PAULINE’S PLACE
Another kind of double trouble
Those three men standing in our Informer headline, we need to keep an eye on – in an attentive, not hawkish way.
Chris Bishop and Chris Luxon brought us the surprising news of ‘Regional Councils need to go and they will if the legislation goes through.
Warren Maher is our very capable, well regarded, newly elected Chair of Waikato Regional Council. He has just begun serving his second term. He recently reported on just how much work lay ahead of him. Please read the Mayor’s column as to the initial response to this. I admire the aim behind this enormous change but it will be very difficult to achieve the elimination of doubling up and too many processes and excessive costs.
There are some similarities in the local story of the Boating Club not in enormity of the situation but in the human behaviour that change invites
The name of the regatta held this last weekend is Double Trouble but in some ways the. Mercury Bay Boating Club is facing double trouble. In fact, the last three years has been a period of double trouble. But not everything has fitted that description
of the events and experiences of the Boating Club. I quote from the Commodore’s report to the Boating Club AGM this last week.
“SAILING – WHAT WE ARE ABOUT AFTER ALL”
Keelboat Sailing – A small but
enthusiastic fleet has raced throughout the year. We expect that to continue with some small improvement in numbers coming back from injury and breakages. After-race activities have been kindly hosted (beyond the bounds of the Boating Club).
Junior (Smallboat) Sailing – A coaching programme was run last summer and enthusiastically received, however at a significant cost to the club. A small number of small boat sailing events were run and the local Hobie fleet is showing signs of a resurgence in
numbers with a some colourful sails getting together regularly. We appreciate the continued use of the “Hobie Section”
Unfortunately, immigration issues and a lack of local coaches have meant it is unlikely we can run a summer training programme this year.
The club purchased a new patrol boat and motor largely using funds granted from Pub Charity during the year. The old boat/motor will be marketed for sail not that summer is arriving.
We are holding funds from the Auckland Hobie Association for future use in purchasing suitable junior catamarans but this is on hold pending our ability to store and manage.”
SAILING IS THE FOCUS
There is a deep and time-long commitment to sailing and some very skilled sailors who not only win regattas but also teach our young sailors. Whitianga has ‘punched above its weight’ in terms of preparing sailors for international level events.
Jonathan Kline in the photo on this page is a professional sailor, yacht skipper and previous Commodore for Mercury Bay. At times, he still trains sailors and
5:51am Set 8:27pm
Rise 5:51am Set 8:27pm
Set 9:56am
Jonathan Kline, Annabel Kline and Phil Hart standing against what is the Mercury Bay Boating Clubhouse.
competes on behalf of Mercury Bay. Phil Hart, also pictured is not only the
as well as being as an experienced ‘race officer.’ The third person in the photo is Annabel Kline, a keen young sailor who is hungry to see the life and vigour of the Mercury Bay Boating Club continue and grow. Many know the story of the building these three stand against in the photo, but some of our readers do not.
It’s been up on stilts and supported by scaffolding for three years. Now a decision must be made about the future of the Clubhouse so that the Boating Club can get on with its sailing future. Phil Hart has reported in his AGM minutes that the meeting made a decision to say goodbye to the building. They have tried ‘everything’ they can, at the expense of focussing on sailing.
LET’S LOOK AT THIS ‘EVERYTHING’
The Clubhouse sat closer to the ocean 50 metres in front of where it rests in its current state.
It enjoyed the proximity to the sea and a minimal lease from TCDC. However, the terms of the lease said the club was responsible for all coastal protection costs.
At times, a rock wall to protect the beach front was discussed. At one point, TCDC must have employed a consultant to prepare a quote on what the cost of an engineered rock wall would be to protect the area in front of the club.
That quote was passed on to the club. It was an amount exceeding
$600,000. Well, no community group can afford that nor has it the affront to ask the wider community to help them find it. TCDC had done the ‘landlord’ task of informing the club of the cost of the risk but personally, I believe no community club should have to be put in that position. A mistake to sign a lease with those terms; but who wouldn’t have signed such a lease?
Then Cyclone Hale came. It regailed against the beachfront and soon the deck was leaning over the waves – the club’s very foundations and footing vanishing.
Peter Abrahamson with a Hoppers digger and truck came with rocks and sandbags. A host of friends and complete strangers filled the bags and heaved the
rocks to keep back the force of nature. It was impressive and courageous. I was there.
But the gouging had been done. As effective as the work of the generous volunteers was, the principal damage could not be undone.
However, the temporary fix would help keep things stable. It was during this wave of volunteer effort and still raining that the Waikato Regional Council representative arrived to tell the Commodore (Jonathan Kline at the time) and other members of the Club they had two days to remove the sandbags and rocks.
That certainly dampened the spirits of everyone there. Those bright spirits in the people had been the only crisp and fresh aspect of the whole scene.
Then Cyclone Gabriel arrived – not as impactful as Hale but it didn’t take much to scour out the area under the front wall of the clubhouse.
Next came the big trucks and the scaffolding company. The clubhouse was moved to its present site. This was hopeful, the building was further away. The deck could be reattached and all that was needed was permission to reset the building in its new location, about 40-50 metres back on the same land.
PROBLEMS AROSE
IMMEDIATELY
The local iwi believed that this was a sacred site. There were no details but the inference stopped plans. Then Heritage New Zealand became involved. Any decision was going to take years and money. Some of the local residents also expressed an opinion that it was time the Boating Club moved from there – too close and too noisy sometimes.
Another great idea – the club could move to near the Dundas Street boat ramp. There was room and the land held by DOC was not being used much. But it brought into question the use of parking needed by the Rugby Club, and the club might take up some of the boat trailer space of the local fishers.
The team at the Boating Club went into research and legal defence mode counting up the usage and ensuring the community they were a low cost, low level of trouble organisation with much to give.
A neighbour lawyered up to defend and protect the life and
view he had moved there for so many years ago. He was convinced these would be destroyed. He was a person who supported sailing but not in his front yard. Some residents and businesses enthusiastically supported this move but others raised concerns over safety with the strong flow and Waterways traffic making it unsafe for young sailors.
A COURT CASE ENSUED After over a year passed, DOC finally gave the go ahead but the cost of the lease would be so heavy, that the Boating Club could not even contemplate moving. All this time the cost of the scaffolding was mounting up even though the local companies were generous with costs and their equipment. The building was showing signs of weariness on its ‘temporary’ legs.
I think this saga is more than one of ‘Double Trouble’. Rules, and ‘invented’ rules and non-applicable regulations have all contributed but so has nature, and that was big-time.
People have worked so hard, and with tenacity to find a solution, but some have worked as hard to ensure the clubhouse is not in their sight or space. It is time to make decisions on their building. This is entirely up to the Boating Club members. There is a weariness with suggestions and opinions as our sailors are clear – this has used up eons of sailing hours.
However, we are still a community in The Bay, by the sea, and if there is some long-term good news to come from this, it needs to happen quickly.
Phil Hart, Annabel Kline and Jonathan Kline represent the Mercury Bay sailing community – all keen sailors.
GJ Gardner home to match the lifestyle
BY JACK BIDDLE
G.J. Gardner, New Zealand’s most trusted home builder (through independent research), recently opened the doors to their new show home in Matarangi and its very much a family friendly and affordable dwelling that fits the natural surroundings perfectly.
