Debbie Morgan, Editor of the Coromandel Town Chronicle is also an artist and took part in the Plein Air – Paint Challenge –Thames Paint Out on Saturday,
Debbie was one of 39 artists to register for Plein Air.
Each artist became an “Art ist at Work” choosing a site which for them would cap ture the spirit of Thames. The stamped canvasses or stretched paper were supplied by the organisers with each artist bringing their easel, brushes and paints
3.00pm they created a pictorial presentation of their inspiration.
Continued on page 8
OPEN art STUDIOS
2026 TRAIL GUIDE
20TH ANNIVERSARY
felt a sense of shame when Phil Hart came into the office of The informer to place a classified advertisement as the Commodore of The Mercury Bay Boating Club to place the boating club building up for tender.
Phil and the boating club committee had run out of options and funds and spirit. Their building has been sitting on stilts for over three years. The whole saga is a story of shared shame.
Shame on the TCDC council of years ago who generously granted a low cost lease of the land but ensured that the boating club would be totally responsible for coastal protection. What commu-
STORY OF SHAME THE MERCURY BAY BOATING CLUB
nity group who is investing their energy and finances into training young sailors could afford coastal protection? Shame on those who organised and paid for an engineering consultants’ report quoting over $600,000 for a rock wall where the boating club was located. As if they could afford that. This was given to the Boating Club for what reason? Since then, there have been other quotes of a much lesser value.
Shame on the Waikato Regional Council policy that had their representative who visited the bleak situation of Cyclone Hale gouging away the coast-
Continued on page 3
Debbie drawing her version of The Goldmine Experience.
Pauline’s Piece
How could I be tricked three times?
There is something about a New Zealand invitation to “an easy hike” that should, by now, make me very cautious. Yet, here I was again – an Australian but long-time resident, cheerfully bush-bashing with the nicest group of men you could imagine, still walking hours after I was certain we would have reached our destination.
A BIT OF HISTORY
The first lesson came courtesy of Te Mataa Peak near Napier in Hawkes Bay. It had been described as “a quiet walk after church before lunch.” I packed an orange. Singular. It was mid-summer. The “quiet walk” turned out to be a four-hour return climb and hike, We actually shared that orange- two quarts each at the summit with deep gratitude.
The second lesson involved a ‘good hike to see some kauri dams not far from Waikino’. This eventually ended up being stranded a little from the top of Mount Te Aroha, 22 kilometres later, as darkness and steep slopes stopped our going down the mountain to Te Aroha township. I remember thinking the birds were far better organised than we were.
In those times Stan was my hiking companion - enthusiastic, optimistic and gloriously relaxed about preparation. I, meanwhile, was in charge of provisions and consistently misjudged what “not too far” means in Kiwi dialect.
This time there was no Stan but my interest in history had me hooked and I wanted to put it in The Informer.
Knowing of that interest in history for The Informer, Tom suggested a small expedition. A small group including me would locate a steam engine left deep in the bush behind Coroglen, abandoned after hauling timber in the kauri logging days. The thought of discovering such a relic in the back country was irresistible.
Tom is a retired farmer, a capable outdoorsman, and an accomplished historian. He also possesses that calm rural confidence that makes you feel everything is perfectly manageable. The plan was simple. Meet at the Coroglen School. A brief drive. Park. Then a half-hour wal- in or little bit longer.
He did mention I would need walking boots. I chose my sturdiest walking shoes. This time I
packed a very good lunch. Experience had taught me something. I had a surprise birthday party to attend five hours after our starting time. The margins seemed generous.
The drive began promisingly enough. I followed Tom’s farm truck. Within seconds, my travelling companion - also an ex-farmer - suggested he take the wheel of my all-wheel drive. A couple of kilometres in, a large sign had announced: “The council no longer administers the maintenance of this road.”
The road deteriorated drastically It was rougher than tracks I had travelled on safari in central Australia. In silence Bill navigated dips, holes and rocks with focussed expertise.
We reached a ford safely - after forty minutes, not a few.
The trek was exactly as promised: pleasant and not too demanding. The bush was beau-
Astronomy Tours and B&B
Phone (07) 866 5343 www.stargazersbb.com
STAR and SPACE STATION GAZING IN 2026 – your guide to the night sky
Tuesday, 3 March
– Total eclipse of the Moon tonight with the best viewing from about 11pm onwards. See notes below. Thursday, 5 March –
There will be a bright Tiangong pass from 9:09pm in the NW before it disappears into the Earth’s shadow. Saturday, 7 March – There will be a bright Tiangong pass in the NW from 8:48pm. Sunday, 8 March – Those with a clear western horizon might just catch a glimpse of bright Venus on the horizon just above much fainter Saturn at dusk. Monday, 9 March – We have a good Tiangong pass from the west at 8:26pm. Wednesday, 11 March – There will be a good Tiangong pass from 8:04pm starting in the NW just beside Venus.
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. While the
eclipse actually starts at 9:44pm there will not be a significant change in the Moon’s brightness until after 10:50pm when the Moon enters the darkest part of the Earth’s shadow and this phase will last until 12:04am. This is a great chance to actually see the Moon moving in its never ending 28 day orbit around the Earth.
Jupiter is the only planet readily visible this week shining brightly after dusk in the northwestern sky. However, if you have a clear western horizon you might just catch a glimpse of bright Venus and much fainter Saturn right on the horizon at dusk towards the end of the week.
There will be several Chinese Tiangong Space Station passes to view this week but, as usual, timings may change if it has to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-above.com for updated timings.
tiful, birds busy, the company excellent.
After about 45 minutes, the four gentlemen began consulting their GPS devices. No one was concerned. They were “just checking.” There was a track but it was very grown over. Bill carried a long-handled scythe, which I had initially assumed was decorative. It was not. He was busy with that device. The unspoken agreement was that we would have lunch at the steam engine.
After two hours and several more ‘just checking ‘GPS on phones, we paused. Tom felt we were not far away and that we should soon see the ridge where the engine lay. I noticed this was slightly different from seeing the engine itself, but remained optimistic.
REALITY CHECK
Another half-hour passed. An early lunch was declared. We were hungry.
“How long since you last saw the engine, Tom?”
“Oh… (pause-pause) about thirty-five years.”
Thirty-five years seemed a gap too far in my understanding to find anything remotely familiar
“Does anything look familiar?”
I asked. Tom surveyed several thousand largely identical trees.
“Hard to say.”
No one panicked. The day was clear. The bush, though thick at times, was magnificent. Con-
Published weekly. Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula to Waihi. Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication is at the discretion of the Editor. Distribution: Over 10,000. ISSN 3021-4114 (Print), ISSN 3021-4122
versation ranged from politics and history to the logging and gold-mining days, birds and native plants. Each man knew NZ bush and generously shared his knowledge. They were unfailingly kind to the Australian in their midst. But we were now three hours into what had begun as a half-hour walk.
From the next ridge we looked out over a vast slip of bare earth. Tom studied it silently.
“I think the engine is just to the right of that slip.” Our scythe bearer exclaimed, “That’s another six hours of walking. That is an overnight hike not a today one.”
“Well,” Tom said cheerfully, “it’s good to work out exactly where it is for next time.” With that practical New Zealand logic, we started on our return journey.
It was a brisker walk. We were quietly tired, and hot. No one was tense or too disappointed. I missed the birthday party. We were a little short of claiming we had discovered a piece of logging history.
Truthfully, I loved it. I learned far more than the location of a misplaced steam engine. Will I go again? Almost certainly. Next time I shall bring a tent, a sleeping bag, and provisions suitable for minor expeditions.
Tom assures me he knows exactly where the steam engine is. I think I believe him. I could never let myself be tricked four times by Kiwis.
Four intrepid Kiwi bushmen.
Photo by Pauline Stewart.
line and threatening the very foundations of the boating club building, proclaim to the volunteers who were assisting Hoppers truck drivers to place rocks on the beach front to save the building that they must remove the rocks within two days.
Shame on those who felt that the boating club was in the wrong position for their comfort - too many late night events disturbing their lifestyle. It’s. good thing that the building has to be moved.
Shame on Joe Davis and the opinion that moving the boating club further back on the site may be an act transgressing sacred grounds. If it was sacred, why wasn’t it marked or noted already as a heritage sacred site? Why could not a heritage site encourage young sailors?
Shame on NZTA because a rock wall would protect not only the boating club and other residential buildings but also State Highway 25 to which little future thought seems to have been given.
Shame on Trevor and others who felt that moving the boating club to a spare piece of land near Dundas Street would spoil quality of view and perhaps impinge on the life of the Rugby Club.
Shame on us when we think only of our own situation and what could be spoiled for us. Shame on DOC who finally granted the boating club a consent to be on the
Dundas Street site – as they won the case to be relocated to Dundas Street. DOC then charged a rental of over $30,000 a year which no community club can afford. Shame on The Informer
because the message to the public has not engendered a focussed energetic campaign to get people across boundaries working together to reinstate the boating club building.
Shame is difficult to bear – but perhaps there is a way beyond this. Read the classified NOTICE FOR TENDER on page 26.
Sailing could be a big future here – I know Leigh Hopper talks
about a boat building industry coming here; we have birthed some great sailors; there is a very amazing story behind the Mercury Bay Boating Club; there is a vision of a conference/ exhibition and sailing centre that some of our residents hold dear and that would create a whole new configuration of Whitianga township.
Sailing and training young sailors does not totally rely on a building but the building and what has happened to it is a symbol of things that have to change.
As a resident on the Coromandel Peninsula, I am interested to contrive a better plan with the people who have been part of this saga.
Cyclone Bola ravaged the front beach; The same beach after it developed over a rock wall.
The erosion after Cyclone Hale, before more erosion by Cyclone Gabrielle; The trucks moving the Boating Club back to it’s current position.
Tuesday. Open Wednesday
Sunday 11.30am-late Closed. Make a booking for your special occasion at www.saltwhitianga.co.nz
20 years and the best yet!
2026 Art Escape is about to begin. It is the twentieth year and promises to be the best yet. Open Art Studios are finally happening this weekend and the following weekend – three days each weekend-Saturday, Sunday and also Monday.
Art Escape since its beginning in 2006.
20TH ANNIVERSARY
7-9 March, and 1416 March 10.00am –4.00pm.
There are over 50 talented artists being showcased from Pauanui to Whangapoua.
Finding the artists is easy. Just look for the official Mercury Bay Art Escape flags marking each studio or gallery or hub or workspace. There will be a welcome for you.
Bayleys is the major sponsor and have been with the
The guide is on the Art Escape website but every information centre on the Coromandel Peninsula has a guide you can pick up. The range of art means there is something for everyone –oil painting, weaving, glasswork, wood, jewellery, mosaics, eclectic mediums, iron sculpture.
