So many in New Zealand don’t know this man. He is Sir Keith Park and a two-point-three-metre bronze statue of his likeness as a pilot and airman, was unveiled at Thames Airfield on Sunday before a crowd of 600 people. Thames is Sir Keith’s hometown. This man’s life, his character and actions were the central focus of the commemorations of the Battle of Britain in the open air under very chilly skies for local people and many visiting dignitaries on Sunday, 14 September.
See centre page feature page 15-17
PAULINE’S PLACE
Partial Solar Eclipse A local hero – 50 years ago
On 3 September, a special memorial service was held in Northland to commemorate 50 years since a tragic fire claimed the Capitaine Bougainville, widely regarded as the region’s worst maritime disaster. It was September 3, 1975, when the freighter met her perilous end.
Guests gathered near Whananaki, where a monument bears the names of the 12 crew and four passengers who died. In attendance was the ship’s captain, Frenchman Jean-Raymond Thomas. The names of his wife, baby daughter and two stepchildren are among those listed on the memorial.
A poignant newsclip was screened on Seven Sharp the evening of the commemoration. The French Captain had come especially as he did every year and was interviewed. You could still feel his grief through the screen.
The next day a local resident came into the office of The Informer – Bruce Imms.
Quietly, he said, ”I was the first resident there.” I asked him to explain and he said, “I was there at the burning of the Capitaine Bougainville.
“I got a phone call from the police. It was about 1.30am. The weather was raging. I was the only civil defence person really in the area. The police wanted me to go and see what I could do to help. I drove my Landrover from Hikurangi to Matapuri. It was blowing a gale. The boat was on fire.
There was no driveable road directly down to the beach. But I had grown up there and had the local knowledge. I knew the farmer’s property and the way through his farmland on the dirt tracks down to the beach. Earlier, I had picked up four policemen as their vehicles could not get down.
Before I knew it, we were pulling a boat or two to the shore and plucking people out of the water. Some of them had drowned. I was in my early twenties and I had never seen a drowned person before. It was pretty gruesome. The Captain’s wife and baby were in that group.
Later that day I took the policemen back to Whangerei and picked up some more. I was there for four or five days.”
Bruce experienced all the memories again when he watched the programme. He hoped that he might meet the Captain again but he had already returned to France.
We never know the levels of life experience in our locals. Bruce was a hero that day and in the days to follow cleaning up and caring for bewildered and grieving people.
We will all be treated to a partial eclipse of the Sun next Monday, September 22. These events can only occur at a Full Moon and even then only when the Moon and Sun exactly line up so are quite rare. While a partial eclipse may not be quite as stunning as a total solar eclipse it is nevertheless is an unusual sight not everyone gets to see. Kiwis will not have a chance to see another one until July 2028 and after that in 2032.
The Sun will rise at about 6:10am with the event already underway and a small bite taken out of the Sun by the Moon. This will grow in size until 6:55am and then gradually shrink as the Moon slides away. The eclipse will be all over by 8am having provided us with an excellent and unusual chance to catch the Moon in motion as it plies its never ending journey around the Earth.
Never stare directly at the Sun or use unfiltered binoculars or a telescope to look at the Sun as instant blindness can result. However safe solar viewing glasses will be available to purchase from Stargazers (8665343) for $5 but only from Thursday, 18 September onwards.
To see the eclipse at its best viewers will need to have a clear horizon to the east as the Sun rises. Stargazers Astronomy tours will be having a free public viewing event using a specially filtered telescope and binoculars at Opito. This will take place at the Perry Chapman Reserve at the western end of Opito Bay in the new Opito Sands subdivision along Skippers Road from 5:30am. All welcome.
Venus at dawn. Friday, 19 September – The very thin crescent Moon now sits to the left of bright Venus at dawn with a bright ISS pass from 5:06am in the NW moving just below the Southern Cross. Saturday, 20 September – The Moon’s minute crescent lies very low and to the right of Venus at dawn. Sunday, 21 September – We have a very low ISS pass in the SW from 5:05am. Monday, 22 September – There is a rare partial eclipse of the Sun early this morning which will be already underway as the Sun rises with a big bite taken out of it. This will reach maximum at 7:10am then slowly shrink. The Moon’s shadow moves off the Sun at about 8:15am. Use only special solar viewing glasses to look directly at the Sun and never use binoculars or a telescope otherwise instant blindness can result. Wednesday, 24 September – The minute crescent Moon sits just to the left of reddish Mars in the west at dusk. We have a rare partial eclipse of the Sun this week which will begin at sunrise on the 22nd – see above. Meanwhile bright Venus remains dominant in the early dawn sky with Jupiter now sitting well above it. Slightly yellowish Saturn is visible all night rising just after sunset. Faint Mars is low in the west after sunset. There will be several International Space Station (ISS) passes to enjoy this week but, as usual, timings may change especially towards the end of the week if it has to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above. com for updated timings.
Above: Capitaine Bougainville sinking off the coast of Whananaki. Below: Bruce Imms at The Informer.
Why didn’t they run when they had the opportunity?
BY SHIRLEY JULICH
No doubt people are questioning why the Marokopa children did not run when they had the opportunity and on occasions, when they may have had that opportunity, they were simply unable to run or even ask for help.
It is generally assumed that children have no voice and no power, but these are not the only reasons they were unable to act. They were emotionally bonded to their Dad as we would expect, but they had most likely developed the complex bi-directional bond seen in those groups who have been exposed to the four precursors of Stockholm Syndrome. This may have inhibited their ability to take up any opportunity.
The term “Stockholm Syndrome” was initially used in 1973 to describe the curious reactions of four bank employees who had been held hostage by two ex-convicts during a bank raid in Stockholm, Sweden (2). During their six days of captivity, the hostages developed an emotional bond with the hostage-takers to the extent that they not only identified with the hostage-takers but also came to view the police as the enemy. Subsequently, the hos-
tages attempted to protect the hostage-takers from the police1,2
The relationship between the hostages and hostage-takers did not cease at the end of siege but persisted for years after the actual incident.
This phenomenon has been identified in many different vulnerable groups such as concentration camp prisoners, cult members, incest victims, physically and/or emotionally abused children, battered women, pris-
oners of war, and hostages in general. For Stockholm Syndrome to develop researchers (see 2,34,5,6 among others) have found that the following four precursors co-exist:
• Perceived threat to survival
• The captive’s perception of small kindness by the captor within a context of terror
• Isolation from perspectives other than those of the captor
• Perceived inability to escape
Unlike the hostages in the Stockholm bank who were exposed to these precursors for only six days, the Marokopa children were exposed to these precursors for almost four years. It is not difficult to understand that leaving the family farm was initially an adventure, but as time went on, they needed reassurance and protection. They denied their own feelings of being separated from extended family and bonded to the positive side of their father. This could have facilitated the development of the complex bi-directional bond of Stockholm Syndrome.
Of course, we have no idea as to what their father was telling them, but in other situations such as the Stockholm bank incident, hostages worked hard to meet the needs of the hostage taker. The
harder they worked, the stronger the bond became. The hostages soon viewed the world through the perspective of the hostage takers and came to believe that the hostage takers were the good guys and those trying to rescue them were the bad guys.
It is generally accepted that the complex bi-directional bond of Stockholm Syndrome can take years to break down (3). One of the children was present when the confrontation with police took place. She saw her father engage in a shootout with police. It is heartening to learn that she co-operated with police officers enabling them to find her brother and sister without any further
REFERENCES:
incidents. This gives us hope for their future.
Editor’s Note: In 2023 Dr Shirley Jean Julich, Whitianga, received the Honour, (ONZM) –Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to restorative Justice and survivors of sexual abuse .
Shirley Jülich is an Associate Professor in the School of Social Work, Massey University. She has read and published extensively on the topic of child abuse. She is recognised internationally for her work in the area of sexual violence, restorative justice and also Stockholm Syndrome. Shirley and her husband are local residents of Whitianga.
1. Goddard, C., & Tucci, J. (1991). Child protection and the need for the reappraisal of the social worker-client relationship. Australian Social Work, 44(2), 3-10. https:// doi.org/10.1080/03124079108550106
2. Graham, D. L. R., Rawlings, E. I., & Rigsby, R. K. (1994). Loving to survive: Sexual terror, men’s violence and women’s lives. New York University Press.
3. Jülich, S. (2005, 2005/10/24). Stockholm syndrome and child sexual abuse. Journal of Child Sexual Abuse, 14(3), 107-129. https://doi.org/10.1300/J070v14n03_06
4. Jülich, S., & Oak, E. (2016). Does grooming facilitate the development of Stockholm syndrome? The social work practice implications. Aotearoa New Zealand Social Work, 28(3), 47-56. https://doi.org/10.11157/anzswj-vol28iss3id247
5. Kuleshnyk, I. (1984). The Stockholm syndrome: Toward an understanding. Social Action and the Law, 10(2), 37-42. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1985-22649-001
6. Soskis, D. A., & Ochberg, F. M. (1982). Concepts of terrorist victimization. In D. A. Soskis & F. M. Ochberg (Eds.), Victims of Terrorism (pp. 105-135). Westview Press.
Dr Shirley Jean Julich.
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Manawa Kai Heartfood Kitchen: More than just a meal
BY VEX KING
Each week in Whitianga, over 200 free nourishing meals are prepared and shared through Manawa Kai Heartfood Kitchen, an initiative of the Mercury Bay Community Support Trust. Far beyond just a meal, it has become a place of care, dignity, and connection for many in our town.
The initiative began in 2013 as the Monday Community Meals, started by Mary Peterson, then minister at St Andrews Community Church. She wanted to create a space where anyone could enjoy a nourishing meal and connect with others in the community. In March 2018 the Mercury Bay Community Support Trust took over to continue the meals. In 2022 the initiative was renamed Manawa Kai Heartfood Kitchen, reflecting its warm spirit and vital role in Whitianga.
Today, led by Maureen and her dedicated volunteer team, the
of being greeted by name or seeing a familiar face each week.
meals, where whānau can gather and share. These small but meaningful touches make the work a vital part of community life.
THANK YOU WOOLWORTHS
This effort would not be possible without the generosity of many.
A heartfelt thank you to Woolworths Whitianga and manager Keith Richards. Their continual support not only sustains Manawa Kai but also extends to many other initiatives across Mercury Bay, making a real and lasting difference in countless ways. The team also thanks the many businesses, churches, groups, and individuals who contribute time, food, and resources. And especially St Andrews By The Sea for being so generous with their premises and the extensive use of their kitchen.
kitchen offers more than food.
