The 20th anniversary of the Mercury Bay Art Escape commenced with a soldout, sparkling Gala Opening on Friday, 6 March, 2026, at the Hot Waves Café, at Hot Water Beach. The evening was a masterclass in community camaraderie, officially launching the Coromandel’s premier art event with a blend of local pride and high-calibre creativity.
A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION AND INSIGHT
The gala served as a poignant milestone for the trust, celebrat ing two decades of bringing art into the light. leys of the event, stepped into the role of evening. Carter, a Director at Bay leys based in the proceedings with the profes sional warmth that has come to define the partnership between the real estate firm and the arts community.
Adding a layer of iconic New Zealand prestige to the night was keynote speaker, Dick Frizzell. As one of the country’s most celebrated artists, Frizzell’s talk resonated deeply with the audience, bridging the gap between high art and the unique "Kiwiana" psyche that many local artists draw upon for their own work.
• Deconstructed steak & kidney pie with mash potato.
• Tuscan baked chicken with veges.
• Creamy prawn & bacon pappardelle pasta.
HOW TO ORDER
• Pulled pork, mashed potato, veges & gravy. Order by noon Wednesday, 11th March, delivery from 9am 12th March.
THREE FOR $35.00 (INCLUDES LOCAL DELIVERY) Taking orders from Monday Call to find out the menu
6:34am 6:50pm Low Tides: 12:23pm HOT WATER BEACH
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
March 10-18 – Jupiter without a doubt remains the star of the show with its nightly appearance dominating the northern sky. It is the brightest thing in the sky apart from the Moon which has relentlessly moved on from drifting through the Earth’s shadow which produced last week’s stunning eclipse. However, those with a clear eastern horizon can now catch a glimpse of faint Mars and Mercury just before the sun rises and the Moon can help us find them this 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. Wednesday, March 11 – There will be a good
Tiangong pass from 8:05pm starting in the NW just beside Venus. Friday, March 13 –From 9:20pm we have a Tiangong pass from the west before it disappears into the Earth’s shadow. Sunday, March 15 – From 6:06am there will be a very low ISS pass in the north. Monday, March 16 – We have a Tiangong pass from 7:58pm in the west travelling just above the Southern Cross. Tuesday, March 17 - Viewers with a clear view of the eastern horizon may see the Moon in the predawn sky with faint Mars and Mercury next to each other well below both just on the horizon and from 6:09am there will be a bright ISS pass from the north. Wednesday, March 18 – A clear view of the eastern horizon reveals the Moon in the predawn sky with faint Mars to its right and Mercury just above the Moon and on its left.
Office hours: Mon-Fri 9:00am-3:00pm We are online www.theinformer.co.nz Facebook, Instagram @theinformernz
Pauline’s Piece
Welcome and more to offer
My first thought is to welcome all the visitors that have come to the Coromandel Peninsula for the Art Escape Open Studios Art trail and the Kubota Worlds’ Largest Billfish Tournament.
There are many others who are travellers and tourists here to enjoy the Coromandel and not for any particular event.
We welcome you warmly and trust your stay here brings you back.
My second thought is about our hospitality and the special events which pale in comparison to the natural beauty of this area. That outstanding beauty is fragile and we who live here are the stewards of that to quite a degree. A lot of the outstanding features and beaches need little help – merely the respect of all the users. The power of hospitality and entertainment may not get people travelling great distances but they create the lingering memories and bring about those return visits.
Over a year ago, the local business association here worked on some ideas to encapsulate in a few words what is naturally attractive about Whitianga and surrounds all year round. We were looking at opportunities to promote more effectively and add layers of enhancement in terms of services.
Lots of ideas wafted around and one chosen by a small committee disappeared into the gaping chasm of forgotten ideas. However, one that stood out for me and other businesses which we as the team have applied
to our own messaging at The Informer is Thermal Ocean Village. This applies to Whitianga and her close communities, but every area on the Coromandel is working on its own unique messaging. I love it because it includes winter as well as summer. It includes two obvious aspects which we have not had to invent and which are gifts to everyone. The first is geothermal springs at Hot Water Beach accompanied by the developed first-class heated pools at the Hot Water Beach Holiday Park. The second is geo-thermal bathing and a worldclass Day Spa at The Lost Spring. The geo-thermal spring was always there for over 1,500 years but was lost to humanity until Alan Hopping searched for it for eighteen years and finally found it. That’s because he never stopped believing it was there. The water is channeled for what is a beautiful oasis in a very ordinary suburban street in the exquisitely beautiful environment of the ocean.