Glenn Sonntag along with his wife Kelly have been the G.J. Gardner franchise owners for the wider Coromandel for the last 12 years and Glenn is adamant Matarangi offers one of the Coromandel’s most relaxed and laid-back lifestyles. “It’s so easy for Kiwis to fall in love with the beauty of the place and its simplicity. With loads of outdoor activities that include a beautiful north facing beach, acclaimed golf course, water sports, fishing, walking and cycling tracks all within easy reach there is no rush. The show home allows potential home buyers to get a real taste and feel for what is available and possible in Matarangi without the need for a large budget. G.J. Gardner Homes have always been about offering cus-
tomers with the best value for money builds and prides itself on meeting a client’s needs in terms of design, budget and flexibility. For some potential customers, the showhome will fit their needs with minimal changes while for others it’s a starting point to expand on. Our team is always ready to share the journey and deliver on our promise of building a home we can all be proud of. The combination of employing local builders and tradies with the reassurance of a trusted national brand which provides customers with the ultimate peace of mind is a hard package to ignore we believe”.
The one level 3 bedroom (including ensuite) 175.6m2 double garage showhome is situated at 309 Matarangi Drive on a flat 702m2 section which is typical for the surrounding housing development. Exterior cladding is a combination of horizontal and vertical weatherboard which complements the coloursteel roof perfectly. The showhome open days are Thursday-Saturday and Monday 11:00am-3:00pm. For more information contact local G. J. Gardner’s new home consultants Leanne Barnes 021 468 533 or Derek McLoughlin 021 075 5473.
Double Trouble Catamaran Regatta an exciting 7th year
BY JONATHAN KLINE
This last weekend the Mercury Bay Boating Club ran the Double Trouble Catamaran Regatta for the seventh consecutive year. It was terrific! It’s also ironic with the tragedy of our Boating Clubhouse.
Two classes attended –double handed Hobie Cats and single-handed A-Class, the A Class squad just coming off of their World Championships at the Milford Cruising Club. The competitors travelled from Auckland and Rotorua as well team members from our home club MBBC.
Sunny skies and a lovely sea breeze dominated Saturday while clouds and gusty northerlies challenged the fleet on Sunday. Race Officer and Club Commodore Philip Hart successfully ran 9 races with one that had to be abandoned due to a 180 degree wind shift.
Both days allowed for tactical gains or hero-tozero losses throughout the windward leeward courses. Junior sailing coordinator and regatta organizer Jonathan Kline was very happy with weekend. “Once again, our incredible volunteer race management team punched above their weight. Mark boats set the course according to Commodore Hart’s instructions and kept the fleet safe through several hard capsizes. We are grateful to these volunteers who gave up their weekend to help
run the event. Thank you Rose Mahon, Helen Hart, Gary Carse, Russell Chaney, Josie Fairweather, Simon Foulkes, Bianca Raynel, Rosemary Stewart, Noah Kline and Annabelle Kline for your excellent support.“
A major highlight of the weekend was the fact that we had 4 junior sailors competing for the first time. Year 13 student Euan Stewart and Year 9 student Thomas Scobie teamed up on one of the club’s donated catamarans and completed all 8 races, pipping several veteran adults for some near podium finishes. Year
8 student Leon Lingard teamed up with Auckland skipper Peter Rhodes and took a 4th overall, despite a spectacular capsize in Race 7. Year 6 student Levon Harwood joined his Dad Roger Harwood and won Race 4. All four juniors have come up through our junior sailing programs and have graduated to this challenging and adrenalin-filled catamaran class.
The A Class trophy was won by David Haylock. While Jonathan Kline and Chris Devenoges won the Hobie Cat Trophy.
Event organizer Jonathan Kline noted, “Once again the Mercury Boating Club, its club house still stuck in irons with local and regional bureaucracy, attracted sailors from around the region and filled our beautiful bay with colour and speed.”
A-Class champion David Haylock, above, lifts off; Juniors Euan Stewart and Thomas Scobe, left, round the top mark ahead of veteran skipper Paul Renall from Rotorua.
The front view of the GJ Gardner open home at 309 Matarangi Drive, Matarangi.
Derek McLoughlin (home consultant), Glenn Sonntag (franchise owner) and Leanne Barnes (home consultant) at the open home in Matarangi last Saturday.
Christmas
Mercury Bay Club invites you to our Children’s
Huge week at Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret
Two incredible international acts are coming to this little corner of the world!
BY MOLLY BURKE
CSunday 7 December 2025
12.30 - 3.30pm, Open to members children & grandchildren. Aged 0-11 years old
Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc
Our next gathering will be Christmas Lunch on 4th December at The Mercury Bay Club, 11.00am start (doors open at 10.30am).
Further information or to join Grey Power Mercury Bay please phone 07 866 5516 or E: greypower.mercurybay@gmail.com
Come and join us there is lots to celebrate.
St Andrew’s Church Opshop CRAZY PRICES
SALE
Saturday 6th Dec 9.30am-3pm
In the Church Hall Owen St, Whitianga (opp Z)
ome on! line dancers, country music lovers, rockabilly music lovers, this is your kind of band. Portland, Oregon’s own Jenny Don’t and The Spurs roll in with their irresistible blend of twang, grit, and high-energy Americana.
This is the kind of timeless, road-tested country and western, with a hint of their own “cow punk” that turns first-timers into lifelong fans. Don’t miss your chance to see them up close before they head back across the Pacific.
Wednesday 3 December 7.00pm Tickets $25 from UndertheRadar.co.nz.
Acclaimed Australian blues-folk troubadour Kim Churchill hits the stage with his signature mix of soaring vocals, rootsy guitar work, and pure heart.
After Glastonbury and
Jenny Don’t and The Spurs are coming to Whitianga as part of their NZ tour.
Montreal Jazz Fest, he is looking forward to gracing our stage. He is supported by Dusty Boots, with his trusty saxophone. This may well be sold out by the time we go to print – head to Humantix to see if you’re in luck. Saturday night 6 December 7.00pm Important! Bringing world-class artists to a
regional venue is something we love doing - but it only keeps happening when the community shows up. Every ticket sold helps signal to touring musicians that The Monkey House is worth the stop, and your support directly shapes the calibre of international acts we can attract in the future.
A Lifestyle Village in Thames on the Coromandel 2 BEDROOM VILLAS NOW AVAILABLE!
villas provide you with plenty of warmth and light and garden patios to
CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Santa very busy with parades
PAEROA SANTA PARADE & AFTER PARTY
Friday 5 December 6.00pm
More Info - https://www.facebook.com/ share/p/1JpMcgYr11/
TAIRUA CHRISTMAS MARKET WITH SANTA’S GROTTO
Saturday 6 December 9.00am – 1.00pm
Tairua Community Hall
More Info - https://www.tairua.co.nz
THAMES SANTA PARADE & TE
Whanau Day & Prize Giving: 12noon3pm
More info - https://www.whanauday. co.nz/
NGATEA CHRISTMAS PARADE
Thursday 11 December 5:45pm - 6:45pm
More Info - https://www.facebook.com/ events/1059902006329319/
WHANGAMATĀ CHRISTMAS PARADE AND FAIR
Saturday 13 December 11.00am-4.00pm
WHITIANGA SANTA PARADE
Saturday 13 December 1.00pm
Starts Dundas Street and goes the length of Albert Street
More Info - https://whitianga.co.nz/ events/
COROMANDEL TOWN CHRISTMAS PARADE & CHRISTMAS MARKET
Sunday 14 December 11.30am
Starts from Coromandel Hotel (Top Pub) and finishes at the Area School
TAIRUA SANTA FUN RUN
All ages 5km & 500m events, Pepe Harbour, Saturday 20 December see page 14
MATARANGI SANTA PARADE
Saturday, 20 December 11:00am Parade starts cnr Matarangi Drive and Fernhill Rise heading towards the shopping centre.
