”THE SKY IS FALLING’’

Denis Tegg has a short memory. He conveniently forgets how Labour’s misguided Three Waters plan was so soundly rejected by voters at the last election.

It was a pie in the sky misguided scheme that would have seen local ratepayer funded water infrastructure assets acquired by compulsion and placed into a handful of co-governed mega water entities.

The current government’s Local Water Done Well plan keeps decision making and asset ownership in local hands. Decisions will continue to be made by locally elected council representatives. Yes, in my view a co-operative arrangement between ThamesCoromandel, Western Bay of Plenty and Tauranga councils would have been a good outcome for ratepayers in each area.

The decision by Western Bays not to support the plan is, I think, unfortunate, but it doesn’t mean that Mr Tegg’s ‘the sky is falling’ narrative has any validity at all. Ultimately the shape and form of Local Water Done Well initiatives will be decided by locally elected representatives and that’s how it should be.

Scott Simpson, National MP TO THE COROMANDEL COMMUNITY,

I want to express my deepest thanks for all you have given to Daffodil Day, with particular thanks to our local volunteers and area coordinators.

While it may be our biggest fundraising event of the year, Daffodil Day carries special meaning and to many of us it is about connection, compassion, and hope.

The daffodil continues to stand as a figurehead for the 1 in 3 New Zealanders who will face a cancer diagnosis. When we come together each August, we are reminding those on the journey that they are seen, supported, and surrounded by a community determined to make a difference. It was truly an honour to witness so much of our region painted yellow.

Over the past year, we have:

• accommodated 2,696 guests at the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge

• contributed $252,583 to cancer research

• driven 104,657km taking our clients to their cancer treatment

• provided 19,289 direct client

„ The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to enable members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest/concern. Please keep them to 200 words or less. These letters do not reflect the editor’s view. The editor reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.

services

These figures reflect the scale of the need - and the importance of your role in helping us meet it. As cancer rates rise, our resolve to be here for every person who hears “you have cancer” only grows stronger.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to every donor, volunteer, business, school, community group and staff member who contributed to Daffodil Day this year. Together, we are not just tackling cancer. We are building a future where no one faces cancer alone, and where hope grows stronger with every year.

I hope we’ll see you again for Daffodil Day 2026.

Ngā mihi nui.

Helen Carter, Chief Executive, Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty

DOG ATTACKS AND THE ROLE OF COUNCIL

Tairua has now made it to the national news with an interesting article on dog attacks. It seems strange that a person is allowed to keep dangerous dogs that are unregistered.

That these dogs have caused bodily harm and could have killed the victim is dreadful.

The continued inaction of the TCDC regarding taking dog attack seriously, begs the question, what are our paid staff doing? Unregistered dogs should be immediately impounded.

Wandering dogs should also be impounded.

I have little doubt that when a local is killed, the TCDC will make all manner of excuses, but still manage to avoid action.

We pay substantial rates. What do we get for our money? Not even chocolate biscuits!

Neville Cameron, Coromandel.

ONE MAN, ONE VOTE

In response to Mr Rasmussen’s article last week about Maori Wards not being democratic. He stated:

“One person, one vote and equal vote weight – a foundational demographic principle... Each vote must have relatively equal voter parity.”

I fully agree – ONE MAN, ONE VOTE!

So how come he failed to mention or even address the unfair multiple votes allowed to non-resident ratepayers?

Why should someone who pays rates on a holiday home, rental property, shop, commercial or

industrial business, trust, society or club have multiple voting right in local council elections?

Where’s the democracy in that?

Voter parity – I don’t think so!

One could argue that wealth, multiple property owners get an unfair advantage.

No wonder our town sounds like just another suburb, with it’s far right, racist rhetoric!

Deborah Phillips, Whitianga

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT NOT KEEPING PACE

The opinion piece by Ben Grubb was both disappointing and misleading. By framing industry as an “eyesore,” you ignore the reality that Whitianga has grown beyond what retail and tourism alone can support. This town has become the hub of the Coromandel Peninsula, yet we are left with a massive shortage of commercial property – a problem your paper should be helping highlight, not burying under fear of “ugliness.”

There are already a number of well-established local companies struggling to find suitable commercial premises to run their businesses from. The supply of commercial property in Whitianga has been tight for some time, and landlords know it. Rental pricing reflects this pressure, sitting well above normal market levels. This is not a one-off situation but an ongoing trend: when demand far outweighs supply, rents rise, and businesses are left paying unsustainable premiums that hold back growth, job creation, and the long-term balance of our economy.