I have wondered why Cook Drive looks so ordinary, when something as terrific as The Lost Spring is there. That very plain
Cook Drive should herald the presence of The Lost Spring. Why not an avenue of trees and flags to welcome visitors and direct them, creating anticipation and excitement. Is there reticence about promoting one or two businesses or attractions to the detriment of others?
Once people arrive, they look sideways and will respond to other offers if our welcome is generous and inclusive. Bathing at The Lost Spring and enjoying the treats of Day Spa make it a destination attraction all year round in the heart of Whitianga township. People don’t normally travel from Auckland or Hamilton just for a restaurant or a café. They need two or three attractions as a package to spend wonderful days here (we include fishing and sailing in the destination package), and then the food and beverage become the ’icing on the cake’. Special events create the memories and open up the possibility of returning and then living on The Coromandel.
There are some more opportunities for us to add to the attractions under the umbrella of Thermal Ocean Village. We must not let go of Sailing – the life of the Boating Club is not over but it must take another form. There will be more news on this in The informer to test the water for a future of sailing in this beautiful Mercury Bay. The building is just one issue. Sailing has a longterm future here. The Bay is ripe for it as is the western side of the Peninsula from Coromandel town.
Frizzell’s humorous reflections on his father’s maritime adventures were a gala highlight, keeping the sold-out crowd captivated and in high spirits. Dick was accompanied by his wife, Jude Frizzell, who shared plenty of amusing stories of her own, offering a delightful behind-thescenes look at their life in the arts. As we spoke, we both reflected on the profound, often invisible, connections between the artist and the buyer
A theme that resonated deeply given my own family's history with Dick. Joining me for the evening was my son, Julian, a graduate of the Elam School of Fine Arts. It was a stirring "full-circle" moment to realize that thirty years ago, it was Dick who had interviewed Julian for his entry into art school. I vividly remember waiting in the university foyer three decades ago, only to be invited into that very interview because of the remarks Julian had made.
Art Escape was a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of New Zealand’s creative mentors.
THANK YOU TO A MASTER CRAFTER
A highlight of the evening was the special presentation to a beloved member of the Art Escape family. Paula McNeill, the talented jeweller and mixed-media artist
behind The Whitehouse Gallery in Coroglen, was awarded glorious flowers and heartfelt thanks for her immense contribution to the success of the Mercury Bay Art Escape. McNeill, a returning artist for the 2026 tour, has been a cornerstone of the local creative scene, and the tribute acknowledged her years of dedication to fostering the region's vibrant artistic identity.
PLANNING YOU OPEN STUDIOS TOUR AND ART TRAIL
With the gala now concluded, the focus shifts to the Open Studios Tour, and one weekend has
already concluded. Next weekend is a great opportunity, including all day on Monday (14–16 March).
For those looking to navigate the eclectic mix of mediums; ranging from artisan blacksmithing and pottery to fine photography and glass art; the Hot Waves Café continues to host the Showcase Exhibition. This exhibition features one signature work from each participating artist, providing a perfect starting point to decide which studios to "burrow" into.
Visitors are encouraged to pick up the free, colourful Mercury Bay Art Escape Guide at local I-sites, libraries, and cafés, or
download the map directly from the official website to plan their self-guided journey
More than 50 artists from Pauanui to Whangapoua are opening their creative sanctuaries to the public.
LOOKING FORWARD
The atmosphere at the gala, as captured in the lively photos circulating on social media, perfectly mirrored the "human ROI" of the event: authentic connections and a shared passion for the Coromandel landscape.
As the 2026 scholarship recipient Bella Van Vlerken noted, this event provides an invaluable opportunity for emerging talent to work alongside established masters. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a first-time visitor, next weekend offers a rare invitation to "look up, look around, and actually be there" in the presence of the Peninsula's finest creators.
Sponsors.
