Issue 1198 24 February 2026

Pauline’s Piece

Iwrote in an issue before Christmas, “There seems to be new energy and focus in our newly elected Council and Community Boards. Leaders like Warren Maher will be needed for the re-shaped future. He is our elected person for Waikato Regional Council, and he says the region’s ability to manage growth, climate risk and infrastructure relies on strong regional leadership supported by a clear and accountable local democratic voice.

The statement follows the Government’s proposal to replace regional councillors with a board of Mayors responsible for regional level decision-making. The Government is currently undertaking work to determine which regional council functions this new proposed board would oversee. Warren is concerned about the degree of accountability decreasing.

The current progress for Mercury Bay Community Board with Council might confirm Warren Maher’s concern. A decision was made at a TCDC Council meeting in December 2025 to have only six meetings of Community Board a year. This was after the community boards had had only one meeting where there was simply no response to any of the

public forum submissions made.

Richard Shelford-Woodcock wrote to the Mayor Peter Revell expressing his concern at this. He was representing the other four chairs.

“I wanted to follow up on Council’s approval of the 2026 meeting schedule at the 16 December meeting, particularly as it relates to Community Board meeting frequency.

I understand the broader context in which the schedule was set, including the additional pressure created by moving from two to four committees, and the need to balance governance workloads across the organisation. Since the schedule was confirmed, there has been some emerging discussion among Community Board Chairs. Collectively, there is a growing sense that moving from a six-weekly to an eight-weekly cadence may prove challenging, both from a governance effectiveness and public engagement perspective, particularly for the larger and more complex boards such as Mercury Bay and Thames.”

There isn’t a ratepayer who doesn’t believe there is a need to streamline processes and the WRC needs to clean out its house too. But who does the streamlining? What do we end up with?

Honey soy Chicken Asian, mixed veggies noodles

• Beef Stew, Roast vegies, carrots and peas

• Beef lasagna with cheesy veggies

Surely, we don’t reduce the ability of our local Community Board members to effect change? The reasoning is based around the fact that the Mayor has two extra committees but these do not involve our Community Board members who can well work without busier Councillors tied up on committees.

If we don’t push for reform that will enable our society essentials to operate more efficiently, then we will not be living in a world we can afford. The journey to get a leaner and more efficient council infrastructure has all been discussed and debated before. It came to very little.

However, the problems of duplication, too many processes, escalating costs and the balance of power removed from local communities is now more acute and more noticeable.

Let’s not aim at Regional councils only; our territorial councils are also guilty and staff need to share in the responsibility of making big changes as well as Councillors and Mayors. I sense there is a commitment for this kind of complex and much needed change. The balance of power between staff and elected members now has the attention of most of the ratepayers.

• Asian pork BBQ, mash potato and kumara Order by noon Wednesday, 25th February, delivery from 9am 26th February.

from 9:02pm in the SW there is a long ISS pass moving just above the southern Cross. Wednesday, 25 February - First Quarter Moon tonight and it sits well to the left of bright Jupiter and from 9:52pm in the west there will be a bright ISS pass which disappears into the Earth’s shadow as it approaches Orion. Thursday, 26 February – Jupiter can be located directly to the right of the Moon and there will be a long bright ISS pass from the SW at 9:06pm. Friday, 27 February –Jupiter can be seen directly above the Moon after dusk as the sky darkens. Saturday, 28 February – The Moon now sits just below and to the right of Jupiter as the sky darkens and from 9:09pm in the west we have a long low ISS pass. Sunday, 1 March – The Moon now rises well after Jupiter in the east and from 9:22pm in the west we have a long bright ISS pass. Monday, 2 March – Jupiter is the brightest thing in the sky apart from the Moon and lies well to the left of it in Gemini. Tuesday, 3 March – Total eclipse of the Moon tonight with the best viewing from about 11pm onwards. This week we have the special treat of a total eclipse of the Moon on the night of Tuesday, 3 March. This will be our last total lunar eclipse until December 2028, so not to be missed. There will not be a significant change in the Moon’s brightness until about half an hour before 10:50pm when

Sarico, Archer and Saneo.

Non-stop games with Morrinsville win

Continued from front page. For those unfamiliar with 10s rugby, the rules are similar to standard rugby but condensed. Instead of 15 players as standard rugby has, each team has 10 players on the pitch. These 10 players form 6 man scrums and 3 man lineouts. The 40 minute halves are also condensed all the way down to 10 minute periods. This allows for teams to play four to five games in a day during a tournament, similar to 7s rugby, the now internationally recognized format. And for those unfamiliar with under 85s, this simply means every player weighs under 85 kilograms.

The tournament had eight total teams, the hosting Mercury Bay Marlins, along with teams from Bombay, Pukekohe, Morrinsville, Kumeu, Thames Valley, Waiuku and central Auckland respectively. All squads showed up to play, and no team felt truly out of their depth on the day. This is particularly impressive from the host squad, considering they don’t traditionally field an under 85s team.

The tournament started at 9am with round robin games, followed by a short interlude with a fun sprinting race for all teams to take part in. Then the four playoff games and the final rounded out the day finishing at 5pm for prizegiving. The first clashes of the day during the round robin section of the tournament were particularly

vicious collision wise. With all teams just getting into the swing of things the shoulders were on and big bumps were happening. As the sun came out and the tiredness set in after the initial rounds, the standard didn’t drop. Very rarely were the referees stopping play for penalties, and the games

flowed quickly and efficiently, so quickly in fact the tournament ran ahead of time, something exceptionally rare at organised rugby tournaments.

PUKEKOS THE WINNERS!

The sharpest teams on the day were the Morrinsville Majestic

Pukekos and the University Squids from Auckland. Both teams played clean and efficient rugby. The Pukekos were particularly crafting on the edges,and had support runners working tirelessly to ensure opportunities created in space were converted on. Meanwhile the Squids

ran a tight ship on defence, with two shoulders on almost every tackle they made. They were also extremely disciplined around the ruck and gave away very few penalties. The two squads met in the final and the Pukekos prevailed 26-19. Continued on page 19.

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Run, run and get it right!!

BY PAULINE STEWART

The Thames Valley Goldfields Fire Brigade Sub Association was running their Biennial Waterways Challenge and the Auckland Provincial Fire Brigades joined in.

The Waterways Challenge was entirely about preparation for the real thing. Everyone entering is a certified member of the Fire Brigade. There were ten teams of two representing ten fire brigades and another set of two teams of four representing the brigades present.

It was easy to see each firefighter had trained very hard. Some of the participants were still college age, which was the case for two of the Whitianga Brigade – Connor and Xavier. The same expectations apply for women as with the men and it is tough going. All competitions were to do with the use of water in the event of a fire.

Each event relied on rigorous application and concentration – speed, efficiency, every action in the right order, working with equipment accurately. Every piece of equipment used had to be put back exactly as before. Any spectator got a sense that this was a serious, self-disciplined business. Fires take seconds to take hold, and every event was timed in seconds. Points were applied for correct procedure and penalties applied when things were not

done right. In addition, every fire officer was expected to maintain an even demeanor and communicate decisively even when things went wrong.

The standard was high and a team of judges watched in a hawk-eye fashion.

The camaraderie and encouragement were at a high level, particularly for those who were new

to this very physically demanding competition.

Fire Chief of Whitianga, Roly Chaney coordinated the day with many of his brigade officers assisting with equipment, catering and judging. Prize giving occurred in the evening and Te Aroha A team won the day but by only one point ahead of Mayor View which is a

combined team from Waihi beach and Athenree.

A poignant background to the day and especially for the Te Aroha team was that last year, Whitianga Frie Brigade had lost an over 50 years veteran and dear friend, Grassy Mangin. He died suddenly at their brigade training night. His two sons, David (Deputy Fire Chief, Te Aroha) and

Richard were two of the winning team along with Jason Harris. There are other challenge days held throughout the year across the North Island and nationally. Some are to do with rescuing people from motor accidents. Well done to all who train, participate and dedicate their spare time to being prepared to protect our communities.

Richard Mangan – Te Aroha Brigade; Jonno & Jeremy – Whitianga Brigade; Joseph & Paul – Whitianga Brigade; Vassili Roukine – Ahuroa Brigade.

Raising Cyril’s solar clock Hauraki u3a to begin in Paeroa

ADAPTED FROM AN ARTICLE BY COROMANDELCOLVILLE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

Cyril Strongman was an old identity of Coromandel. He was well known and endeared to the people of the town of Coromandel. He had a shed filled to the ceiling with projects he would work on. He was an inventor-fix-it man. Everyone knew they could find Cyril in his shed pottering around in the environment he loved most. Cyril died in 2025 at the age of 95. He is missed.

In 2010 crafted a very special clock. It was 800 x 600 x 300 in size, double sided, with ½ minute timing. The design was from Frank Hope-Jones (1900) – Synchronome Company. However, it was Cyril who crafted it from the actual design. Cyril’s clock runs on solar with a small battery backup system.

It was always Cyril’s dream to have his solar clock installed in the Coromandel township. There had been talk of it going on various buildings or to stand in the Coromandel Information Centre grounds.

The clock has been gifted to the Coromandel-Colville Business Association who would like to honour Cyril by mounting his clock on a pole in the Samuel James reserve. Addi-

tionally, it would be a central point of interest for the township as well as a good story to tell visitors.

While Cyril thoughtfully left a small donation to assist with the maintenance of the clock, funds are still needed to cover fabrication of the case and installation costs. The town and businesses are sure to support this clock project which represents craftsmanship, generosity and connection to place.