CAROLS IN THE PARK
Community Carol Singing Taylor’s Mistake, Whitianga Friday, 12 December 6:00-8:00pm
• Bring a picnic blanket
• Come and sing carols with the community.
Photos from 2024 Santa Parades
TRAVEL
TRAVEL WRITER – SARAH-JANE
Best scenic spots tp test your raincoat
Amazing waterfalls, lush temperate forests and it rains. And Fiordland is one of NZ’s top most visited spots. Yet the uninvited guest is often New Zealand's gloriously wet weather.
FIORDLAND: WHERE RAIN IS A LIFESTYLE
Think epic waterfalls and lush, temperate forests. Now, think about why it's so lush. It's raining. A lot. It's still one of New Zealand's top five most visited spots, which proves we'll queue for anything, even a good soaking. How wet? Fiordland receives swimming pools of rainwater— about seven meters of rain every year. You can expect a delightful downpour on approximately 200 out of 365 days. The general state of the region can be described as damp, raining, or just about to rain.
THE NZ BEACH EXPERIENCE
New Zealand beaches are undeniably beautiful, isolated, and generally not crowded. Why the peaceful solitude? Perhaps it’s the weather. With an average summer temperature hovering around a sizzling 25°C, we are
definitely not in the tropics. Perhaps you will get a healthy glow from battling the southerly wind.
CONQUERING ROYS PEAK: A PHOTOSHOP MASTERCLASS
The weather isn't just an uninvited guest; it's a co-conspirator in your epic holiday stories. That iconic Instagram moment atop Roys Peak, Wanaka? It’s not spoiled by fog blurring out Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains—it’s an opportunity to polish your Photoshop skills! Plus, you instantly acquire a great story of personal heroism: The Tourist (that's you!), who achieved success reaching the popular selfie location while battling the weather gremlins and
proving that Gore-Tex is a sound investment.
WHAT WE REALLY PROMISE NEW ZEALAND VISITORS
Forget the standard travel brochure fluff. We offer:
• Rays of sunshine: Where light flexes its muscle, dramatically bouncing through ferns, adding a fleeting layer of warmth to your walk. Capture it quickly; it may only last five minutes.
• A temperate climate: Which adds a daily guessing game to your holiday. Can you outwit the weather forecast? Definitely! (Although, pack a windproof raincoat, just in case the weather forecast wins.)
• Cooling down after a brisk
Mercury Bay and Whitianga Lions are able to donate $14,000 to the Lions Cancer Lodge in Hamilton This is only possible because of your support.
The clubs would like to thank the following:
• The garden owners for their time, effort and care in tending and presenting their gardens.
• The volunteers - we couldn’t do it without you.
• Our lovely community who supported us by buying raffle and garden ramble tickets, and by visiting the plant market and café.
• Our members from both clubs who worked so hard putting this event.together.
• Naming our Sponsors who have been so generous: Anchor, Ann Schollum, Ball & Co, Bay Bakery, Carpet Court, CFM, Chops Landscaping, Coromind, Diode Electrical, Docktronics, Elevate Fitness, Endeavour Print, Evakona Education, Flooring Xtra, Gardenscapes, Glass Bottom Boat, Grace O’Malleys Irish Bar, Grapefruit Gully, Green Door at # 4, Guthrie Bowron, Hammer Hardware, Harcourts, Hot Water Beach Garden Centre, Matarangi Plumbing, Mat’s Café, Mercury Bay Model Railway Club, Mercury Bay Resource Centre - Wahi Tukurua, Mercury Bay Twin Cinemas, New World, NZ Jane.com, Over the Fence, Peninsula Cars, PlaceMakers Garden, Centre, Richardsons Real Estate, Salt, Smitty’s Sports Bar and Grill, Stephenson’s Pharmacy, Stirling Sports, Styled Spaces, The Coromandel Informer, The Warehouse, Triple F (Z), Urban Homes, Versatile Homes, Whitianga Hair Co.
Thank you for your support.
Cecily Dower – President of the Mercury Bay Lions Club
Congratulations to the winners of the Amazing Garden Ramble raffle, drawn by Senior Constable Don Edgecombe #1 - $500 chops voucher was Brenda Dundas #2 – wheelbarrow full of goodies was Chrissy Roe #3 – planter box full of goodies was Jane Young #4 – plant pot full of goodies was Michelle Rhodes #5 – hand made quilt was Debbie Gordon #6 – basket full of goodies was Maggie Beattie #7 – iced Christmas cake was Ngaire O’Brien All winners have been notified, and prizes have been distributed.
walk: Is effortless. Simply take one layer of clothing off, and let nature provide a refreshing blast of cool air that makes you immediately wish you hadn't.
• The Mountain Safety Council app for a day at the beach: Because in New Zealand, even a trip to the coast can require search and rescue knowledge. What other holiday destination promises four seasons in one day? You’ll need to pack a backpack that includes: sunglasses, a sunhat, a wind/rain-proof coat, a water bottle (in case you are too warm), and a jersey (in case you need warming up). Your backpack will weigh more than you do.
THE
SOUTH ISLAND'S WETTEST CHAMPIONS
The West Coast (Greymouth, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Fox Glacier) This is the undisputed champion of rain in New Zealand. It's the reason the area is so breathtakingly green—it sits directly exposed to the prevailing westerly winds, which dump moisture against the Southern Alps.
• The Experience: Lush temperate rainforests, dramatic coastlines, and a rainfall gauge that
permanently reads "very full." You are visiting a natural phenomenon: a temperate rainforest that exists purely because the rain never stops.
• The Humour: The locals don’t say it's raining; they say the weather is "West Coasting." You'll learn that the glaciers look just as white and impressive through a layer of mist, and the waterfalls are much more spectacular when they're angry
STEWART ISLAND / RAKIURA (THE DEEP SOUTH)
The southernmost inhabited island is remote, peaceful, and also happens to be the cloudiest region of the country.
• The Experience: You're here for the raw wilderness, the kiwi spotting, and the promise of escaping the crowds. You get all of that, plus a perpetual state of "moody" weather where the sky is rarely crisp blue.
• The Humour: Stewart Island doesn't do sunny days; it does various shades of atmospheric grey. It's the perfect place to develop an appreciation for drizzle. (P.S. Bring an extra layer, even in summer.)
Big changes to come
BY PETER REVELL
It is Wednesday, 26 November as I write this, and our first ordinary council meeting of the new term is now behind us. Five weeks in, sleeves are well and truly rolled up, the standing committees are locked in, and we’re already into the job you elected us to do. It’s exciting to finally be underway!
We had all been expecting some kind of announcement from the Government about local government reform – the rumours have been swirling for weeks.
However, when it landed late on Tuesday evening, the sheer scale of the “Simplifying Local Government” proposal still took most of us by surprise.
It’s the biggest review since the major 1989 reforms that successfully streamlined hundreds of small councils and special-purpose bodies into the more efficient structure we have today. Many of us were bracing for possible tweaks to regional councils; instead, we have a full-scale review of local government as we know it.
Like many of you, I’ve been thinking hard about one question only. Will these changes deliver lower rates, better services, and stronger protection for our envi-
ronment, or will they simply move decisions further away from the people who pay the bills?
There is clearly duplication across the system today that adds cost and inefficiency for ratepayers. Change that makes sense for our district – and that genuinely reduces waste while keeping strong local control – is welcome.
The absolute bottom line for this council is that Thames-Coromandel ratepayers must retain real influence over the services we fund and depend on. No one in Wellington or Hamilton knows our roads, our water issues, our beaches, or our summer surge like we do right here.