This self-guided art tour offers a vibrant and inspiring creative experience for visitors. It is an exhibition trail like no other. Plan your own art trail and meet the artists in their creative spaces. Enjoy the opportunity to purchase original artworks directly from the creator.
World’s largest billfish tournament on our Peninsula
In 2023, it was the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. In 2025 it became the largest in the world and for 2026 that is still the case. This is the Kubota Classic Billfish Tournament.
There are 400 boats with a waiting list. Each boat has four or five people on it. That’s 2,000 people before they get off the water.
The prize money for this amazing tournament is phenomenal. The heaviest billfish prize is $350,000 in cash. The lucky gate prize is a 5 tonne digger from Kubota valued at $115,000. The Champion team prize is as yet undetermined as that is self-determined from the jackpots.
The man behind the success of this tournament is Tom Maxwell and he has enabled its success to the level that it is. Clearly, his vision and drive have led the team to making it such a success. When the event is on, Tom will spend each day giving updates, bulletins. Every boat is listening and it adds to the excitement.
When asked about his strategy, Tom says, “It is a million small things. My involvement began with get-
ting Kubota as the naming sponsor. Sponsors want to be part of something that is a success. There are a lot of aspects to be thankful for. There are the teams - each boat is a team. There is no tournament without them and their goodwill.
Then there’s the sponsors - their generosity makes the tournament exciting and very attractive to enter. The prize money and prizes to be won speak for themselves.
We could never calculate the immense value the huge team of volunteers bring to this tournament.”
LOCAL CONTEXT
Mercury Bay is very aware
there will be people in town and some will stay a little after the tournament.
There are a lot of women and their children who are not out on the boats. The size of it has accelerated and residents and other spectators to feel it is their Kubota Classic even if they don’t fish.
The seating and grandstands mean that people can come and watch the fish being weighed. It is totally open to the public. More benefits to the whole Mercury Bay community are what is being aimed for.
A significant number of the 400 boats are trailer boats who come back to base each evening.
The biggest compliment
will be seeing - bait and tackle stories doing huge trade, petrol stations hard out keeping up with the demand for fuel, pubs and restaurants packed, retail stores having their busiest trading days, people queueing for taxis.
‘For Mercury Bay, the team are very proud that some of the top boats in the country are coming to Kubota Classic 2026 and many of them are returns from previous years. There will be some super yachts who come to watch these fishing boats. Come and watch the shot gun start 7.30am Thursday 11 March. The boats burble out in the early morning light from 5.30am.
Early detection of breast cancer matters Oceania, Whitianga change of ownership
When it comes to breast cancer, size matters.
The smaller the cancer when found, the better the chance of successful treatment and long-term survival. Detecting cancer early often means less invasive procedures, shorter treatment, and better outcomes.
WHY SIZE MATTERS
• Small cancers are less likely to spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
• Early detection often means less aggressive surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, and faster recovery.
• Survival rates are significantly higher when cancer is caught early.
HOW MAMMOGRAMS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
In its earliest stages, breast cancer usually causes no pain or visible changes. You won’t feel a lump.
Your doctor won’t either. That’s why regular breast screening is essential.
Modern mammography can detect cancers as small as a grain of rice, long
before symptoms appear.
For women aged 40 and over, annual or biennial mammograms provide the best chance of finding breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable.
“Mammograms remain the single most effective tool for early breast cancer detection,” says Sugania Reddy, Lead Radiologist – Breast Imaging at Allevia Radiology. “The earlier we detect, the better the options for less invasive treatment and improved outcomes.”
According to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, most breast cancers detected
through routine screening are small and localised, which is linked to survival rates of 95 percent or higher over five years.*
WOMEN SHOULD KNOW
• Breast cancer risk increases with age.
• Regular screening saves lives.
• Even if you feel well, screening remains the most effective way to find subtle changes before symptoms appear.
Sources: Breast Cancer Foundation NZ (breastcancerfoundation.org.nz).
Oceania has entered into an agreement to sell Whitianga, Oceania to New Zealand Aged Care Services Limited.
The transaction remains conditional on approval from Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora, Oceania’s Statutory Supervisor, and the satisfaction of other usual contractual conditions.
Should the sale proceed, the change of ownership and handover to New Zealand Aged Care Services Limited is expected to occur on 24 March.
This news was presented at a residents’ meeting held on 27 February at which four executive management representatives were present to speak and to answer questions.
Each resident was handed printed letters; one headed ‘Whitianga Oceania – Change of Ownership’ and the other, ‘Sale of Whitianga, Oceania –Questions and Answers’.
WHY IS OCEANIA SELLING THE OCEANIA IN WHITIANGA?
The most recent review determined that Whitianga,
CLARITY THAT MATTERS MOST.
World-class 3D mammogram and full diagnostic services, now available in Pukekohe
When it comes to breast health, clarity isn’t just clinicalit’s personal. Our powerful combination of 3D mammograms with Volpara Breast Density Assessment gives clearer images and better detection, and on-site diagnostics including ultrasound and biopsy if required.
Oceania would be best supported into the future by an operator with a dedicated focus on aged residential care. New Zealand Aged Care Services operate retirement living and care centres throughout New Zealand and are known for their family oriented, personable and collaborative approach to caring for older New Zealanders. They share Oceania’s commitment to quality care.
Employment: NZ Aged Care Services intend to make offers of employment to the current staff at Whitianga’s Oceania. If they accept these offers, the same team of caregivers and staff will continue to provide care to residents, ensuring care of res-
idents is consistent. Occupational Right Agreements (ORA) These will stay the same, with the same terms and conditions. All contractual liabilities to residents under an ORA will be assumed by NZ Aged Care. All residents were assured at every point, that they don’t need to do anything and that all involved were committed to a smooth and well-managed transition for everyone involved.
Enquiries or concerns about the change of ownership, please contact Phil Harman, Senior Regional Operations manager, at phil.harman@oceaniahealthcare.co.nz
Results within days – not weeks. Because the sooner you know, the sooner you can move forward.
Book now: 0800 626 664
No GP referral is needed for screening mammogram ages 40+.
Scan the QR code for more info
Painting a love for Thames
Continued from front page
Debbie’s choice was the Goldmine Experience so at 9.30am she found the best site from which to sketch and paint what she was looking at which was beside a rather busy Thames Street.
Plein Air was the initiative of Thames resident, Laurie Mango who is also a teacher of art, particularly water colour, and a great encourager of those who love to explore art. “I was in one of these as a teenager in France and it impacted me very much. I have wanted to do this project in Thames for a few years, and finally I have.”
By all accounts, Laurie has achieved a very fine beginning. This day was about onlookers and appreciators of spontaneous art. People wandered around the township of Thames to enjoy watching the artists at work. By 5.00pm all the artists’ finished pieces were exhibited at Grahamstown Hall. There was quite a lot of camaraderie among the artists and some had sat together painting the same subject but in very different ways.
Visitors and residents came to buy the pieces and participate in choosing a Peoples’ Choice Award from 5.00pm with all the winners being announced at 6.00pm.
• Children’s award – Amelia McKay
• Youth award – Lucy Wong.
• Adult award – Miyuki Neufeld,
• Spirit of Thames award – Reuben Warren,
• People’s Choice award – Alice Parminter
• Professional Artist award – Ben Ruskin
studio@taraking.co.nz
WINNERS:
Ben Ruskin won the Professional Artist award with this painting.
Above: Ruth Maddern and Miyuki Newfield painted side by side with their easels. Miyuki won the Adult Artists Award. Below: Amelia McKay – who won the Children’s category.
Reuben Warren chose to paint two different War Memorials located at some distance from each other. His family was involved in both World Wars. Reuben won The Spirit of Thames award.
Above: Kathryn Engebretsen has become an artist specialising in art in bottles. Below: Joyce Mowbray works in all mediums for her art painting the Grahamstown Railway Station – an historic site. Joyce told how many years ago in Zimbabwe she travelled to a Grahamstown Railway Staton in South Africa. It was a huge cattle train and a huge station.
When things go wrong, these guys – father and son – show up
BY DEB GREENFIELD
Breaking down on a Coro-
mandel road is stressful at the best of times. But when you're also dealing with rising floodwaters, a vehicle teetering on a bank, or a key jammed in a rental camper's gas cap with your whole holiday on the line, who you call matters enormously.
For a growing number of people across the Peninsula, the answer is Custom Towing and Transport – Whitianga's newest towing and recovery business, run by local father and son Steve and Chris Morgan.
The pair launched Custom Towing and Transport at the end of 2025, bringing a combined depth of experience that sets them apart. Steve, a Whitianga resident of many years, is a qualified electrician with decades of mechanical and automotive knowledge, including hybrid and electric vehicles. But it's his long record of community service that gives the business a different kind of edge. A Senior Firefighter, Coastguard Senior Master, and former team leader of the St John Pauanui First Response unit, Steve has spent years arriving at scenes where people are frightened, hurt, or in shock.
"We know these roads, and we know this community," says Steve. "Our goal is to make sure people get the best possible help, as quickly as possible, with the right equipment for the job."
That ability to be a calm, clear head when things have gone wrong is something customers have noticed. Both Steve and Chris bring a reassuring manner to every callout - and a sense of humour that can make a genuinely awful day feel a little more manageable. The five-star Google reviews are already stacking up, with one customer describing their experience simply as "knowledgeable, open communication, and fast."
Chris grew up in Pauanui
before settling in Whitianga a decade ago. His background spans motorcycle mechanics, heavy machinery operation, civil earthworks - including work on major motorway and roading projects - and broad automotive and electrical knowledge. During recent summer flooding across the region, he was out recovering vehicles from floodwaters, and even jump-started a grocery truck and trailer that had broken down on its way to deliver supplies to Whitianga. One community member who witnessed it wrote online that Chris had gone "above and beyond" and praised his "kindness, effort, and dedication to the community."
The jobs the team handle are
as varied as the Coromandel's roads. They have safely recovered a vehicle that had slid off the Tapu-Coroglen Road with no damage to the car, and winched a trailer carrying a scissor lift off the highway after a snapped axle. They have also been out during the worst of the recent flooding, recovering cars from flooded areas and retrieving a vehicle that had been swept over a kilometre downstream and come to rest in a riverbed.
Steve and Chris have invested heavily in getting the right gear for the job. Their equipment is built to handle more complex recoveries without causing further damage, including specialist gear for caravans, boats and trail-
ers suffering mechanical failures, the kind of breakdowns that can strand families for hours if the right tools aren't on hand. Their capability extends to lifting and towing heavy vehicles, meaning trucks and large equipment in trouble on Coromandel roads now have a local option rather than facing a long wait for help to arrive from further afield. They can also safely transport passengers and pets alongside the vehicle when needed. It's the kind of investment that reflects a simple philosophy: if you're going to do it, do it properly.