The flagpole in the grounds adjacent to the Samuel James reserve garden is not strong enough for Cyril’s clock. Thus the idea is to remove the flagpole to enable the installation of a steel post tall and strong enough as well as wind resistant enough to display Cyril’s clock safely

The Coromandel-Colville Business Association is waiting for a resource consent for the installation of the gifted solar clock. This is a low impact, community-led initiative which will enhance public space in the Coromandel township.

REALITY CHECK:

Since the CCBA put in their proposal, there is a recent development – summarising comments.

‘The TCDC are now NOT working with us on this project, but they will take our money for a so-called resource consent...’

‘So, what we decided is (1) We will pull back on the Give-a-Little Page at this stage. (2) We go to Heritage NZ to get approval for where we want to put the clock. (3) Obtain approval from the Samuel James family, the iwi

and the council! If we don’t get approval, the CCBA are going to have to look at alternative ideas.”

Organising Committee

CLARITY THAT MATTERS MOST.

World-class 3D mammogram and full diagnostic services, now available in Pukekohe

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UӠɑ is a community based organisation that originated in France in the early 1970s and since then has expanded around the world. uӠɑ came to Aotearoa New Zealand in 1989. uӠɑ is a place for individuals who are in the third stage of their life journey (post career, family or working part-time) and are wanting to keep their minds active and make new social connections with like-minded people in their local community.

The focus is on lifelong learning, and active participation in a wide range of interest groups. Plus, along the way having a chance to laugh and enjoy the people who come to u3a

Hauraki uӠɑ will hold a monthly meeting with guest speakers and offer a chance to socialise with members over morning tea. Their first meeting will be a Guest Speaker, Keith Woodley who will be sharing his experience of living in North Korea.

Tuesday 3 March $10 per person at Paeroa Baptist Church in Paeroa.

The convenor is Maureen Jackson and Maureen is keen for feedback and ideas. “This is the beginning and the framework for operating needs to be worked out,“ says Maureen. “We want to hear from potential members as to what kind of interests to pursue in this beginning stage.”

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Whangamata and transparency

BY ROB BOSTON AND IAN HOLYOAKE OF WHANGAMATA STORMWATER ACTION GROUP WSAG

Whangamatā has spent three years talking about infrastructure – Stormwater. Sediment. The wetland. Harbour health. Rates. Modelling. Workshops. Reviews.

People are not tired of caring. They are tired of circling.

Lakes A and B in Whangamata are well known across the district. The Williamson wetland is now part of the landscape. Meetings have been attended and stakeholder phases trialled. An external review is underway. Perhaps the question now is not- ‘What went wrong?’

The question is: ‘What do we do differently from here?’

THE FACTS OF TRANSPARENCY

Transparency does not mean the same thing to everyone. For some residents, it simply means receiving the rates bill on time and knowing what’s happening in town. For others, it means understanding what that bill funds. For some, it means seeing how and why a decision was made. For a smaller group, it means examining the assumptions, the modelling and performance behind major infrastructure decisions. Transparency stretches across that whole spectrum.

After three years, it is clear that publishing reports and opening submission periods, while important, does not always create shared understanding. Shared understanding requires something more deliberate.

RISK MANAGEMENT AND BETTER OUTCOMES

When organisations operate under pressure – legal, financial, regulatory or reputational – they naturally manage risk. That is sensible and necessary.

But managing risk is not always the same as producing the best long-term outcome.

Communities think in lived experiences:- Flooding in a driveway. Sediment in the harbour. Rising rates. Debt levels. Loss of

amenities. Flooded home. When there is a drift apart of institutional risk management practice and the way communities think about outcomes, tension grows.

Transparency is one way to reduce that tension filled drift between the council and the community, but only if transparency operates early enough.

SIX QUESTIONS EVERY MAJOR PROJECT SHOULD ANSWER

Perhaps a more useful definition of transparency is this:

If transparency is actually happening, then in reality, we believe any significant infrastructure project should be able to respond and answer, calmly and publicly, to six basic questions:

1. What problem is this project solving today?

2. Is it measurably solving that problem?

3. What would happen if it didn’t exist?

4. Is the original modelling or baseline still valid?

5. Have catchment, growth or regulatory conditions changed?

6. If we were starting fresh today, would we design the same solution?

These are not accusatory questions.

They apply to Lakes A and B. They apply to the wetland. They apply to wastewater upgrades, road renewals, and any future capital projects.

They are simply focussed thinking on infrastructure. Infrastructure outlives election cycles. Assumptions age. Climate patterns shift. Debt envelopes change. Communities evolve. Projects should be strong enough to stand up to review without defensiveness.

REVIEWING THE PAST IS NOT REOPENING A WAR

Transparency doesn’t apply only to new decisions.

Governance must also include

reviewing significant past decisions against current evidence. Where baseline assumptions were unclear, where modelling has evolved, or where performance has not been publicly measured, it is reasonable to revisit cost, benefit and future relevance of a project.

This is not about relitigating the past. It is about ensuring today’s ratepayers understand both the ongoing costs and the continuing value of major assets built in their name. Review is not blame. It is accountability carried forward.

A FORWARD STANDARD

After three years, the most constructive reset may be simple. From now on, before significant funds move beyond concept stage, a community deserves to have made clear to them in plain language three things:

• The problem statement.

• The key baseline assumptions.

• The measurable performance outcomes.

These three reasons for a concept stage document should be:- * Not buried in appendices, * Not accessible only through persistence, * Simply part of the normal decision pathway.

When purpose and assumptions are clear at the beginning, debate becomes calmer later.

If performance is visible, confidence grows naturally.

If assumptions change, recalibration becomes normal practice rather than confrontation.

If respectful tones are the language, then the community is assured they are part of the team and part of decision making.

In recent months, the Whangamatā Stormwater Action Group (WSAG) has adopted its own internal protocol for how its stakeholders engage – emphasising respectful language, clarity, and focus on structure rather than personalities. These should apply broadly. Healthy disagreement improves decisions. Personal conflict weakens them. Transparency works best in an environment of mutual respect.

THE OPPORTUNITY AHEAD

External review currently underway should not be seen as a battle. It is part of the system’s pressure valves when alignment falters. If it brings clarity, everyone benefits – councillors, staff and residents alike.

After three years, perhaps the opportunity is this:

Shift transparency from reactive to proactive.

Build visibility of purpose, assumptions and performance into major decisions from the beginning.

This can’t be to win arguments, nor to reopen old ground; but to reduce the drift apart that exists, reduce defensiveness and improve outcomes.Complex infrastructure will always be challenging. Rates will always be sensitive. Climate and growth pressures will not disappear. However, complexity handled visibly becomes manageable. Shared understanding reduces escalation.

That is a steady place to begin again.

Ian Holyoake, businessman and engineer residing in Whangamata.

Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund – Help is available

Applications are still open for people impacted by the 21/22 January storm event through our Thames-Coromandel Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund.

More than 130 applications have already been received and more than $250,000 has been raised through people’s generosity.

Our Council would like to thank the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), IAG Insurance, Suncorp, Momentum Waikato, Te Rourou One Aotearoa Foundation and the many community groups and individuals who have donated to the fund so far.

Thames-Coromandel Mayor Peter Revell says: “Every donation to this relief fund goes towards helping our communities recover from the weather event.

“Some individuals and families have been especially hard hit and every little bit of support the fund can offer helps those people.”

The fund provides one-off assistance for extraordinary circumstances and can be used to support the needs of affected individuals, families, community organisations, small businesses and marae for:

• Cleaning debris from properties where people are uninsured or underinsured

• Supporting individuals/families faced with hardships as a

result of the emergency

• Assisting small businesses impacted by the emergency

• Assisting people with basic needs, household goods and personal items where the individual/ family is uninsured or underinsured

• Assisting with insurance excess payments

People can apply for the fund by using the web form on our Council website www.tcdc.govt. nz/relief or downloading the pdf application and sending it back to funding@tcdc.govt.nz

Applications close on 6 March, and each will be assessed by an independent panel.

While the fund will go some way to help people impacted by the storm event, the road to Recovery is long. It will take time before our district can truly return to normal.

Support is also available and it’s okay to not feel okay. Information on how to get help, and latest updates on our Recovery efforts, can be found on our dedicated webpage www.tcdc.govt. nz/storm-recovery.

Coromandel – rural pilot health initiative

ADAPTED FROM MEDIA RELEASE BY HON MATT DOOCEY

“Access to healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for people in rural and remote areas. We are committed to ensuring New Zealanders can get the care they need, when they need it, no matter where they live,” Mr Doocey says.

With that commitment, six rural pilot sites were rolled out in early February, with the town of Coromandel being one of them.

“People in rural areas can often travel long distances for care and rely on small teams supporting large regions. Already, the first phase shows the difference locally led approaches can make, with faster care, better access to treatment, and stronger links between rural health services.”

Several improvements have been implemented, including:

• Point-of-care blood testing is available at all locations, allowing clinicians to run key tests immediately without waiting for samples to be transported or sending people to hospital.

• Point-of-care ultrasound has been introduced across

all sites, with sixteen rural clinicians trained to use the equipment, supporting faster decision-making and reducing hospital transfers.

• Improved access to afterhours medicines.

• Expanded ambulance support,

• Integrated rural urgent care workforce models, strengthening urgent care capacity and easing pressure on small practices.

“This year, an additional 30 rural locations will have their services strengthened. This will include expanding pointof-care testing and ultrasound, improving access to afterhours medicines, and scaling integrated paramedic support,” Mr Doocey says.

“The results from the first six sites show what’s possible when rural providers are supported to design solutions that work for their communities. The momentum from this first phase will help strengthen urgent and after-hours care for years to come.”

This builds on work underway to strengthen the rural health workforce, including rural training hubs and the new medical school at the University of Waikato.