Bella Van Vlerken, recipient of 2026 Scholarship.
Local blood donations save lives
BY VERNA CARR
Somewhere right now, someone is recovering from surgery. Someone is midway through cancer treatment. Someone needs platelets – not from a machine, not synthesised in a lab, but from people; ordinary people who rolled up their sleeves and gave a little of themselves so a stranger could keep going.
That’s exactly what happened in Whitianga on Wednesday 4 March and Thursday, 5 March.
Senior nurse Amanda Brodie and her team from the New Zealand Blood Service arrived in their mobile unit and transformed the Whitianga Town Hall into a temporary donation centre.
The Hamilton-based team makes the journey to the Coromandel Peninsula every three to four months, stopping at Waihi, Whangamata, and Whitianga for a few days at each location.
EVERY DROP DOES THREE JOBS
Amanda is passionate about what a blood donation actually means once it leaves the donor’s arm. Each donation, she explains, can help in three distinct ways. Whole blood is used directly for transfusions. Platelets, which carry a clotting factor, are critical for cancer and leukaemia patients - some of whom need transfusions every few days for months. Plasma, per-
haps the most versatile of all, is rich in antibodies and immune properties, making it invaluable for patients who have suffered burns or undergone cardiac surgery.
NEEDLES, NERVES, AND A GOOD REASON
Not everyone who showed up found it easy. One donor quietly admitted she hates needles and faints at the sight of blood. Yet there she was, eyes closed, tablet in hand, steadily making her way through the process. Her rea-
son was simple: a family member’s life had been saved by a blood transfusion, and that was enough.
She was far from alone. The hall filled with donors reclining in comfortable chairs, chatting with nurses. Many had been encouraged by workmates or family members. Most said the same thing when asked why they came: they wanted to do their bit for the community.
Amanda’s team made sure the atmosphere matched that spirit - cheerful, warm, and welcoming.
CRAZY PRICES Final week of
THE NUMBERS ADD UP
The results across the Coromandel visit were striking. Waihi saw around 60 donors, Whangamata around 70, and Whitianga drew 87 bookings for Wednesday alone, with 60 more on Thursday - plus the occasional walk-in off the street.
Each donation takes roughly 15 minutes. Donors are then asked to stay for another 15, treated to a cup of tea or juice and something sweet - a biscuit or chocolate bar. “It’s so we can keep
an eye on them and make sure there are no adverse reactions,” Amanda explains with a smile. Most donors are happy to linger, often running into familiar faces and catching up on local news. All collected blood is couriered to Auckland daily, where it’s processed and distributed as products to hospitals throughout the North Island.
YOUR BLOOD IS NEEDED
The New Zealand Blood Service is always looking for new donors and is particularly keen to hear from Māori and Pasifika donors, whose blood types are often the closest match for patients within their own communities.
If you’d like to donate when the mobile unit next visits, you can book online at nzblood.co.nz, through the donor app, or by calling 0800 GIVE BLOOD (0800 448 325).
A single donation – three lives potentially changed. It starts with rolling up your sleeve.
Allison Brown and Nurse Kristin.
The open studios of the Art Escape
BY BEVERLEY SHEPPARD
It was just wow1 This was my first visit to the Mercury Bay Art Escape studios on show and what an amazing and highlevel collection of very talented creatives we have living on the Peninsula. From Pauanui to Whangapoua, from paint brushes to ceramics, from Nikau Palm reeds made into wall art to garden sculptures to buy. We have it all. Like really! The Mercury Bay Art Escape is definitely a part of New Zealand’s Art trails as seen by Dick Frizzell’s presence on the Opening Gala night.
I visited the GJ Gardner Show Home in Kupe Drive in Whitianga and The Whitehouse in Coroglen on Sunday and several other versions of “just wow” were heard too. And the glorious weather! How good was the sunshine!
Artists Caroline Peacocke, Kate Beaucamp, Sharon Wright and Helena James filled the stunning Kupe Drive Show home with all their artworks. Caroline had her press with her to show visitors how she uses printmaking to create her amazing art. Colourful tea towels, hand painted cards, a big wooden door with a landscape painted on it and painted canvases filled the garage space.