For Chris, there is something particularly meaningful about building the business alongside his father. "Working with Dad has been great," he says. "We've got different skills that complement each other well, and we're on the same page about how we want to treat people. That matters when you're turning up to someone's worst moment of the day."
Custom Towing and Transport is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether it's a lockout in town or an accident recovery on a remote back road, they're ready to help. Call 0800 CUSTOM, or visit customtowing. co.nz.
Chris and his dad.
Caravans and motorhomes on show this March
The Covi RV & Outdoor SuperShow is on 20, 21 and 22 March at Auckland Showgrounds.
The RV & Outdoor SuperShow is an annual event on motorhome and caravan owners’ calendar –and for all those wishing to purchase a motorhome or caravan, or just want to look at the latest accessories available.
The show will once again be featuring all the major motorhome and caravan brands. The range of vehicles on display is extensive and features a wide range of styles and layouts. You will be sure to find something that fits what you are looking for.
ACCESSORIES
The vast show is jam-packed with all the latest innovations and offerings to make your life on the road more enjoyable. You will also find a large range of ‘toys’. Everything from electric bikes and scooters to inflatable boats will be on display.
FREE DAILY SEMINARS
There will be seminars every day.
WIN A CARAVAN!
Your ticket to the Covi RV SuperShow could be your ticket to WIN a Traveller 17’ Cruise Caravan valued at $85k+.
Collect stamps at all 7 booths around the show, hand in your ticket before you leave, at the Total RV Grand Prize Entry Boxes and you’ll go in the draw.
NO RESERVE AUCTION
The No Reserve Auction is always a show favourite, and 2026 is no excep-
tion with a brand new campervan going the hammer at no reserve.
Thanks to TrailLite Group, visitors to the show will have the chance to bid on a brand new Elddis CV60 Campervan with a retail price of $169,995 incuding ORC. *T’s & C’s apply. You must be present to bid.
10K CASHBACK
In conjunction with Covi NZMCA Insurance, the Covi RV SuperShow organisers are again giving $10,000 cash to one lucky visitor who purchases a motorhome or caravan at the show or in the two weeks after the show (you must have registered with a vendor at the show). You will then go into the draw to win $10,000. T’s & C’s apply.
GETTING TO THE SHOW
Plenty of parking available at Alexandra Park off Campbell Crs, with limited parking on-site.
You can also make a weekend of it and stay in your motorhome or caravan at the free rally being held at Ellerslie Racecourse. There will be free buses to and from the show and the Rally throughout the day. There’s no need to book for the pack in, pack out rally.
PETS ALLOWED
Pets on a lead are welcome. Some exhibitors may not allow your pet into their RV’s.
Buy tickets at www.supershow. co.nz, or on the gate.
Council listens to people – the next steps?
BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN
The Informer has reported on flooding of resident’s homes in the Taputapuatea Reserve previously. This occurred most recently during the rain storm in late January, principally caused by water from Council land pouring unchecked over resident’s properties and through their homes. It was an untenable situation which, despite sterling efforts by Council and Community Board representatives, Council staff refused to put right.
However, we are therefore delighted to be able to announce that Council staff have seen the light and have agreed to fix this problem. This will be done by the erection of a bund (a small stop bank) in the Taputapuatea Reserve which will block stormwater from flowing into resident’s homes in that area. Thanks must go to Mercury Bay Councillors and Community Board elected members who were tireless in their efforts to deliver a satisfactory result for their community. There is one delaying factor that Council staff have brought up and that is, “who will fund the project?”. The question is a bit silly really as we know who will fund itwe ratepayers will from monies paid to the TCDC. What the Council staff really mean is ‘whose budget will be used to cover this investment?’ I don’t think the residents who suffer from this flooding need to think further about which column the expense will be applied to –a minor Council accounting issue. Getting the job done before the next heavy rains come along is the issue..
Once this bund has been erected, it will solve prob-
lems for some but not all. The Taputapuatea Stream drains a floodwater retention zone and with planned development, there will be increased pressure to ensure this works without damage to individual’s properties. The bund now planned for the reserve is part of the requirement, basically protecting up to the bridge but beyond the bridge, the problem of uncontrolled flooding from Council land causing serious damage to ratepayer’s property persists.
An example is the recent rains resulting in one motel being forced to close its doors while the ground floor units are rebuilt, a very expensive restoration job caused by flooding.
This flooding comes from the Taputapuatea Stream, compounded by high tides. Water sweeps unimpeded over the road from the Taputapuatea Spit and through resident’s properties. It would appear that the solution here is to build
a bund between the stream and Buffalo Beach Road from the Taputapuatea Bridge to the outlet of the stream thereby encasing floodwaters and giving them one outlet - to the sea.
Possibly some drainage facilities across the spit to give the stream multiple outlet points would be needed. This would not appear to be a horrendously expensive exercise, yet would complete the encasing of the Taputapuatea floodwater retention zone and provide security for residents.
The experts may consider this; they may have changes or improvements to such a scheme.
The main thing is a plan is needed and then it must be implemented.
Well done to Council for working with the people’s representatives to resolve the Taputapuatea Reserve flooding problem. But what we all know is that the work doesn’t stop; its only just started.
Restoration work being carried out on a Buffalo Beach Road motel. A protective bund is required along this stretch of Buffalo Beach Road.
If we stop building local, what’s going to happen next?
BY TANYA JONES-BLOK
We talk a lot about shopping local in Mercury Bay. Eat local. Buy local. Support our cafés and retailers. And we absolutely should.
But there’s another part of our economy that doesn’t get talked about nearly as much – and without it, a lot of those other businesses simply wouldn’t function.
CONSTRUCTION
If you took the builders and the trades out of the Coromandel, the Coromandel would crash. That might sound dramatic, but it’s true.
THINK ABOUT IT
Every morning there’s a row of Utes outside the café near our office with ‘tradies’ grabbing their coffee and a pie before heading to site. At the end of most days, the Utes are lined up again, outside the pub. That’s not just a social observation – that’s money circulating in our town.
When a local build happens, it’s not just one company working. It’s electricians, plumbers, painters, flooring suppliers, timber yards, kitchens, joinery, hardware stores. It’s apprentices learning
on the tools. It’s suppliers delivering materials. It’s couriers running up and down the peninsula.
IT’S AN ENTIRE ECOSYSTEM
According to Richard Warwick of HAMR Homes, engaging local contractors promotes accountability and upholds quality standards. In smaller communities, reputation is paramount, and income
earned by local residents is more likely to be reinvested within the community. Our area is home to highly skilled tradespeople, and it is important for property owners from outside the region to recognize that their projects are managed competently by local professionals.
Over the past three years, construction has been under real
WANT
• Native • Ornamental
Big Trees
Fruit Trees
Citrus
Hedging • Palms• Hire Plants • Bagged Products • Bulk Mulch • Bulk Compost and more...
Open Thurs-Sun 8.30am-4.30pm; others days by phone appointment
pressure. The slowdown in Auckland and Tauranga hasn’t fully bounced back, and we’re seeing more unfamiliar vans in town. Builders travelling further afield for work. That’s understandable in a downturn, everyone is looking to keep their teams busy.
BUT THERE’S A BIGGER PICTURE
When local trades miss out consistently, it doesn’t just affect one company. It affects apprentices who might decide there’s no future here. It affects young families who relocate for steadier work. It affects the service businesses that rely on a strong building sector to keep their doors open year-round.
One of our local plumbers, Matarangi Plumbing put it plainly: Supporting a local trade in a community like Mercury Bay an investment in the area itself.
URBAN HOMES THAMES COROMANDEL
Local trades are often smaller business owners who rely on the community to keep their services running and that support helps keep essential skills and services within town, ensuring it remains self-sufficient and resilient for
years to come.
This isn’t about shutting the gate or telling people who they can and can’t use. It’s about awareness.
When your friends come to stay and say, “We’ve bought a section in Whitianga, who should we use?”, that recommendation matters. When new residents arrive and are weighing up options, local knowledge makes a difference.
Construction quietly underpins a huge part of our regional economy. It keeps skills here. It keeps apprentices employed. It keeps suppliers moving stock. It keeps money circulating in Mercury Bay instead of leaking out of it.
Retail and hospitality are visible. Building is foundational.
As the Mercury Bay Business Association, we’ll continue supporting all sectors of our business community. But broadening the “support local” conversation to include services and trades is important.
Because when work leaves the region, so do opportunities. And once that capacity is gone, it’s not easy to rebuild.
Tanya is a committee member of Mercury Bay Business Association.
WAITAIA NURSERY
Our journey to becoming New Zealand Citizens
BY ALLAN GORDON
Wilma and I live in Whitianga.
We have owned our property here for 20 years. Before moving to Whitianga fulltime, we lived in Papakura.
However, I have been in New Zealand a long time, arriving on the shores of New Zealand in 1957. My parents and I came on the old New Zealand government owned ship, SS Captain Cook. Wilma came here from Holland in 1969. We first aimed at gaining citizenship
in the mid 1990's but the person I was hoping would do our ceremony failed in his bid for the Mayoral role so that paperwork was filed for a few years. Raising our family became our priority, so citizenship was pushed down the priority list.
In the last couple of years, we again thought we should gain citizenship. It has always felt strange filling in paperwork and having to use the " other" box instead of ‘New Zealander’
We are very proud and pleased to finally be New Zealand citizens.
AEROVIEW GARDEN CENTRE
Environment Matters
There has to be a better way somehow
BY MALCOLM CAMPBELL
Those are the words of Thomas Edison and he was correct. The incandescent light bulb he had developed has been superseded by the LED light system with light on less current and no discernible heat.
So it is with almost everything within our life on this planet. I stand by my previous statement that local authorities are hooked on poison and worse, with no discernible success, on the control or eradication of any vegetable or animal targeted by the present programme.
However the damage begins immediately under our feet in the soil we depend on to feed us. When the ‘poison label’ states, ‘Do not replant for twenty –two months’ after the use of this product’, what do you think?