Mammogram Project update from the Mercury Bay Medical Equipment Trust

Background: Over three years – late 2022 – early 2025, the Whitianga Lions Club with the support of Mercury Bay Lions Club, raised a remarkable $350,000 for a mammogram machine. This was due to the huge generosity of the community, the drive and effort of the Lions Club as well as the practical support of local businesses.

DIAGNOSTIC MAMMOGRAMS

Whitianga and serving the East

We have been promoting our vision of ensuring that all women on the Coromandel Peninsula have access to screening mammograms, whether private (paid for) or public (publicly funded),

We explored a model operated by BSA, which handles most screening mammograms and processes private mammograms for a private mammography radiology company. There were roadblocks that were difficult to overcome for both parties in this model. We have reached a solution in which BSA contracts for public mammograms with a private, permanent

At our most recent meeting,

Engage with a pri vate operator.

3. Bring the two parties together to finalise the contract

4. Finalise lease arrangements for a building to house the unit.

5. Purchase the mammogram machine of choice.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The trustees would like to thank BSA and HNZ for the time they have put into this project to date. The one thing all parties are focused on, agree on, and have in common is a goal to make breast screening more accessible to the women in our communities.

I wrote an article in The Informer almost four years ago about the differences between screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms. We reiterate that the service we are seeking to provide is breast screening only. The key difference is that diagnostic mammograms are performed with a breast specialist present, and this, combined with other procedures such as biopsy, must be done in the public system at a tertiary Health Centre such as Waikato Hospital. Private operators do provide diagnostic mammograms, but once again, only at their cen-

ters, staffed and set up to do this, which are typically in major cities at present.

Timeline: The unit remains on track to be operational in the second half of 2027.

FINANCIAL UPDATE

The trustees have been careful to ensure the funds raised by the community are invested conservatively (fixed term deposit). The present balance is just short of $356K.

Our objective remains the same.

To make a fixed-screening mammography unit available in Whitianga for all women in the Eastern Coromandel, whether privately or publicly funded.

Next update: We plan to provide 3-4 monthly updates. Next time in May/June 2026.

„ For and on behalf of the trustees of the Mercury Bay Medical Equipment Trust. Mike is Trustee, Secretary and has been with the project since the beginning.

Left: Caricature of a machine that was part of an event the Lions Club ran for artists at an art expo.

Travel with Sarah Jane Wellington’s Weirdest Wonders: A

one-day itinerary of the

odd & unusual

Dive into Wellington’s hidden corners: a steampunk museum attic, haunted maritime adventures, and abandoned clifftop fortresses. This guide uncovers the city’s most unusual history, odd collections, and spooky hidden corners for the truly curious traveller.

9:00AM – The Underground & The Attic. Start at the National Tattoo Museum (Manners St) to see ancient Ta Moko tools. Then, walk to the Wellington Museum and head straight to The Attic, a steampunk wonderland of time machines and peculiar relics.

10:30AM – The Giant Squid & Quasi: Walk the waterfront to Te Papa (Level 2) for the Colossal Squid. On your way back to the centre, head to Civic Square and look up at the roof of the City Gallery to lock eyes with Quasi, the giant, unsettling hand-face sculpture.

12:30PM – Lunch: Kitsch or Coastal Grab a "Po' Boy" at Sweet Mother's Kitchen for a taste of quirky Cuba Street soul, or walk 10 minutes to the Boat Café to dine inside a historic floating tugboat.

2:00PM – The Ghostly Pio-

neers & High Fashion. Visit the Old Bank Arcade to watch the Mechanical Clock reveal its dioramas at the top of the hour. Then, take the Cable Car up and walk downhill through the Bolton Street Cemetery, where 19th-century graves are tucked right under the motorway flyover.

3:30PM – The Cat & The Fortress (Karori) Take Bus 2 to Karori Cemetery to find Mrs Chippy the cat’s statue. Afterwards, hop on Bus 21 or take a 20-minute uphill walk to Wrights

The Grudge of Mrs Chippy: The statue of Mrs Chippy at Karori Cemetery exists because of a century-old grudge. The ship’s carpenter, Harry McNish, never forgave Sir Ernest Shackleton for shooting his cat during their stranded Antarctic expedition.

The "Irony" of War: The massive guns at Wrights Hill Fortress were sold as scrap metal in the 1960s. The irony? They were bought by a Japanese consortium.The very nation the fortress

was built to defend against! The fortress tunnels are only open 4 days a year (Waitangi Day, ANZAC Day, King’s Birthday, and Labour Day). On other days, you can still explore the surface bunkers and incredible views.

5:00PM – Adrenaline & Axes. Finish the day back on Cuba Street. Channel your inner Viking at Sweet Axe Throwing, then brave the Fear Factory to see if you can survive the nautical nightmare without "chickening out."

GETTING AROUND WELLINGTON

• The "Snapper" Card: This is the local transit card. It’s significantly cheaper than paying cash (about 25%–30% less). You can buy one at the i-SITE Visitor Centre or most dairies (convenience stores). Tag on and tag off at the front and back doors of the bus.

• Wrights Hill Connection: To get from Karori Cemetery to the Fortress, take Bus 21 (it says "Wrights Hill" on the front). It drops you on Campbell Street, leaving you a 15-minute uphill

walk to the fortress gates.

• The "Wellington Lean": The city is famous for its hills and wind. Wear comfortable, grippy walking shoes, "jandals" (flipflops) aren't recommended for the steep paths at Wrights Hill or the uneven terrain of the cemeteries.

• Metlink App: Download the Metlink app for real-time bus tracking. Wellington buses are frequent, but "Ghost Buses" (scheduled but delayed) can happen during peak hours.

„ Originally published in Bestbits travel.com

WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH | 7.00-9.00AM

Hill Fortress.

Ronnie van Hout Quasi sculpture on top of the Wellington City Art Gallery.

Bolten Street cemetery Two jewish tombs, from 1840 to 1892.

Troubadors Production

“The show must go on” EVENTS

BY JENNIE TURNER

The Tairua Pepe Bridge construction companies are acquiring the Tairua Community Hall and surrounds which will affect all hall users causing them to relocate to another venues. The Tairua Troubadours cannot do this. Therefore, there was no choice than to bring the show forward to perform in April. This is not entirely ideal but the cast has said, ‘The show must go on!’

It means rehearsals clash with Easter, school holidays and the timeframe is super short, not to mention it’s also hotter and some cast had prior commitments so we lost a few regulars but gained newbies.

We will be the last event in the hall for quite some time. The likelihood of a show next year is doubtful, meaning community groups would miss out on the proceeds from the show.

THE TOSCAR – THE PEOPLE CHOOSE

This year’s show is another

Russ Harmer performing an original number during the 2022 show.

Toscars (Tairua Oscars) when the cast celebrate and perform the best bits from the past 8 shows. They start in 2020, and it’s been interesting remembering how we navigated Covid restrictions. This time we’re doing things a bit different. We’re calling it the ‘People's Choice Awards’ each night the overall winner will be decided by the audience –the people’s choice. Each table will vote and just before the end of the show these will be collected to

see who wins the coveted Toscar. The cast nor the director will know until it is announced, and each night could result in a different winner. Due to the bridge construction disruption, there will be some appropriate references including long serving Stop & Go traffic controller appearing for a cameo role.

„ Tickets will go on sale Sunday, 1 March. Email: tairuatroubadours@ gmail.com

Your beach awaits

Aust international artist coming to Monkey House

Adi Manaia has written and played music for over a decade, supporting Missy Higgins, Dan Sultan and Paul Kell. He has played at huge festivals all down the Coast of Eastern Australia including St Kilda Festival, Fiji Day Sydney, Tamworth Country Music Festival, Gympie Muster, Agnes Blues and Roots, Townsville Cultural Fest, Yarrabah Music Festival, played Hawaii – Oahu, Maui and Big Island. Adi is of Polynesian/

Irish/Melanesian heritage who has worked in indigenous communities for over 13years running music, cooking, martial arts, sports and healthy cooking programs, a large portion of that is in Cairns and Yarrabah (biggest indigenous community in Aust) working with indigenous and islander young people. He runs songwriting programs, helping young people write lyrics and record them – YouTube www.youtube.com/@adimanaia

Your dream coastal lifestyle

This is your chance to secure one of the very best sections at Wharekaho.

“My music is Nesian/ Country Music, Hip Hop and Island Reggae. bringing together what we have in common and sharing my stories from Hawaii, NZ, Tonga, Samoa, Fiji fused with a handful of Country Classics.”

This visit to Whitianga, Adi is travelling solo, but will come back in July with the band.

„ The Monkey House Theatre, Whitianga, Sunday, 8 March 7.00pm

Perched above the coast, these elevated, sun-soaked sites boast sweeping views over the Whitianga Harbour, Front Beach, Flaxmill Bay, Mercury Bay, and the golden sands of Wharekaho.

Coromandel Our

Whitianga Esplanade Redevelopment project progresses

Work continues to explore future options for our Whitianga Esplanade.

This involves an engineering investigation, concept design and detailed business case on the preferred options the community identified through a survey in late 2024.

Details of these will be shared with our communities once completed and before a final decision on whether to proceed is made. If so, the next stage (Stage 4) of this project involves detailed design and resource consent following potential endorsement by the Mercury Bay Community Board.

You can find out more about this project at tcdc.govt.nz/whitiangaesplanade

New VSL signs to be installed to make communities safe

Work begins next month to install Variable Speed Limit (VSL) signs outside local schools as part of efforts to make our communities safer.

The Claymark Hauraki Coromandel Business Awards are set for 15 October 2026 at the Thames War Memorial Civic Centre.