Kate Beaucamp grew up in the United Kingdom and moved to Whitianga 11 years ago. She loves photography and her whimsi-
cal birds and florals on canvases were music to feed the soul. Kate writes the Photography Club column for The Informer.
Sharon Wright’s prints were altogether different. Sharon uses a technique called Rembrandt feather and bloom lighting to create her masterpiece, still life art. Then she adds New Zealand birds into her paintings. So imaginative! She uses pastels to paint her ocean scenes. So good!
Helena James is a local weaver and her flax baskets, flax wall hangings, woven skirts are a delight. Her enthusiasm about her weaving and her Maori culture art pieces was a joy to listeners. Helena teaches flax weaving classes and her Nikau Palm wall art was my favourite.
Next was ‘The Whitehouse’ owned and created by artist and art teacher extraordinaire Paula McNeill. Paula has gathered all sorts of exquisite pieces of art, furniture, garden art, sculpture you can buy. Paula’s house has a fabulous space at the front which is a gallery and shop space for showcasing the art. Artist Verena Tagmann, who moved to New Zealand from Switzerland 23yrs ago, loves using mixed media and collage techniques to create her art. Verena met Paula years ago in art classes and the happy vibe they created as part of this elegant art space enveloped all the visitors. Garden landscaper, Suzy Munro was present to highlight how art can be used in the garden. Suzy highlighted the
stone
in the garden for sale. The Whitehouse is a definite must for all Art Escape visitors. Mind you, so are all the art studios open last weekend and the next three days of viewing which will be on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. There is a spiritual nourishment
when one is surrounded by magnificent art all day. From Pauanui to Whangapoua the art, sculpture and so many other creative mediums made for a non-stop delightful and awakening experience. Don’t miss this coming weekend plus Monday to visit the open studios and their host artists.
gorgeous
sheep lurking
Above: Caroline Peacocke. Below: The Whitehouse.
Photographer, Kate Beauchamp.
“You, Me, Everybody” Progressive Bluegrass
This acclaimed group, recognized as finalists for Best NZ Folk Artist at the 2021 Aotearoa Music Awards is including Kauaeranga Hall in their national tour. They are celebrating their new album, Midnight,. recognised as the group who earned a global audience after their song “Stranger” featured in Netflix’s Sweet Tooth.
WHAT: You, Me, Everybody
WHEN: Saturday 14 March @ 7:30pm
WHERE: Kauaeranga Hall, 437 Kauaeranga Valley Rd, Thames
Rehearsals are underway for the next production for the Mercury Bay Performing Arts Inc. More than 50 talented local young people between ages 8 and 18 are taking to the stage in May with Beauty and The Beast Jr. The performances will be taking place at the CoroClub Main Hangar for 8 shows with tickets going on sale in Mid – March from Whitianga i-site.
Fundraiser: We have a fundraiser with Mercury Twin Cinemas - Both Cinemas will be showing the original Disney Beauty and the Beast films - the Sing a long version. Lots of prizes for dress ups and raffles! Tickets for the movie night fundraiser available now.
See poster this page.
$30,000 grant: We are excited to share
that we have secured just over $30,000 in grant funding from Aotearoa Gaming Trust and Pub Charity, which has allowed us to purchase professional theatre lighting for this production.
THANK YOU FOR THE GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM THE FOLLOWING LOCAL BUSINESSES
Whitianga Marina, The Lost Spring Whitianga, Smitty Sports Bar and Grill, Flock Media group (Coromind), NZ Move It, Merge Marketing, Pub Charity NZ, Coromandel Informer, Whitianga Lions, Coromandel Chambers LTD, The Popata Whanau (Liquor Land Whiti), Mercury Twin Cinemas. The Monkey House Whitianga. Thank these local businesses in person when you can.
Fabian Roberts Left wit Raewyn Watkins far right rehearsing the young narratorsPiata Morgan-Joyce, Mahina Wawatai-Peignier, Lily Henderson, Riley James-Rameka.
Painted rocks are art and pets for Easter Sunday fundraiser
PREPARED BY URSULA GAEBLER
Every Easter Sunday, Kuaotunu invites the children and adults, families and artists of our wider region to paint a rock. It can be any kind of rock or rocks and the imagination can run wild. In the past there have been whales, farm scenes, bird nests, spaceships and they are all brought on the morning of Easter Day and displayed. People enjoy wandering around all the creations, putting their vote in for the ‘People’s Choice’ and imbibing from the sausage sizzle or sweet counter. Then the high point of the morning is signaled.