We’ll judge every part of the proposal against that ratepayer-first test. If it truly benefits you, we’ll back it. If it risks losing local voice, we’ll push back hard.
In the meantime, the reform work has only just begun, and we are ready to put our shoulders to the wheel and represent you strongly.
Our number one job right now – the commitment I made when campaigning – is to deliver a rate increase at 3.85 % or better in next year’s Annual Plan. We are going flat-out to make that happen.
Whatever the future holds, our
job is to keep the Thames-Coromandel highly visible, strong, and united. We truly do live in the greatest part of New Zealand, and together we will make sure our voice is heard loud and clear.
As this is the final column for 2025, I wish you all a safe, happy Christmas and a wonderful summer with family and friends. A huge thank you to everyone who gives their time – whether paid or in volunteer work – to keep our district running over this very busy season.
COUNCIL MEETINGS
Members of the public and media are welcome to attend the public part of any Council, Community Board or standing committee meeting. If there is a report you wish to speak to, you may do so in the public forum of the meeting.
Members of the public wishing to speak at the public forum will need to register using the link here: Register for Public Forum | TCDC.
The date of the next ordinary meeting of council is Tuesday 16 December at the council offices in Thames.
Driving and our road toll
BY RAY VAN BEYNEN
Thank you for the feedback on the fatal traffic incident in Whitianga a few weeks ago. New Zealand has long wrestled with the disproportionate number of deaths and injuries from motor vehicle incidents. The term car ‘accident’ is still commonly used but is inaccurate and misleading.
Most traffic incidents are caused by drivers who have made poor decisions, or exercised poor judgement or are often under the influence of alcohol and or drugs. None of these could be termed ‘accidental’.
A quick look at the statute book shows New Zealand has no lack of deterrents when it comes to dealing with traffic law breakers. There are significant penalties for serious offending including drink driving, dangerous or reckless driving or causing serious injury or death.
Despite the best efforts of police and the Land Safety Transport Authority, the road toll is not decreasing. There are several factors at play.
The first is a poor driving culture. A few months ago, our family were lucky enough to spend two weeks in Italy. There is no surprise that Italian drivers drive fast and display little regard for such niceties as indicating (sound
familiar) but they are also unfailingly courteous and tolerant. So, a serious improvement in tolerance and a less stressed driving environment is required.
There is also a need for better driver education and training. Young drivers should attend formal training, free of charge, including defensive driving, prior to their obtaining a drivers’ licence. Should they then commit serious traffic offences, they would lose their licence and not have one reissued until they had refunded the cost of their training as well as completing another training round.
Sadly, driving a motor vehicle has become an inherently dangerous activity and impacts on public safety. There appears to be a general acceptance of the fact that each year, hundreds of people die or are seriously injured. That needs to change.
The courts also have a part to play. Drink driving charges are often decided not on whether the driver had been drinking to excess, but whether the Police officer can satisfy the court that every last-minute detail of the drink drive process has been followed. Surely reasonable rather than strict compliance would see justice served. Lastly, courts need to get tougher on sentencing. Until next week drive safely.
AT THE MARKETS
Upcoming markets
Tairua Market takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month all year at Tairua Community Hall, 9am till 1pm.
Coroglen Farmers Market every Sunday until Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25), from 9am-1pm.
Coromandel ‘Growers & Artisans Market’. Every Saturday from 9am-1pm at The Anglican Church Hall, Coromandel Town.
Whitianga Market. 9am-1pm, Soldiers Memorial, Whitianga.
Thames Market. Every Saturday, 8am till midday, 700 Pollen St, Thames.
Pauanui Market is held on the last Sunday of every month in the Rec Hall next to the Pauanui Club.
Grahamstown Car Boot Market. Last Saturday of each month, at Twentymans Car Park opposite Thames Fire Station, Pahau Street.
Ngatea Markets 2nd Sunday of the month @ the Ngatea Hall.
Turua Hall Flea Market, 476 Hauraki Rd, Turua. Market every third Sunday of the month 9am-1pm
Puriri Valley Market. Monthly market at the Puriri Hall. First Sunday of each month.
Te Aroha’s Country Market. Fantastic local market 3rd Sunday of the month, at Boyd Park grandstand which is in Te Aroha on Stanley Ave.
Beekeepers, Irma and Ivan – a buzzing top team with their hives
BY VERNA CARR
For Whenuakite beekeepers
Irma and Ivan Steenhus, the journey from landscaping and laboratory work to tending hundreds of hives has been a natural evolution driven by their deep love of plants, nature, and sustainable living.
The husband-and-wife team now run a thriving honey business, selling their products at both the Whitianga and Coroglen markets.
"Grandad kept bees, so it must be in the family blood," Irma jokes, though the couple's decision to purchase an existing beekeeping operation was rooted in something far more serious; a profound appreciation for the crucial role bees
play in our ecosystem.
When they first took over the business, Ivan and Irma managed 900 hives, renting them out for pollination purposes and exporting the resulting honey. Today, their focus has shifted to producing "Beekeepers Honey"
– a completely raw product that stands in stark contrast to the cheaper, processed blends commonly found on supermarket shelves. Their range showcases the diverse flora of the Coromandel region, with varieties spanning from light and delicate to rich and full-bodied.
Beyond selling jars of liquid gold, Irma and Ivan are passionate educators. They frequently chat with customers about the importance of pollinators and offer tips for creating beefriendly gardens. Beeswax candles, lip balm, and honeycomb are also sold, ensuring nothing from their hives goes to waste.
The Steenhus couple are committed to sustainability. They avoid pesticides, and practise ethical beekeeping
CLARITY THAT MATTERS MOST.
World-class 3D mammogram and full diagnostic services, now available in Pukekohe
When it comes to breast health, clarity isn’t just clinicalit’s personal. Our powerful combination of 3D mammograms with Volpara Breast Density Assessment gives clearer images and better detection, and on-site diagnostics including ultrasound and biopsy if required.
methods that prioritise the health and wellbeing of their colonies.
Irma and Ivan are also founding members of Corofresh, a collaborative venture with like-minded local growers who share their philosophy of fresh, spray-free, nutrient-dense produce and sustainable farming practices. Corofresh delivers fresh produce to customers throughout Tairua, Pauanui, Cooks Beach, Hahei, Whitianga, and Kuaotunu every Friday. Orders must be placed by Thursday.
You can find Irma and Ivan at the Whitianga Markets on a Saturday and at the Coroglen markets on a Sunday morning,or contact Corofresh for your weekly produce delivery.
Results within days – not weeks. Because the sooner you know, the sooner you can move forward.
Book now: 0800 626 664
No GP referral is needed for screening mammogram ages 40+.
Scan the QR code for more info
Irma with her honey.
BY SUZANNE HANSEN
On a recent trip to Denmark, my third time there visiting family and friends, I was struck by just how innovative, progressive and efficient this Nordic country is and how easy it is to get around.
The country has brilliant infrastructure, amazingly efficient transportation networks, a well-developed production capacity, a fully tax-funded education and health system and a culture of innovation starting from a very early age in schools. In 2024, Denmark’s GDP was estimated at $407 billion. New Zealand’s was around $260.24 billion.
Denmark’s public transportation infrastructure is second to none. We got everywhere by fully connected and fully automated rail and metro network, operating 24/7 and using a nationwide common ticketing and zoning system. In Copenhagen only around a third of inner-city households currently own a car and of these, only 10% of car trips are used for commuting to work. Denmark is also a nation of cyclists (9 out of 10 people own one) and their cities are built around cycle commuting. Cycling accounts for 21%
Attitude is everything
of trips under 10 kilometres and 15% of all trips.