This biennial event is a chance to recognise and celebrate the incredible businesses that make our region thrive, bringing over 150 local business people together for an unforgettable evening.

Celebrating excellence requires backing from equally brilliant businesses.

Sponsorship is an excellent way to:

• Gain exposure for your business

• Enjoy a night out with industry leaders

• Support and celebrate fellow businesses in our community.

If you are interested in being a sponsor, see tcdc.govt.nz/HCBA

Help us celebrate the businesses that make our HaurakiCoromandel thrive.

VSL signs work by triggering a lower speed limit during busy times outside schools (at the start and end of the school day) then reverting to the road’s standard speed limit when there is minimal student activity such as at nights, weekends and holidays. Schools also provide flexibility to control speed limits during special school events, in coordination with our Council and our road operation and maintenance contractor.

Most urban schools will have a 30km/h limit during school travel times. Some rural schools may have a 60km/h limit, depending on road context.

Temporary traffic management is expected as the signs are installed.

Please be patient while this work to make our communities safer is carried out.

MERCURY BAY COMMUNITY BOARD UPDATE

At its first meeting of the year the Board:

• Supported several Mercury Bay locations to be given 'Poppy Place' status in recognition of the military history associated with the sites. This included: Bongard Rd and Dakota Drive (Whitianga), Radar Road (Hot Water Beach), WW1 Memorial Forest (Kaimarama), Whenuakite Memorial and Bravo ’61 Memorial (Rings Beach). It also approved $750 from its discretionary funding as a contribution to the project.

• Declined a request for $2,880 of discretionary funding assistance from Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc. for two people to attend the 2026 Grey Power Federation AGM in June. The Mercury Bay Community Board has a Discretionary Fund of $55,512 for the 2025/2026 financial year. To date $12,278 has already been allocated from this budget, leaving $43,234 available for allocation. The Board noted the cost didn’t need to be funded by ratepayers, and associations in general would expect to pay their own attendance costs.

• Received the ‘Multi-use Layout and Safety Improvements for Omaro Recreation Reserve –Matarangi' report dated 16 January 2026, which recommended that the Board support the Omaro Reserve Concept Design prepared by local landscape architect Chloe Watts. After discussion, it resolved to defer the decision until its April meeting. An amendment was also made to request that staff do further work including a final recommendation to be discussed with key stakeholders that would include costing.

Council Accused of Ignoring Community:

“We're Just Paying Lip Service” – Tony Fox

COMPILED BY PAULINE STEWART, EDITOR

At the most recent Mercury Bay Community Board meeting on the 4th of February, local advocate Tony Fox and former TCDC Councillor and experienced Community Board member slammed the council for failing to act on community concerns, inferring that current engagement was a “sham.”

Speaking as part of the public forum, Tony said 13 issues raised at the November 13 Community Board meeting remain unaddressed. “What’s the point of bringing more matters forward when the last ones were ignored?

Tony enlarged about basic courtesy to acknowledge submissions and tell people what’s happening as a result of their submission and commitment.

He had hard words for the gathering stating that staff seem to be sidelining elected members. “The tail is wagging the dog.” He was clear that staff are running the show, not the people who have been elected.”

With only six board meetings scheduled this year, Fox questioned how this aligns with election promises of transparency and empowerment. “We’re just paying lip service to community boards,” he said.

His message was deafening. He concluded with “I have nothing further to say.” Tony left the meeting. His address was midway through the public forum submissions.

COMMUNITY BOARD THEME – CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION ON INFRASTRUCTURE AND SAFETY

Many speakers addressed the lack of work done prior to the last significant storm event citing on occasions that little had been done since Gabrielle. Blame cannot be apportioned to the current councillors and community board members but now it is their responsibility to change the course of the river of processes and lack of outcomes outcome for infrastructure.

There is less budget money than ever but that does not mean that the Council is untouchable for the past mistakes. The community submissions often suggest practical solutions and a way forward that is not responded to and often bypassed for the ideology or preference

Richard Shelford-Woodcock, Flemming Rasmussen, and Tony Fox when these three were promoting the Whitianga Residents and Ratepayers in 2024 at Whitianga Markets.

of staff or drowned in processes that seem too layered.

MATARANGI - BLUFF COVE SLIP: A DECADE OF DANGER - MARK BEDFORD AND ROB DELAMORE

They represented Matarangi Ratepayers Association highlighting the ongoing hazard at Bluff Cove, where a massive slip first occurred in 2015. “It’s still a massive slip, extremely dangerous, and council has spent a lot of money – but we’re no closer to a solution,” said Bedford. The association presented a 2004 feasibility study, funded by the community, which identified a bridge as the only viable fix. “This is a shovel-ready project. We need council’s support to make it happen,” Delamore urged, pointing to the risk of total isolation if another slip occurs. The group formally requested a breakdown of all costs incurred since 2015. At this point it was suggested that the request represented a LGOIMA process which means more work for the submitter though one feels that this information could be found by a staff person and made readily available.

COOKS BEACHSEWERAGE FAILURES: “FORESEEABLE, PREVENTABLE, AVOIDABLE”

Paul Hopkins of Cooks Beach was less than polite when he spoke about defective aerators at the sewerage ponds which caused odours and drove away campers during the peak season. “This was entirely predictable but preventable and avoid-

able. Routine maintenance would have prevented it,” he said. Hopkins described systemic issues, including stalled projects like stormwater pond cleanups and security cameras, despite proven solutions being used elsewhere in New Zealand. “We’re sick of waiting. We have skilled volunteers ready to help, but we’re stonewalled at every turn.”

TREVOR AMMUNDSEN – WHITIANGABROKEN SEWER PIPES

Trevor Ammundsen raised alarms about an aging sewer pipe, which has broken twice in two years. “There’s no plan if it fails under a house. That’s a major concern,” he warned.

Trevor’s qualifications were challenged by Deputy Mayor John Grant adding that Trevor seemed to have a lot of knowledge on how to solve various other issues (Trevor is a regular writer for The Informer. Trevor replied “I’m IT, not an engineer”. He did not profess any qualifications which would be true of most submitters. Submitters are committed to their communities to getting action which has them there and they are relying on Councillors who are themselves not engineers to inspire the relevant staff to do what is required.

BOAT RAMP: “IF IT AIN’T BROKE, DON’T FIX IT” WAYNE DAVIS The Matarangi Boating and Fishing Club recounted a five-year saga over the boat ramp, where changes were made without consultation, leaving the facility less safe and accessible. “We wanted it family-friendly, but now

little consultation with users seems to be a recurring theme.

FLOODING AND FOOTPATHS: DEFERRED DREAMS

Frank Hagen, a consulting engineer, criticized the deferral of flood mitigation funding for Cooks Beach until 2031–34, despite eleven reports since 1996.

“We’re vulnerable. We need action now,” he said.

Kevin Delaware In Kuaotunu - urgent footpath construction, citing a unique opportunity to work with NZTA on current roadworks.

“We can get 120 meters done now, but we need council to reallocate funds,” he said.

COOKS BEACHGRASS CARP AND BUREAUCRACY – STEVE LLOYD

it’s worse. No one listened,” Davis said. He called for the ramp to be returned to its original state and for better signage. It was said that there were several different opinions held by residents regarding the boat ramp which made Wayne’s argument weaker. However very

Steve lamented the fouryear delay in approving grass carp to control weeds, despite DOC-designed screens ensuring containment. What Steve didn’t mention was that a consultant had been employed by the Council two and half

years ago and they had researched the wrong kind of carp – totally mismanaging the project. No one has ever been told what the consultant was paid and what was the brief assigned to the consultant by staff.

“At this rate, the carp will be vintage by the time they arrive,” quipped Councillor Rasmussen.

COMMUNITY DEMANDS CHANGE

Across all issues, speakers called for greater transparency, urgency, and partnership. “We’re not asking for miracles- just common sense and action,” said Paul Hopkins.

The forum ended with a clear message: residents want solutions, not more delays.

What’s next? Council is expected to address these concerns at its next meeting. Will there be just six meetings a year when there have previously been ten? Our local Mercury Bay Board Chair is very unhappy that a meeting decided that community board will only have that number.

Portrait competition

The Whitianga Photographic Club’s January challenge was portrait photography, inviting members to capture the character of either pets or people. A successful portrait reveals the essence of its subject through thoughtful use of lighting, composition, expression, and genuine connection.

Thank you to Heidi Anderson. Heidi judged both the competition entries and our Photo of the Month.

FIRST IN PORTRAIT COMPOSITION:

‘CRIMSON SILENCE’ BY KATE BEAUCHAMP Judges comments: “This is a beautiful use of colour. The lipstick and glove work so well together and create a really striking visual harmony. Her face is lovely and sharp, and the make-up, skin texture, and colour are rendered perfectly. It feels very polished.” Honours

PHOTO OF THE MONTH: ‘THE LITTLE GIRL WAITS’ BY CHRISSY LAWRENCE Judge’s comments: Loved the diagonal placement of the little girl on the stairs. “It’s a strong compositional choice that immediately draws me in. The image feels like a genuine photojournalism moment, with her completely absorbed in modern tech-

nology. Her contemporary clothing suggests a more privileged background, while the surroundings hint at a humbler country. That contrast raises more questions than it answers, and I really like that about this image.” Honours

Congratulations to Kate and Chrissy.

All January entries, are now available to view on our public Facebook page. February challenge: Street Photography – a genre that captures candid moments of everyday life in public spaces. Why don’t you have a try? Contact Whitianga Photography Club.

Plein Air – Paint Challenge –Thames Paint Out

– 28 February

and

are closed.

Chrissy Lawrence – The little girl waits.

Kate Beauchamp – Crimson Silence.