A VERY DIFFERENT AUCTION
It’s time for the auction of all those rocks where the artist or creator of the rock artwork is willing to part with their rock. Rob Ball of Ball
and Co. is the auctioneer and he creates happy mayhem with this fundraising hilarity and everyone is involved.
Some rocks go for really super prices. The artwork on some of the rocks has been especially prepared and donated by well-known Peninsula artists to be auctioned to raise funds for the Local Rudolf Steiner Kindergarten.
Some of the artists exhibiting through the Open Studios Art Escape are painting a rock for this special fundraiser event.
The whole idea is to fund raise for this very wonderful
educational facility for young children which is owned by the local community through a trust. Parents bring their children from a great distance to be enrolled in this highly valued pre-school facility.
You are invited to come at 10.00am on Easter Sunday, 5 April to the Kuaotunu Reserve - bring your painted rock or your money to buy one. It is an idyllic environment, surrounded by picturesque vistas of the ocean and stream, with Lukes Kitchen and the General Store and icecream bar just across the road.
Big Bike Film Night
The popular Big Bike Film Night is returning to cinemas in Whitianga and Thames in April
With a host of new, dynamic, diverse and inspiring short films on offer, the popular The Big Bike Film Night returns in April.
From humble beginnings in 2015, the Big Bike Film Night has continued to grow a reputation for showcasing the exploits of cyclists from all around the globe including New Zealand, who push boundaries, find adventure, extreme challenge and a never give-up mindset which leaves audience in awe of some amazing and breathtaking achievements.
The Big Bike Film Night has always bought a distinctive point of difference for those looking for a great night out at the movies and to enjoy something a little bit different with an element of surprise says film curator Brett Cotter.
“Stories are at the heart of everything, and our dazzling 2026 collection features nine mesmerizing films; each as are as dynamic and diverse as movie goers could ever hope for. Audiences will be transported from backyard adventures in New Zealand to the breathtaking landscapes of Norway, to the lush forests of the Canadian West Coast, to a remarkable stage win by an unfancied 1.9metre Italian rider on the slopes of the punishing Mont Ventoux, in the
1994 Tour de France. Included also, are inspiring stories from those who have faced the challenges and triumphs of navigating daily life following a life-altering injury”.
Another highlight of this year’s programme is the world premiere of a film called “Queen of the Mountain” which is set in the stunning surrounds of Queenstown. This documentary follows Annie Ford, an adventure activist, as she attempts to break the 24-hour Guinness World Record in downhill mountain biking – all to raise funds for reforesting the foothills in the Queenstown basin. Annie’s relentless pursuit not only pushes the limits of endurance but also becomes a powerful symbol of resilience and environmental commitment.
“This much-loved film festival is not just about two-wheel devotees either as it is produced and designed to be enjoyed by a much wider audience and judging by past showings, it has always been well received by all” adds Brett.
The Big Bike Film Night 2026 will be shown in Whitianga on Wednesday 15 April, at the Mercury Twin Cinemas and in Thames at the Civic Centre on Friday, 17 April. Start time for both venues is 6.30pm. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.bigbikefilmnight.nz where a short promo trailer is also available to watch.
Coro Club – it’s the right time
BY PAULINE STEWART
Dave Paterson and Lucy Campbell are the business owners of the Coro Club, a licenced café, and the Main Hangar, one of the Coromandel’s largest indoor event spaces. See the advertisement below.
Their young family is expanding and it is now time to let this part of their world go. Dave is also the owner of Paterson Construction and Lucy is a lawyer and that’s enough they feel for this new stage of their life.
The Coro Club is an excellent venue with the Main Hangar event space as part of it and it’s a great business. The Main Hangar is an important selling point of this business as the event side of things is popular and can be developed further for weddings and special milestone celebrations.
“In the beginning, we set out to do the events side of the business and with a good chef at the Coro Club, we had the hospitality side covered,” explains Dave. “It worked well. We have a wonderful team our manager, Sam and our chef, Fernanda. The award-winning café has a lot to offer for any future buyer.