The entire food chain is being destroyed from the soil biology, to plant life, to insect life, bird life and in the water, fish life and then the water fowl. The most recent example is the declining quality of the water and habitat in the Wangamarino Wetland along with Lakes Wangapae and Waikare. Close by Whitianga, twenty years of ‘diquat poisoning’ of the Cook’s Beach lakes left them more or less putrid and on the bigger scene, sixty years of flinging poison at everything has improved nothing at all. The Waikato Regional Council
and Department of Conservation are vigorously defending their collective means of attack on pest animal life on the Coromandel Peninsula by the use of poison. The pests begin with the humble mouse to rats, weasels, stoats, ferrets, cats, possums, goats, and pigs. All of these pests have one thing in common; they love a free feed and that is the pest’s weak link. Let’s begin with the humble mouse. Every time I went to my workshop I saw mice scurrying and I set the latest type of trap, but they ate the bait and survived. I investigated further, made a trap and in twenty–four hours caught all the mice, I did not have to re-bait or re-set the trap, all automatic. On this farm 105 cats, weasels, ferrets and stoats have been caught in a trap possibly worth $75.00. There were better ways as
Edison said. Farmers have trapped hundreds, possibly thousands of deer by giving them access to fenced pasture or forage crops and then simply closing the access opening. In this day and age all manner of portable yards and cages are available. They can be set up virtually anywhere and baited accordingly. There will be a cost and labour required. Keep in mind that helicopter charge out rates range from $700.00 an hour for a small training machine to over $3000.00 for bigger machines. Dropping 1080 probably falls into the $1800.00 –$2,000.00 range. Now as said, poison has eradicated nothing except the unintended innocent victims. In full view are Californian thistle sprayed several times, but still flourishing, no sign of eradication. What does that tell you?
Farm
Accounting
For an obligation-free discussion and appraisal of your business needs, call me.
Phone 021 960 494 or 07 866 2907
Whitianga Office (Mon-Wed) 26a Albert Street, Whitianga
Wilma and Allan Gordon.
Travel with Sarah Jane
Half-day backroad adventures
Five road trips in the North Island
Forget the motorways. The real soul of New Zealand’s North Island is found on the "unverified" tracks; the winding, gravel-dusted, and often forgotten roads that connect tiny settlements to ancient landscapes. If you have a morning or an afternoon to spare and a full tank of gas, these five half-day road trips will take you far beyond the glossy tourist brochures. Ditch the cruise control, master the digital hacks below, and get ready to trade the beaten path for the best path.
1. THE FORGOTTEN WORLD HIGHWAY (STRATFORD TO WHANGAMŌMONA):
Passports and Portals: While the full highway is 150km, a half-day trip to the "Republic" of Whangamōmona from Stratford is the perfect bite-sized adventure.
• The Wild Factor: You’ll drive through the Moki Tunnel (the "Hobbit's Hole"), a hand-dug, single-lane tunnel that feels like a portal to the 19th century.
• The Highlights: Get your passport stamped at the Whangamōmona Hotel. This tiny town declared itself a republic in 1989 and once elected a goat as its mayor.
2. INLAND HAWKE’S BAY: THE GENTLE ANNIE
(TAIHAPE ROAD)
Golden hills and Blue Sky Vistas: This is the high-country heart of the North Island. The section from Fernhill (near Napier) up into the Kaweka Range offers dramatic, wide-open vistas.
• The Wild Factor: The "Gen-
tle Annie" hill itself is a steep, zig-zagging climb that rewards you with views stretching all the way back to the Pacific Ocean.
• The Highlights: Stop at the Kuripapango bridge for a picnic by the crystal-clear Ngaruroro River, or take the short walk to the Blowhard Bush to see unique limestone rock formations.
3. THE KAWHIA–WAITOMO BACKROAD (WAIKATO)
Limestone Labyrinths and LowTide Spas: Skip the main highway and take the scenic route through Te Anga. This road connects the misty limestone country of Waitomo with the wild westcoast harbour of Kawhia.
• The Wild Factor: It’s a rugged, limestone-rich landscape where the hills look like they’ve been sculpted by giants.
• The Highlights: You’ll pass Marokopa Falls (often called the most beautiful in NZ) and the Mangapohue Natural Bridge, a
massive 17-meter high limestone arch.
• End your trip at Te Puia Springs in Kawhia, where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand at low tide.
• Wairēinga / Bridal Veil Falls (Raglan). While it’s an easy 10-minute walk to the top, the real magic happens at the base.
• To capture that iconic "rainbow in the mist," aim to arrive in the early to mid-afternoon on a sunny day. Because the falls are tucked into a deep basalt amphitheatre, the sun hits the spray at just the right angle around 1:00pm –3:00pm.
• Warning: Unlike Waiau Falls, don’t swim here. The water quality isn’t safe for a dip due to farmland runoff.
4. THE HOKIANGA LOOPS (NORTHLAND)
Chasing Giants in the Land of the First Light. The drive from Rawene through to the Waipoua
Forest. This road hugs the edge of the massive Hokianga Harbour, where the dunes look like mountains of gold.
• The Wild Factor: The car ferry from Rawene to Kohukohu is a nostalgic, slow-paced way to see the harbour before hitting the twisty backroads.
• The Highlights: Stand in the presence of Tāne Mahuta, the "God of the Forest." This 2,000-year-old Kauri tree is just a short walk from the road and possesses an energy that will leave you in total silence.
5. COROMANDEL PENINSULA LANDMARK – THE 309 ROAD (COROMANDEL) - ANCIENT GIANTS AND HIDDEN FALLS
This 22km gravel shortcut between Thames and Whitianga is a rite of passage. It’s narrow, winding, and completely atmospheric.
• Keep an eye out for feral pigs that often lounge by the roadside not far from The Water-
works fun park.
• Stop at the 309 Kauri Grove to see some of the last remaining giant Kauri trees, then take a 5-minute stroll to the Waiau Falls, a perfect swimming hole that looks like something out of a storybook. If you start from the Whitianga side, you'll hit the falls before the Kauri grove. The pool at the base is deep and refreshing. If you want a more "private" soak, walk 50 meters upstream from the top of the falls to find smaller, hidden rock pools that most tourists walk right past.
Finding the ‘unverified’ tracks of the North Island requires outsmarting your smartphone. Check out our full guide on “How to Hack Google Maps” for the Scenic Route to ensure your GPS doesn’t steer you away from the magic at https://www.bestbitstravel.com/ post/google-maps-hacks-nzbackroad-adventures.
Originally published in Bestbitstravel.com
The Forgotten World Highway; The gravel road from Kawhia to Ruapuke & beyond.
Ray’s Report #14 Hon Scott Simpson
Meeting, promises, budgets, but no results
In February 2023 Cyclone Gabrielle struck the Coromandel Peninsula.
As a result, there was widespread flooding and extensive damage mainly from slips and slumps.
Road transport was seriously impacted and key routes such has State Highway 25A were closed for extended periods. Extra funding was provided by Central Government and the resulting repair costs put severe pressure on TCDC finances.
Roading engineers quickly prioritised repairs and rightly so. One of the seriously damaged roads was Hahei Beach Road, the only access into and out of Hahei. This is affectionately known by Haheitians as Snake Gully.
A large slip had come down, initially blocking one lane and requiring temporary barriers and a reduced speed zone. Some three years later, these temporary barriers and speed restrictions are still firmly in place.
Over that period despite
extensive lobbying and both written and verbal TCDC promises nothing has been done. The Mayor and Deputy were supportive and further assurances given. Documents show that amongst the highest priority roading repair projects was Snake Gully. Funding had also been set aside. In recent months a group of local cyclists were forced into the Snake Gully barriers by a camper van and serious injuries narrowly avoided. Again. TCDC were advised and I had the opportunity to speak online, Council meeting. Unfortunately, you are only allocated a strict 5 minutes (reduced to 3 mins at the most recent meeting) to state your case with no opportunity to ask ques-
tions or engage further.
In fairness, the roading engineer updated me with an email and a promise to keep me informed. Sadly, that did not happen, and it was alarming to then hear that the repair work had been taken off the priority list and funding moved to another project. Advice received through the Community Board Chair was that the repairs would not be considered until the next financial year. So, we are left with a trail of broken promises and a patently dangerous stretch of road that has waited for over three years to be sorted.
TCDC you could be doing a lot better.
KSAR: On a positive note, a huge thank you to the responses to the Search and Rescue article and to the volunteers who are signing up. There may be some former members who may be interested in rejoining. If so, please contact Shannon Gregory. email:kuaotuntu@ landsar.org.nz.
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Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has announced that the National Party will campaign on restricting the limited amount of commercial fishing currently permitted in the Hauraki Gulf.
At present, the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Act allows commercial fishing in 2 of the 12 High Protection Areas, but this provision has caused widespread concern from people with an interest in the current and future state of the Gulf.
National has listened and we will look to reinstate the ban on all fishing in High Protection Areas. We will also review the decision to allow bottom sea trawling in some designated trawl corridors in the Gulf.
I’m thrilled with this announcement because a consistent approach to protecting the Gulf is needed and it’s essential that we strike the right balance for those who fish, dive, swim, or collect seafood recreationally, as well as commercial and customary users.
The Conservation Minister made the announcement at the annual Bluegreens Forum in Wellington a couple of weeks ago. Bluegreens is an environment advisory group within the National Party and has been going since the 1990s. As a former Chair of the Bluegreens, it’s great to see this group continue to work on solutions for the environmental challenges
facing New Zealand. In other news, our region has plenty of year-round attractions to encourage people to visit us, but major events also play a key role in driving local economies and ensuring we maintain our spot as tourist destination outside of the summer months. It was fantastic to hear the Whitianga Oceans Festival will go ahead in September 2026, with the Government providing support through the Events Boost Fund. I’m sure that there will be plenty for locals and visitors to taste, savour and celebrate as this event makes a successful return to our local events calendar.
Almost every weekend there is something happening around the electorate, and a few weeks ago I attended the 33rd annual Paeroa Highland Games and Tattoo. Despite the weather, it was great to see people enjoying a little bit of Scottish culture mixed with the traditions that have taken hold in our communities. And in just a few short weeks the Coromandel will once again be hosting Beach Hop, which is sure to bring thousands of classic car enthusiasts who want to show off their prized possessions, as well as countless more wanting to revel in a bit of good old fashion fun.
These events are good for our community, good for local businesses, and great for our image as the best place to live, work and play.
Police Report Waikato Regional Council
BY WARREN MAHER
On Wednesday, 25 February, Waikato Regional Council held its second meeting of the triennium, with an agenda of just over 300 pages and a number of important issues to decide, including, Te Huia passenger trial extension, a Strategic Plan, a draft Triennial Agreement and finally the draft Annual Plan,
TE HUIA END OF TRIAL REPORT AND ONE YEAR EXTENSION DECISION
Te Huia has been a dividing issue with its trial due to finish in June 2026. A one-year extension with a 60% FAR rate (the amount NZTA will support for the running costs) was requested from NZTA. With letters of support from Hamilton City Council, Auckland Council and Waipa and Waikato District councils, the extension was approved. Councilors voted 11 for, 2 against and I abstention - the extension was approved. Councilors were very clear this is still a trial and improvements to farebox recovery and patronage are vital to its future success.