Maureen has selflessly given over a decade of service, pouring her heart into ensuring that everyone
who comes through the doors feels seen, valued, and cared for. For some, it is the relief of a hot meal. For others, it is the welcome
Sit-in meals were halted during COVID-19, but there is hope to bring them back in the future, creating more opportunities for connection alongside the takeaway
Manawa Kai is more than a place to eat. It is a community space where everyone matters. The heart of community lies in both sharing and showing compassion.
whitianga GET
Volunteers from left to right - Renée Larking, Patu Hakaria, Maureen Kerr (team leader) and Madeleine Saunders.
Coromandel Elim Church opens
BY MICHELLE DELLABARCA
Saturday dawned cloudy and windy – perfect weather for a celebration!
Right on 2pm, as the ribbon was cut by Mayor Len Salt, the heavens opened, and it began to rain. The crowd of well-wishers and church members – both current and from times past moved into the church to the sound of a shofar blowing. Not even the weather could stop the joy as the people of Coromandel Church finally entered the building they had been working towards for over 20 years.
As Pastor Steve Garland said “if you are looking for a sign that God exists – here it is! It’s a miracle that such a small number of people in such a remote rural town could see through a vision spanning over 20 years, – the constuction of this wonderful building. It is an asset to both the church and the wider Coromandel community – and it was only completed because God had his hand in the whole journey, through in a series of miraculous provisions.”
This sentiment was alluded to over and over during the ceremony and afterwards at the lavish afternoon tea. Guest speakers and visitors from all over NZ were amazed at how so many obstacles were overcome in the planning and construction of the church – not the least
– financing such a big project by donations from within such a small number of people.
The rooms buzzed with conversation as old friends met again, some back in Coromandel after years away from their hometown. The auditorium was filled with colourful spring flowers, reflecting the joy of new beginings, and the church was filled with hopeful anticipation of what is in store for Coromandel Elim, it’s people and the Coromandel community they serve, over the years to come.
Left: Mayor Len Salt cutting the ribbon with Pastors Steve and Rosemary Garland looking on. Above: Coromandel Elim church, ringing with worship as people gave thanks to God for the miracle of their new building. Below: The new Coromandel Elim Church building – finally open to serve the people of Coromandel.
TRAVEL
TRAVEL WRITER –
SARAH-JANE
What’s
so
great about Waipukurau, North Island
Southern Hawke’s Bay: A day trip with a sense of humour.
Ever driven through Hawke’s Bay, blinked, and realized you just flew past Waipukurau and Waipawa? You’re not alone. Explore towns that are experts at playing hard-to-get, hiding just beyond the railway tracks. But trust us, a little detour here is totally worth it. The Southern Hawke’s Bay is a land of wideopen spaces, hot air balloons, and enough quirky attractions to fill a whole weekend.
Come for the scenery, stay for the stories. Whether you’re soaring silently like a hawk, picnicking in a forest of ancient giants, or paying your respects to a loved one (or a pet) in an arboretum this area has a little something for everyone. It’s country life with a sophisticated twist—think Napier’s cafe culture, but with way more sheep.
THINGS TO DO:
Gliding: Be a bird Ever wanted to see the world from a hawk’s perspective? Well, here’s your chance, minus the talons. Soar silently over vineyards, lush farms, and picturesque villages. It’s like a peaceful,
high-altitude joyride. The gliding clubs are based in Bridge Pa and Waipukurau, so prepare for a half-day of pure, unadulterated airborne bliss.
Lindsay Bush Scenic Reserve
Just 5km from Waipukurau, you’ll find the Lindsay Bush Scenic Reserve. This is where you go to feel small. We’re talking majestic, 250-to-500-year-old trees that were probably already throwing shade when Captain Cook first showed up. The easy-breezy trails are perfect for families, and the whole place is basically
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a giant, leafy picnic spot. Follow the Titoki Trail along the river or take the slightly longer Totara Trail detour. Just don’t forget to pack a sandwich and your sense of wonder.
Forest of Memories Arboretum A beautiful, 10-hectare testament to the loved ones we’ve lost. Instead of a headstone, you’ll find a tree here, each with a plaque telling a story. It’s a gorgeous place for a reflective stroll, with tracks named things like Bullrush Bridge and Hairpin Corner (which we assume is a nod to a particularly
Thumbs up to Geoff Furkert and his team who made possible the honouring of Sir Keith Park as part of the Battle of Britain commemorations at Thames Airfield on Sunday, 14 September. Go and see the bronze statue of Sir Keith Park and be mindful of what a great man he was.
tricky part of someone’s life). Just remember, this isn’t a cemetery, so please leave the gnomes and other lawn ornaments at home. It’s all about the trees.
Wineries
Think Central Hawke’s Bay is just farms and fields? Think again. This area is home to three fabulous wineries.
• Junction Wines: Owned by a former All Black rugby legend, this is where you can talk rugby, check out memorabilia, and sip on some seriously award-winning wines. Their Pinot Noir is a silver medalist, proving that this guy knows how to handle a ball and a bottle.
• Lime Rock Wines: Planted on a limestone hillside, this place gives you a real workout just looking at it. Their White Knuckle Pinot Noir is so good, it’ll make you forget about the terrifying road it took to get there.
• Pukeora Estate Winery: What was once a sanatorium is now a stunning event venue. Come for the wine, stay for the spooky-cool history.
Just be sure to call ahead. You don’t want to show up thirsty and find the cellar door locked!
Taumata Hill: The hill with a long name
Near Porangahau is a little hill with the longest place name in the world. Seriously, it’s so long, the sign for it is 10 meters long. The name, Taumata whakatangi hangakoauau o tamatea turi pukakapiki maunga horo pokai whenua kitanatahu, tells the story of a grieving warrior who played a flute for his lost brother. The hill itself is on private land, but you can still get a selfie with the sign. Just be prepared for a bit of a bumpy, gravelly drive. It’s a pilgrimage for the truly committed. Lindsay Tunnel
Ever fantasized about being a cave explorer? Well, here’s your chance to practice without having to face any bats. This 200-meterlong, solid limestone tunnel was built for a water race back in the 1800s. It’s a great introduction to underground spaces, with a height of 1.5 meters that narrows to 1 meter. So you might have to get a little friendly with the ceiling. Grab a headlamp, channel your inner Indiana Jones, and prepare for a family-friendly subterranean adventure!
Pukeroa Forest of Memories, Waipukurau, Southern Hawke's Bay.
Coromandel communities can shape and secure their future
BY MARK SERVIAN
Empowering Coromandel communities to look after their own needs is the driving principle behind the Coromandel endowment funds that have been recently set up at Momentum Waikato Community Foundation.
As has been reported here in The Informer, six ‘Coromandel Future’ funds have been established by Momentum Waikato, in an initiative spearheaded by Mercury Bay identity Peter Farmer.
Five of these endowment funds cover areas based on council wards – Thames, Coromandel & Colville, Mercury Bay, Tairua & Pāuanui, and Whangamatā, while the sixth covers the entire Coromandel Peninsula.
September is Wills Month, the annual national reminder to create or update your Will, so that your wishes for what will happen when you pass away are clearly and legally recorded.
Whenever you get around to sorting it, you may therefore want to consider including a gift in your Will, a bequest, to one of these new Coromandel funds, to help ensure your town can continue to be a great place to live and visit for generations to come.
The core mechanism for philanthropic investment funds like this
is fairly simple – generous people from all walks of life donate, or pledge to leave a gift in their Will, to grow the capital of the fund, and each year its resulting investment income is used to make grants to the charitable groups or projects relevant to the fund’s intent, with a portion reinvested to keep it growing.
This approach becomes ‘smarter giving’ when the fund is managed by a community foundation like Momentum Waikato, which combines all the endowment funds it holds into a multi-million-dollar investment portfolio, so that the scale and diversity of investment provide greater and more certain returns.
Community foundations have existed internationally for a century, all based around the idea that ordinary people pooling and investing their charitable donations together can collectively be philanthropic at a level previously only available to the very wealthy.
The first community foundations set up in New Zealand were Wellington’s Nikau Foundation in 1991 and Tauranga’s Acorn Foundation in 2001. There are now 18 of them across the country, with Momentum Waikato having been established in 2013.
To date, most of the funds at Momentum have been started
either by individuals donating their savings and leaving bequests in their Wills, or via charitable trusts transferring across their reserves and sometimes their entire missions, most of which can be described as ‘purpose based’.
Momentum’s first ‘place based’ fund was the Cambridge Community Fund, which was created after the Cambridge Community Trust decided to fold its capital and operations into Momentum. Such funds can give out grants for any charitable purpose within their geographical area, rather than being focussed on particular charities or issues.
Generous people from all walks of life donate, or
Two of the Cambridge trust’s members have become their Fund’s Champions, who promote its mission and are attracting donations and bequests, while Momentum provides the investment vehicle and back-office
admin and marketing support.
The plan for the Coromandel Future funds is much the same, though they have been started from scratch, without an existing trust to convert. Each will also have local volunteer Fund Champions - people passionate about their patch, and willing and able to attract support for its longterm wellbeing.
Geoff Balme has recently been recruited to join Peter Farmer as a Mercury Bay Future Fund Champion.
As a long-time resident, Geoff says Mercury Bay is an attractive place to live and play, and while it can feel a bit isolated, that can work both ways.
“Our community, knowing it is ‘out on a limb’ geographically, responds by pulling together,” says Geoff.
“We’ve used our local knowledge, skills, energy and resources to build much of what we need and have here.
“The age and economic demographics of Mercury Bay suggest that collectively we currently have the ‘ways and means’ to take care of the local community and those things that are important to it.
“There is still much to do however, and we may not always have these ‘ways and means’.
“A gift to the Mercury Bay Future Fund will ensure that our community remains resilient. It could mean better support for local elderly care, looking after our beaches and waterways, or developing new walking trails to enjoy our natural environment,” says Geoff.
The key point is that locals set the priorities for each of these funds, backed up by Momentum Waikato’s professional philanthropy support service.
FINDING OUT MORE ABOUT LEAVING A LEGACY
To find out more about the Coromandel Future funds and how you can support them, please contact Momentum Waikato via 07 834 0404 or info@ momentumwaikato.nz.
Mark Servian is Communications and Marketing Manager for Momentum Waikato.
Māori wards explained simply: Some facts behind the debate
BY RICHARD SHELFORDWOODCOCK
As TCDC voters prepare to decide on the Māori ward, here are the numbers, the arguments, and the misconceptions.
As we head to the polls, Thames–Coromandel voters will be asked to decide whether to retain the Māori ward on our district council. It’s a simple Yesor-No vote, but the issue itself has stirred strong feelings across the country.
So, what exactly is a Māori ward, and why does it matter here? A Māori ward is the local government equivalent of the Māori seats in Parliament.