Note: It does need to be said that Denmark has a lot of flat land unlike New Zealand and is only geographically the size of our centre North Island.
Denmark is a leader in world energy. While 50% of their electricity comes from wind and solar, the greater source of renewable energy comes from bioenergy. Agriculture is big business in Denmark, and it indirectly helps provide energy too, with manure, animal fats, and straw used as the basis for biogas and liquid biofuels. Nearly two-thirds of Danish households are supplied with district heating (heat networks), where the heat is distributed to citizens as hot water in pipes. Roughly half of the fuel for district heating in Denmark is made up of biomass and other sources of renewable energy. In fact, in central Copenhagen there is an artificial ski slope (with chairlifts, bar and café) built on the roof of a huge incinerator that burns waste to produce heat and electricity for their central district heating. Amager Bakke which only takes material that is non-recyclable, is billed as one of the cleanest waste-to-energy plants in the
world, thanks to technology that filters its emissions. It is also one of the only “skiable mountains” in Denmark.
Danes are obsessive about recycling from a very young age. We saw this first hand when we erroneously deposited a used beverage container. Denmark’s retail infrastructure is built for this. They have booths at the local supermarket for recycling bottles, cans, etc. You simply pop your containers onto a conveyor belt, the bottle is scanned for its re-use value, and the machine spits out voucher discounts for your next shop. This means almost every plastic and glass bottle has a
refundable deposit attached. You pay extra at the checkout, but you get it back when you recycle. Being eco-friendly is seen as a basic duty in Denmark and something you do to be a part of society.
These are only examples we noticed from our visit but Denmark has been innovative in so many other areas in food agriculture, pharmaceuticals and biotech (think Insulin and Ozempic), and design. They even invented the battle-axe, the hair comb, the long boat, the loud speaker and Lego.
Danish companies and the Danish state know that such innovation is necessary to build wealth in a small country, and their education system is geared to produce innovative societal participants. Danes are taught in school from a very young age to question conventional wisdom, challenge their teachers and parents and come up with better solutions. They are also taught to focus on team building and creative approaches to problems.
This spirit of teambuilding carries over into working life. Denmark has an exceptional track record of public-private collaboration when it comes to research and development and the country
has very high number of patents relative to its population. Most of the new products are in the fields of life sciences and pharmaceuticals, biomedicine, environmental science, and food and agriculture. These are all areas that New Zealand aspires to.
Although distasteful to the average Kiwi, Denmark also has one of the world’s highest taxes which finance their comprehensive set of welfare programmes. The general population seem happy to pay - citizens and private companies with higher incomes pay higher taxes, and citizens and private companies with lower incomes pay lower taxes. It is all transparent and straightforward. These taxes are used to finance the extensive healthcare and education services. Currently, the average Danish citizen pays a total of 46 per cent of his/her income in taxes. But although Danes have the fifth highest tax burden in the world, 88 per cent of the Danes are happy to pay their taxes (Gallup Institute Survey).
You might say that this is a very good example of a welfare state that actually works. Interesting to note that the basis of the welfare state in Denmark is actually that is it set up to benefit the coun-
Denmark, with a population only slightly bigger than New Zealand (5.9 vs 5.2 million) and very few natural resources of their own, has become one of the world’s most prosperous nations
try economically. By providing healthcare, higher education and childcare, cultural care and much more to all individuals, then they will provide high quality human capital and great employees to benefit tax paying companies and the wider economy. The Danish “flexicurity” model means it is easy to hire workers and not too hard to let them go if business conditions change. If this happens, then the state is in the mix with programmes to get them re-trained and rehired. The tax-financed educational system that is free for the student ensures a steady supply of well-trained labour.
This is a very different philosophy from other welfare states including New Zealand who are trying more to provide safety nets, band aids and lifestyle preservation, rather than an efficient and well-trained workforce. A good example of this is that in Denmark, childcare is subsidised by 75% which means many more women can work if they desire, and it is common for both parents to work. According to a recent Norwegian study, the economic contribution of working mothers is equal to that of its own oil reserves. In other words, child-
care is self-funding.
The key reason that the Danish welfare state works where ours doesn’t, is this underlying economic philosophy- the link between paying taxes and what each citizen and company gets in return is visible and tangible in Denmark compared to other countries like NZ where this link is less trusted or visible.
SO MUCH BASED ON TRUST
What underpins the success of the system is Denmark’s ingrained and extremely high levels of social trust. People in Denmark trust each other and they trust institutions like the government, the monarchy, the hospitals, schools and police. Denmark has just recently reached #1 now in the most recent Transparency International “Perceived Corruption in the Public Sector” index. NZ has dropped to #4.
But to fully understand why Denmark has succeeded in becoming a welfare state, we must look at this attitude of trust. Trust comes in different forms. Most people trust their friends and family, but Denmark also benefits from what anthropologists call a general societal trust, which is the ability to trust people you have
But to fully understand why Denmark has succeeded in becoming a welfare state, we must look at this attitude of trust. The Danes coin a word, tillid, which means both “trust” and faith”. Much of Danish Society is based on it.
never met before. In Denmark, people are assumed to be honest and reliable unless they somehow show that they are not. The Danes coin a word, tillid, which means both “trust” and faith”. Much of Danish Society is based
on it. Tillid is so strong in many Nordic countries that babies are left to nap outside in their prams on public streets because many see breathing in fresh, cold air as a way to develop immunity. Sleeping outside means spending less time in crowded indoor spaces at day-care or at cafés (aka petri dishes). Denmark is also a place where childhood is to be fiercely protected and children are given the space to simply be.
Danes are rated among the happiest people in the world, but that is not because they do not have troubles. They are actually reared to lean into trouble (bøvl), because there’s an understanding that a life without trouble is no life at all. This attitude makes for a more forgiving society, less focused on perfectionism. Trouble is expected and mistakes are seen as opportunities – not shameful circumstances. In Denmark, this attitude helps build social trust. If you expect trouble, you also expect that someone will help you handle it. Through scouting programmes and childhood outdoor experiences and letting kids be kids, parents and schools teach that bøvl or the inevitable scrapes, confusion, and mishaps that come with trial and
error, is how we learn. Denmark’s educational system espouses this attitude. The spirit of teambuilding carries over into working life. Denmark has an exceptional tradition of public-private collaboration when it comes to research and development.
When I first immigrated to New Zealand in 1987, I was truly impressed with how NZ “punched above its weight” as a small nation, in innovation and creativity. In some ways we still do. However, it appears to me that the environment for innovation in NZ is being choked out by our own lack of societal trust, private and public teamwork and our propensity to cast blame, not learn from our troubles.
The resulting multiple layers of regulation and government bureaucracy which have mushroomed are also stifling innovation. To be fair, our tax base is probably too low to pay for those things we really need like infrastructure, better education and a health system that works. It is a chicken and egg where nobody here wants to pay more tax because we don’t trust that we will get more benefit. Perhaps we are a small nation that needs a big pivot.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
TCDC RESPONDS TO ‘THE COROMANDEL LEFT BEHIND
– AGAIN’
Patrick Kerr’s letter to the editor in the 25 November issue of The Informer requires clarification. Our Council’s economic development team was actively working with Greenstone Entertainment to facilitate the return of the Summer Concert event.
Greenstone’s decision to host the event in Whitianga on Monday 26 January 2026 was due to the availability of their lead acts. Greenstone’s decision to cancel the Whitianga event was a commercial decision. Our Council has a very good, longstanding relationship with Greenstone Entertainment, and we will continue to work with them as they develop their plans for the summer of 2027 and beyond.