Tairua globally minded citizens welcome Japanese students

BY PAM FERLA

Vibrant kimonos and lovely harmonies were part of their performance when 27 Japanese students entertained the residents of Tairua Residential Care on Thursday morning, 12 February.

It is the fourth year that students from Hokuriku Junior High School in Fukui District have visited Tairua. The morning started with a karakia and singing of New Zea-

land songs by residents and staff.

Following the entertainment, residents enjoyed the opportunity to chat with the Japanese.

During their 12-day visit the students attended Tairua School in order to learn English and mix with local students.

Tairua School principal, Juliet Small, said the school’s vision, “Developing Globally Minded Citizens,” has come to life this term through the exchange.

“Over the past week there have

been many meaningful opportunities for connection. Informal interactions during lunchtime games and shared morning teas have been just as valuable as our more formal occasions, including the Mihi Whakatau, shared sports and art sessions, and classroom learning experiences.”

She said the visitors also presented to students about Japanese customs and daily life, enriching their understanding of another culture and broadening

Whangamata chocolate scoops world awards

BY ELLE COCO

New Zealand shines on the global chocolate map, scooping up awards across the board at the Academy of Chocolate 2025.

Having spent an inspiring few weeks last October judging for the UK’s Academy of Chocolate, I knew New Zealand was in a strong position, but when the results came through I was blown away – thirty medals, from just five makers in a country of barely 5.2 million people.

Thomas Capdevielle of Coromandel Chocolate in Whangamata has recently won four medals at the Academy of Chocolate Awards 2025 – considered the world’s most prestigious chocolate competition. A silver for his Milk Chocolate with Jojicha (an exquisitely roasted Japanese green tea) and bronzes for his Milk Chocolate Oolong team, White Chocolate & Matcha and White

Thomas Capdevielle of Coromandel Chocolate.

Chocolate & Ube bars.

New Zealand may frequently get missed off world maps for all sorts of things, but our place was now even more firmly solidified on the world chocolate map!

What makes Thomas’s work so exciting is the way he’s looking to the Pacific and Asia for inspiration, rather than following tradi-

tional European flavour profiles. Each of his bars really makes you re-think what chocolate can be. His cacao is sourced from Gaston Chocolat in Vanuatu –Pacific beans, Asian-inspired flavours, made right in Whangamata. It’s a true celebration of where New Zealand sits in the world of chocolate.

their global perspectives.

“This exchange remains a significant and much-valued event in our school calendar. Both schools benefit greatly from the friendships formed, the cultural learning shared, and the global connections strengthened."

The visit concluded with a Sayonara Evening alongside the homestay families.

The Japanese students’ experience included a Coromandel tour visiting the Goldmine Expe-

rience, The Waterworks and Driving Creek Railway, plus a day at Waimarino Water Park.

Local tour organiser, Rowan Anderson, has been a teacher of Hokuriku students for 23 years.

“They are home hosted in pairs so that they can experience New Zealand life,” she said. “Our host families are the most important part of the programme.”

The tour group included two Japanese teachers and a tour guide.

Residents of Tairua Residential Care were delighted with the performance of students from Hokuriku Junior High School.

Environment Matters Renovations enhance community connection

Doing what they love

These two young women also believe in what they are doing. Elise Reader and Georgia Litherland were at the Whitianga Whiti Citi Market recently educating people on how to stop the spread of specific pests. They were knowledgeable and friendly, inviting people to engage with them offering some interesting brochures about the work of stopping the spread of pests in our environment. They had two missions – kauri protection and stopping the spread of Caulerpa

“Caulerpa covers the sea floor and the native sea flora and fauna can’t exist

there. if you see it Bag it and Bin it!“ summarised Elise.

Both women are studying Environmental Science and have just finished their first year oat Waikato uni-

CAULERPA

An invasive seaweed described as the world’s worst marine pest has mysteriously died off on a massive scale in Northland and the Hauraki Gulf.

Fast-growing Caulerpa blanketed huge areas of seabed around the Bay of Islands and

versity. They are friends from highschool – both having studied and graduated from Mercury Bay Area School and were on work experience with DOC for their summer holiday.

Aotea Great Barrier after it was first discovered in 2021, sparking grave concerns for marine ecosystems and the ability of future generations to gather kai moana.

However, since last summer, locals have seen the pest make a dramatic retreat.

Well done fundraising team

The fundraiser event held at Mercury Bay Area School Sunday morning, 22 February for Jedda’s family was marked by smiling welcomes, a great array of clothing, top raffle prizes and a sense of sharing in community. This was engendered by the team of mostly young women with children at their side, efficiently organising a great event for their community. Thank you.

BY DON BARRY

The Cooks Beach Community Centre is fast developing into a great hub for locals to connect.

The addition of a large deck area, improved lighting, noise absorption panels, AV system and air conditioning over the last couple of years is delivering benefits to the community.

“Since New Year we have run three markets where locals can sell wares from clothes and flowers to candy floss and home – made pineapple juice” event organiser Leanne Barnes noted.

“We also invited food vendors , the coffee cart and ice cream truck to enhance the gala feel and provide more incentive for locals to come on down and enjoy.

“With our 7 February market we added a bit of a French feel along with the Mercury Bay Medical Centre having a stand, checking blood pressure and providing advice.

“To further enhance the ambience local artist Jai entertained us with over two hours singing. The committee recently purchased three deck tables which folk used to relax. With music and food people also relaxed on the

green spaces adjacent to the Centre.

Liz De Vere, committee member who has been driving the revamp noted: “Development of the adjacent green spaces is something we have put in front of council. We saw evidence of people wanting to use this space in a spontaneous way. We are very clear on the opportunity to run both more and better events for the community once our deck connects seamlessly with those green spaces, and look forward to working with council on this part of the project.

Don Barry, committee chair commented: “We have seen all the hard work, donations of locals’ time and money come to fruition after a decade of effort. Our aim is to make the Community Centre a hub for locals and visitors to come

together, connect and enjoy themselves… This is the best we have seen it since before COVID. We are seeing increased interest around using the hall for celebrations and activities. We now have some genuine points of difference with other venues on the Peninsula and we still have more enhancements planned. As Liz has mentioned – enhancing green spaces is another string to our engagement bow”.

Coroglen Market – enticing for locals and visitors

The very relaxed countryside environment and the gentle folk/ pop genre music lulls everyone into a more lay-back mode. Natural produce is arrayed – rock melons, tomatoes, watermelons avocadoes and blue berries at farmers market prices. Honey, chutney, Opito salt is beautifully packaged for the international traveller. This market attracts international visitors by the score. Inside and adjacent to the

tent café, are home-made baking and cooking to order. Smoked fish pie, crepes, raspberry cake, cheese scones are just some of the items plus juices prepared and coffee and tea. Takeaways are popular but so is enjoying the tent café on a chair or a cushion. I listed to the angel voice of Toya Fleetwood – for several minutes. The car park is full and the Coroglen Markets team do their own traffic

management with orange cones to worthy success. The traffic is moderate but constant and most important, travelling carefully. Every Sunday the Coroglen Markets are enticingly open from 9.00am-1.00pm until Easter and it is worth the car journey for Coromandel Peninsula locals. English, South American and Canadian visitors all found it a delightful, plentiful market experience.

Elise Reader and Georgia Litherland at Whiti markets.

Collier family happy with their purchases –Owen, Elara and Waverley.

Rebekah Fountain and Kate Finlay –part of the organising team.

Impressive show from Mercury Bay Rugby Club

SPORTS RESULTS

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB

Drawn Pairs Three, Mon 16 February.

North/South: 1 Pia Raudviki & Jim Buffett 59.38, 2 Jocelyn Taylor & Judy McKenzie 58.68, 3 Carol & Ron Baker 56.25.

East/West: 1 Ollie & Paula Gilbert 61.90, 2 Jill Huston & Heather Buffett 59.52, 3 Robyn Waters & David Wilkinson 56.35.

HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB

Week Two of the Cummings Pairs

Tues 17 February

North/South: 1st Don Barry and Peter Clark 59.00, 2nd Dave Dylla and Angela Butterworth 57.50, 3rd Margaret Muir and Natasha Courtney 45.50. East/West: 1st Peter and Robyn Hogg 61.50, 2nd David Wilkinson and Robyn Waters 59.00, 3rd Jean Myles and Anne Knowles 54.00.

MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS

Results: 20 players this week. With the extra boards we now have, we thought it would be a good to try and play singles and see how late we finished. Eight players went through winning three of their four sets, which necessitated a one game shoot out. The players were, Beau Hamilton, John Munro, Ali Crawford, Fletcher Bale, Steve Martinovich, Warren Griffin, Mike Gillett and Chriss Bennett.

After a close game, John Munro came away with

Continued from page 3.

As someone who has been around rugby tournaments in a number of countries I was incredibly impressed by the show the Mercury Bay Club put together. There was an ice cream truck, massage tables and a bar all three of which were buzzing all day. The games were efficient, the announcer clear and consistent. The tournament had

a sense of community to it, one that I hope that the New Zealand rugby representatives present this weekend can understand and replicate in more small towns.

Modern rugby demands high cardio and club preseasons reflect that. What better way for club players in New Zealand to get themselves into shape ahead of their season, than playing an invitational 10s tournament in a town outside their own. It’s good for the players and for the towns they’re playing in. Here’s hoping this tournament will be the first of many.

the win. Highest finish for the night was 109 for the men, scored by Mike Gillett. No high finishes for the ladies and no 180's scored. All finished by 9.30 pm.

MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER

Wednesday 18 February:

Eight players attended today. 3 players came through section play with 3 wins each. Ken Gibson drew the bye into the final while Rob Reilly had a comfortable win over Ian Baumgren. Rob continued his fine form to beat Ken to take out top honours for the day.