Note: Te Huia is an inter-regional passenger rail service between Hamilton and Auckland that has been an aspiration for Waikato councils and
communities for many years.
THE STRATEGIC PLAN
This had been workshopped over the last few months and was approved unanimously. This plan sets the priorities for the upcoming long-term plan discussions.
Five main priorities were identified to be ready and prepared to transition into a future fit organization and productive region:-
1) Deliver shared prosperity
2) Deliver profitability and security
3) Build regional resilience.
4) Sustain natural resources.
5) Develop an optimal transport system.
THE DRAFT TRIENNIAL AGREEMENT
This was presented to council-
ors: This is the agreement that outlines how Waikato Regional Council and the 11 other Councils will work together over the next three years. (This will have been presented to the Mayoral Forum on Monday, 2 March.)
THE ANNUAL PLAN - DRAFT RATES REVENUE LANDS AT 1.4%
A great deal of preparation by staff and a huge amount of reading by Councilors enabled robust debates and the approval of the draft plan by the end of Wednesday. The starting rate in the long-term plan was 3.9%. After a number of savings were identified and the prior 23/24 year surplus of $2,549,000 was voted on to be returned, the rate was lowered to 1.4%.
This is a draft plan with a few matters raised by councilors to be reported back. This may lower this figure even further. No substantial changes have been made that would trigger public consultation, so this plan will be approved at a future Council meeting.
Councilors are serious in honouring the promises that were made during the election campaigns.
Next report I will update where government is at with their Simplifying Local Government bill.
Monday, 23 February to Sunday, 1 March 2026
GENERAL:
Tuesday, 24 February a burglary was reported as having occurred at a Kupe Drive address. The stolen property was recovered, and enquiries are continuing to speak with the offending persons.
OCCURRENCES:
Friday, 27 February a family harm incident was reported at a SH25, Kuaotunu address. The offending party was issued with a Police Safety Order.
TRAFFIC:
Monday, 23 February a driver drove dangerously on Kupe Drive before failing to stop for police.
The vehicle was subsequently impounded, and the driver will be facing charges in court.
Wednesday, 25 February a minor collision occurred on The 309. The following vehicle appears to have not stopped in time and collided with the front vehicle.
Also a second minor collision occurred on SH25, Whitianga. The following vehicle appears to have failed to stop in time and struck the rear of the vehicle in front.
Friday, 27 February a single vehicle collision occurred on Hot Water Beach Road. The vehicle veered onto the left shoulder prior to the driver losing control.
ARRESTS:
Nil arrests this week
Recidivist shoplifter before courts
Numerous hours of scouring video footage has led to the arrest of a woman in relation to retail crimes in Thames.
Police arrested and charged a 52-year-old woman following multiple shoplifting incidents dating back over the past month.
“This type of offending, especially at this large scale, has a big negative impact on our local businesses and I’m pleased with this outcome,” says Inspector Mike Henwood, Eastern Waikato Area
Commander.
The woman was due to appear in Thames District Court, charged with 20 counts of wilful trespass, and two counts of speaking threateningly.
“I commend the tenacious work of local Police staff to pull these, and other investigations, together to prosecute offenders.
“This highlights Police’s commitment to target and hold these offenders to account,” Inspector Henwood says.
This is your chance to secure one of the very best sections at Wharekaho.
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.
DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY –SECURE ONE OF THE AREA’S FINEST SITES!
We need resilience, not political posturing Through the Portal
BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN
This planet has been a battleground for millennia as the primal elements of water and earth battle for supremacy over the globe, earth using tectonic plate movement, volcanic creation and sedimentation to create solid earth while water uses its weapons of rainfall, flooding and wave action to battle away at the solid earth, seeking dominance for it’s oceans. Throughout these millennia animal and plant life has survived in this battle ground, adapting and proving resilient to ensure their survival.
For much of this time mankind survived by moving their place of living and adapting to changed environments however in later years mankind’s development of science and practical skills enabled him to build permanent community environments and protect these by creating barriers between earth and water. This is easy to see in Europe being an older part of civilisation. Sea walls were built to protect many communities, the grandest of these being in the Netherlands where great dykes were built to protect land that is now lower than sea level. Communities also built walls along riverbanks through towns to
contain river water, even in times of flood. A casual search on Google will allow you to easily view images of this resilience.
New Zealand is a younger country, being populated by immigration over the past thousand years or so. Knowledge of science and the practical skills needed to protect our communities from water action has only existed for about two hundred years hence there is a lot of work yet to be done to protect communities from this elemental battle, to provide us with the resilience we need. Some of our older communities have had protective work done; communities such as Oriental Bay in Wellington which has a concrete wall separating the beach from the road. In
my community of Whitianga some protective work has been carried out at Buffalo Beach, but this is incomplete.
The protective work that should have been carried out has been delayed for a number of reasons, the main one being political posturing. The past fifty years or so has seen a growth in the belief of climate change being caused by hydrocarbon fuel usage. Some people may have such beliefs, but definitely not all of us. We are a tiny Pacific nation that cannot effect world carbon dioxide levels, yet alone control the weather, so the expense of spending taxpayers monies on such follies as paying foreigners to plant our arable land in pine forests in the hope this
will help us control the weather is ludicrous. Such climate follies are a waste of resources and a distraction. They have distracted us from the work of providing communities with resilience and security and this is the area our nations attention should be directed. As it has become obvious that funding has been misdirected, obvious but perhaps not admitted. There has been a tendency for those in the halls of power, be they our representatives or bureaucrats, local or national; to announce that the people should consider relocation. This is the equivalent of neanderthal man moving to a cave up the hill, and further away from the river, once his original cave was flooded. The most practical adaption he could make, given he had no science to enable him to protect his original cave. It is quite sad that many in the political world think so poorly of us. It is sad that they think so poorly of their ability to get things done.
Our country’s communities need representatives that are focussed on providing us with the resilience we need to easily survive weather events by protecting us from the attacks by water in the form of rain, floods and wave action. Weather patterns are changing
things and currently we seem to be drifting into a pattern of rainstorms coming down from the tropics. How long this pattern lasts is anyone’s guess but this does not really matter. We need to protect our communities from such events no matter which direction the particular event comes from.
What this means is sea walls to protect the lands we live on; stop banks or river walls to protect us from flooding on our internal waterways; dams to control flooding in the hill country; planting of trees that can actually protect hills from erosion and a reliable road system so that access to communities is not lost. We need to make sure our storm water systems are fit for purpose and are maintained in a proactive fashion, not reactive. Local communities should be focussed on these and other such things and the national government should redirect funds currently wasted on the science of climate posturing into such projects.
Providing our communities with the resilience they need will take time, but we can get there, one step at a time. Firstly, we must drop political posturing and become unified in our purpose of looking after our people. Let’s get started.
opportunity to
Two established income streams with clear room to grow
Current owners moving on for family reasons – motivated to find the right buyer
‘The’ New Zealand holiday…
BY MARGARET LOVELL
Whilst living in England, I was perfectly happy going to Crete for holidays – year in, year out…. perfect!
My love for Greece had been kindled decades earlier as a student when I had hitchhiked there – (when hitch-hiking was not even allowed in ‘Yugoslavia’ - had to take a primitive train through that section of trip!) I later had a post graduate scholarship to study in Greece for a year so that clinched my decision to ‘never want to go anywhere else’!
But my husband had kept saying more orless since we met that he wanted to go back and visit New Zealand!
Years earlier, when he was 17 years old, his mum, who was a war widow, had decided to ‘try for a better life with her two children’ and took up the offer of being a £10 Pom! This was also significant as compulsory National Service was two years in UK, whereas in New Zealand, it was a mere 6 weeks!!!!
His Mum set up a bakery in Whangarei and his sister got married. Later Mum and son decided it would be nice to take a year off and visit relatives back in England.
My husband-to-be found a good job while in England , but on condition he remained for two years! Hence, he hung on - and
on….. Time passed by and we met. We got married and more time passed by…
He was saying he wanted to show us New Zealand before our youngest daughter had finished her education and the long holidays. So almost reluctantly I agreed, and that we would travel during the(UK) winter holiday season. (Already having had my Cretan ‘fix’ a few months earlier! )
Now two consecutive flights of 12 hours sitting on a plane is a rather long drawn out session when you are only used to three! However, we got to New Zealand and I was privately hoping….”this better be good!”
The first impression is when you go through that archway at Auckland arrivals terminal and the haunting Maori music… You just know this is somewhere different…unique!!! Eerie enchantment…. whatever next?
LEETS?
My husband had planned an itinerary and we picked up a rental car and headed south.
Marvellous…the only place overseas where I have ever been where they drive on the ‘proper’ side of the road ….what a blessing when there is so much to take in around you, - all new.
I think anyone arriving on a flight to Auckland and travelling south, must begin to get hungry about the time you start going
down the Bombay Hills area! Then signs for a service station….. so we drove in having no idea of costs and contents.
A young girl assistant was trying to understand what we wanted. Nice clear English was
coming form us …Okay, a Bristolian accent but- we are just after a sandwich - but inners? We had some dietary requirements and just could not make out why most sandwiches contained ‘leets’? I asked “what is leets”? The girl
hesitated before trying to explain it was ‘green and curly and a leaf’Then a bewildered pause as she tried to think of further details. Then she pointed it out! ‘Oh lettuce!!!’ I shrieked in delight of interpretation!! That poor girl –she deserved a medal for effort in face of unfathomable ignorance and still being polite! But to this day, in our family, we always talk about lettuce as ‘leets’! A priceless start to our adventure here! Of course all this was before general internet use, and so making bookings for places to stay was a task in itself. We had a few ‘odd’ experiences
BREAKFAST IS READY..
….Like one place he had booked us for bed and breakfast. Early in the morning, with no warning, the man of the house called us to the kitchen as breakfast was ‘on the table’ (scrambled eggs and toast –no choices – but fine with us). Now three of us getting up and one bathroom…….say no more…..we were a few minutes, only to be gruffly told, “It’s getting cold now!”
When we started eating feeling slight trepidation at what was coming next,….he bellowed out ‘be quick as I can’t hang about –I have to get to the hospital, my wife is there with a broken arm‘! So that kind of explained his attitude of ‘Do it himself’ and not really wanting us there!! Part 2 next week.
Margaret Lovell, sculptor.
Pumpkin grow off prize giving
BY HANNAH HARDY
Placemakers Whitianga is excited to host a Great Pumpkin Grow-Off with over 100 entries (104), a fun and community-focused competition where participants grow the biggest giant Atlantic pumpkin they can for a chance to win some great prizes!