Provided by Michael Dobie, Communications Team Leader TCDC
BRING BACK AARON
Like most of you, I was disgusted and appalled to hear of the "letting go" of Aaron the talkative trolley guy by the New World Supermarket. What a callous, cruel thing to do before Christmas. And how shortsighted! Aaron is a Whitianga icon and the best thing New World had going for them by a country mile. How many times have we all been rushing around taking life too
The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to enable members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest/concern. Please keep them to 200 words or less. These letters do not reflect the editor’s view. The editor reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.
seriously just to have Aaron call out to us for a yak and a laugh and make us feel more light-hearted about everything?
Until Aaron is brought back, I have personally considered a total boycott of New World. However, there are a scant few items they carry which Woolworths doesn't provide. I will cut back on these items and do the entirety of my other shopping at Woolworths in protest until such time as Aaron is reinstated.
All they care about at New World is the bottom line so let's come together as a community for Aaron and hit them where it hurts. Woolworths should snap him up. Aaron, if you're reading this, Woolworths could pay you more anyway.
Brian Walsh, Whitianga
GE TECH BILL CONCERNS
This past weekend there was a nation-wide protest in a large number of local communities expressing their protest at the upcoming Genetic Engineering (G.E.) Technology Bill going to Parliament.
These wonderful community citizens stood with others from around New Zealand to bring consciousness and raise awareness about the Gene Tech Bill... Currently, New Zealand has some of the strictest biosecurity laws in the world. However, if this GE Technology Bill is passed, we will become one of the least regulated countries in the world.
I am writing to encourage people to find the petition and sign it for the good of our future, our children, our environment and our
country. We have stood up for this before and it’s time to do so again. Our way of life here is important. We have so much beautiful home grown food that is nurtured with love, is spray free, organic and full of natural goodness so why would we allow others to bring in GMO contamination?.
I point out a recent interview by Paul Brennan of RealityCheck. radio with Geneticist Professor Jack Heinemann of Canterbury University and Director of Centre for Integrated Research in Biosafety.
Professor Heinemann shared his concerns about NZ’s rush into gene editing (genetic engineering GE), stating that it could easily backfire. He warned about the powerful DNA-altering technology, being fast-tracked without
proper public input, challenging claims that deregulation would boost NZ’s economy. Instead, he argued this would mainly benefit big patent holders, while exposing the environment to unforeseen risks.
This is the interview https://rcr.media/episodes/ prof-jack-heinemann-director-of-centre-for-integrated-research-in-biosafety-nzs-rush-topush-new-gene-editing-laws-ahidden-risk-for-our-future/ Caroline Hobman, Whitianga
UNFAIRNESS & DISCRIMINATION
For us living in a Body Corp – I ask TCDC, The Mayor & Councilorswhen are we getting unbundled please it is NOT fair & is we have no control over it, We just pay over $1115 for water alone, it’s day light robbery.
It has been stated that this is going to be “Top Priority” so what is your time line for this and please don’t say 2027/2028 because that is moving the goal post as you already have done once. I have been elected on to your Body Corp our AGM on Friday and my first specific task is to challenge TCDC about us being unbundled ASAP so we be treated more fairly, and I will approaching other body Corp owners and starting petitions if this is not addressed as a “Top Priority”. Emma Gaunt, Whitianga
Just look what our recent customers have to say!
“NZ Move It team were incredibly careful with my fragile items - the care was very evident! Nothing was too hard to assist with - I highly recommend their services”
P. McNeill, 2025 (repeat customer)
“The guys were both really nice. They arrived on time and the move went perfectly. They were efficient and worked hard. It could not have been a better experience (and I have moved house almost 50 times over the years!)”
R. Preston, 2025
“The boys were marvellous. Couldn’t fault them!”
T. and L. True, 2025
Local community & government
‘Authority must lay with those who experience the consequences of that authority’
BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN
Much is happening at a regional political level at the moment and The Informer is committed to keep the community informed on political matters and to act as a medium for discussion of these matters. It is a way of making us all accountable and more informed and can lean weight towards the best outcomes for the people. The lack of such a voice can result in lack of communication between the local government and the people, absence of influence over the decision making and even loss of funding for community improvement. This voice contributes to the sense of community.
This article is the first to result out of The Informer’s intentional decision cover regional and local government matters where possible. Aspects of this will be report on what is happening at Community Board level and what projects and tasks the Community Boards are dealing with on our behalf across the Peninsula and also Hauraki where the two regions connect.
We are keen to engage in the empowerment process promised by many in pre-election statements. There will of course mean reports from general Council
level along with interviews with our Mayor and other community leaders. We will not resist the urge to comment on moves the central government is taking to reduce the levels of regional bureaucracy in our country as that over-bureaucracy has impacted this region to its detriment.
The theme of this week’s article sums all of that up for me. It is a modified version of something Herald journalist Jonathan Ayling wrote recently, about regional governance, that the authority to make decisions must lie with those who must live with and experience the consequences of their decisions.
This is true, and a great example is the repair job carried out on the “shark bite” on Buffalo Beach Road in Whitianga. The repair of this natural erosion event that destroyed part of our beach walkway and would have enabled nature to commence attacking a main road in our town took bureaucracy 18 months to get done. The two centres of bureaucracy, being Thames and Hamilton, appeared to be shovelling papers around, declaring authority but implementing little action and no concerned response to many public comments expressing dismay at the lack of any
action. Why? Because they were not living with, or experiencing the consequences of their lack of decision (which is a decision in itself). Perhaps if the authority on this matter had been with a properly functioning Community Board, we would only have had to wait a week to get it done.
An over-riding feeling from the recent local body elections was the desire to return empowerment on community matters to the Community Boards. Most candidates seemed to be in line with this feeling but it remains to be seen whether the Thames bureaucracy is going to be willing to relinquish that authority
that is not morally theirs. We will obviously be keeping an eye on this. We will also be looking to see if funding for capital development represents rates input. We will be looking to see if Ward assets such as the spare section beside the Council office in Whitianga, and indeed The Informer premises, are to be recycled with proceedings to be spent on Ward assets that benefit the community such as completion of the sports ground complex at Moewai Road. It will be a privilege to report on what should be significant gains for our communities.
The other matter is the multiple layers of bureaucracy that exist in regional governance. For the Coromandel Peninisula, this means the TCDC and the Waikato Regional Council (WRC) .
I did some investigative work about a year ago to ascertain what benefit the Mercury Bay Community received from the Waikato Regional Council. A lot of the WRC work appeared nebulous and hard to define whether it had actually achieved some benefit. My conclusion was that the only physically visible benefit was that WRC towed out diving platforms to Brophy’s Beach and Cooks Beach each Spring and
towed them back in Autumn. Our community had built these platforms. Personally, it was hard to justify my annual $600 charge from WRC. But I am prepared to be enlightened on how the two councils together might streamline their necessary services and reduce costly and somewhat duplicative processes.
Central government has initiated a process to reduce our levels of bureaucracy by eliminating the eleven Regional Councils and including some of their roles into existing councils with governance boards being formed of the Mayors of a region making a leadership team.
The form of this is anybody’s guess at this stage. It could mean we become a small part of a huge council based in Hamilton. It may mean eventually an amalgamation of TCDC with Hauraki and Piako or possibly we remain as we are with a centralised delivery of some services.