Saturday 21 February:

Seven players contested 3 rounds in section play. Some close frames ensued with many being decided on the final black. The in-form Rob Reilly was the only player to secure 3 wins to take top prize for the day. With 2 wins apiece were Peter Schultz and Bob Haase. Peter scored the highest break with 22.

THE DUNES GOLF CLUB MATARANGI

Nine-hole Men’s Russian Roulette Results: Mon, 16 Feb.

1 Lance Croawell and Graham Kemp, 2 Mark Deutsch and Ross Gwyn. Best Stbfd: Paul Dixon 21. Nearest The Pin #18: Mark Deutsch.

Nine-hole Ladies Five Club Day Stbfd Results: Tues 17 Feb

1 Joanne Nicholson 25, 2

Leanne Evans 22, 3 Glenda Philpott 19.

18 Hole Men’s Mixed Tee Blue, White, Red Stbfd Results: Wed 18 Feb

1 Rusty Brooke 41, 2 Selwyn Knaggs 40, 3 Barry Bowen 39.

TWO’S: Rowan Toms

– Craig Batty # 5, Geoff Atmore on Hole 7, Geoffrey Hill # 8, Bob Walker

– Darryn Pritchard – Mike Friis – Kerry Mason –Charlie Chilwell # 13

Nearest The Pin # 18: Rowan Toms

18 Hole Ladies Stableford Results: Thur 19 Feb.

1 Sandra Bowen 36, 2 Chrissie Smith 35 on count back, 3 Noeleen Mulligan on 35.

TWO’S: Noleen Mulligan # 7, Chrissie Smith # 18

18 Hole Mixed Sat Haggle Stbfd Results: Sat 21 Feb

1 Robert Fisken 41, 2 Paul Clark 37, 3 Ross Gwyn 36 Nearest The Pin # 18:

Mary Coughlan-Mason

TWO’S: Russell Barnett –Rowan Toms- Paul Anderson #5, Peter Mathias # 7, Russell Barnett # 13.

MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB

9 Hole Women - Gross

Tuesday 17 February

Div 1: 1, Alison Goodlet; 2, Christine Godden Div 2: 1, Sharon Morrisey; 2, Adele Conway

9 Hole Mixed - Stableford

1, Patrick Gonthier 18; 2, Rod Bott 16; 3, Johnny Day - 16

NTP: Phil Drane

Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor 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. They do not reflect the view of the Editor who reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.

COVID’S EFFECT ON STUDENTS & EDUCATION

When 2020 hit, the currently enrolled Yr13’s (7th formers) entered Yr7 (Form One). They were 10, 11, 12yr olds. In the cities, most entered Intermediate while provincial/rural primary schools promoted these kids as ‘senior students’ - as has been the tradition in NZ since the ~1950’s. They entered high school in 2022 at the height of the Covid19 vaccine passport debacle. NZ’s political landscape stretched that summer from the Wellington Parliamentary protest to Russia’s Special Military Operation (SMO) into Ukraine. Term I saw compulsory mask-wearing at school and for thousands of teenagers an uncertainty surrounding their ability to participate in sport, music and other extra-curricular activities.

Ask any secondary school teacher now, they’ll tell you. By the time this cohort hit the fourth form (Yr10) in 2023, they were “out the gate” like never seen before.

When previously an inclined 14 yr old might take 10 seconds before throwing a chair (in class, across the room), in this yeargroup, those inclined were taking three (seconds). Their neural pathways have been altered by endless scrolling on TikTok, insta and SnapChat. Their ability to concentrate at school has been compromised to 12 second ‘reels’. What are we going to do?

School has become impossible and irrelevant for so many of our

youth. They go only to see their mates. They have limited respect for their teachers, parents or authority. They see through the lies swallowed by their elders and have their eyes wide open to the despair of working for a life they will not be able to afford. Just ask their older siblings, now in their 20’s facing an adulthood in which they will “own nothing and [not] be happy”...

There was a robust application to establish a Whitianga-based Charter school made to this coalition government a year or so back?! There has never been a more ripe time than in 2026 to open an alternative-to-school type centre to help our teenagers transition from this crazy ole world we’ve created into something they actually want to inherit.

Brian Campbell, Cooks Beach ENVIRONMENT CONSPIRACY – BUNKUM!

I was disappointed to read Environment Matters (The Informer 3 February) by Malcolm Campbell. I have enjoyed his bucolic opinion in the past, but his criticism of the WRC and DOC is a conspiracy theory which detracts from the anti-poison message. I thought his message was “ignore the forest’s health and let the introduced mammals devastate it by farming the pigs, goats and deer for meat.: I’ve had damage to my previous land by pigs and goats that I tried to rear and know how destructive to ground and forest they are. Hunters do not kill them all.

A conservationist, Arthur Hynds, told that a welcomed 1080 drop on his farm had dispatched nine feral pigs. Subsequently he had flocks of native pigeons (kereru) feeding on his pasture. Decrying the use of poison will only gain ground if an alternative form of efficient pest control is viable.

In 1960 I was exploring the unique plants on the summit of Moehau and I noticed a herd of goats were eating the plants to extinction. Where do they come from?

Peter Wood, Whitianga

I AM ASKING WHY?

Who asks; ‘Why are so many people in our town so sick?’

Hmmm....Big question! Keeping positive throughout life is a major challenge for everyone as we all encounter pikis and hekes (ups and downs). Why are we sick? For sure we have a lot going for our health here in Aotearoa/NZ. But stakes are down for many. Personally, I always try to remember that people may have been through extreme circumstances or very hard struggles and may need a friend or a friendly acquaintance. I know I always feel sick when people have bad manners or are not a friend. Please try to be mindful towards another. That goes a long way towards health. Being brash and/ or nosey is impolite. Also, a bad recipe for health is using drugs and alcohol, which breed violence. That causes sickness and

Onemana – Notice to not swim, fish or collect shellfish

Our Council is aware of a sink hole that has formed near the Onemana Wastewater Treatment Plant subsurface irrigation field. (in area south of Onemana Drive carpark).

There is a liquid seeping from this area, and we suspect that it may be treated wastewater that has been discharged into the irrigation field.

The seepage is entering a local wetland and potentially entering a stream that flows to the beach area. As a proactive step, Coun-

cil has erected signage by the Onemana Drive Carpark advising people not to swim, fish or collect shellfish in the area around

where the stream discharges to the beach as shown in the image below, until further notice.

Council is also undertaking the following additional actions

• Turn off the irrigation disposal that is closest to the tomo area

• Undertake sampling at the irrigation field, tomo and the stream discharge area

• Undertake regular monitoring of the site to ensure no further deterioration or land movement

• Dosing the wastewater ponds to deal with a recent algae bloom.

Road works in Hauraki and Coromandel Peninsula

Lane closures remain on SH2 in the Karangahake Gorge and at two locations on SH25 on Kūaotunu Hill and Pumpkin Hill north of Tairua, as a result of damage caused by the January storms.

There are more than 20 sites along SH25 and through the Karangahake Gorge needing significant repairs, and our recovery team is working at speed to design the repairs needed and prioritise the works. All these sites will continue to be closely monitored.

NZTA thanks the Coromandel community and visitors for their patience while we go about restoring full access to SH25 and through the Karangahake Gorge.

SH2 Karangahake Gorge: Crews will be working on the

harm, from stranger offenders in public to violent harms in our homes. Abstain.

But ironically, as you note, sickness may be in the supermarket setting. Instead, enjoy some gathered fruits, get involved in a food garden or organic enterprise. Or create and hang a positive expression such as “Lokah Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu “(my language); or May all beings everywhere be happy and free.

We will be sick if people are not kind, positive, mindful and caring! Alice Doig, Tapu

USER PAYS SYSTEM WOULD WORK

If we are serious about reducing our rates we can only achieve this if we follow a user pays system.

I attended the first meeting for 2026 of the Mercury Bay Community Board and was appalled to hear from so many about the need for money. This was in respect of the recent floods and storms devastating our environment. The millions of dollars requested for Council to fund was unaffordable and would double our ratepayer bill.

have come up with and alternative option that would give Thames Coromandel District Council a target that was achievable. That is with a user pay system to introduce to all sectors of our communities. In saying this I would commend Whitianga Waterways who place a covenant on their properties to allow maintenance of their complex and the

Mercury Bay Future Fund which allows local people to invest in Endowment Policies.

Whilst these two examples are excellent they only involve a small sector of our society. What I am suggesting is that all our communities can contribute in a meaningful way and with modern technology anything is possible. Some suggestions are:

• 1% taken from all new properties for reserved funding. (e.g. $800,000 with 1% cap = $8,000.00)

• User pays on boat parking and trailers

• User pays on all vehicle parking

• User pays on Toilets

• User pays of venues, for events, concerts etc

These are only some of the areas that I have listed but if we don’t come up with an alternative to Council spending, we will go broke as a district. With a User Pays system we can continue to live and work in the wonderful Coromandel Peninsula and have a lower rating system.

Noel S. Hewlett, Whitianga WELL DONE ON TWO MESSAGES

My congratulations to Peter Wood on his letter 5rational reasons for no race-based seats. Very well put and an issue which needs a lot of work and back-pedalling after Adern set up this racist split. Also Vera Carr for her well-expressed letter re the influence of mainstream media.

John Veysey, Thames Coast

Acting local – it matters!