Voters on the Māori electoral roll elect the councillor for the Māori ward.
Voters on the general electoral roll elect councillors for the general wards.
Everyone has just one vote, the difference is which roll you are on.
In Thames–Coromandel, the Māori ward is called Te Tara o Te Ika.
It covers the whole district and provides one councillor, alongside nine general ward councillors and the mayor, who is elected by all voters.
REPRESENTATION IN NUMBERS
Some people worry Māori wards give Māori voters more influence. But in TCDC, representation is about equal:
General wards: Around 30,330 people represented by nine councillors → about 3,370 people per councillor.
Māori ward: Around 3,310 people represented by one councillor → about 3,310 people per councillor.
At present, about 7% of enrolled voters in TCDC are on the Māori roll (1,759 people), with around 22,722 enrolled on the general roll.
WHY HAVE MĀORI WARDS?
Supporters say Māori wards:
• Guarantee Māori roll voters a direct voice in council decisions.
• Reflect the Treaty of Waitangi partnership at the local level.
• Help address historically low Māori voter turnout.
• Ensure Māori perspectives on land, water, and cultural issues are heard.
Critics of Māori wards argue that:
• They create “two classes of voters” with separate voting pools.
• Some believe in “one vote, one voice”, saying Māori wards
By Richard Shelford-Woodcock
amount to special treatment.
• Others see them as a step into race-based politics, rather than uniting the community.
• A number of people link them to the ongoing Treaty of Waitangi debate, saying they are weary of bending to obligations and want politics to move past it.
• Critics also argue Māori candidates could simply stand in general wards, alongside everyone else.
COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS
Māori don’t get two votes – peo-
ple vote once, either in the Māori ward or a general ward.
Councillors aren’t appointed by iwi – Māori ward councillors are elected by voters, the same as general ward councillors.
It is still democratic – the process is identical to other wards, just with a different roll.
Māori wards touch on deeper themes of history, fairness, and identity.
For some, they represent recognition and fairness for tangata whenua. For others, they highlight frustrations about equality,
political representation based on race, or Treaty-related responsibilities.
At a recent council meeting, Denise Messiter, of Te Whāriki Manawāhine o Hauraki, spoke in favour of keeping the ward:
“We support whānau of all races, of all genders, to participate in a society they have been excluded from. If you see us as equal, you will hold on to the vote that you made last year.”
Other speakers, however, questioned whether separate wards risk undermining democratic integrity and unity.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Over the next four weeks, Thames–Coromandel residents will vote on whether to retain the Māori ward.
Whatever your view, the key is to be informed. Māori wards do not give Māori extra votes or more power. They simply guarantee Māori roll voters the same chance at representation as those on the general roll.
Richard is a very active local resident in community affairs. He is standing for election to the Mercury Bay Community Ward. The Editor was very pleased to publish this article.
Free Motorisation for Roller Blinds
Shade Sails I Awnings I Outdoor Blinds I Canopies I Retractable Roofs
Shading the Coromandel with Quality Kiwi Craftsmanship
For Grant Ewing, director of Lidgard Sails and Shades, life on the water has always been second nature. Growing up in a family immersed in the boating industry, summers were spent holidaying on the Coromandel Peninsula, particularly in Whitianga and Pauanui. That passion for the coast and its lifestyle has never left him.
Grant began his career in 2004 as an apprentice at Lidgard Sails, one of New Zealand’s most respected sailmakers. Nearly a decade later, in 2013, he took over the company, building it into a trusted business with more than 75 years of combined experience across the team. Today, while yacht sails remain an important part of the company’s heritage, the focus in the Coromandel is on helping people enjoy the outdoors in comfort with premium shade solutions.
From residential backyards to schools, cafés, and commercial spaces, Lidgard Sails and Shades provides New Zealand-made shade products designed to handle our harsh climate while adding style and practicality. Every product is manufactured locally,
ensuring quality, durability, from start to finish. Customer service remains at the heart of the business.
In 2015, he and his wife built a batch in Whitianga, a base they enjoy as often as possible with their children. That personal connection underpins the company’s commitment to the region.
To ensure the Coromandel community is well looked after, Lidgard Sails and Shades have a local face in Steve Jones. Based in Whangapoua, Steve handles site visits and brings a friendly, knowledgeable presence to clients across the peninsula. His
hands-on approach means locals can count on expert advice and personalised service, backed by the strength and experience of the wider company.
From the Waikato to Auckland, and especially the Coromandel, Lidgard Sails and Shades is proud to be helping Kiwis create outdoor spaces they can truly enjoy.
From Steve: ”Prior to locating to Whangapoua on a more permanent basis, I managed a Textile Import and Wholesale Distribution company in Auckland. We imported all types of various fabrics like Sail Cloth, Shade Cloth and Shade Mesh Fabrics along with various Awning Systems and Shade Systems.
My 35 years in the Industry involved supplying various Textile Fabricators and Sailmakers which included Lidgard Sails. A highlight was supplying the various Americas Cup Challenges and Defences during their various NZ based campaigns.
I love the Coromandel and am still very active around it.
I “Surf it”, “Sail it”, “Fish it”, “Dive it” and “Work in it” but most of all, “I enjoy it”.
Christmas Shoeboxes - have you filled one?
Last year an astounding total of almost twelve million boxes were distributed by Operation Christmas Child to children around the globe, 300 of which came from the Coromandel Peninsula.
BY DOROTHY PREECE
There is not much time left to fill a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child.
Samaritan’s Purse is the Christian charity that takes Christmas boxes throughout the world to a huge number of children who, due to third world poverty or remote locations would otherwise receive no Christmas presents. We are asking local people across the Coromandel to fill a shoe box or two or three with all kinds of special non-perishable and useful treats or toys for a child who has very little. You can nominate the age of the child for whom you are filling the box.
HOW THE CHRISTMAS BOXES WORK
The boxes are distributed across designated areas in Asia and Africa - jungle, bush and desert through ‘Christmas’ parties. The whole community is invited to the party, and every child
gets a box.
Sometimes there can be no party and the boxes are taken by 4 wheel drive to very isolated parts and the village children all receive a box.
Robyn Balfour is the local co-ordinator for Operation Christmas Child and she wants to remind people that the school holidays are a good time to get our youngsters involved in thinking of those in poorer countries. She wants to encourage families to take the children shopping for the little gifts that can bring so much joy to others who have almost nothing to call
their own. “Children love shopping for the boxes, and it teaches them to spare a thought for those less fortunate,” says Robyn.
COLLECTING A BOX IF YOU DON’T HAVE ONE
Quantities of empty shoeboxes are now available from St Patrick’s Catholic, St Peter’s Anglican, Whitianga Baptist, Crossroad Church and St Andrew’s Church and Opshop. Recommendations about the toys and essentials that are so much appreciated are included in the boxes.
DROP OFF POINTS FOR FILLED BOXES:
• Whitianga: Coghill Café, Whitianga Hardware, St Peter’s and St Andrew’s.
• Pauanui: The collection point is Pauanui Information Centre.
• Tairua: Contact Anna 021 0378 371
• Whangamata: Contact Doreen 021 159 5855 All boxes must be returned by mid-October.
Steve Jones.
Mercury Bay to join World Cleanup Day
Whitianga, NZ – Mercury Bay’s grassroots charity Mercury Bay Resource Recovery Centre Trust, Wāhi Tukurua is calling on the community to roll up their sleeves for World Cleanup Day on Saturday, 20 September– with the ambitious goal of collecting over 2,000kg of waste from our beaches, waterways, streets, and reserves in just three hours.
The event is part of a global movement spanning 190 countries, all united by one mission: a cleaner planet. Locally, it’s a chance to tackle a problem that’s easy to ignore but impossible to escape – the rubbish that washes up on our shores, clogs drains, harms wildlife, and detracts from the natural beauty we’re known for.
WHY IT MATTERS HERE
Every tide, every storm, and every careless act brings more litter into our environment. Plastic bottles, fishing gear, food wrappers, and even tyres have been found on Mercury Bay beaches. These items can take hundreds of years to break down, and when they do, they become microplastics that contaminate our water, sand, and seafood.
In 2023 and 2024, a total of over 1,780kg of rubbish was removed from the local area during World Cleanup Day. But the reality is, that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
The Wāhi Tukurua team and local volunteers see the problem
year-round: litter collecting in reserves, waste dumped in bush and roadside laybys, and items lost overboard or left behind by visitors.
“Waste isn’t just an eyesoreit’s a hazard to marine life, birds, pets, and even people,” says Wāhi Tukurua Chair Tracey Bell. “We live in a world-class environment. If we want to keep it that way, we all need to take responsibility for what ends up in it.”
ABOUT THE DAY
The cleanup will begin at Buffalo Beach Reserve at 9:30am with a briefing. Volunteers will then head to assigned zones to gather as much rubbish as possible before returning for sorting and weighing. All collected waste will be properly disposed of, with data recorded to help identify problem areas and reduce future littering.
“World Cleanup Day is one big, feel-good hit of action,” says Tif-
fany Reed, event coordinator. “It’s amazing to see people of all ages working side by side, kids, retirees, business owners, studentsall doing something good for the place we love.”
While the main Clean Up Day event will be based at Whitianga’s Buffalo Beach Reserve, Wāhi Tukurua is encouraging other Mercury Bay communities to get involved. If you’d like to run a local clean-up in your area, please
contact event coordinator Tiffany Reed.
Participants are encouraged to bring: gloves, buckets or reusable bags, refillable water bottles,friends, family, and enthusiasm. Buffalo Beach Reserve Saturday, 20 September 9:30am-11:30pm. For more info: www.wahituku rua.co.nz, Facebook: Wāhi Tukurua, Tiffany Reed – ph 020 4092 8007, email tiffany.coromandel@ gmail.com
We now have a variety of villas to choose from – and all are within walking distance to Thames’ shops, cafes, and walkways. The perfect location to enjoy your fun-filled retirement.
Our spacious villas provide you with plenty of warmth and light and garden patios to enjoy. There are a variety of layouts to choose from including 2 and 3 bedroom villas, and 2 bedrooms with a double garage. All residents enjoy the use of the Village Community lodge and participation in all activities and amenities at your leisure. Living the lifestyle, loving the choice... ALL ENQUIRES WELCOME, VIEW OUR VILLA OPTIONS TODAY!
Cleanup Day 2023 at Buffalo Beach Reserve.
G u a ra n t e ed .