“Everyone that comes here gives us positive reviews. People feel like they have left town for a little while. It is like being in the country and families genuinely
love seeing the small aircraft taking off and landing. We are close to the planes, but yet it is peaceful.”
TIMING
Lucy Campbell and Dave Paterson have worked hard, enjoy living at Cooks Beach and simply need to give up something to spend more time with their children – a twoyear-old and a newborn. They have energy and health and feel it is the right time to focus on quality of lifestyle and enjoy the reason why they came to live in this area.
The Coro Club and Main Hangar businesses are ideal for active retirees with experience and energy or for a business couple who are not yet at the ‘having
children’ stage.
“This is a people business. It is very rewarding but requires innovation and a desire to engage with the community,” says Dave.
We have always employed local people and we have a great team. Another aspect is and we have a great landlord with the Mercury Bay Aero Club and that is a factor that really matters.
“It is waiting for the person or persons who live here or who want to live here.”
Paterson Construction’s work is based in the Cooks Beach, doing work from Pauanui to Matarangi, so the Paterson and Campbell family are not about to leave any time soon. They will stay a valu able part of our Peninsula. Dave has been an integral part of the
renovations, part rebuild and fitting out of the Cooks Beach Community Centre. “I enjoyed that very much and our children will benefit as part of the whole community.”
“We employ eight people through Paterson Construction and all of them and their families live in the area”, said Dave. We want them to have a great life here bringing up their children. We are a company that gets repeat work. Everything works on relationships, working together and being a part of a great team. Including our subtractors. They have been busy since they became full time residents of Hahei in 2019. However, David has been coming here since 2011. “It was my holiday place of choice
- a beautiful place. I enjoy getting out on the water, I enjoy fishing and there were people my age already coming here as a place for working, raising children and a lifestyle choice. That still applies when you look at how many there are of my age living and conducting their lives between Tairua and Matarangi.”
Dave and Lucy originally met in London through mutual friends –Lucy was living in London at the time and Dave was there visiting – and they got together when Lucy returned home to NZ during Covid. Lucy ended up moving back to New Zealand and here to
The main hangar – greart for events; Dave Paterson and Lucy Campbell – Coro Club business owners.
BY LINDA CHOLMONDELEY-SMITH
THREE PRIORITIESSENIOR SAFETY, ALLHAZARD SIRENS AND CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY
The beginning of a new membership year for Grey Power Mercury Bay ais 1 April and it promises to be another year of standing up for seniors and strengthening our local community.
Grey Power is about more than benefits. It’s about having a united, independent voice.
Across our Peninsula and New Zealand, we continue to advocate on key issues such as superannuation, healthcare access, energy affordability and the protection of essential services.
Here in Mercury Bay, advocacy remains just as important. A key priority is continuing to pursue funding for all-hazard emergency sirens. Reliable warning systems are vital for the entire community, particularly for seniors and those with limited mobility. Community safety is not optional - it’s essential. We will keep push-
ing to ensure our residents are properly protected.
Membership brings real advantages including access to information, regular gatherings and the reassurance of belonging to an organisation that actively works on your behalf. This includes national and local discounts.
Monthly Coffee Morning This will be at the Mercury Bay Club, Thursday, 26 March, 10.30am. These mornings are informative and a great way to connect. If you’ve been thinking about joining, this is the perfect opportunity to come along and meet us. To renew, join, or learn more, please phone 866 5516. Renewals are emailed to all local members on 1 April.
This year, we are inviting local businesses to partner with us through corporate support, helping to strengthen advocacy and commitment to our senior community.
Together, we can continue building a safer, stronger Mercury Bay.
Ph: 07 866 5516, E: greypowermercurybay@ gmail. com Fb: GreyPower Mercury Bay (Whitianga Inc)
Time to replace your irrigation field?
For many homeowners with septic systems, the irrigation field (also called a drainage or soakage field) is very much “out of sight, out of mind” – and that’s usually a good thing. But when it begins to fail, the signs can be messy, smelly and expensive. In worst-case scenarios, it can even damage your pump. This is $$$!