We’ll be holding a prizegiving event to celebrate the growers and crown our pumpkin champions on Saturday, 28 March starting at 11.00am. Participants must be at PlaceMakers Whitianga before 12.00pm to weigh their pumpkin. We have a few suppliers who have kindly
donated prizes for this event including Swazi, Wetta, Rainbow Park Nurseries, Egmont, Daltons and Hobeca with more to confirm as prize giving approaches. Placemakers have purchased quite a few goodies to give away.
We have 3 age categories for prizes, under 6 yrs, 6-15 yrs and 16 yrs and above, plus there will be spot prizes (you must be present to win).
This idea was sparked from our garden centre being up and running. We wanted to come up with an event that made growing plants fun with community involvement. Hopefully, we can turn this into an annual event.
u3a soon to begin
BY GILL ELLIS
Are you a retiree with a curious mind, or perhaps working flexibly and looking for something stimulating to fill some spare time even if your body isn’t as active as it used to be? You might be interested in a new recently launched community organisation –u3a-Hauraki, also covering Thames and the Coromandel. u3a or “the University of the Third Age” is an international organisation with 85 chapters in New Zealand. A key purpose of u3a is “lifelong learning “, for those who want to keep their brains active. There
will be monthly events with stimulating speakers, and free local interest groups as a way to meet others once a month for special topics and activities, potentially making new friends. u3a is open to people from all educational levels at minimum cost.
Initially, speaker events will be in Paeroa (the first one on 17 March). A few of the volunteer launch committee (pictured) are keen to get interest groups going in a number of places. Tricia will be convening Creative Writing and Women in Herstory, David will meet with Organic Gardeners, Maureen hopes to learn
Te Reo, Rilma is exploring Genealogy, Gill will share tips with Needlepoint Crafters, plus there are requests for researching local history, Chinese cooking classes, international current affairs and demography. The volunteers are encouraging anyone wanting to share in an interest group to send their topic or activity and their location to interestgroups@ u3ahauraki.nz
For more information about u3Aa-Hauraki come to the first speaker event on 17 March. (See article issue 1198, 24 February page 7).
u3a committee (from left to right): Rilma Sands, Maureen Jackson, David King, Gill Elis and Tricia Lee.
Paeroa Swap Meet a success
BY KATHY BLAND
The Paeroa Domain was full of classic cars, motorbikes and rock and rollers for the Swap Meet on Saturday, 21 February.
Cars were set out in various categories of vintage and classic were parked around the grounds. The classic and motorbikes of all sizes were grouped in the centre.
The weather was perfect, unlike the Saturday before when it rained all over the Highland Games and Tattoo. The gates opened at 10.00am and people came out in hordes and t was a wonderful day – lots of stalls and a variety of food for all tastes.
Car lovers, rock music lovers and lots of onlookers had a great time. The Paeroa domain provided an ideal setting for so many of the cars which came to New Zealand the same time as the Domain Band Rotunda was built
A popular activity was timing how quickly a person could change a tyre. Several people entered this competition, and several children gave it a go. A tug of war was held and was followed by prizegiving. Items won were from Mothers range of vehicle products.
WINNERS:
• Best Vintage, pre 1945 Mothers –Katikati Peter Lawn
• Best Classic, pre 1985 Mothers –
TePuke Jeff n Mary Brown
• Best Modern, post 1968 Mothers –Tahuna Justine Walker
• Best Modified Mothers – Ngatea Andy Church 7yr build
• Best V8 Mothers – TeKauwhata Mike Blannin Pontiac
• People’s Choice 1956 Ford – Waihi Greg McIntosh
• Highly commended Silver Ford Coupe – Matamata Val Jamieson
• Highly commended Blue Buick –TeAroha David Jackson
• Highly commended Bike 1928 Indian – Paeroa Jim Pooley
• Highly commended Bike– Waiuku
Rev Edwards
• Best BEAR Waihi Lee Griffin
• Best Japanese – Huntly Henry Beex
• V8 Truck – Tairua Bob Lewin
Sports So many choices Proudly
BY SHAUN FAY
Tennis is considered to be one of the hardest games to learn. The combination of running and hitting is tough to grasp at first. Add the mental arithmetic you have to do with every shot- short, long, lob, smash with the accuracy and timing you need to serve and it’s easy to see why other sports appeal.
David Branks the retiring Whangamata Tennis Coach has seen it all in his 40 years as a tennis coach. “Some kids just have it naturally- and they are a pleasure to coach. Other kids can take a while but when it finally all comes together the joy for them and me has always been why I coached for so long”.
We asked David what’s changed over the years. “You have to be gentler these days, and also how busy these kids are. Footy, tennis, surfing, so many choices but the old stalwarts like cricket and tennis still do OK”.
Research shows that tennis is one of the best sports to play to slow cognitive and physical decline. It’s full of decisions,
some aerobic and great social connection. You should see how many Whangamata Tennis Players have a coffee in town after play.
Whangamata with just three courts is one of the busiest tennis clubs in the Waikato. They have well attended club days on Monday, Wednesday and Friday Morning, then Sunday Afternoons plus tournaments during the year.
They are looking for a new Junior coach structure to help grow the club and keep the future bright. They are flexible about how that might look and are open to all ideas. If you’re keen to help New Zealand find the next Wimbledon winner phone Barbara Hare on 021 732 472 or email whangasports@gmail.com Thank you, linesman. Thank you ball boys.
1956 Ford Pickup – People's Choice Winner.
Letters to the Editor
WATER FROM THE HILLS
Radio
NZ is reporting that Wellington’s Moa Point wastewater plant has been pumping raw sewerage into Cook Strait. The plant is managed by Veolia. In Coromandel we experience periodic discharge of sewerage from the oxidation ponds in Hauraki Road, into the Whangarahi river and thence into our harbour. Our plant likewise is managed by Veolia.
There was a summer when we were threatened with fines if we watered our gardens. Meanwhile the commercial laundry in town and the B&Bs continued their use of water unhindered. That summer, I went to the pumping station on the bank of the Waiau river and saw that the river had good flow. I noted there was no indication in the vegetation along the bank that the river was running low.
I went to Veolia’s office in Whangapoua Road and asked, “Why were we to be fined for watering our gardens when the Waiau was flowing?” The Veiolia manager towered over me and said, “The public has no right coming here asking questions”. He added, “How can a member of the public know what the flow is.”
The public can know. I asked around. It turned out we had been lied to. There was not a shortfall of water. There was a shortfall in the ability of the chlorination plant to keep up with visitor demand.
Our town has a strong component of organic gardeners. We do not like watering our gardens with chlorinated water, nor showering in chlorinated water, nor drinking tea tasting of chlorinated water. We would appreciate a source of pure water. Just a tap
in town where we can fill our bottles and portable garden tanks. I long for the day when our Council will allow my community to manage its own affairs. Meanwhile, I trust our elected councillors will ask questions about best practice, and misconstrued information, and profit and loss.
Wendy Pond, Coromandel SEPTIC OR SEWAGE?
IMPORTANT
Chris Ingle, from B.O.P Regional Council stated in this weeks Listener that ‘poorly maintained or older septic tanks pollute water, and all discharge some contaminants even when well maintained.’
They were contaminating Lake Tarawera with faecal bacteria and nitrogen, so last year a reticulated sewage system was built to replace them. (Similar situation to Coromandel Peninsula).
There is ample information online with regard to pollution from septic tanks and for over 10years.
Now, Auckland City Council has been running a "Safe Septic's Programme". I put the question to TCDC via one of our Councillors as to when they anticipated TCDC would be rolling out similar programme? It does not stop all pollution but does serve to mitigate it. Christchurch and Manawatu also run Safe Septic Programmes.
In brief: The programme requires all septic tank owners to register their septic with a locally registered wastewater/drainage company who then take control of your septic and maintain it at the owners expense. Documents are provided either to you or Council to confirm the maintenance has
MUSIC EVENTS
been done.
Older systems are checked every 3 years, emptied, and any other maintenance required is attended to. Clay soils may require additional maintenance with drainage.
Septic tanks need to be replaced every 20 years, at the owner's expense.
No Septic tank can be within 5 meters of a residence.
No Septic tank can be within 5 meters of your boundary.
The new ‘State of the Art’ septic systems require 6 monthly checks as they are more complicated systems and have a lot that can go wrong.
The only system recommended within a minimum of 2 kilometers of the foreshore is a council run reticulated sewage system. We are all aware that these are currently not fail-safe options either but we have more chance of containment with having sewage in one area rather than scattered un-controlled across the Peninsula.
Check out Waterless Composting Toilets and other options online. Perhaps its time we took care of our own "Poo". At one stage an incinerated option was muted. Maybe it's out there now?
Wharekaho residents please note that deadline for submissions on reticulated sewage and water has been extended, possibly 31 May. You can choose to reticulate sewage only and (with significant savings) choose to provide your own water.
Good Luck, Ady Cole-Ewen, Wharekaho
UNRULY CYCLISTS
Today while walking on the footpath of the bridge over the Tara-
patiki stream by Brophies Beach (on the way into the township of Whitianga) two old people on bikes were cycling on the footpath towards me. I continued to walk and they became very indignant and said I should have stopped before the bridge to let them ride across.
Wrong!! I checked the NZTA website and It is illegal to cycle on footpaths in Aotearoa - except in a few special circumstances. Being old, belligerent and entitled in outlook is not one of these.
It happens all over Whitianga. Really it’s not only selfish but very dangerous. I wonder why the local police and / or TCDC don’t do more to stop this happening…?
I understand and accept there are some shared cycle / footpaths, but this isn’t the case here.
Oldies ( and all others) - cycle on the roads where you are supposed to!
Alistair Bailey, Whitianga
‘DON’T TRAVEL’ - THE WRONG MESSAGE
Dear Mayor Peter Revell
I am expressing concern about recent messaging that discouraged people from travelling to the Coromandel Peninsula following the unprecedented rainfall event, where over 700 mm of rain fell in a short period of time.
While public safety must always remain the priority, a blanket discouragement of visitors had unintended consequences for residents, bach owners, business operators, and workers who needed to access their properties, boats, and livelihoods.
Many areas of the Coromandel remained accessible, essential
Australian international artist
Adi Manaia is renowned Australian and Pacific artist. He has played at huge festivals all down the Coast of Eastern Australia including St Kilda Festival, Fiji Day Sydney, Tamworth Country Music Festival, Townsville Cultural Fest, and played in Hawaii - Oahu, Maui and Big Island. Adi is of Australian indigenous, Polynesian/ Irish/Melanesian heritage. (Whew!)
services continued to operate, and a number of tourism and marine-based businesses were open and functioning safely.