The choice of image – cars parked outside a long-standing local garage – was particularly troubling. That business has been part of Whitianga for decades, serving locals and visitors alike. To present their yard as if it represents the problem risks unfairly damaging their reputation and livelihood. Industry is not the enemy here.

We are also very aware of how hospitality, retail, and tourism have struggled in recent years, and more recently even our tradies have felt the pinch from the economic slowdown. The winter struggles are real for most local businesses. More employment –which comes from industrial and commercial growth - would help soften these blows. More full-time jobs mean more families, more stability, and ultimately more population to support all of our local businesses. Remember: you

must have a community before you can have a business.

The real failure has been that infrastructure and commercial development outside of residential housing have not kept pace or been prioritised as they should have been. Too often, Council has listened to the wrong people and blocked common-sense development from going ahead. Instead of demonising industry, the focus should be on Council delivering a clear vision: where growth happens, how it looks, and how it benefits locals.

The truth is, without commercial expansion, we cannot create sustainable jobs. Families need more than seasonal tourism work. Young people need a reason to stay. Businesses like mine want to invest in Whitianga, but we need the Council – and our local media – to support growth, not undermine it.

Rick Burgess, WhitiangaMercury Bay Hi-Ab Services Limited

WHITIANGA SPORTSGOUND BACKGROUND

In 2000 a large development company, Hopper’s, brought into Whitianga a waterway’s concept to promote a new process in the development of the area. It was truly innovative as the town of Whitianga and it’s environs was built on a flood plain. To achieve this the Hopper’s purchased two farms, which was then about half the total area of Whitianga.

In this area, Hopper’s introduced a canal system that equals in their planning some of the great countries in the world, United Kingdom, France and the Netherlands. The development continued through the 2000’s despite many criticisms from the Greenies, protestors and people who felt that Whitianga was changing from a small coastal town to a rich man’s destination. What a load of rubbish this was and the positive people of our town encompassed the development with enthusiasm. Two aspects of the plan were to include a medical facility and sportsground that would service a population of over 20,000 people. What a challenge!! These two aspects were to be zoned and prepared by Hopper’s and then taken over by Council to complete the projects. Council from there would appoint two groups to facilitate the process . They also put a charge on ratepayers to assist the funding of the scheme which ended up as ‘money down

the drain’. Luckily the Medical Facility was resolved and taken over by private investors.

After much deliberation, I have come up with a thought that would bring an outcome for the Whitianga Sportsground without jeopardising the Council’s ownership of the land:

1. Set up a committee to lease the land from Council with a Trust Board to complete the project 2. This would be similar to the Te Awamutu sporting complex who financed their operation with donations and grants

There are many of these concepts throughout the country that do not compound on the ratepayers, in other words ‘User Pays” 3. I believe that to set up the Trust would have to include:

a) Chairperson of Mercury Bay Community Board

b) Chairperson of Combined Ratepayers Group

c) Councillor from Mercury Bay Ward

d) Financial advisor

e) Two prominent residents of Mercury Bay

f) The President and Secretary chosen from the above

This report is only my suggestion on resolving a situation that has gone on for many years. We must act now or lose it completely!

Noel S. Hewlett, T.C.D.C Councillor 1998/2010

ONE-HOUR SHOWERS OR INSTALL YOUR OWN METER

Addressing MM’s concerns (26/8 Issue The Informer) about excess water charges for non-metered users, I imagine the experts realized that non-metered users would of course take one-hour showers and leave the sprinkler running 24/7/365 days a year rather than saving it like those of us who are metered. The result; they charged them more. A bit like an ‘all you can eat’ restaurant. They charge more, to allow for those who don’t know when to stop eating.

The main difference is that homeowners can’t easily move to somewhere with a meter. If council can’t afford to pay to install the 9000 meters they have in the cupboard (and they can’t), let the homeowners pick one up and install it themselves. If you have a water tap where the mains enters your property, how hard can it be to fit a meter next to it. You’ll probably save the cost with your first water bill.

Martin Spinks, Thames

An empty Kopu wharf, photo taken mid-week recently. Right: The grand opening celebrating a bright and busy future for the Kopu Wharf. From left: Winston Peters, Shane Jones, Mayor Len Salt, Stacey Costello.