BY SHAUN FAY

Loved The Informers story last week about “Shop Local – why does it matter.” Here in Whangamata where I have lived as a permanent resident for 13 years – bach owner for 50, I am committed to shopping local. It’s not always easy but it is always rewarding. When you live in a small town you build connections. Someone knows someone who knows someone else and the job is done. You see someone at the club, and they pop round home the next day for a chat.

three sites at the western end of the gorge, where there is already a lane closure in place. This will be extended to accommodate these works. Lane closures will be needed at each site for the repairs to be done, so the work will be sequenced to minimise impacts on traffic. Completing all the repairs is expected to take up to 3 months, depending on weather conditions. Road users should expect lane closures and speed reductions through the gorge during this time.

I have also found over the years that being a local often helps receive service a lot quicker than the 2 o’clock Sundays (bach owners). I recall a story from a gib stopper who told me he had been rung up by a bach owner who needed some work done. “Could they call round over the weekend and give them a quote”.

Now this bloke is busy and he cherishes his weekends: “Leave the key out for me somewhere and I’ll pop round during the week”. “Oh no, said the owner we don’t let just anyone come into the house”. It’s a common fault of ‘2 o’clock Sundays’, they think we all sit round waiting

for them to arrive. Hey, were busy working here, we’re not all on holiday. There are numerous examples of why shop local works:*You forget your wallet; they give you a call. *Debbie’s a bit crook but Jill might be able to help. *Pete used to do some carpet laying; give him a call, he might be able to help. Yes, it might be slightly cheaper online or cheaper out of town, but it feels good to see someone you hired at the supermarket and allow yourself the freedom to think that you helped them with that shop.

Shaun Fay with his dog in the town he loves - Whangamata.

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What’s On

more information.

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 – NEW LOCATION. Monday, 23 February and Friday, 23 March. Whitianga Community Service Trust Centre, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga.

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

Ohuka Garden Club meets 2nd Wednesday of the month. New members welcome. Contact Beverley Sheppard Ph 02109028855 or email beverley@annabells.co.nz Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Fourth Monday of every month, 10am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Jo on 021 264 3753. Tairua Market takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month all year at Tairua Community Hall, 9am till 1pm. Food, fruit and veges, crafts, clothing, home decor, plants, furniture, books and much more.

FORTNIGHTLY

Greeting Card Making – The second and fourth Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. All materials provided. Contact Rev. Gillian Reid on 021 781 081 or just turn up.

Knit for a Purpose – First and third Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. Ph Gillian Reid on 021 781081 for further details, or just turn up. Mercury Bay Creative Fibre – Spin, knit, weave, crochet. First and third Wednesday every month, 10am-1pm, supper room of Town Hall. Phone Sue 021 274 7899. Email suzyed@ outlook.com

Mercury Bay Quilters – 10am-4pm on the first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016.

Whitianga Tramping Group – Every second Sunday at 8.30am. Phone Wally 021 907 782 or Lesley 021 157 9979 for more information.

WEEKLY OR MORE

Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for

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.

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

Coffee and Korero – 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 – Meet new friends, learn about coastal conservation and make a difference. Hands-on weeding and planting, Thursday mornings. Register at: www. cooksbeachcaregroup.org.nz; www.facebook. com/CooksBeachCareGroup

Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling Club –Wednesday at 1.45pm. Come and join us at the Community Centre (Hall). New members are most welcome, please contact Coral ph. 0212303944.

Cooks Beach Pickleball – tennis courts, cnr Purangi Rd and Rees Ave. Saturday mornings 9am. All welcome. First time free, then $5. Contact Kevin 021 396 062.

Coromandel ‘Growers & Artisans Market’

When: Every Saturday from 9am - 1pm Where: The Anglican Church Hall, Coromandel Town.

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.

Meditation Classes – Thursday evening. Spiritual, heart, soul development. Sacred energy, chakra activations, working with spiritual guides. Open forum conversation, Thursdays, 6.30pm at Flat 1, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga. Cost $10. Contact Verna 027 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com.

Mercury Bay Badminton Club – Thurs 5-7pm, MBAS school gym. Now open to new members wanting to play competitive Badminton. Coaching provided for those wanting to improve their skills. Phone Steve for more details 027 211 3568.

Mercury Bay Badminton – Every Wednesday 9-11am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, ages 16+. Phone Carol 027 474 7493 for more information.

Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club – 92 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Social Bowls, Thursday & Sunday at 12.30pm, Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.

Mercury Bay Bridge Club – Every Wednesday at 1:00pm and every Thursday at 7:00pm at the MB Bowling and Sports Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. For more information contact Gavin 021 146 9203.

Mercury Bay Community Choir – Meets Mondays 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the music room Mercury Bay Area School. Friendly inclusive non auditioned choir. All welcome. For enquiries phone Kate 027 2709058. Mercury Bay Environmental Trust – Every

Tues and Fri from 9-11am, location advised prior. For more information, Phone: 022 104 1701 please email mbenvironmentaltrust@ gmail.com or go to www.mbet.co.nz.

Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club – Will recommence in March 2026, 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

Self-defence classes – Town Hall, Tues/Wed 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146. 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 all levels – Town Hall, Mondays 6-7pm. Gold coin donation. Ph Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.

Tairua Contract Bridge Club – Every Monday at 12.30pm at the Tairua Bowling Club, 44 Hornsea Rd. Contact Lynnette Flowers 021 252 4709 or Johanna Bonnar 027 466 3726. Whenuakite Area Playgroup – 9.30am12.30pm every Wednesday morning at the Hahei Community Centre. Ages newborn-5years. We invite all parents, carers, visitors and grandparents. Contact whenuakiteareaplaygroup@gmail.com Whitianga Art Group – Every Thurs/Fri 10am-4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.

Whitianga Menz Shed – NEW LOCATION - 18 Abrahamson Drive, Open Tues/Thurs, 9am-12 noon. Phone Glenn 0274-952-015. All welcome. Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/Fri 9am12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@ playcentre.org.nz or 027 880 3947. Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games. Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info. Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome. Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss

Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.

Yoga for Everyone - beginners/retirees/ inflexibles welcome. Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 4.20pm, Fri 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25/90 minute session. Txt Rosemary 0274

489326 for info.

DANCING

Argentine Tango Dance Class – Fridays, Town Hall, Whitianga, 5.30-7.30pm. No prior experience or partner necessary. Text Sergio for questions 027 410 2454

Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran. com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm. Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Held in the Whitianga Town Hall. Tuesdays beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.45-2.30pm; Thursdays Seniors 10.15-11.15am, Absolute Beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Improvers 12.451.45pm. Night class held at Mercury Bay Club for Absolute Beginners 5/30-6.30pm. Contact Margaret 027 463 8850, Glynis 021 1099 155, Kathleen 022 154 1702.

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 2.30-3.30pm, Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.30-11.45am, 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. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, BBQs and walking trails. Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact John 027 366 4606.

Whitianga Gun Club – For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Neville Crawford 021 276 2169.

Whitianga Community Patrol – Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043.

St Andrew’s Church Opshop Supporting our Local Communities Applications for funding are invited from not-for-profit groups in Mercury Bay. Tell us about your work, your projects. Apply in writing to P.O.Box 168 Whitianga Or hand in your letter at the Opshop in Owen Street, behind the church.

Trades & Services

Covering

Email: mikehoey66@gmail.com

Trades & Services

STUMP GRINDING SERVICES

JIMMY RODLEY CONCRETE POLISHING LTD

Classifieds

Church Services

(Opp Z)

Come, join the familyFind peace and friendship.

Enquiries: ph 022 1322 061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz

ph 021 781 081 Anglican Worship www.anglicanchurchwhitianga.org.nz

Thames-Coromandel District Council Meetings – March 2026

Pursuant to Section 46 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987, public notice is hereby given that the following meetings will be held during March 2026.

Council Meetings

Ordinary Council

Tuesday 24 March 2026 - 09.00am, Thames Council Chambers, 515 Mackay Street, Thames

Committee Meetings

Planning and Regulatory Meeting

Thursday 12 March 2026 - 09.00am, Thames Council Chambers, 515 Mackay Street, Thames

Please visit www.tcdc.govt.nz/meetings for copies of Agendas and Minutes.

A Lawrie CHIEF EXECUTIVE Thames-Coromandel District Council

www.tcdc.govt.nz

SENIORNET WHITIANGA INC Notice of our ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING to be held at 2pm on Wednesday, 18 March, 2026. at Rooms 9 and 10, Community Services Building, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga

PRIVATE NOTICE

Let it be known that a SECURITY [15 USC et seq] commercial lien has been reached, under necessity per agreement, between the secured party Warwick James Burgess, and the debtor Jan Caroline Middlemiss and her natural born successors; the full statement may be seen at; https://fortress. wa.gov/dol/ucc/filingDetail.aspx?id=/Ss1GL+iYL1x3Bap8ep8Ag==

Trisha’s Bible Gems

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing that you may abound in hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Romans 15:v.13

Supporting our local communities Applications for funding are invited from not-for-profit groups in Mercury Bay. Tell us about your work, your projects. Apply in writing to PO Box 168 Whitianga Or hand in your letter at the Opshop in Owen Street, behind the church.

Have something to sell? Email the details to sales@theinformer.co.nz or call 07 866 2090

Mercury Bay Golf Club

March events

Our eagerly anticipated March events are now only weeks away. They are all loads of fun and filling up fast but if you’re quick there may be a space for you!

The first is the KiwiShades sponsored open tournament on February 28th. Open to 18 holers, with prizes for closest to the pin and longest drive, on course barbecue and cash for the winners.

Contact the club for a few remaining tee times – 07 866 5479.

Next up is the Women’s 18 hole Teams tournament, on March 12th. This year we are to be sponsored by Get It On from Tairua and supported by our generous local businesses. Teams from afar flock to this annual tournament renowned for the great food, fun, laughter and awesome prizes and a huge raffle table. It’s hard to go home without at least one prize from the day. Marie will have some of her beautiful gear there ladies and there will be golf clothing on sale too to sharpen up your next game. What a perfect day – good food and company, great shop-

ping opportunities and golf!