The Coromandel Peninsula is a resilient region that depends heavily on tourism and seasonal visitation. Messaging that suggests the entire peninsula is closed or unsafe risks unnecessary economic harm, particularly to small, locally owned businesses already under pressure from weather events, insurance costs, and rising operating expenses.
A more balanced approach –clearly identifying which roads, settlements, and services are affected, while also highlighting areas that remain open – would better serve both safety and economic sustainability. Encouraging responsible travel, rather than discouraging all travel, allows people to check on their properties and vessels, support local businesses, and help the region recover more quickly.
The Coromandel has long been promoted as a destination of natural beauty, community strength, and adaptability. Clear, and accurate communication helps maintain public trust and reinforces the message that the region is open, prepared, and capable of managing visitors safely-even after extreme weather events.
I respectfully ask that future communications strike this balance, supporting emergency responses while also acknowledging the needs of residents and the economic realities of a region built on connection, access, and welcome. Thank you for your time and for your continued leadership during challenging conditions.
Neera Giri, Whitianga
“My music is Nesian/ Country Music, Hip Hop and Island Reggae. Bringing together what we have in common and sharing my stories.”
SATURDAY 7 MARCH
7.30PM TICKETS $35
“I hope that the sharing of music brings us together as one.”
Adi is travelling solo, but will return in July with his band.
The Monkey House Theatre, Whitianga, Sunday, 8 March 7.00pm. $15 tickets from undertheradar.co.nz or pay at the door.
WINNER OF THE 2 TICKETS TO THE RECLINING ROCKERS IS KATRINA HODGETTS
Described as a “national treasure” and “New Zealand’s most indispensable ensemble” (NZ Herald), NZTrio He Taonga Wairere is renowned for its eclectic repertoire, outstanding talent and warm kiwi stage presence. Bringing together three incredibly accomplished artists: Amalia Hall (violin), Matthias Balzat (cello) & Stephen de Pledge (guest piano).
Welcome to Groove Café, where the music is strong and the vibe
is even stronger– John Psathas’ Island Songs bring sun, surf, and a dash of Kiwi cool; Eliodoro Sollima’s Tre movimenti, leaping from atonal intrigue
to melodic surprises; Vivian Fung’s Ominous Machine whirs, glitches, and grooves; Nikolai Kapustin’s Divertissement, the ultimate musical cocktail.
DETAILS: Thames Music Group’s Sunday Concert series presents NZTrio, Sunday 8 March 2026 at 2.00 pm, St George’s Church, Mackay Street, Thames. Tickets: $20/Adult, $15/TMG Member, Free entry/Under 18 yrs old.
Contact: thamesmusicgroup@yahoo.co.nz
Peninsula kids run for free at Whitianga's Run Festival
BY VERNA CARR
The Whitianga Run Festival is gearing up for its event on Saturday, 30 May over the King's Birthday long weekend –and every school-age child in the Coromandel can enter for free.
Organisers Nick Reader and Clare Tod have partnered with Glen and Kelly from GJ Gardner, who will sponsor the entry of any school-age participant wishing to take part. The offer extends to children from across the Coromandel, including homeschooled students, and Nick and Clare are particularly keen to see more schools from Thames, Coromandel and Whangamata join the many kids already signed up from MBAS, Whenuakite and Te Rerenga schools.
"When kids run, they feel good about themselves," says Nick. "They get off their couches and devices, enter an event with goals to work towards, and become internally motivated – mentally and physically stimulated. They get such a sense of personal achievement and satisfaction
when they cross that finish line."
Last year's event drew around 1,000 runners and walkers, with school children making up roughly 10% of participants. The festival offers three distances to suit all ages and fitness levels: the 21km scenic route taking in Whitianga's estuary, waterways and sports park; the ever-popular 10km circular route around town; and the 5km course winding through beach and suburban streets.
Starting and finishing at Buffalo Beach, the event is designed to be fun and social, with live music, a great atmosphere, trophies for winners and spot prizes on the day. Every participant gets to run or walk at their own pace, they also get to choose between receiving a wooden medal for finishing or making a donation to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter – a small touch that reflects the festival's broader community spirit.
Events like this send positive ripples through the community. Around 80% of participants are visitors to the area, bringing welcome income and vibrancy to Whitianga during the quieter
autumn season. Local clubs –including pickleball and netball – also benefit, earning funds by volunteering as marshals and traffic controllers. Organisers are equally mindful of the environment: there are no disposable cups on the course.
WHITIANGA RUN CLUB OPTION
For those thinking about tackling one of the longer distances, the notfor-profit Whitianga Run Club is a good place to start training. The club meets every Wednesday at 6.00am at Hula Café for a group run, and newcomers are always welcome. Alternatively, grab a friend – or a dog – and start enjoying the benefits of getting out and moving.
GENERAL ENTRY FEES
Adults - $49 (5km), $75 (10km), $99 (21km). Kids - $39 (5km), $60 (10km), $79 (21km). Remember, if kids register through their school, GJ Gardiner will sponsor their entry so they run for free. Organisers are also keen to encourage new entrants to have a go, so tag your running buddy in
a social media post, and go in the draw for give-away tickets. Entries are open now. For more information, contact Clare Tod at clare@elementevents.co.nz or Nick Reader at nick@elementsevents.co.nz.
You can also visit the Whitianga Run Festival website at whitiangarunfest.co.nz to check out the courses and register.
THE INFORMER IS OFFERING A COMPETITION TO WIN…
Win one $10km entry fee and one 21km entry fee. The Editor plus Nick Reader will judge.
The competition: Using AI create a cartoon of yourself running. Email to info@theinformer.co.nz.
Please have your entry in by Friday, 20 March. We would like to include the winners’ entry on Facebook.
One of the best things about the Whitianga Run Fest? There’s no “right” way to do it.
• Want to chase a Personal Best on a flat, fast course? Go for it.
• Prefer a cruisy coastal walk with friends? Perfect.
• Tackling your very first event? We’ve got you. Whether you're lining up for the 5km, 10km, or 21km, this is your race, your pace. The atmosphere is welcoming, the views are unreal, and the finish-line feeling hits just as hard whether you sprint, jog, or stroll it home.
Run it fast. Walk it proud. Do it your way. WHY ENTER NOW? Because future-you will thank you. Locking in your entry now gives you a goal to train for, something to look forward to, and a reason to stay motivated. The earlier you commit, the sooner the countdown begins and trust us, there’s nothing better than having race day circled in the calendar.
Fabian and co-runner at Run Fest; Seth Smith and Emma Rich of the Whitianga Run Club will help you train for the Run Fest.
Games & Puzzles WIN!
to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.
Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/ photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@ theinformer. co.nz to reach us by 12.00 noon on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly.
instructions Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.
What’s On
OP SHOPS
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.
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.
From a small town to packed theatres across Australia
St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat 9.30am-2pm.
Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.
Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info.
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.
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.
FROM INTERVIEW WITH KOLBIE AND HER DAD, BLAIR
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.
KSPCA Op-shop – 2 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 9am-4pm.
MONTHLY
olbie Fraser is seventeen and until the beginning of 2025 she was in Cooks Beach preparing to go to Wellington for her post-MBAS college studies at the New Zealand School of Dance.
AA Driver Licensing – NEW LOCATION. Friday, 13 March and Monday, 23 March. Whitianga Community Service Trust Centre, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga.
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 – Mondays 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 Wednesday 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.
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.
She is quietly proving that talent backed by grit goes far. Late last year almost at the end of her first year at the dance school, Kolbie earned the invitation to a fiveweek paid professional contract with Rising Ballet Company BIG Live, performing Nutcracker productions across Australia.
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.
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.
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.
Under directors Joel Burke and Khalid Tarabay, part of one of the highest-selling ballet companies in the Southern Hemisphere, she completed 45 performances, dancing five ballet roles, some lasting nearly seven minutes, performing to around 80,000 people. She was also trusted with partner work, which was an honour and embraced wholeheartedly.
Kolbie could hardly believe the experience she was getting and being chosen to be part of the elite ballerinas in the country.
She knows her achievements to this point are not just about hours in the studio. There were
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
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.
nights walking 30 minutes uphill after training, soaked by Wellington rain and buffeted by wind, legs burning and body exhausted. Shared houses, different cul-
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.
Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club. Every Thursday evening, Whitianga Town Hall 6.45pm. New members, beginners and visitors very welcome. Phone/txt Cheryl 027 452 7887 or Sandie 021 825 666 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.
DANCING
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
tures, and strict dancer nutrition became unexpected hurdles, and Kolbie made the tough call to move, prioritising her health and training.
Hon Scott Simpson
COROMANDEL-COLVILLE
BETTER HEALTH CARE
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
Access to healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for people in rural and remote areas and our government is committed to ensuring New Zealanders can get the care they need, when they need it, no matter where they live.
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.
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.
MP For Coromandel
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.
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
Kolbie’s success is inspiring others back home. Eight-year-old Harlow Macaw from Tairua also joined the Adelaide and Sydney legs of BIG Live’s Nutcracker tour, a remarkable achievement for someone so young. Performing in the Party scene’ in front of thousands each day, Harlow thrived on stage and says she loved every minute of it. She has since returned home full of inspiration and will continue training under Sarah Fitzsimons at Thames Hauraki Dance Theatre where all the girls have come from, united by their love of dance.
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
The Coromandel Peninsula’s presence in national dance continues to grow, with Kolbie training in ballet and Liarah Anderson – 2nd year, Izzy Fitzsimons and Neka Woolf - now accepted into the New Zealand School of Dance, first year contemporary programs.
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.
That resilience and decision to change her situation, soon turned into opportunity as it was after that she earned the invitation to dance in Australia
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated –Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet. whitianga.admin@gmail.com.
Proudly carrying her Coromandel roots into every lesson, Kolbie’s journey is proof that big dreams are being built right here at home. Kolbie has just now begun her second year – carrying with her the lessons of life away from home and the experience of professional dancing for several weeks and there will be more to come!
Well done!
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.
Last year’s Budget invested $164 million to strengthen urgent and after-hours care nationwide, meaning 98 per cent of New Zealanders will be able to access these services within one hour’s drive of their home. One of the initiatives funded was a pilot programme to enhance urgent and after-hours healthcare in six rural communities, including Coromandel and Colville.
In terms of the Coromandel pilot programme, it began in mid2025 and is being delivered at the Coromandel Family Medical Centre and Colville Health Clinic practice. They’ve been benefiting from extra support, better access to information and working more closely with an Emergency Care Paramedic which can treat urgent care patients in the clinic, while also available to respond to local 111 calls.