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Wednesday 1 October Doors open 10am Morning tea provided Mercury Bay Club, Cook Drive
Council & Commercial Progress
BY GORDON T
I’ve been under a bit of financial pressure lately with the rates bill coming in with another 10% increase and various insurance bills also crippling my superannuation income. I’m wondering whether I could just get my super sent directly to these money grabbing monsters instead of teasing me with the thought that I actually have a small income. Regardless it has become obvious that I need to re-enter the commercial world and generate some additional income and I decided the easiest way to do this would be by selling avocados as I had plenty on the tree that would not be used by me. I decided to run an honesty box system and to build a small booth for display of product and a receptacle for the payment to be provided. So there I was, with posts, wheelbarrow and concrete making materials outside my gate as I was digging holes for the posts I was to concrete in when I heard a screech of brakes, looked up and saw one of those shiny TCDC Utes pull up beside me. An agitated looking fellow jumped out and without any civil greeting asked me what I was doing. Being polite I told him and enquired as to what business of his it was. He puffed out his chest and stated “I
am the Building Consent Officer in this region and as your building is over one metre tall it will require a permit”. He then set about telling me what I needed to do and, pulling out a small hammer from his back pocket, hammered a Cease and Desist notice onto the handle of my shovel.
I carried all my stuff back inside and over a cup of tea discussed the official visit with the wife. She encouraged me to carry on, which she would do as the increased demands on our income was threatening the chardonnay procurement program we had underway. So I drew up some plans, made some drawings, put lines and numbers on, and wrote a whole lot of notes to describe the construction methodology and Health and Safety Plan I was to put in place. Then I scurried down to the council where I filled in a 37 page consent application form, attached my notes and submitted the pile to the nice lady at the counter.
A month later I was pleased to receive my consent so I carried all my stuff outside the gate again, put on my hi-vis jacket and hard hat and attached my safety line to the letter box. I then commenced digging my four post holes and once done was starting to mix concrete for the first post when
a familiar squeal of brakes could be heard. Looking up I saw a stern fellow get out of his shiny new TCDC Ute and approach the site.
“Hi” he greeted me, “I was unsure when you were starting but see I am just in time to inspect the post holes”. I didn’t know they needed inspecting but apparently they did so he looked in them, measured the depth and made some notes. He nodded to me and said “They are fine, make sure you get a concrete inspection organised for when you start pouring the foundations”. I told him I was pouring them now so why couldn’t he inspect the foundations now. He couldn’t though and explained “I’m the hole inspec-
tor, you will need the foundation inspector for the concrete”.
The building project went on for some time with a succession of inspectors in shiny new Utes calling by as my booth rose all the way to its magnificent height of five foot. At last it was finished and I was prepared to commence my selling activities. I had prepared for this and, after consulting the council, found I needed a Street Hawkers Avocado Licence to sell these fruit on the street. Fortunately the two months needed to procure one of these passed while the construction project crawled forward so I was prepared to move into full gear on the sales front once the building had been finished.
That is when I came upon another problem, the avocado season had finished and I had no stock to sell. Not to worry I thought, there are heaps of lemons so they will do. Bags of lemons were picked, a sign made and the whole lot carried out to the front along with the winged piggy bank to store my income. All was arranged nicely and I stood back to admire the effect when once again I heard a small squeal of brakes and looked up to see a nice new TCDC EV pull up. A young lady hopped out and frowned at me. I smiled back and she said “My records show you are licenced to sell avocados so could you explain what you are doing?” I frowned and she smiled back. I explained the seasonal aspects of fruit growing and she just shook her head. “I suppose you are going to tell me I need a lemon licence” I suggested quietly. “Don’t be silly” she said, “A citrus one will do it, that includes limes, mandarins and oranges as well. We are here to help small business people, we are on your side”. I packed up all my bags of lemons and wheel barrowed them inside, went upstairs and made a cuppa. “Darling” I addressed my wife “we are going to have to cut back on the chard”.
An outstanding human – leadership, humility and purposeful mind and heart
Continued from front cover
It was such a moving and significant occasion reminding everyone present of the value of committing one’s life to a higher purpose and of the integrity of being amongst the people as a leader.
This very significant event was the culmination of years of planning by a small group whose leader is Thames resident Geoff Furkert. Geoff is himself a force to be reckoned with and says openly, “Keith Park is my hero and I believe many more New Zealanders should make Keith Park their hero.”
The bronze sculpture was a huge feat in itself with the funds being raised locally by the small team led by Geoff and also individuals throughout New Zealand contributed. Internationally renowned sculptor Joanne Sullivan worked for over three years on Sir Keith’s bronze sculpture, being interrupted by Covid for a time.
“Never has such an outstanding New Zealand leader been overlooked by so many and known by so few.
Sir Keith Park was a man
of unparalleled strategic and tactical genius, and with foresight in aviation.
Park was the ace fighter pilot and leader who saved London in the first and critical victory of WWII- the Battle of Britain. As one speaker, Joseph attested on Sunday; “Britan came so very close to being invaded by Hitler – (a two day gaps and Sir Keith’s strategy caused Hitler to change his plans).”
The master of ceremonies, Captain Russell Skeet, Mayor Len Salt, and our Associate Minister of Defence, Chris Penk, also Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb, spoke of his achievement in orchestrating the winning of the Battle of Britain in World War II. They also referred to his purposeful and humble character and his outstanding leadership.
“Our present society might look very different today, had Sir Keith not organised through his team and courageous air defence and attack airmen, victory over the Luftwaffe. England was at a very low point in it’s ability and resources to keep on. Winning the Battle of Britain turned the tide.”
Captain Skeet
In articles in print already, Chief of Air Staff, Sir Stephen Dalton, 2010, said of Sir Keith.
“He had no taste for politics in the middle of a crisis, and it cost him his job. What Winston Churchill later called ‘. . . jealousy and cliques…’ led to Park being discredited and demoted.
Despite this unjust treatment after he had assured victory Park went on to deliver others strategic wins for the allies - again and again.
Park influenced modern civil aviation and led the creation of Auckland International Airport. He was an environmentalist whose advocacy worked to save the Hauraki Gulf from pollution. His humanity and sensitivity changed the lives of underprivileged children, and to those afflicted with blindness and epilepsy. We believe that none of our countrymen from this era had a more direct impact on our history and been denied more recognition. Everywhere-and all the time- Park knew he was a New Zealander. He never failed at any task he was given.”
Chief of Air Staff Sir Stephen Dalton, 2010
Photos: Garry Brandon and Wayne Martin
Geoff Furkert, President of Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield.
Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal, Darryn Webb.
Anglican Bishop Ross Bay with Reverend Brendon Wilkinson.
Sculptor, Joanne Sullivan at work on the full-sized (2.3m) clay model 2 years ago.
Lesley Park, Great Niece of Keith Park, addressed the garthering and laid flowers.
Kerepehi Brass Band
Aileen Lawrie, member of the Brass Band and CEO of TCDC.
Captain Russell Skeet MC
Photos: Garry Brandon and Wayne Martin
A long overdue recognition – Sir Keith Park
If any one man won the Battle of Britain, he did. I do not believe it is realised how much that one man, with his leadership, his calm judgement and his skill, did to save not only our country but the world.
Lord Tedder, Chief of the Royal Air Force, 1947
Establishing a memorial to Sir Keith in Thames is a fitting tribute to the heroism and courageous actions of a man without whom the history of the Battle of Britain could have been disastrously different.
Royal Air Force: Headquarters Air Command, July 2020
Sir Keith Park showed great integrity of character, simplicity and graciousness in life. He never wavered in his steel-like sense of duty, which he exercised at whatever personal cost.
Very Rev J.O. Rymer, Dean of Auckland, 1975
If any one man won the Battle of Britain, he did. I do not believe it is realised how much that one man, with his leadership, his calm judgement and his skill, did to save not only our country but the world.
Lord Tedder, Chief of the Royal Air Force, 1947
This tall, lean New Zealander displayed an unusual combination of intense individual activity and initiative with a capacity for teamwork and co-ordination.
Famous New Zealander: Eugene Grayland
Sir Keith Park showed great integrity of character, simplicity and graciousness in life. He never wavered in his steel-like sense of duty, which he exercised at whatever personal cost.
Very Rev J.O. Rymer, Dean of Auckland, 1975
unusual combination of intense individual activity and initiative with a capacity for teamwork and co-ordi-
This tall, lean New Zealander displayed an
nation.
Famous New Zealander: Eugene Grayland
Mayor Len Salt lays a wreath on behalf of the people of the ThamesCoromandel District.
UK’s Defence Advisor Lt. Colonel Stewart Dines laying a wreath.
Photos: Garry Brandon and Wayne Martin
Santa needs helpers – could it be you?
Santa might be busy making lists and checking them twice, but here in Whitianga we’ve got a list of our own – and your name could be on it!
The Whitianga Santa Parade is one of our community’s most magical days of the year. Kids wave, parents grin, grandparents shed a tear or two (happy ones, we promise), and even the grumpiest Grinch can’t resist a smile. But here’s the catch: parades don’t organise themselves. Santa’s workshop might have elves, but we need volunteers!
That’s right – we’re putting together a committee
of Christmas-loving locals to help bring the Santa Parade to life each year. The good news? You don’t have to work all year like the North Pole crew. We only need you between September and December, a few hours a month. The better news? Fundraising support will be available, so you won’t have to rattle a bucket on the main street unless you really want to. What we do need are people with a bit of time, a big dose of community spirit, and maybe just a touch of festive sparkle. Do you love Christmas? Do you enjoy a good laugh while making
something special happen for your community? Do you secretly hum carols in the supermarket in October? Then you’re exactly who we’re looking for.
This is your chance to help Whitianga shine a little brighter this holiday season. Whether you’re an organiser, an idea-person, or someone who just wants to wear tinsel while ticking items off a checklist, there’s a spot for you.
To join Santa’s Whitianga Parade Dream Team, email mbba@whitianga.co.nz today. Let’s make this year’s parade the best one yet – together!
Father's Day at my church
BY BEV SHEPPARD
It all started with a man! I attend the Whitianga Baptist Church and was asked by a man in April this year if I could put together 40 gift bags for our Mums on Mother's Day. With a Budget of $6.50.
So I stalked every aisle of Pinky's and The Warehouse to think of ways of filling a gorgeous gift bag, with gorgeous goodies for our Mums. With a bit of creativity,
I did it! Pink tissue paper and pink curling ribbon are very pretty ways of making gifts look indulgent.
Four months later and Father's Day was arriving. Could I do it again, but on a budget of $7.50?
So after looking at the tool section in various places, I realised that filling a gift bag with delicious foodie items was going to be the way forward this year.
Fathers Day, 7 September, arrived and going to church
was a day of celebration for all things men. Gift bags with white tissue paper were given to the attending men and they were acknowledged for all they do in our lives. Two men reflected on their lives and got up close and personal with the challenges they have faced and the wins.