Whatever form our local democracy takes, it should be the lowering of levels of processing and consenting that mark our bureaucracy. No matter what shape this governance takes, we cannot afford to lose sight of this; ‘our communities must have authority over the decisions for which we will experience the consequences’.
Sip & Shop plus
12 days of kindness
FROM KELLY AT GATHERED COLLAB
There was something special in the air at Gathered Collab on Thursday night, 27 November. It wasn’t the bubbles or the late night shopping, or even the excitement of Christmas creeping closer. It was the feeling that only a small town like ours can create - people choosing to show up to support a small business.
Our little Sip & Shop evening wasn’t a packed out event. Instead it was beautifully steady. Customers wandering through, pausing to chat, admiring the shelves and commenting on how grateful they are that a store like this exists in our town. More than one person said they couldn’t believe a shop like ours is tucked away in Whitianga, and every time it makes our hearts swell a little.
The timing was lovely too as it led straight into the start of our 12 Days of Christmas, and then something new we’re launching this year - 12 Days of Kindness. These are two small ways we hope to give back to our community.
For twelve days, we’ll be doing small, quiet things in our community - unexpected, no spotlight or big
announcement; just kindness for the sake of kindness. Some gestures will go to families who are doing it tough. Some will go to people who’ve been carrying heavy loads quietly. Some will be little surprises, sprinkled where they’re needed most. It’s our way of giving back to the place that has carried us through the highs and lows of these last six years.
And maybe that’s why this next part feels so emotional to share.
This summer will be our last summer at Gathered Collab.
After many beautiful years of growing this store, weathering challenges and building relationships we’ll treasure forever, we’ve decided it’s time for us to move on to new adventures.
Gathered Collab will be going on the market after summer - and while we know it’s the right choice, it doesn’t make the decision any easier.
So we want this final season to be filled with joy, connection and community. We want to finish the way we started.
And who knows - maybe somewhere out there is someone who has always dreamed of running a lifestyle store filled with beauty, warmth and purpose. If so, we’d love to talk.
For now, we’re soaking in every moment, every conversation, every familiar face, every act of kindness shared and every act still to come.
Here’s to a magical Christmas season, a meaningful final summer and a community we will carry with us, always.
Pop in to Gathered Collab in Albert Street during their 12 Days of Christmas.
Email: hello@gatheredcollab.co.nz
Gummit and LA LA LAND
BY MALCOLM CAMPBELL
Back in history a bit, there was a country in the South Pacific and that country had people living in it who were quite well off. The country had no debt, so to speak - it had money in the bank.
Now this was very unfair for these people to be wealthy and other people to be poor. To start the ball rolling to fix this ‘unfairness’, the gummit took money off the ones working and gave it to the ones not working, to even up the playing field. While the country was generally fairly affluent, the gummit decided there needed to be a plan and in 1980 Robert (rhymes with doom) came out with the ‘Town and Country Plan’. Well, it did not last long as Geoffrey had a better idea and he got help from the United Nations (UN).
The UN had taken three years from 1984 until 1987 to get this right and with a name like ‘World Commission on Environment and Development,’ who would fail to be impressed? Just before he lost the election in 1989, Geoffrey got rid of County Councils, Borough Councils and Catchment Boards only just failing to implement his brainchild, the
RMA. Geoffrey had a big influence on other matters. He reduced jail sentences by thirty percent. Automatically, if a felon was sentenced to six years behind bars, the felon only served four. He also re-interpreted The Treaty of Waitangi introducing principles, whatever that meant, which would gradually develop. All was not lost when he lost the election.
The other party in the Parliament including Simon who was in the winning team, won the election. This new team carried Geoffrey’s plan
A classy evening at the Embassy
BY LIZ SIMS
The poster advertised an evening of music; “Folk, Celtic and Blues”. The musicians with the names of WilkieMac duo and Penni Feather sounded intriguing. Equally intriguing is the venue, “The Embassy of Friendship” in the quaint end of Coghill Street in Whitianga.
We attended with a group of friends and enjoyed every minute of it. Steffan Linden’s lovely venue with the wooden floors, multi-purpose rooms and local artwork is intimate and welcoming and the backdrop of the stage area is enhanced with Hahei local Dean Harris’s intricate wood sculptures.
The Raglan based musicians- Penni, Michael and Lynne, took us on a playful and engaging journey combining the range of the musical genres as advertised with many original songs.
They performed indi-
farming, take it easy while wondering what the hell has happened?
forward. A whole lot of people were very unhappy with this master plan and they wrote letters to editors in many papers, and influential people wrote think papers, widely printed for all and sundry to read. With the stroke of a pen, the Gummit had taken control of all the land in this country. The Gummit had decided that the people could not be trusted to carry out any function other than what they were actually doing at the time of this enactment. This was just as well. The alternative was to switch off all industry, stop
To get the people of this country on the right track, the Gummit paid – no, sorry, you paid - a multitude of officers to sit in buildings you also paid for, and the Gummit put these officers in control of your every whim or idea. No development, no expansion, nothing; unless you begged these officers for permission to proceed.
The Gummit loved these officers, as you paid for them and their cars and comfort so much so, that if they had to leave their comfort zone, you
vidually and together creating soulful harmonies and beautiful solos. Lynne played a variety of musical instruments including guitar, ukulele, harmonica, flute, whistles and a guilele (six-string ukulele) There was light hearted humour, banter and fun as they weaved their individual styles and talents to provide us with a thoroughly entertaining evening. It was a full house and with people introducing themselves and chatting before and after the concert, Steffen’s Embassy of Friendship lived up to its name. That lovely feeling of rapport and connectedness with and between the musicians and the audience added to the atmosphere, creating lasting impressions.
In true Whitianga area style, some of the audience had to leave during the encores to catch the last ferry home.
We hope that Penni Feather, and the WilkieMac duo return.
were required to pay again. They were also given the right to take ‘enforcement action’ against you in the courts. The Gummit was not all bad though, as they left you the ‘right’ to pay the mortgage to finance the banks. Somebody has to finance them and to pay the rates to keep the officials in charge, in the manner to which they have become accustomed.
After all, they are in control without any responsibility for anything. ‘Murphy’s Law’ - Your life liberty and property are all at risk while parliament is in session. (to be continued)
GAMES AND PUZZLES
Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.
ACROSS
1. Sorcerer (6)
5. Catch sight of (4)
7. Comprehends writing (5)
8. Unfeeling (4)
9. Run of bell-chimes (4)
10. VCR, ... cassette recorder (5)
11. Make an entrance (6)
13. Military subdivision (4)
14. Vicious (6)
18. Floral memorial ring (6)
21. Nautical greeting (4)
22. Sitting down (6)
24. Utter (5)
25. Sport squad (4)
26. Cure (4)
27. Stated further (5)
28. Scottish dance (4)
29. Lightly burnt (6)
DOWN
1. Victors (7)
2. Fossil resin (5)
3. Operated motor vehicle (5)
4. Carpentry tool (7)
5. Take up (cause) (7)
6. Keyboard player (7)
12. Cloth used to silence person (3)
15. Gain (7)
16. Awful (7)
17. Goes too far (7)
19. Cereal grass (3)
20. Crowded together (7)
22. Slides (5)
23. Pallid (5)
Sudoku instructions
Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.
TRADES & SERVICES
STUMP GRINDING SERVICES
Servicing
Email: info@plannersplus.co.nz
David: 027 4994833
Tracey: 027 4907988
TRADES & SERVICES
Church Services
Anglican Worship www.anglicanchurchwhitianga.org.nz
Every Sunday at 9.00am at St Peter the Fisherman 7 Dundas Street, Whitianga ALL WELCOME
Enquiries ph 021 781 081
St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church 82 Albert St Whitianga (Opp Z) SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:00AM
Come, join the familyFind peace and friendship.