There’s a few spaces still available, so if you are keen to play either as a team of three, or alone, let us know we will fit you in. $50 per player for 18 holes of golf, including morning tea, lunch, twos and those great prizes.

Call Christine 027 482 8790 Or Kim 021 120 0469.

Finally, our second Masters Tournament will be run over the following weekend – Saturday 14 & Sunday 15th

March. Sponsored by The Clubroom with over $10,000 in prizes, it is open to men and women, 18 holes on Saturday to grade the field then 18 on Sunday to find the overall winners. 36 holes, over two days – Best Nett & Gross both days. $130 entry includes twos, barbecue both days, and a complimentary practice round on Friday. Register online admin@mercurybaygolf.co.nz. We look forward to seeing you out there.

MERCURY

BAY’S

20TH ANNUAL CANADA CUP

This was contested at the Mercury Bay Golf Club last week, with 54 players. The competition was fierce with 3 players tied at the end, necessitating a “chip off” to determine the final winner, Graham Eccles.

Thank you to our Sponsors: This year’s competition was sponsored by the Buffalo Beach Club who provided prizes and post-match catering. Other sponsors included Mercury Bay Club, Mercury Bay Golf Club, Steinlager and Liquorland Whitianga.

MERCURY BAY BOWLING CLUB

Q’s Plumbing Open Optional Triples Tournament results: Sunday 15 February.

Thank you to our generous sponsor – Quin Bates from Q’s Plumbing.

First: John Gregory, Dave Field,

Bowling Club.

Dennis Bates. Second: Nigel Clifford, Graeme Goss, Mike Rutherford. Third: Shane O’Hara, Lee MacDonald, Pam Phillips.

This is about the issue of odour

To the directors of Whitianga Vets Dave and Dawn Thurgood and Matt and Rebecca Ebbers and the local authorities.

This being the 5th year of strong chemical odours being expelled onto our property from the Whitianga Vet Clinic.

Christmas Day/Boxing Day and New Year’s Day – for 3 days strong chemical odours were expelled onto our property. When the lunch room windows and the sliding lunch room door are open and the connecting door to the whole vet clinic is also open; we get the chemical odours from the whole clinic.

It is strong, nauseating and gives us headaches. No enjoyment of our home, no family barbeques, birthday parties or grandchildren playing on our property.

Mr Thurgood, arrived at the clinic on New Year’s Day and aired the whole vet clinic out onto our property – lunch room windows, sliding door to the smoko room and back door wide open. Very strong nauseating odours hung around our property and again the next day.

We feel harassed by this. There was never a problem with

odour on our property before the vet clinic was built and we had been here for 14 years before the vet clinic.

This odour is going all over our vege garden and fruit trees and we have told them.

For one of us with asthma, the strong chemical odours affect breathing badly.

Because no other property can smell the odour, TCDC and WRC will not do anything about it. The vet clinic was built only 800mm from our boundary fence, so of course other neighbours won’t be affected, only us.

The Resource Consent failed to take into consideration the effect of odour. Every vet clinic has odours to expel and deal with. Animal hospital surgery sterilization of equipment, cleaning out of waste pipes, triage and general cleaning of the clinic and kennels all require the use of chemicals, many which have strong odours because of the failure of the Resource Consent not requiring strict regulation when dispelling odours or setting the building further from existing residences. A strike of the pen ruined our retirement and our health.

There is provision in the Resource Management Act for the installation of a proper ventilation system in the

vet clinic to remove these chemical odours. But TCDC and WRC do not seem willing to apply that condition or take responsibility.

An Ombudsman’s report as far back as 2022 noted several times chemical, surgical odours at our boundary fence and odour does not stop at a boundary fence.

A letter sent to us from Health NZ in September 2025 stated that this matter requires further attention particularly with respect to the actions of the TCDC. This is a historical complaint.

It has been proven the vet clinic is expelling strong chemical odours onto 19 Lee Street – our home. The vet clinic continues to expel the odours onto our property.

Yes, we need a vet clinic in Whitianga, but not at the expense of our wellbeing and our health. We are not collateral damage.

We can’t go on living like this. What is happening is wrong. Whitianga Vets have taken over our whole property with odour.

These are the facts. These things have to be said.

We are paying to set this out. For the sake of getting some action that is fair and just

Rohit Ranchhod, Graham Eccles and Chris Burgess. Mercury Bay

Sports At the Movies

The Chiefs are back

BY LACHIE HARVEY

However, this legendary team got off to a somewhat disappointing start. The recent Super Rugby opening weekend saw some big and some not so big collisions. With the bulk of the weekend's big games on Valentine’s day, it’s possible that many missed out on the action, including the Chiefs victory over the Blues, a game which fell smack bang over dinner time with a 7.00pm kickoff. The game was a close one, with the final score decided with only four minutes remaining.

The Chiefs came out a tad sluggish from the tunnel for their matchup, at the 15 minute mark the possession was skewed to the tune of 66% in favour of the Blues side and it felt like the Chiefs weren’t pushing to change that. Both teams missed penalty opportunities and the game meandered until the 32nd minute. It took a clever play from Tupou Vaa’i, in which he dove over the Blues’ defensive line to score. It’s worth noting first-five Josh Jacomb produced an incredible 50-22 kick to march the Chiefs down to put them into this scoring position. Jacomb is coming off of a phenomenal NPC season with the Taranaki Bulls, and could continue to provide key plays for the Chiefs as the season progresses, depending on how much he’s utilised. After half time, the game continued to be a slow burn,

with the final blow falling from Cortez Ratima, who took over from Xavier Roe at halftime. The final score, 15 to 19.

As mentioned, Jacomb had an outstanding off the boot kick, but he struggled off the tee, leaving five quite attainable points on the board. It leads one to wonder how/if he and Damien McKenzie will fit on the field with their similar contributions to the game. McKenzie with McKenzie holding the edge on the kicking front. Looking elsewhere in the backs, the back three performed adequately, newcomer Kyren Taumoefolau was given little room to work, while Etene Nanai-Seturo stepped up well in the place of Shaun Stevenson, lost to a contract at Kubota in Japan inked last year. Quinn Tupea and Daniel Rona brought their usual aggressive midfield approach, they’ll continue to be a force to be reckoned with.

The forwards did their job decently as well, espe-

cially the monstrous Samisoni Taukei’aho. The human wrecking ball bulldozed his way to a score in the second half to build the Chiefs momentum up. Watching him carry near the goal line is as impressive as it is frightening, always dragging a handful of defenders with him. As mentioned Vaa’i also had a good night with his score too. Luke Jacobsen was less involved than expected, given his recent All Blacks callup, but there’s still plenty of season left for him to get involved.

Chiefs fans can be happy with their top performers, however they’ll be wanting for a bit of a faster start against the Highlanders next week. The Highlanders are coming off an early upset against the Crusaders where their backline looked particularly sharp, another slow beginning could spell trouble.

„ Lachie is local and has just returned to New Zealand for three months after playing professional rugby in Germany.

Movie review

BY LACHIE HARVEY

FACKHAM HALL

A nice little old school comedy. That’s what would best describe newly released comedy Fackham Hall. The film was released in December of last year and has flown completely under the radar despite its quite high profile cast.

The film stars Tomasin McKensie, Ben Radcliffe, Damian Lewis, Katherine Waterston and Tom Felton among others. It’s directed by Jim O’Hanlon, who has very little other directing work to his name, and no major theatrical releases.

The film follows Rose (McKensie) and Eric (Radcliffe) in a light hearted story of love, antics and tomfoolery. They are accompanied by Rose’s parents, (Lewis and Waterson), who are looking to bethroth Rose instead to the dull and ponderous Archibald (Felton) The cast have nice on screen chemistry and nobody slacks behind in the comedy department. In a slapstick such as this, buying in is essential.

This is where the meat of this film lies, in its comedy. The film’s synopsis calls it “A spoof that crosses Downton Abbey with Flying High and Monty Python”. It doesn’t quite stick the landing in any one of its three inspi-

rations, however it does enough to keep it light and breezy. The comedy in the film is for the most part quick and slapstick. This is where the extras tend to somewhat outshine the main cast, you can see a sort of natural approach to their delivery and to their physical comedy. They seem to be trained in it versus the main cast who have adopted it.

This comedy also jumps quite drastically in who it appeals to. There are references to Gen Z related jokes from the last few years, and then WW2 jokes thrown in as well. In all likelihood a few jokes will be lost on both older and younger viewers. I think the former will enjoy the film's slapstick nature more. I would liken it to the recently released Naked Gun sequel starring Liam Neeson, both are primarily slapstick in nature, and short quick runtimes. Where Naked Gun has the edge is in its production value and ability to mould

the comedy around the characters with CGI and special effects. This is in contrast to Fackham Hall which uses a very limited quantity in comparison. Ultimately though, this film should be seen, because it’s part of a dying breed. With the exception of the aforementioned Naked Gun, also released last year, slapstick and comedy films in general are an extreme rarity these days. With the remaining headline films for the year all drama’s like Christopher Nolan’s Odyssey, and action like the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, soaking in a bit of a laugh is always a good idea while you still can.

The film has screenings for the next few weeks at Mercury Twin Cinemas, so check it out for a little bit of late summer fun.

„ Screening Times at Mercury Bay Twin Cinemas Thursday, 26 Feb 12.30pm, Saturday, 28 Feb 7.25pm, Wednesday, 11 March 12.45pm.

Chiefs Tupoi Vaa'i's try against the Blues – sourced from One News.

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