WHAT DOES AN IRRIGATION FIELD ACTUALLY DO?
After solids settle in your septic tank, the remaining liquid effluent flows out to the irrigation field. It is distributed through perforated pipes into the surrounding soil, where natural filtration processes remove harmful bacteria and nutrients before the treated water returns safely to the groundwater system.
Over time, irrigation fields can clog, compact or simply wear out. When that happens, wastewater can no longer disperse properly.
COMMON SIGNS YOU MAY NEED A REPLACEMENT
1. Slow drains and gurgling pipes
If sinks, showers and toilets are draining slowly – and your septic tank has already been pumped –the issue may lie in the irrigation field. Gurgling sounds can indicate wastewater isn’t moving through
the system as it should.
2. Wet or soggy patches on your lawn
Persistently damp ground above the irrigation area, especially during dry weather, is a clear warning sign. If the soil can’t absorb the effluent, it may start surfacing.
3. Unpleasant odours outside
A healthy system shouldn’t smell. If you notice sewage odours around your yard, particularly near the irrigation field, it’s time to investigate.
4. The system is ageing or under stress
Irrigation fields last around seven years, depending on soil type, use and maintenance. Livestock compacting the ground or roots from nearby plants can all
cause damage.
5. Alarms or warning lights
If your alarm keeps sounding or a red warning light activates when you flush the toilet or run appliances, act quickly. Your system is struggling to cope.
DON’T WAIT FOR AN EMERGENCY
Irrigation field problems rarely fix themselves. Acting early can prevent wastewater backing up into your home or causing major damage to your property or pump. If you’re noticing warning signs, seek professional advice. The experienced HydroVac team can assess your system and talk you through your options. Call 0800 493 768 –we’re here to help.
The HydroVac team at work doing an installation.
Drumming to a different beat
BY VERNA CARR
When a small group gathered at a residential home recently for a drumming and meditation weekend, few perhaps anticipated just how far the experience would take them – not in miles, but in the depths of their own inner world.
Facilitating the weekend was Peter Hight, a shamanic drummer and healing practitioner who guided participants through a series of deep meditative journeys. Peter works closely with what he describes as dragon energy, and as the weekend unfolded, those present found themselves opening to experiences that stretched well beyond their everyday awareness.
Peter's path to shamanic practice is itself a remarkable story of transformation. He began his working life as a hospital to laboratory technician, but grew increasingly disillusioned watching pharmaceutical companies sideline doctors in pursuit of their own agendas. Drawn to natural materials, he left that world behind and became a furniture maker, working with wood and creating with his hands. Curiosity then led him toward healing. He explored homeopathy, touch for healing, and became – by his own cheerful admission – a "workshop junkie," soaking up as much knowledge as he possibly could. But life dealt him a devastating blow when he lost his wife
to cancer, and his children grew up and left home. In the aftermath of that grief, his own inner guidance pointed him toward the United States, where he travelled the country by train, meeting extraordinary people along the way. Among the most significant were indigenous American people who introduced him to shamanism and the ancient rituals of the sweat lodge. Peter could see clearly the healing power these traditions held, particularly for men, and slowly he began rebuilding his confidence and piecing his life back together.
Returning to New Zealand, Peter’s daughter Mel shouted him a drum-making workshop. This was a turning point in his life.
The drum Peter played throughout the recent weekend was one he crafted himself: an elliptical Siberian shaman's drum, a design he notes originates with the Siberians, whom he regards as the first shamans. He built the frame from kakatia, New Zealand white pine, chosen for its softness and
Seniornet
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SENIORNET?
Come along to our “Drop In” session on Wednesday, 11 March, between 1:15 and 2:00 and our volunteers will be there to give you any information you need to decide if our non-profit club is for you. We really look forward to welcoming prospective members and to helping you make the most our of your tech devices e.g. laptops, phones etc.
Having trouble getting your head around the changes when you update your Android (Samsung, Oppo, etc.) phone, or your iPhone? Maybe you just bought a new phone or your kids gave you one of their hand-me-downs and you’re a bit
flexibility, stretched goat skin across it, and painted it in shades of blue as a tribute to the whales.