The men around us need to be acknowledged and sometimes gift bags with a simple card in them are just the thing to hit the spot.
Uber Eats is now local
Uber Eats brings food delivery closer to home in Whitianga & Waihi as regional expansion continues across Aotearoa.
Launch of popular delivery service brings locals more convenience and supports small businesses.
Wednesday 10 September, New Zealand: Uber Eats is now live in Whitianga and Waihi, giving residents and visitors the ability to order their favourite meals and groceries at the tap of a button for.
“Uber Eats is putting online food delivery on the menu in Whitianga and Waihi, offering locals
more choice and convenience, whilst giving restaurants and delivery partners new ways to thrive. Whether it’s a family-run café or your favourite pizza spot, we’re proud to support the local community and help showcase the best eats Whitianga and Waihi have to offer,” said Ed Kitchen, Managing Director of Uber Eats ANZ.
This expansion strengthens the presence of Uber Eats across Aotearoa, providing more choice and convenience while opening up new earning opportunities for delivery partners and additional revenue streams for small
businesses.
Whitianga locals and Basker owners Ajay and Daisy say offering delivery will make it easier for people to enjoy Basker at home, especially when town is a bit quieter.
“We’re excited to team up with Uber Eats to make our customers’ favourite dishes easier to enjoy at home. It will help us reach more people on those chilly, rainy nights when eating out is less likely, and keeps us connected to our local community all year round.”
Download the Uber Eats app or head to the Uber Eats website to order online.
Only six individuals among 35,000 have chosen to put themselves forward as your Mayor, God help us all. My campaign is focussed on1. Rates 2. Health 3. No more deaths on my watch – road safety.
RATES FREEZE
Implementing a rates freeze is achievable and would encourage prudent financial management within TCDC. Let’s start there.
I can tell you I will achieve this. The rates come from all of us. I have already identified where those funds are coming from.
Stop wasting my money! This is the new motto.
Consultants won’t be happy nor will any resilient crystal ballers.
Why I am standing for Mayor in this election, and what I can do better.
Hard work, love and tenacity for their vision
BY PAM FERLA
The story of Agustin Medina and Tania Bachetta is one of vision, tenacity and love. It starts in their native Uruguay, a small country squeezed between Brazil, Argentina and the Atlantic.
Agustin studied to be a commercial pilot before heading to New Zealand in 2015 for an overseas experience, which included Kiwi fruit work in Whenuakite. Meanwhile Tania studied and worked in chemistry, with no plans to travel out of her country. She was trying to get her life back on track after a relationship split.
Agustin had spotted her when their lives crossed in Uruguay and he found her hard to forget. Then voila! She popped up on Facebook as a ‘suggested friend’ and he was curious.
“So, I sent her a ‘friend request but got a curt reply. However, I didn’t give up and eventually we chatted online.”
Agustin was back in Uruguay visiting family at the time and invited Tania for a coffee (although she lived four hours drive away). This is where tenacity comes in. Four times she turned him down. But the fifth time Tania agreed, and Agustin took the long bus trip to see her.
We got on well and kept in touch when I returned to work in NZ. This was a challenge because there’s a 16-hour time difference”, he says, sitting next to Tania at their Tairua house, surrounded by lush house plants.
SAYING ‘YES’
He asked her to travel to New Zea-
land and four times she said no. But Agustin didn’t give up, offer ing to buy her plane ticket if she agreed. She did.
The challenges continued as Tania found adapting to Kiwi life in Lake Takapo's holiday season hard after her routine back home. “It felt like Agustin and I had two years of war!” she says, though they are now sitting together laughing about it. The couple ended up in Hahei where Tania loved the warmer cli mate and friendly people.
They became NZ Residents and decided to start a food truck busi ness, buying a caravan to convert in 2021 with help from family and good friends, Laila, Evan and Kat. Augustin also worked at Smitty’s Bar, Whitianga, during that time.
They focused on summer fes tivals and events, but like many in hospitality, their business was devastated by the wet winter and Cyclone Gabrielle.
“We pre-ordered 2,000 kilos of oranges for our juices,” says Tania. “Then events we planned to go to were cancelled and we ended up giving away hundreds of oranges and selling some on a Whitianga street stall. During that time, they met some wonderful people at Coroglen Market, the Monkey House and Slice Slice Baby Pizza Shop in Whitianga.”
PRIZE WINNING PIE
Then in 2023 they won a Bronze Medal at the New Zealand Bakels Pie Awards, without realising they were in the competition. One of the organisers had tasted a pie and suggested they entered the compe tition.
“We were having a really bad day
BY CHARLENE SCOTT
A great variety of art mediums awaits visitors to this year’s Coromandel Open Studios Arts Tour. As well as the
OCTOBER
4/5 & 11/12 10AM - 4PM DAILY
www.coromandelartstour.co.nz
Agustin Medina and Tania Bachetta at their food caravan; their menu.
Reflecting on relationships – a local community, its
Council representatives and workings of TCDC
BY MURRAY WARD
At the final meeting before elections of the Mercury Bay Community Board held on 3 September 2025; Councillor Deli Connell was observed to query the “awful lot of misinformation” being bandied about at public meetings to the effect that TCDC is doing nothing about water and wastewater reticulation to Wharekaho.
Councillor Connell did not elaborate on the nature of the so-called “misinformation” nor did she identify who was responsible for spreading it. I can say with absolute confidence that my Association is not the culprit, if indeed there is a culprit. I am fully aware as to where things stand with TCDC’s implementation of these services.
Councillor Connell appears to have the notion that the community at Wharekaho is seeking these services at no cost to the community. She noted that, some years ago, Whitianga had had to pay for sewage reticulation and implied that Whitianga’s ratepayers ought not to be subsidising Wharekaho for these services. I have always made it clear to Wharekaho’s ratepayers that there will be a capital cost to have these services
made available to them. What may yet be an issue is the degree of that capital cost.
In its LTP 2018-2028, TCDC said:
“The rise in national standards around drinking water supplies and wastewater disposal continues to be a focus and we think it’s probably only a matter of time before councils will be required to take responsibility for the drinking water and wastewater disposal of all settlements in their district. We also know that community water supplies are coming under pressure as the enthusiasm of volunteers who look after these services wanes, and that individual property wastewater systems have a detrimental impact on waterways as they come to the end of their life. From many angles, this looks like
future costs for our council to pick up. We need to get ahead of this likelihood and plan for what infrastructure may be required to transition many of our communities onto a more reliable source of drinking water and a more environmentally responsible form of wastewater treatment and disposal.”
I am simply asking TCDC to fulfil its own words.
The current Government has made it clear to local authorities that today’s ratepayers ought not bear the full cost of infrastructure that has a life span of 50 or so years.
Borrowing, followed by targeted rates, is one way of ensuring that tomorrow’s ratepayers pay their fair share of such infrastructure.
For the last 40 years, the community at Wharekaho has been contributing in the order of $500,000 per annum to TCDC’s coffers with very little being spent by TCDC on Wharekaho. By way of example, my 2025/26 rate assessment contains relatively small debits totalling $90.00 for “Stormwater MBay”. I am not aware of any stormwater system TCDC has at Wharekaho and, still less, of any expenditure by TCDC on a stormwater system at Wharekaho. I believe this demonstrates that
Wharekaho has been subsidising other areas of the peninsula (including Whitianga) for that entire 40 year period. The time might well have arrived for Wharekaho to receive some crosssubsidisation from TCDC.
One other point that Councillor Connell made was that Wharekaho’s campaign for construction of a safe footpath along SH25 as it passes through the settlement was misdirected at TCDC because TCDC simply “can’t do that”. NZTA is on record as having said that it expects TCDC to take the lead in promoting construction of such a footpath.
If TCDC were to say to NZTA that TCDC wished to fund construction of a footpath, who believes that NZTA would say, no, that is a State Highway and we can’t have outsiders paying for a footpath on our land?
I believe Councillor Connell has demonstrated that she does not have Wharekaho’s interests at heart. The community at Wharekaho should bear that in mind in deciding whether or not to support Councillor Connell’s bid for re -election at the forthcoming local body elections.
Murray Ward is Chair of the Wharekaho and Simpson’s Beach Ratepayers’ Association.
LOCAL ELECTION
UPDATES FROM TCDC
Local Election Voting Packs
Voting packs for this year’s local election have started arriving in people’s letterboxes. We have until midday Saturday 11 October to vote in our Thames-Coromandel District Council election. In the 2022 local election, just 51.4% of Thames-Coromandel’s eligible population voted. Learning about the candidates: TCDC has introduced candidates profile statements of Community Board candidates, Council candidates and Mayoral candidates. In addition, there are 90-second video interviews with our Mayoral and Councillor candidates on TCDC website.
Mobile Ballot Boxes: Our election team will also be travelling over the next few weeks with special mobile ballot boxes to better enable all of our communities to vote. If people are unable to make it into a Council office, they can vote by joining us at the following locations on key dates listed below.
Voting at Libraries: The three Thames-Coromandel District library branches – Thames Library, Mercury Bay Library, and Tairua Library, 9am – 12pm. More dates and locations are expected and will be added to our Council website. Maori Ward referendum: Thames-Coromandel communities are voting whether to retain or disestablish the Māori ward. The outcome of this will apply to the 2028 and 2031 triennial elections.
Community Empowerment worked
BY TONY BRLJEVICH
In 2010, one of Glenn Leach’s key campaign promises as Mayor was to give Community Boards more autonomy to make decisions. At that time, Boards had been reduced to little more than advisory bodies, limited to making recommendations that were often overruled by councillors with little first-hand knowledge of local issues or who simply followed staff advice.
Once elected, the Leach-led Councilwhich I was proud to be part of - agreed on a vision for the peninsula and set clear goals to achieve it. A core principle of that vision was the effectiveness of Council, and we recognised that we could be more effective by decentralising power out to the communities. We began designing a local governance structure based on the philosophy that the more involved a community was in decisions that affected it, the better the outcomes and the stronger communities would become. The new system became known as the ‘Community Empowerment’ model.
Under this model, Community Boards became responsible for local activities such as local roads, parks and reserves, public toilets, town halls, and capital projects up to a set value. Council retained responsibility for district-wide activities like district roads, wastewater, water supply, and economic development. Boards also gained the power to set many of the service levels within their wards.
We understood Community Boards would require more resourcing because they would essentially become mini councils. The appointment of David Hammond as Chief Executive presented the opportunity for the implementation phase. We gave him the task of restructuring the organisa-
tion to achieve the outcomes we had set.
Community Board chairs were given seats at the Council table with speaking rights. Boards could set budgets, commission reports, and work directly with senior staff, who attended meetings to support local decision-making. Although the restructure came at a financial cost, we still managed to achieve a rate decrease over that period.