The Nukes – two concerts and a workshop

• The Nukes to perform free launch concert at St George’s Church, Thames, Friday 5 September 12:15pm, and…

• A full feature 2-hour show at Whitianga’s Monkey House Theatre, 7:30 pm Saturday, 6 September.

The Nukes are a fantastic, unique band. They have toured NZ and Australia extensively. They performed at WOMAD NZ, Auckland & Canter-

bury Folk Festivals, Hamilton Garden Festival, New Plymouth Festival of Light, Wanaka Festival of Colour, Coastella, Southland Festival of Arts, Taranaki Festival of the Arts, Hawkes Bay Arts Festival, Bluff Oyster Festival, Erupt Festival Taupo, and more….

UKELELE WORKSHOP

‘The Nukes’ will run a special Ukulele workshop at the Monkey House

Whitianga in the afternoon before their evening gig, at 3:00pm – 90 minutes, including a refreshment break. The workshop is informative and interactive, suitable for all abilities, from children of all ages (8 to 88 years old). Ready to answer any of your musical questions. Expect to have fun and to take a bunch of songs away with you.

„ For all info and booking, www.thenukes.co.nz/gigs.

“The Tuesdays” to rev-up Kauaeranga Hall

Woven from very diverse threads, The Tuesdays are a band that by the sum of its parts produces a wonderfully unique sound.

Nick Tidmarsh, Greg Hampton (guitar) and Jeff Whitfield (drums) are the foundation of The Tuesdays and have created a new direction and new sound, and encompassed new band members.

Robyn Forster was in town, with her absolutely stunning voice and charismatic mastery of the stage has teamed up with The Tuesdays.

Seated: Anna Dunwoodie, Robyn Forster, Greg Hampton. Back Row: Jeff Whitfield, Nick Tidmarsh, Kevin Place.

Anna Dunwoodie is an internationally acclaimed harpist, who loves the idea of the heavenly instrument

being applied to the dark and murky art of rock’n’roll with The Tuesdays. Kevin Place came to the band earlier this year with a strong musical pedigree and all-round coolness, immediately raising the bar with his deft offerings on both guitar and slide. The Tuesdays on Friday 19 September @ 7:30pm. Kauaeranga Hall, 437 Kauaeranga Valley Rd, Thames.

Tickets: Door sales $28, Pre-paid $25, txt 021 912 993 or kauaerangahall music@gmail.com or Garden Music, 712 Pollen St, Thames.

Wahi Tukurua – Mercury Bay Resource Recovery Centre

See ad on page 18 for opening of Wahi Tukurua – the new Mercury Bay Resource Recovery Centre on Saturday, 6 September.

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

expressed (esp. in letters) are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher and can be cut if too long.

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TRADES & SERVICES

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CLASSIFIEDS

Protecting native species from introduced predators in Moehau

The Department of Conservation (DOC) in Whitianga is going to control stoats, rats, and possums over 4,6274ha of the forest on Moehau. This is scheduled for clear weather between July and November 2025 (weather depending).

Native wildlife and forests need protection

Native species are fighting for survival due to predation from rats, stoats and possums. Without protection, we risk losing the unique natural heritage and biodiversity within the Moehau conservation area.

Native species living in the forest include Coromandel striped gecko, Coromandel kiwi and Archey’s frog, North Island robin/Toutouwai, kākā and kererū.

Our plan to protect native species

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

The safest and most effective method we have to control possums, rats and stoats over large areas is to use biodegradable cereal bait pellets containing 1080. This bait targets rodents and possums. Stoats are also controlled through secondary poisoning as they feed on the carcasses of the dead rodents. Helicopters distribute bait pellets across the forest area along pre-determined and monitored flight paths using technology that enables accurate placement. This is the only viable method to control predators in Moehau due to the vast and rugged terrain.

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

Consultation and permissions

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

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

Managing risk

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

SPORTS

MERCURY BAY FOOTBALL

Mercury Bay Area School

Senior Boys (Mixed) V Cambridge High School

Score MBAS 6 – CHS 3

We hosted Cambridge High School Invincibles on Saturday. The Invincibles are an all Year 13 team. After exchanging goals regularly, we led 4-3 at halftime. We then used their superior speed and fitness to win 6-3. There were

strong efforts all round by Elijah Bianchi, Samantha Chamberlain and Shanti Wilson. Goal scorers were Joel Iggulden (2), Lui Yamada, Justus Gessler, Ben Collins and Noah Palmer. With one game left, we are second on the points table on goal difference, needing a win and another result to go our way to win our division.