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.
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.
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 Gun Club – For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Neville Crawford 021 276 2169.
I’m hoping that there will be even more support for similar projects around our region and the rest of the country in the coming year. People in rural areas can often travel long distances for care and rely on small teams supporting large regions, that’s why this investment is so important.
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.
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.
“Major events are critical for our hospitality and tourism sectors, especially here in the Coromandel. Accommodations fill up, restaurants and cafés thrive, and local businesses see more customers, creating jobs and lifting incomes.”
“Across New Zealand, Tourism directly contributes $17 billion to national GDP and just under 200,000 jobs. Tourism makes up almost 12% of Coromandel’s GDP. The economic ripple effect of major events is huge, supporting our local businesses and growing our economy.”
Bingo is back At Mercury Bay Club. Starting Monday, 2 March at 1.00pm Hope to see you there!
couple of weeks ago alongside the Associate Minister of Emergency Management and Recovery Chris Penk.
Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club – 92 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Social Bowls, Thursday & Sunday at 12.30pm, Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.
Addition to Scott’s column Excerpt from his Press release Wed 11 Feb.
Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc
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.
I was thrilled to hear the announcement from Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey that these pilots have been rolled out and have shown the positive impact that locally led approaches can make, with faster care, better access to treatment, and stronger links between rural health services.
In other news, our region is still recovering from January’s heavy weather event, but it’s encouraging to see communities rebound so quickly and contractors working to stabilise our roads. There are parts of the Peninsula which are still affected by storm damage, and I visited these areas a
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
We received a briefing from the Thames-Coromandel District Council, which outlined the impact of the storm and the work ahead. It was stressed throughout these visits that support is available, such as Civil Defence payments through the Ministry of Social Development.
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.
GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR OCEANS FESTIVAL
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.
“I’m excited that the Coromandel will once again host the Whitianga Oceans Festival in September 2026, attracting visitors from around New Zealand and overseas, as part of the national $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package. “
Coffee Morning 10.30am on Thurs 26th March
“Events such as the Whitianga Oceans Festival don’t just bring visitors; they bring life and energy to our region and to our towns which helps to create vibrant communities and unforgettable experiences.”
Doors open at 10.00am. At the M Bay Club. Come & join us. Ph: 07 866 5516
“This funding is a significant boost to Whitianga and the wider Coromandel, and I’m looking forward to our region hosting another great event which encourages locals and visitors to celebrate all that we have offer.”
Kolbie posing infront of The Nutcracker promotion in which she featured; Kolbie with young ballerina Harlow.
Scott Simpson and Chris Penk; Oceans Festival.
Mammogram Project update from the Mercury Bay Medical Equipment Trust
Mercury Bay Equipment Trust, Breastscreen Aotearoa and Breastscreen Midlands would like to make the following amendment to the article published in Tuesday 24 February’s edition of The Coromandel Informer.
Over the last six to nine months, we have been in discussion with BreastScreen Midland, Breast Screen Aotearoa (BSA) and Health NZ Te Whatu Ora (HNZ) regarding the structure of a fixed mammogram unit based in Whitianga and serving the Eastern Coromandel.
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), using the same equipment.
We explored a model operated by BSA, which handles most screen-
ing 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.
At our most recent meeting, BSA confirmed that subcontracting to private providers can occur take for public mammograms. Over the next few months, we will continue to work with BreastScreen Midland to assess the feasibility of a fixed site provider in Whitianga including understanding the policy requirements to operate a site.
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.
DIAGNOSTIC MAMMOGRAMS
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 centers, 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 conserva-
tively (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.
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.
1 Kath Hale 70; Warwick Rogers 71; 3 Ross Reid; 4 Brian Cole 73, Ray Russell 73.
18 Hole Stableford Sat 21 February
1 Steve Habershon 39; 2 Kath Hale 39; 3 Glen Farrell 37; 4 Geoff Cambie, Mike Koots 37 Nine-hole Nett Tues 24
February
1 Ros Rundle 33; 2 Annette Eltringham 33; 3 Anne McGuire 34; 4 Jan Stanley, Paula Parfitt, Sue Poland 35.
18 Hole Net Thurs 26
February
1 Gary Jamieson 68; 2 Gabrielle Tucker 69; 3 John Fraser 71; 4 Warwick Rogers, Connie Graham, Michael McCann 73.
Our eagerly anticipated March events are now a happening thing. The KiwiShades sponsored open tournament was held last Saturday, 28 February. Huge thanks to our sponsors and the day’s organisers, Debbie Holmes and Marg Maher. Check out the results in the Sports section in today’s edition.
THURSDAY 12 MARCH - WOMEN’S 18 HOLE TEAMS TOURNAMENT
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 and there will be golf clothing on sale too to sharpen up your next game. What a perfect day - good food and company, great shopping 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 0274828790.
(2nd Round) Overall Winners: Diane Eccles & Chris
Van Veen
Nett Scramble
1 Diane Eccles & Chris Van Veen; 2 Pam Price & Dianne Gilmour; 3= Debbie Holmes & Jane Deadman and Angela Cook & Kim Allan.
Twos: Dom Szparagowski, Cam Walls, Nathan Wilson, Dave Knowland
Gross: Div One: Dominik Szparagowski; Div 2, Jack Coldicutt
Hole in One: Patrick Gonthier
Nine-hole Mixed Scramble -Stableford Fri 27 Feb
1 Phil Drane; 2 Kelvin O'Leary; 3 Roger Pheasant.
TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB
North/ South: 1 Peter McNeil & Lynnette Flowers 65.48. 2 Margaret-Ann & Rob Stewart 53.97. 3 Robyn
Waters & David Wilkinson 48.81.
East/ West: 1 Judy McKenzie & Lee Hughes 57.54. 2 Jill Huston & Peter Clark 56.75. 3 Chris Death & Sonia Botica 53.57.
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Cummings Pairs Week 3 Tues 24 February
North/South: 1 Denise Knutson and Alison Tichbon 59.72, 2 Don Barry and Peter Clark 57.64
East/West: 1 Anne Carter and Johanna Bonnar 63.19%, 2 Carol Henwood and Ngaire O’Brien 57.64
MERCURY BAY TENNIS CLUB
Mixed Doubles Championship
Semi-finals: Pip and Jude Calder defeated Sue Costello and Lloyd Mcqeen 9-1 , Trish and Chris Graves defeated Steve Bale and Jasman Lockhart 9-3.
Final: Trish and Chris Graves def Pip and Jude Calder 9-5.
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday 25 February
Seven players were whittled down to 2 after 3 rounds of section play. With 3 wins each were Ken Gibson and Dave Coleman who fought out the play-off final with Dave taking out a comfortable win. Rob Reilly achieved 2 wins and made the day's highest break of 19.
Saturday 28 February
With nine players attending, section play produced 2 players with 3 wins apiece. Still recovering from a serious injury, Ian Baumgren made a welcome return to form to take out a comfortable win in the play-off final over the evergreen Peter Schultz to take top honours for the day. With 2 wins were Greg Murphy, Bob Haase and Rob Reilly. The High Break Jackpot was not struck.
Next Saturday will see a trial run with players receiving handicaps. Visitors and new players are welcome.
In association with WOMEN’S 18-HOLE OPEN TEAMS TOURNAMENT 2026
SAT 14 & SUN 15 MARCH –SECOND MASTERS TOURNAMENT
Thursday 12 March 2026
Entry Members $40pp, Non Members $50pp
Includes morning tea, lunch and twos, nearest the
START
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, bbq both days, and a complimentary practice round on Friday. Register online admin@mercurybaygolf. co.nz
& longest
Sports
First annual Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club Offshore Classic!
Selling out it's boat entry cap in 2025, we had 50 eager teams out there chasing over $65,000 in cash! We had a good window of weather over the last few days with all 5 Tuna placings being taken, however the elusive Marlin season in the Mercury Bay continues...
Congratulations to our 3 teams – Relief, Recalibrate & Shamrock – tagging 4 Broadbill between them, and to our other placegetters and prize winners leaving the clubrooms with heavier wallets!
Thank you to the tournament convenor Mark, Caroline in the office, our weighmasters and gamebase, and all the other staff and volunteers behind the scenes. We are thrilled at the return of a true bluewater competition!
Here is to an unforgettable first chapter, and a bigger and
Tuna caught for tournament.
better 2027!
Congratulations to Team Wild Bill with their 2 winning Yellowfin Tuna in the MBGFC Offshore Classic! Congratulations to
anglers Tracy and Emma, landing these nice fish sitting at the 24kg mark on the last day of the comp, taking home over $4,000 between them!
AMY BALME (CA)
GEOFF BALME (FCA)
Lee Street, Whitianga M Amy +64 27 373 1404 M Geoff +64 27 495 8923
E office@accountingbydesign.co.nz
Accounting, Bookkeeping & Tax Solutions
New Zealand Sports Fishing Council Nationals 2026
This commenced on Saturday, 21 February at 8.00am and ended 5.00pm Saturday, 28 February.
Several anglers and teams representing clubs on the Coromandel Peninsula competed in the 2026 competition, with notable performances from the Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club and Tairua-Pauanui Sport Fishing Club.
KEY PARTICIPANTS AND RESULTS (AS OF DAY 3-6)
Glenn Bradley (Mad Max, Mercury Bay): Recorded 7 tag-and-release striped marlin (as of day 3), placing in the top ranks for that category.
Tony Croft (Mad Max, Mercury Bay): Recorded 2 tag-and-release striped marlin, placing 3rd in the NZ Champion Striped Marlin Angler category.
Jody Verryt (Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club): Leading the line class tuna section with an 82.40 kg fish on 37 kg line.
Harris Gemmell (Mercury Bay): Landed a 200.5 kg blue marlin on 24 kg line.
Sophie Mogford (Fin Addict, Tairua-Pauanui): Ranked 2nd in the Kahawai section.
Mad Max (Mercury Bay): Leading the team category for Tag and Release Striped Marlin as of Day 3.
Mile Zero have blown their 2025 Nationals performance out of the water with their fishing for the NZSFC Nationals 2026! Congratulations to the team – Nic, Wayne, Richard & Chopper – tagging a total of 19 Billfish over the 8 days, with Nicola currently sitting in the top spot for T&R Striped Marlin angler & Mile Zero sitting in 2nd place overall Billfish Team on the provisional leaderboards! Congratulations to the team on Mad Max fishing for the MBGFC in the NZSFC Nationals 2026!
Well done to Tom, Glenn, Crofty & Rod, tagging 17 Striped Marlin over the 8 days of fishing and landing a 122kg beauty for angler Glenn on day 8! They are currently sitting in 3rd place Billfish Team on the provisional results board.