It wasn’t perfect, but it was a vast improvement over the old model and was widely regarded as one of the most effective local governance structures in both New Zealand and Australia.
Because the model was a Council-led initiative, we closely monitored its rollout. Fortunately, both staff and Board members adapted well. Sadly, the Empowerment model has gradually dismantled;, the only real remnant is that Board chairs
still attend Council meetings, though now relegated to the background. Boards are once again reduced to making recommendations that Council can change, ignore, or override. Some even argue Community Boards are now redundant.
Many ratepayers are calling for the Empowerment model to be reinstated. Doing so will not be easy and will take a team. As Mayor Leach said at the time I take my hat off to our elected members who stayed united and strong through some very lonely times.”
I sincerely hope that whoever is elected this year has the vision, courage, and determination to restore true local decision-making. It is now in the voters’ hands.
Tony Brljevich is standing for Councillor in the Mercury Bay Ward.
VOTE
Peter Mackenzie
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
ASTONISHED
I was astonished and slightly concerned to read a letter in todays Informer, supporting Benjamin “Bussy Boy” Doyle. Doyle would have to be on of the most loathsome individuals to ever darken the doorways of parliament.
Call me old fashioned but this man should not have any influence in the running of our country. Doyle had an instagram account called Bible Belt Bussy!! For Gods sake, words fail me!
The fact that Ardern, Tory Whanau, Doyle and Golriz Ghahraman were given a gentle shove out of office by Kiwis who actually have a moral compass is no bad thing I would have thought….. Good riddance to the lot of them.
Alan McInnes Whitianga
REPLY TO MAGGIE JOHNSON - TURN ON A DIME....
Dear Maggie – Linda Cholmondeley Smith and I, as Chair and Vice Chair of Grey Power Whitianga, have attended many of the ‘Meet the Candidates’ Meetings to keep in touch with items that may be of concern, or benefit, to our Grey Power Members.
The issue of sirens is of significant importance to Grey Power Members across the Peninsula, not to mention all other residents, particularly on the East Coast. So, yes, we did tackle Patrick Kerr after his emphatic “NO” to the sirens. To give Patrick his due, he did not just listen but was so concerned about the siren information he had been given by TCDC, he took immediate action to rectify the situation.
(The easiest option in a case like this is usually for the person concerned just to ignore the issue and hope it will be forgotten and ‘no harm done’, move on).
What impressed us with Patrick was that he immediately sort in-depth information and met with David Yeomans (Emergency Defence expert). The meeting was reported in The Informer, and Patrick publicly admitted that sirens were “A No Brainer”.
Following this, a meeting, arranged by Grey Power Whitianga, was held at the Mercury Bay Club, on Thursday, 11 September, where David Yeomans made a full presentation on the sirens. All councillors and candidates for Mercury Bay Ward and those standing for the Mayoralty were invited - although not all were able to attend. Those who did attend left with a very positive attitude towards the indisputable value of the new technology available with the sirens on offer. It was a very rewarding ‘meeting of minds’ with everyone in the room in full accord.
I hope this illustrates to the writer how “Grey Power” advocates for seniors within communities across our nation.
Ady Cole-Ewen and Linda Cholmondely Smith Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc
TRUTHFULNESS AND DIRECTNESS
I have never been involved in politics here. I am a pensioner and a widow which means I represent a lot of people in this demographic. I have become interested in this election because too many things have not been done well or not done at all.
What I want from the candidates is the truth. When councillors who are running again haven’t seemed to be able to reveal why that haven’t achieved things or why they haven’t voted for transparency, it is as if we don’t get the
truth. I want them to be truthful. I know their hands are tied sometimes once they get in but surely being direct and truthful when campaigning, counts.
Patrick Kerr at least answered the questions. I was disappointed that some candidates would shout over another candidate, like ganging up. They do that and lose my vote which then goes to Flemming Rasmussen.
I have written this by hand and ask if my name can be withheld.
Concerned citizen
Coromandel Peninsula
COMMISSIONER’S REPORT CLEARS 1080
In 2011, the New Zealand Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, Dr. Jan Wright, released a report titled Evaluating the Use of 1080: Predators, Poisons, and Silent Forests, assessing the use of sodium fluoroacetate (1080) for pest control.
The report strongly endorsed 1080 as a safe and effective tool for controlling invasive species like possums, rats, and stoats, which threaten native biodiversity and spread bovine tuberculosis. Dr. Wright concluded that 1080 is critical for protecting forests and native species in large, remote areas, achieving high kill rates (75–100% for possums, near 100% for rats).
It is biodegradable, breaking down harmlessly in soil and water, with extensive testing showing no contamination of water supplies. The report acknowledged historical concerns due to past misuse but noted improved practices and strict regulations have minimised risks. While recognising public concerns, particularly from hunters and animal rights groups, it recommended continued and
increased use of 1080, as no viable alternatives match its efficacy. The report also called for ongoing research into new pest control methods and streamlined regulations to enhance efficiency, emphasizing that halting 1080 use would severely harm New Zealand’s ecosystems.
Paul Montague, Kuaotunu
OVERCHARGED
BECAUSE
BARK WAS THE PROBLEM
My water meter had bark over it. I had not noticed that happening. It was on the edge of my garden and the bark had crept up to a thickness that made the meter disappear. No one came to measure how much water I had used. When I got an astronomical bill, I asked my neighbour for help. He came with me to the council and eventually we sorted it out. As a result, I was charged a lot less. Now my meter has bricks around it so the bark won’t cover it. Surely the meter man would have bothered to scrape away a little bark. I am in my eighties and I managed to do that and I have put the bricks in place. Did the council just guess or was the same equation used that others have written about?
I fear some are just paying their bill and not questioning it. If they don’t have a meter they should be questioning the council. My neighbour saved me a lot of money.
V.T. Whitianga
DEMOCRACY REQUIRES FAIR REPRESENTATION
News that the information profiles of Maori Ward candidates in several parts of NZ have been omitted from booklets for our local elections and joint-nationwide referendum, is yet another example of gross misrepresentation and the uneven treatment of our citizens. It shows too how powerful both the press and political interest-groups can be in ‘shaping’ outcomes by what they do (and do not) print or make available, in order for us to be fully informed and/or consulted. Five years ago as Covid erupted in NZ, the then Editor of the Informer refused to publish my
letter that referred to the “poor and partisan coverage” of TCDC’s ‘Long Term Plan and Rates Rises’ public meeting, where only the headline, “Council Told to Live Within its Means”, had born any semblance of the truth. With the rise of social media, and more so since the change in central government, it’s become quite normal to see or hear politically-slanted and personal attacks in our media, both nationwide and locally. In Mercury Bay, some election candidates are now actively using media as a political platform.
In the Informer, we’ve had “Fish Rot from the Head down” & more recently ”Democracy Requires us to Vote” by Flemming Rasmussen (standing for Councillor), and “Failed Businesses” 18/8 by Rob Davis (standing for CB). To Mr Davis, I’d say that success in business doesn’t always equate to good leadership – but that other values or qualities carry far more weight: like integrity, cooperation, sincerity, collaboration, an essential empathy and willingness to go beyond self-interest or a profit-motive to attend the wider well-being of our community, environment and nation. Yes, it is important to vote, so please do so – but with care, wisdom, foresight – and especially that all-important hindsight, to ensure justice and fair, equitable representation for ALL! My special thanks here to Anton Taylor, “Fool me Twice, not likely” (re Fisheries and WRC), Informer 18/8, who so cleverly caught the underlying truth of the current political and media circus in one; and to Paul Sommerville last week, likewise, in his “Dark Day, Benjamin Doyle” letter – the disgrace of it all!
Maggie Johnson, Whitianga Editor’s note: Maggie’s letter last week was too long so the first part was published. She amended the second part on request to enable that to be published this week.
MONOPOLY FOOD BOXES CREEPING IN
Monopoly food boxes are making their way into our small towns, and it’s worth taking a closer look at the impact on unique local eateries.
Not long ago, many small towns across New Zealand were home to a variety of distinctive restaurants and takeaways. For years, we thrived without the presence of large food box companies. This in turn provided local entrepreneurs and passionate cooks with the opportunity to earn a living by serving great food to both locals and travellers. I know we’ve had Subway for years. Only now another big chain eatery has snuck into Whitianga undetected. So how do we stop the rot?
Roger Harwood, Whenuakite
Peaceful Pauanui to a welcome in Whitianga
BY TINA CAREY
It all began after my husband’s death in 2000. I went from having a husband around me all the time to a street that only became alive in summer. I had a house that started to need a lot of maintenance.
I was involved in a few things like volunteering with the Pauanui Library; I am an artist with The Little Gallery Tairua and I was a volunteer with the Pauanui /Tairua Cancer and Care Group. I had people to see and places to go but something was missing.
I started to think … where next? I had a friend in Thames and it was closer to Auckland, but every property I looked at needed more money spent on it. I wanted a new property that would see me through to a grand old age.
One day I drove to Whitianga to see friends and we ended up going to look at The Moorings. We were shown through the options in terms of house sizes and plans for extensions and with a Medical Centre right next door. I
instantly could see myself living there.
I sold up and moved into a new 2 bedroom and 2 bathroom villa in May 2025. Can I say “No Maintenance” in capital letters!
Apart from my friends here, there was a real opportunity to extend my social circle through the arts, music and all the different Clubs here. Within a month I was out at the Monkey House Open Mic nights singing, visiting cafes to have a coffee and at the twin Cinemas which I had really missed being able to go to.
I have a little dog and there is a wonderful social dog walking scene in Whitianga. Dogs are really accepted here in so many places. I’m relishing the fact
that I don’t have to drive to anything really. I am being recognised now as I walk around with Murphy, my ginger cavoodle. It's wonderful to explore some history and to see the development of Whitianga since I was visiting the Coromandel Peninsula in the 1970’s. I lived in Pauanui for 25 years as an Auckland runaway but am really relishing the community and lifestyle village option.
I’ve just come back from a trip to Borneo and life really is about living. After Rocky died and I had breast cancer, I have travelled a lot and the difference in living here now is so good for my psyche. I’ve got so many more people to meet, places to go, bucket list items to tick off. In the space of five months, I’ve only just started.
Editor’s Note: This is more than a plug for The Moorings, the life style village in Whitianga. It came completely unasked for and it is a story of a widow finding community. We are pleased to publish this as we want to fill The Moorings for the sake of a better township.
Opinion
Israel and the dilemma of Gaza
A response to opinion piece in The Informer 9 September 2025 “The Israeli Government and the dilemma of Gaza” by Trevor Ammundsen.