Enquiries: ph 022 1322 061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz
MERCURY BAY BOWLING AND SPORTS CLUB
Club Championship doubles finals
Sunday, 30 November
Winners
MERCURY BAY GAME FISHING CLUB
Club’s junior anglers giving seniors ‘a run for their money!’
Huge effort from Lachie Pedersen board Satisfaction today getting this 39.48kg Yellowfin Tuna across the scales on 24kg line and is a club pin fish
Very well done for this Junior angler.
Lachie Pedersen with his prize winning tuna.
TAIRUA BRIDGE C LUB
Slipper Pairs Four
Monday, 24 November
North/South: 1, Jocelyn Taylor & Christine Meinhold 76.59; 2, Heather & Jim Buffett 52.78; 3, Jill Huston & Lynnette Flowers 51.19.
East/West: 1, Peter McNeil & David Wilkinson 60.32; 2, Rob Stewart & Ron Baker 57.54; 3, Lee Hughes & Donna Harvey 51.19.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Week Four Cathedral Cove Pairs
Tuesday 25 November
North/South: 1, Val Dwight and Sue Gill 64.58; 2, Robyn Waters and Robyn Hogg 59.17; 3, Ngaire O’Brien and Alison Tichbon 53.33.
East/West: 1, Mike and Sue Spence 57.08; 2, Peter Clark and Jenny Hemmings 55.00; 3, Jean Myles and Judie Johnson 52.08.
MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS
28 players this week, so 501 doubles were played. There were many very even games this week with four teams winning three out of four sets and going through to a one game final. They were Stoney & Benson Lockhart, Mike Gillett & Debbie Holmes, Fletcher Bale & Roscoe Anderson and Steve Pointing & Mike Holland. Fletcher Bale and Roscoe Anderson came away with the win after a very close final. Highest finishes this week were 92 for the ladies scored by Nan and 127 for the men, scored by Steve Martinovich. One player scored a 180 this week and that was Stoney.
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday , 26 November
Six players were present. Four rounds were played, resulting with two players with three wins. It was Kenny G again proving it wasn’t just a fluke last week by
beating Peter Shultz in the final. Two wins
Peter Challis, Greg Murphy and Dave Coleman. High-Break 22 by Greg Murphy
Saturday, 29 November
Seven players came. Welcome back Kevin from Canada. Bob Haase again won so can he survive next week by giving away 21 points? With two wins: Rob Reilly and yours truly Jason Smith. Snooker is breaking up for the year on December 17th with no start date yet. But there will be players coming in on Wednesdays and Saturdays just for fun.
MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB
9 Hole – Stableford
Tuesday 25 November
1, Kelvin O’Leary; 2, Jeff Dixon; 3, Eddie Lyle
Twos: Kelvin O’Leary
NTP 2: Rod Bott
18 hole Women – Hidden Holes
Wednesday 26 November
1, Debbie Holmes; 2, Christine Lowe; 3, Jo Geoghegan
NTP 4: Christine Lowe
NTP 18: Dianne Gilmour
Longest Putt 9: Dianne Gilmour
18 Hole Men - Scramble
1, Rohit Ranchhod; 2, Rob Baines; 3, Matt Kurth
Twos: Nathan Wilson, Carl Mitchell, Dom Szparagowski, Rob Baines
Gross: Div 1, Dave Enright; Div 2, Rob Baines
9 hole Stableford
Friday, 27 November
1, Rod Bott; 2, Bob Holliday; 3, Kelvin O’Leary
NTP 3: Rod Bott
18 hole men - Stableford
Saturday 29 November
1, Justin Wilson; 2, Paul Lupton; 3, Graham Eccles
Twos: Patrick Gonthier (2), Rohit Ranchhod, Johnny Day, Sam Murphy, Dom Szparagowski, Roger Pheasant, Shane Hardy
NZ manufactured aluminium windows and doors since 1990:
Gross: Div 1, Dave Enright & Nathan Wilson; Div 2, Paul Lupton
- New builds & renovations
NTP: Div 1, Cam Walls; Div 2, Jeff Dixon
The team on Mad Max is starting off the summer season with a bang with another 3 Yellowfin Tuna landed by Koby Maxwell today, the heaviest of them going 56.6kg - the heaviest for the season so far...by another Junior angler too and he has fisher parents to enjoy competing with.
Koby maxwell’s fish is also a Yellowfin Junior Club Record on 60kg line
- Replacement joinery in existing homes
LD: Div 1, Sam Murphy; Div 2, Roger Pheasant
THE DUNES MATARANGI
- Aluminium & glass balustrades
9 Hole Men’s Stableford
Monday, 24 November
1, Ray Green; 2, Paul Anderson; 3, Rey Bertling
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1 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga (Mon-Fri,
9 Hole Women’s Waltz Stableford
Tuesday, 25 November
Winners: Glenys Wilson, Ruth Fisken and Glenda Philpott
18-Hole Men’s Shootout Winner
Wednesday, 26 November
Tony Nicholson
Men’s Stableford: 1, Peter Sharp; 2, David Young
Twos: Geoffrey Hill and Russell Barnett on 18th; Graham Harrison on 7th 9-hole Men Stableford
Thursday, 27 November
1, Barry Titchmarsh; 2, Mark Deutsche; 3, Richard Cummins
18 Hole Ladies Stableford
1, Rachel Johnstone; 2, Polly Lambert; 3, Chrissie Smith
Twos: Rachel Johnstone on 13th; Chrissie Smith on 7th
Saturday Haggle
Saturday 29 November
1, Graham Harrison; 2, Nick Lambert
NTP: David Todd
Christmas Ham Tournament
Sunday 30 November
Best Gross Men’s: Ivan Adams
Best Gross Ladies: Allison Drake-Wells
Best Net Men’s: Shane Webster
Best Net Ladies: Kerry Chalmers
Best Stableford: Noeleen Mulligan
9 Holes
Geoffrey Hill 19
NTP Ladies: Cathy Drake-Wells
NTP Men’s: Ivan Adams
Ladies Fishing Tournament
24 January 2026 – Entries
are OPEN! This year’s theme: Rods, Rodeo and Rhinestones
We have had a good response for our Ladies Tournament but it’s still not too late to enter this tournament and you won’t want to horse around and miss out on what is always a great day in the Bay!
For Last Lady Standing –Farmer Auto Village Coromandel gives brand new 2025 MG3. Every angler entry goes in
the draw to win this lucky angler prize!
Contact the office for an entry form via email office@mbgfc. co.nz or phone 078664121.
Only $110 angler entry fee. Contact the office for an entry form via email office@mbgfc. co.nz or phone 078664121.
“Get your glitter on and ride the tide.”
The Women’s Club Pairs Champions were Lee McDonald and Colleen Sexton.
of the Men’s Club Pairs Champions were Shane Ohara and Doug Sargent.
Trevor
P. 07 866 5799
M. 027 677 4930
M. 027 487 1978
Raewyn Hildreth
BALME (CA) GEOFF BALME (FCA)
+64
Whitianga Boat Repairs
We specialise in woodwork repairs & maintenance, including teak decks & platforms, insurance and rot repairs, plus we fit new transducers, anchor winches, bow thrusters and more.
Mitch has over 40 years experience with an Advanced Trade Cert Wooden Boat Building qualification to back it up!
Phone or email for info E: info@whitiangaboatrepairs.co.nz
Mitch 027 4852046
Phyll 027 4852036