Junior Mixed Team

Saturday saw our Junior team

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

If you suspect poisoning, please contact:

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

- Seek veterinary advice for suspected poisoning of domestic animals.

For more information

Please contact: Operational planner, Department of Conservation, Whitianga office, PO Box 276, Whitianga 3542, phone 0800 362 468.

OR EcoFX, Aerial Operations Manager, phone 07 873 8130.

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

Map of predator control area within Moehau

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

go down 2:1 away to Hamilton Bronze. This week was our team's turn to succumb to a combo of travel, illness and injury, up against a Hamilton side that seemed unusually well equipped. There was a silver lining however, as thanks to a heroic battle led by our player of the day goalkeeper Alfie Harris, we head into the final game of the season with a chance to still win the league.

Crazy results elsewhere aside, it should be decided in our final home game against Thames, with Mercury Bay needing to beat their rivals to knock Thames off the top. See you all at the Sports Park this Saturday for a 10am kick off. Junior Mixed need to win their final game

The 8th Grade team played their last games for the season on Saturday, 30 August at our Junior

Festival in Thames. The weather was fine but the grounds were muddy from the previous day's rain and the kids had fun sliding around. The festivals are a great day where we get to play 30th of August, here we go again! Players of the Day were Lex Battaerd and Wallace Roberts. Both of these boys had fantastic games. Our photo today is of the team and our supporters.

Mercury Bay Area School Senior Boys.

Junior Mixed Team.

Zen Charles working hard on attack.

NZ manufactured aluminium windows and doors since 1990:

Cooks Beach Indoor Bowls Celebration Lunch

The Cooks Beach Indoor Bowls Club had a celebration lunch where winners of their categories were presented with their respective cups.

Also celebrated at the luncheon was member Joan Phillips 90th birthday. She was presented with a lovely bouquet of flowers.

The club has been playing their weekly bowls in a member’s garage whilst the Cooks Beach Community Hall undergoes renovations.

Open Day at Mercury Bay Bowling & Sports Club Inc

- New builds & renovations

- Replacement joinery in existing homes

- Aluminium & glass balustrades

Saturday, 30 August was Opening Day of the 20252026 season. Despite a downpour, the new carpet proved it can take it and stand up as a world class

07 869 5990 | nzwindows.co.nz

1 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga (Mon-Fri,

surface. Patron, Pam Phillips, bowled the jack and first bowl.

The Mercury Bay Bowls Club invites anyone interested in having a go to

contact the friendly club, we have bowls available as well.

See the Teach a Kid to Bowl invitation being sponsored by Harcourts.

Festive Rugby League atmosphere at Moewai Sports Park

It was a carnival atmosphere on Saturday at Moewai Road Multi Sport Park. Rugby League teams from around the peninsula and Waikato came to together to play in the regional league competition.

It works like this. Each town centre takes a turn at hosting all the teams and each team is allocated a time and field where they play their Rugby league

opponent for that day. It was Whitianga’s turn to host the games.

Mercury Bay League teams are called The Boars with a number of age levels under the that name. There were teams from Matamata, Putaruru, Manaia, Ngatea, Whangamata, Thames, and Tairua. Next week everyone meets in Tairua. Whangamata had hosted the 400-500 players the previous week.

Left to right back row: Brian Hill, Keith Wright, Phil Costello. Front Row: Judy Leabourn, Coral Strong, Colleen Hunt. Absent: Garry Oppert.

Joan Phillips, 90 years, a loyal member of Cooks Beach Indoor Bowls Club .

Patron Pam Phillips bowls the jack and first bowl on Open Day.

1. Matamata United Sports Legue team.

2. Fin Collier 6 years – he feel several time so his way to getting the try.

3. Mercury Bay Boars and Hauraki Tigers teams (Under 11’s).

4. Dylan Castle after scoring and kicking a goal for Mercury Bay Boars under 11’s.

5. Hunter McDonald - Top Tackler of the Day.

6. Ryder received Opponent of the Day certificate.

7. Kane Magon, Nehemiah Bennett, Ihaia Walters, Kaea Koia – Hamling, Isaiah Walters.

8. Kaea – Koia-Hamling 1st and last Try Tigers Hauraki.

9. Marli Jarvis – Player of the Day.

Photos by Chistine Holmes.

MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER

Wednesday, 27 August

11 players, on Wednesday. Dennis Rush played Dave Coleman in the final which saw Dennis with a comfortable win. Ian Baumgren, Jason Smith, Greg Murphy, Steve Jessup and Ray had 2 wins. Ian Baumgren with a high break of 24.

Saturday, 30 August

There were 8 players on Saturday. Dennis Rush played Peter Shultz in the final which saw Dennis beat Peter in a close game. Wayne Malcom had 2 wins. No high break recorded.

MERCURY BAY CLUB

DARTS

We had 31 players this week, so 501 doubles were played. Double to start and finish. Only one team went through unbeaten in all four sets this week. The winning team members was Selwyn Whatarangi and Bill Bennetto. Well done and some excellent darts

played by Selwyn. Highest finishes this week were 60 for the ladies, scored by Debbie Holmes and 94 for the men, scored by Mike Gillett. One player scored a 180 this week and that was Selwyn Whatarangi.

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB

Final Round Pacific Pairs

Mon 25 September

North/South: 1 Ton van der Meer & Peter McNeil 63.89. 2 Jean Myles & Johanna Bonnar 54.51. 3 Jocelyn Taylor & Christine Meinhold 52.78.

East/West: 1 Judy McKenzie & Jenny Prince 66.32.

2 Sue Poland & Donna Harvey 57.14. 3 Mary Castles & Doreen Wernham 55.16.

HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB

Te Pare Point Pairs Week

Four Tues 26 August

North/South: 1 Judie Johnson and Robyn Waters 65.48; 2 Bev Dickie and Peter Clark 53.97; 3 Dave Dylla and Anne Knowles 51.98.

East/West: 1 Sheryll

Roberts and Natasha Courtney 65.48; 2 Chris Ellett and Sally Chambers 55.56; 3 Alison Tichbon and Denise Knutson 54.76.

MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB

August Competition

Round Three Wed 27

August

Results: 1 Kate Palmano & Gavin Hedwig 62.7; 2 Augusta Canegallo & Susan Swan 60.3; 3 Chris Southwell & Colin Day 57.1.

Championship Singles (Thurs) Round Two

Thurs 28 August

1 Chris Southwell & Bob

Schibli 62.5; 2 Lois Page & Amy Hyde 56.3; 3 Geoff Jervis & Faith Stock 55.0.

MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

Thurs 28 August

Winners: Ken Lack, Wayne Fisher and Betty Russell.

Runners Up: Wayne McNeill, Merle Ward and Pat Fisher. Good Sports: Maureen

Lack, Shirley Marshall and Betty Simpson.

TAIRUA GOLF CLUB

Week ending 29 August

Eighteen-hole Scramble

Sat 16 August

1 Mark Corey-Wright; 2 Jenny Tawa; 3 Michael McCann; 4 Geoff Cambie.

Eighteen-hole Scramble

Thurs 21 August

1 Terry Kingham; 2 John Fraser; 3 Brendan Platt; 4 Wongdeun Prachachot. Nine-hole Scramble

1 Kay van Lubeck; 2 Anna

McGuire; 3 Jan Stanley; 4 Sue McDonnell.

THE DUNES GOLF CLUB

9 Hole Men’s Stbfd

Mon 25th Aug

1 Noel Rogers. 2 David Macdonald, 3 Rey Bertling.

9 Hole Ladies Stbfd

Results

Tue 26th Aug

18 Hole Men’s Tony Cotton Memorial Shootout

Qualifier Net Results

1 Glenn LeLievre, 2 Brian Tomlinson, 3 Paul Anderson.

Gross Results

1 Tracey Mulligan. Nearest The Pin on 18: Darren Gribble

07 869 5990 | nzwindows.co.nz 1 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga (Mon-Fri,

1 Leanne Evans , 2 Julie Clayton, 3 Ruth Fisken.

9 Hole Men’s Stbfd

Thur 28th Aug

1 Robert Fisken, 2 Rey Bertling.

Two’s: Russell Barnett on Hole 18

18 Hole Ladies Hidden Holes

1 Noeleen Mulligen, 2 Bev LeLievre, 3 Mary Coughlan-Mason.

Rise 6:26am Set 6:03pm

6:59am Rise 7:44pm

7:53am 8:17pm

Whitianga Boat Chandlery