BY TONY TRUTER
I refer to the above article and would like to highlight some facts about Israel and Benjamin Netanyahu. Israel has been fighting for their very existence for centuries. They have been surrounded by the “ring of fire” by people who openly proclaim death to America (the big satin) and death to Israel (the little satin). The children of Gazan schools are taught from a young age to hate the Jews. They are given wooden guns and practice shooting Jews. The climax came on the 7 October 2023, when they broke down fences and killed well over 1000 Jews. Women were raped, babies were burnt alive, children tortured, having to watch their parents have limbs cut off in front of them and then stabbed and shot. None of the mainstream media covered these events and none denounced the terrorist actions. A terrorist even recorded himself, using one of his victims’ phones, telling his mother that he had just killed 10 Jews and she celebrated the event. Shortly after the attack, when Israel started regaining control over the area, the propaganda started and has not stopped, spreading lies that the Jews were abusing the Gazans.
There are many videos circulating of starving and begging children. So many of these have proved to have been staged or the photographs have been taken of children that have medical disorders or using old photographs of children from other countries. They do not originate from food in Gaza. Tons of aid has come in, but a lot has been stolen by the terrorists and then SOLD to the public in Gaza to help fund the radical terrorism. They even murder their own people in the hospitals for taking aid. No one talks about the starving hostages, in particular one that was told to dig his own grave in the tunnel where he is being kept. At this whilst the terrorists are stuffing their faces with food from the aid that was given for the Palestinians in Gaza. They are so proud that they tic-tok the event. The terrorists have extensive tunnels that have held their sources under hospitals and schools where
they attack from. They use their own people as human shields. They know that Israel is reluctant to fire back in case they hit a civilian. The Geneva Convention states that it is illegal to use these tactics but the media will not condemn their actions. What complicates things for Israel is the Israeli hostages are being held in these terror tunnels.
Israel always warns the Gazans in their own language in the form of leaflets dropped and a radio station advising their intentions to bomb a particular site. Nowhere in history of war has a nation ever done this. So why is the world silent. Very little is reported about atrocities happening in Africa (Killing of Christians). Russia / Ukraine. The refugee from Ukraine that was stabbed to death on a train in the UK. Killing of white farmers in South Africa. Ever wonder why Israel is always targeted? Could it be the fact that it’s a spiritual war between good and evil?
I could go on and on, but I would suggest the writer of the article and anyone interested in this topic in question do some research by viewing content of the sites I have listed below, which has given much insight into the events since 7 October 2023. God Bless.
Open Day
Saturday, 27th Sept 10am - 2pm
Join us for a day of discovery, community, and celebration.
Thinking of your future and curious to see what’s happening at the new Moorings Village in Whitianga?
Then come along to our OPEN DAY!
Stage One is complete and Stage Two villas are selling fast—now’s the perfect time to see what makes this community special.
Explore our beautiful new villas, tour the village by golf cart, and get a first look at future developments, including the Waterfront villas and Community facility site—open exclusively on the day.
Enjoy food trucks, prize giveaways, friendly faces, and plenty of inspiration for your retirement lifestyle. We’d love to see you there!
Toni Hatton
WHAT'S ON
OP SHOPS
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop –Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.
St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat 9.30am-2pm.
St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen St, Whitianga. 9.30am-1pm Wed-Sat.
Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-2pm. Donations welcome. SPCA Op-shop – 2 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 9am-4pm.
MONTHLY
AA Driver Licensing – Monday 22 September and Friday 10 October. In the Mercury Bay Service Centre Community Board Room in Monk St (behind the council offices).
American Muscle Street and Custom Club Whitianga – Club meetings first Sunday of the month, 11am at Buffalo Beach Reserve for cars and coffee. Phone Reg and Julie Smith on 027 493 5822. Cooks Beach Garden Circle –Last Thurs of the month 11.15am-2.30pm. New members welcome. Ph Anne on 07 866 0268 for more information. Craft Group – Meets first Saturday of the month 10am-3pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr, carpark end. Work on your own craft (stitching, colouring in, scrapbook, card making anything goes). Bring your lunch and enjoy mixing with other crafty people. Any queries ph Alison 021 0508 772 or Sally 027 3962 383.
Kūaotunu Dune Care – Every third Wed of the month. To get involved, please email kuaotunudunecare@gmail.com.
Hospice Waikato’s Bereavement Support Group – Lost a loved one? Join Hospice Waikato’s monthly bereavement support group. Connect over morning tea with others who understand. Held on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 10.30am to 12.00pm at Whitianga Social Services. Registration required. Contact Hospice Waikato to register at 07 859 1260. Mercury Bay Model Railway Club – Monthly meet. Contact. Damon 0273551650
Mercury Bay Shooting Federation – Muzzle loader, rimfire, centre fire, military, pistol. Email mbsfsecretary@gmail.com
Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Fourth
WEEKLY OR MORE
Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information. Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info. Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and values based ministry for boys. For boys aged 5-13 years old. Tues 5.30-7pm For information contact Robyn 020 409 39674. Chess Club – s 6.30-9.30pm, MB Bowling Club. Players of all levels. Cost $2. Contact Brett Soanes 0272117195 or brettsoanes16@hotmail.com
Chinwag Café – Every Friday from 10.30am-12.30pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. A place for over 50s to meet other people, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a chinwag.
Coroglen Farmers Market every Sunday until Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25), from 9am-1pm. Coffee and Discussion Group – Every Sunday, 2-4pm, at The Lost Spring. Topics are open and respect shown. No charge. Convener Peter H. Wood. Cooks Beach Care Group – Join our friendly team and learn about coastal conservation. Come weeding and planting. Thursday mornings. Register www. cooksbeachcare.org.nz
Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling Club – Come and join us at the Community Centre (Hall) from 10 September at 1.45pm, New members are most welcome, please contact Coral ph. 0212303944.
Dog walking group – Every Thurs, 2pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to a very sociable group. Ph Jenny on 021 186 5797.
Elevate Fitness – Strength and balance class using chair, sitting and standing exercises – Monday and and Thursday 9:00am Whitianga Town Hall, $10, ACC approved. Aqua Fit Water Workout, Hot Water Beach Resort, $20 including soak in spa, 11:30am Monday and Thursday. Movement to Music exercise class –strength & cardio, The Embassy of Friendship, Coghill Street. Call Nicole 021 0265 2693.
Hahei Contract Bridge Club – Every Tuesday 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Learners and casual welcome. Contact Don Barry 021 741 959 or Robyn Hogg 021543015.
If you have an activity or group or the existing information is incorrect, let The Coromandel Informer know. Call 07 866 2090, email info@theinformer.co.nz. Our What’s On page is not guaranteed to run every week as often space is restricted. Consider paying for a classified advert if you want to guarantee your activity runs every week.
mbenvironmentaltrust@gmail.com or go to www. mbet.co.nz.
Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club – Every Thursday evening, Whitianga Town Hall, 6.45pm. New members and visitors welcome. Phone Cheryl 027 452 7887 or Sandie 021 825 667 for more information.
Mercury Bay Pickleball Club - At the Mercury Bay Area School Gymnasium, Tuesdays Members Only 5.30-7.30pm; Saturdays Social & New Players 9.30-11.30am; Sundays All Players 4-6pm. Members, Visitors & Guests $5, a complimentary session is available to new players wanting to trial pickleball. Membership is only $20 PA and can be completed online at www.mercurybaypickleball.co.nz Contact Tony 021 426 150. Mercury Bay Sports Park sessions are weather dependant & advised on our facebook page Mercury Bay Pickleball. Matarangi (Matai Pl Courts) Thurs 3-5pm (Winter) 5 -7pm (Summer) Saturday 9-11am Contact Grant 022 383 6351. Hahei Tennis & Pickleball Club-Thursday & Sunday Contact Tim 027 843 2683 or refer their facebook page.
Mercury Bay Squash Club – New members/enquiries to Dawn Thurgood mercbaysquash@gmail.com
Mercury Bay Table Tennis – Every Tues, 9-11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Ph Anne on 07 869 5162 or 027 565 5575 for more info.
Mercury Bay Tennis Club – Social tennis at Lyon Park on Thursdays at 5.30pm. All welcome. Ph Jason 022 186 7992 or Carl 027 680 5570.
Oneness Meditation Centre – The centre focuses on the meditative art of going deeper within. Learn how to meditate, breath, calm the mind, relieve stress, anxiety and be a calm, peaceful, courageous, dynamic human being. Every Monday, 9.30-11.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881 or email linda_c@orcon.net.nz
Spiritual Conversation Mornings – Every Tues and Wed, 10.30am-12pm, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga the Starlight Centre. Grab a coffee and join in some great conversation where we talk about topics and subjects that have meaning. $5 donation. Contact Verna 027 320 0079.
Tai Chi for beginners – Town Hall, Mondays 6-7pm. Gold coin donation. Ph Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.
Tai Do Martial Arts – Town Hall, Tues/Wed 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146. Tairua Contract Bridge Club Every Monday at
start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome.
Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.
Yoga for Everyone - beginners/retirees/inflexibles welcome. Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 4.20pm, Fri 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25/90 minute session. Txt Rosemary 0274 489326 for info.
DANCING
Argentine Tango Dance Class – Fridays, Town Hall, Whitianga, 5.30-7.30pm. No prior experience or partner necessary. Text Sergio for questions 027 410 2454
Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran.com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm.
Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Tuesdays beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.45-2.30pm; Thursdays absolute beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, improvers/seniors 12.45-2.30pm. Contact Margaret 027 463 8850 or Glynis 021 1099 155. Silver Swans Adult Ballet Class - Tuesday’s weekly 10am to 11.10am $20, Whitianga Town Hall supper room. All ages welcome.
Marilyn Swan,experienced professional teacher of Dance.M: 0273365263 E; swanebbs@gmail.com
Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes – Town Hall, Monk St, $7 per session. New Beginners, Wed 2.303.30pm, Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.3011.45am, Intermediate classes Wed, 12-1.30pm; . Contact Kathy 027 4321 353 or Cecily 027 294 1750 Zumba – Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk St. GROUP INFO
Mercury Bay Athletics – For info contact mercurybayathletics@gmail.com Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. Phone Cecily 027 253 3088 or Chrissy 021 177 4226. SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated – Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet.whitianga.admin@gmail.com. Whitianga Bike Park 144 Moewai Rd, Whitianga.
GAMES AND PUZZLES
phone no, email or residential address. Opinions expressed (esp.
MAYORAL FORUM –THAMES Saturday, 20 September, 12:00pm- 3:00pm at the Thames Civic Centre Conference Room, 200 Mary Street, Thames.
Thames Coast Road closure
The Thames coast section of SH25 will be closed for a week following Labour Weekend for bridge repairs. People wanting to get to locations north of the bridge, including Waikawau boat ramp, from Thames, will need to use SH25A and the eastern section of SH25 via Tairua and Whitianga. And those heading south from Northern Coromandel, it will be the reverse. Expect more traffic through town during this period.
COROMANDEL TOWN
Wednesday, 24 September, 5:00pm7:00pm at the Combined Clubs, Woollams Avenue, Coromandel.
WHANGAMATA
Saturday, 27 September, 10:00am. Whangamata Memorial Hall, 328 Port Road, Whangamatā.
Message from Hon Scott Simpson
MP For Coromandel
A few weeks ago, the Reserve Bank cut the Official Cash Rate, as well as signalling that further reductions are likely before the end of the year. That will be welcome news to people with mortgages, as well as businesses who are paying off debt or looking to expand their operations in the near future.
Cuts to the Official Cash Rate have a huge impact on the budget of many households. For example, the repayments on a 25-year, $500,000 floating mortgage are about $330 less a fortnight today than they were a year ago. That’s more money in people’s pockets, which helps to take a bite out of the cost of living pressures.
The Government’s responsible economic management, which has involved stopping wasteful spending has contributed to inflation easing. This has allowed the Reserve Bank to lower the Official Cash Rate. We still need to keep growing the economy so that Kiwis have the services and opportunities they deserve, but there are positive signs that our plan is working.
It was also encouraging to see the latest figures from the International Visitor Survey which showed that international tourism contributed $12.1 billion to New Zealand’s economy, up 4.3 per cent compared to last year. Our region welcomed its fair share of these tourists, with the Thames-Coromandel District accounting for 7 per cent of people’s nightly itineraries.
While tourism is New Zea-
land’s second highest export earner, there’s still more work to be done to get this sector booming because we’re only at 86 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, when adjusting for inflation. With summer just around the corner, there’s plenty of reasons for people to be looking at our region for their next adventure. And like many locals, I’m excited that a ferry service between Auckland and Coromandel Town is resuming in October.
Well done to everyone, including the Coromandel-Colville Business Association, who has pushed for this outcome. Giving tourists the ability to hop from Auckland’s CBD to the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula will be a big boost to our region.
Finally, just a quick reminder that NZTA is reviewing speed limits on some parts of SH25 and SH2. The areas under review include the townships of Kūaotunu and Wharekaho, between Thames and Tararu, the township of Waihī, and Karangahake towards Waikino.
If you want to have your say, you have until 3 October 2025 to make a submission, which can be done online at NZTA’s website.
Proudlywsponsored by
NZ manufactured aluminium windows and doors since 1990:
Authorised by Scott Simpson, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.
Scott Simpson our local MP and minister for ACC, and Associate Minister of Defense Chris Penk, with one of the visitors at the Battle of Britain Commemoration, Sunday 14th Sept.
Mark Jones, Club Champion. Mark will represent Waikato at the New Zealand Masters in October.
Charlotte Thurgood and Geordie Wilson – Junior Champions.
Lindell Tuhakaraina – E Grade Champion, with her daughter.
Paul Mason – D Grade Champion.
Merv Trebes – Ungraded Champion.
Laura McLeod – C Grade Champion.
Jo Brown – D Grade Champion.
Alyssa Davy recevies the Open Womens Club Champion from previous Champion Jody Costello.
Dave Thurgood – F Grade Mens Champion.
MERCURY BAY CLUB
DARTS
21 players this week, so 501 doubles played this week with one player being a one player team. The single player was Mike Gillett and he went through unbeaten in all four sets to be this week’s winner. Highest finish for the men this week was 107, scored by Selwyn Whatarangi. No finishes over 50 for the ladies this week. One player scored 180 this week and that was Mike Gillett.
MERCURY BAY CLUB
SNOOKER
Wednesday 10 Sept
7 players - Dave Coleman was the only 3 winner, Ian B highest break of 25, Wayne Malcom, Peter Challis and Ian B with 2 wins
Saturday 13 Sept
9 Players - No 3 winners, 6 players with 2 wins played
off to get to the final. Doug Pascoe got the bye to the final agains Greg Murphy who went on to win.
Roger Smith, Wayne Malcom, Peter Shultz, Doug Pascoe and Bob Haase with 2 wins.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Cooks Beach Pairs Week
Two Tues 9 September
North/South: 1 Robyn Waters & Maggie Beattie 59.90; 2 Val Dwight & Dave Dylla 56.25; 3 Bev Dickie & Anne Knowles 48.96.
East/West: 1 Alison Tichbon & Lee Hughes 67.50; 2 Jean Myles & Jennie Hemmings 58.75; 3 Carol Henwood & Peter Clark 55.63.
MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB
Championship Singles (Wed) Round One Wed, 10 September
North/South: 1 Giorgio Allemano & Bob Schibli
POLICE REPORT
BY CONSTABLE
MICHAEL CARTER
Monday 1st to Sunday 14th September 2025
BURGLARIES
Mon, 1 Sept – occurred at a Moewai Road address. Enquiries are continuing to locate the offending persons.
Tues, 2 Sept occurred at a Buffalo Beach Road address.and a rural property was burgled on Boat Harbour Road, Whenuakite.
Wed, 3 Sept several burglaries occurred at a Centennial Drive address, a Buffalo Beach Road address, and a Parkland Place address.
Fri, 5 Sept a burglary was reported as having occurred at a White Street address.
Sun, 7 Sept occurred at a commercial property on Moewai Road.
NOTE: With such a large number of burglaries being reported this fortnight, if you see anything happening at the time, ring 111. If it appears historic (no persons seen), ring 105. Police would love to catch these offenders and place them before the courts.
VEHICLES:
Mon, 1 Sept a vehicle was purposefully damaged while parked on Dundas Street.
Wed 10 Sept. a Ssangyong was reported as having been stolen from Tairua Whitianga Road, Coroglen.
Fri 12 Sept, a male was observed by CCTV on a service station forecourt attempting to ‘bead a tyre’ by setting it alight. This extremely dangerous act could have had dire actions for the nearby community.
Sat, 13 Sept a caravan was set alight at a Buffalo Beach Road address.
A search of the property found other outbuildings had been broken into with items taken.
ARRESTS:
1x female arrested for burglary, unlawfully gets into motor vehicle, unlawfully in a building.
1x male arrested for unlawfully in a building.
1x female arrested for unlawfully in a building.
FAMILY HARM
OCCURRENCES:
Mon, 1 Sept at an Aquila Drive address where a male was breaching his bail conditions.
64.6; 2 Kate Palmano & Gavin Hedwig 58.8; 3 Jan Autumn & Colin Day 56.7.
East/West: 1 Susan Swan & Chris Southwell 68.8; 2 Alison Tichbon & Terri Lipanovic 51.3; 3 Sheryll Roberts & Rose Tegg 50.0. Championship Singles (Thurs) Round Four
Thursday, 11 Sept
North/South: 1= Norma Hart & Ischelle Stevenson, Julie Rutledge & Kate Palmano 56.7; 3 Lois Page & Sue Gill 45.8
East/West: 1 Faith Stock & Amy Hyde 67.7; Kathy MoyLow & Terri Lipanovic 55.2; 3= Chris Southwell & Bob Schibli, Rose Tegg & Jenny Layton 43.8.
MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB
Thurs 11 Sept
Winners: Alan Henderson and Maureen Lack Runners Up: Keith Denney and Jan
Harvey Good Sports: Sue Webb, Judy Cullinane and Pat Fisher
TAIRUA GOLF CLUB
Week Ending Friday 12
September
Nine-hole Stableford Tues 9 September
1 Kay Van Lubeck; 2 Norm Hammond; 3 Sue McDonnell Eighteen-hole Stableford Thurs 11 September
1Ross Calder; 2 Ross Scoltock, 3 Neil Plummer.
PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
Nine-hole Stableford Round 2 P Howarth Trophy Tues 9 September
1 Catherine Borlase , 2 John Hamilton, 3 Brian Keucke. Nine- hole nett Thurs 11 September
1 Anne Costello, 2 Richard Duckworth, 3 Catherine Borlase.
Eighteen-hole nett Sat, 13 September
1 Catherine Borlase, 2 Richard Agnew , 3 =Brian Keucke, Bob Walker.
4BBB NETT: Al Sims and Callum Murray.
ties were separated for the night and have been offered further assistance from outside agencies.
Wed, 10 Sept, at a Robinson Road address. Police will be speaking with the parties involved.
Wed, 10 Sept, occurred at a Joan Gaskell Drive address.
Thurs, 11 Sept, at a Watt Street address between mother and son. Both parties were separated by police to calm the situation.
Fri, 12 Sept, a family harm report was made concerning a protected person who has been harassed by the bound male. Sat 13 Sept, the same bound male has gone to the victims address and gained entry while she was asleep. She has awakened later to find items taken and a note on her car. Enquiries are continuing to locate this person and further potential charges made.
TRAFFIC:
Tues, 9 Sept, a known male on strict bail conditions was observed breaching outside his curfew hours. He fled police to evade capture. But has since been charged on further offending.
THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB
Nine-hole Men's Stableford Mon 8 September 1 Paul Dixon 19, 2
NZ manufactured aluminium windows and doors since 1990:
Mark Deutsch18, 3 Rey Bertling18. Nine-hole Ladies Putting Day Stableford Tues 9
Prizes were presented to: Mini Kickers Most Improved Player: Jordyn Orum Minis Kickers Most Valuable Player: Ella Fearnley 8th Grade Most Improved Player: Anabela Reilly
8th Grade Most Valuable Player: Lex Battaerd 10th Grade Marlins Most Valuable Player: Zac Corkill 10th Grade Marlins Most
Improved Player: Emelia White
10th Grade Orcas Most Valuable Player: Ethan Macdonald
10th Grade Orcas Most Improved Player: George Lawrence
12th Grade Sharks Players’ Player of the Year: Reef Havard
12th Grade Sharks Most Improved Player: Marley
Tuinier
12th Grade Stingrays Players’ Player of the Year: Sarico Chiet
12th Grade Stingrays Most Improved Player: Brennin Hodgetts
12th Grade Waves Most Valuable Player: Neela Sacult
12th Grade Waves Most Improved Player: Arabella Macdonald
Parents and players of the 10th and 12th Grade teams.
The 10th and 12th Grade Most Improved and Most Valuable Players.
Parent Jamiee Morgan thanking coach Jen Puckrin.
The 8th Grade team – this photo was taken following a victory match a couple of weeks ago.
Most Improved 12th Grade Girl Arabella Macdonald with life member Carl Gubb.