For those who attended the weekend, one of the most valued gifts was simply the permission to slow down. Participants spoke warmly of being able to step away from the relentless pace of daily life for two full days – to just be, and to think their own thoughts. Meditation, Peter explains, also supports a deeper healing process, allowing the body and mind to release old emotional burdens, break unhelpful cycles, and shed limiting beliefs. What made the weekend particularly special was that every person's experience was honoured without judgement. Peter held the space with great care, helping everyone feel safe enough to have whatever experience was right for them - and no two journeys were the same.
Peter is open to facilitating drumming weekends for other interested groups. For more information, contact Peter on 021 026 53310.
nervous using it. Make your life easier by scheduling an appointment to spend 45 minutes with one of our experienced volunteer tutors, Alan, Pam (iPhones), Megan or Molly. They will show you how to get going and how to utilise the features of your tech device. Tutors are available every Wednesday. You’ll have to make an appointment so email our Admin, at seniornet.whitianga.admin@ gmail.com. If you’re already a member, there’s a small charge. If you’re an iPhone user, join our friendly iPhone user group of about six members which meets every other Wednesday from 2:15pm to 4:15pm.
A heartfelt thank you from St John
BY GILLIAN REID
The local Hato Hone St John services receive incredible support from the community and their Mercury Bay Area Committee would like to sincerely thank everyone.
Among the many voluntary contributions made by people in the Whitianga community to St John, the most obvious is our retail store which plays an important role in supporting the life-changing work of Hato Hone St John locally, and this would not be possible without the generosity of our supporters.
We are grateful to the many community members who donate quality goods, and to our loyal customers who choose to shop locally, knowing their purchases go towards vital health services and resources in the Mercury Bay area.
BY LACHIE HARVEY
WUTHERING
HEIGHTS
Movie review
In the spirit of International Year of the Volunteer, we also want to acknowledge our invaluable network of volunteers throughout the community,
• To our op shop volunteers, thank you for your time, commitment, and welcoming presence, you are at the heart of the store’s success.
• To our local volunteer ambulance officers, who are on-call day and night to provide emergency care, your professionalism, compassion and dedication is deeply appreciated.
• To our health shuttle volunteers, who generously give their time to support the public in accessing essential healthcare, it makes a genuine difference for many people throughout the community.
On behalf of Richard Vetter, Area Committee Chair, and the committee, thank you for your continued support. Together, we are helping ensure Hato Hone St John is there for the people of Mercury Bay in their time of need.
A special thank you also goes to our Ambulance Membership subscribers, along with the many community members who generously make donations. Your ongoing contributions provide vital stability and help ensure Hato Hone St John can continue to be there when it matters most. This includes the local contractors and tradespeople who have provided discounted labour and practical support to the Whitianga ambulance station, helping maintain it and its operations.
A new romance film has come to theatres in the form of a nearly 200 year old story. Wuthering Heights is the recently released film in question, directed by Emerald Fennell and starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi.
The film takes place in a fictional land set in the 1700s, it follows a pair of complicated lovers in Catherine (Robbie) and Heathcliff (Elordi), as they traverse life and love both together and apart.
The immediate positive for this film is its acting. Both Robbie and Elordi lean convincingly into the time period and approach the at times outlandish dialogue with great poise and respect for the writing. Their supporting actors, namely Martin Clunes of Doc Martin fame, are equally enveloped in their roles. The result is a fairly flaw free cast, who by no means just dial it in.
The second thing to note is the visuals. The sets are convincingly accurate for the period, as are the landscapes, which are captured very well with a sea of slow wide shots and well lit night shots. Fennell and her cinematographer Linus Sandgren executed their vision very effectively. Sandgren comes from several notable previous outings,
including La La Land, No Time to Die and Saltburn.
Before I switch gears here to the slight detractors of this film, it’s worth noting who this film is for, the original novel was made primarily for women audiences, and that hasn’t changed for this film. This, as well as the rating, rules out any whole family watchings. This film would be best absorbed by couples, or individually.
What is truly difficult to grasp is the explicit contents of the story, otherwise known as what the characters are doing in the more intimate scenes. There’s certainly no issue with a romance flick, especially in a film world saturated with action and drama, but there seems
to have been a shift in the last 10-15 years on what is socially acceptable to put into media content. For film this shift was driven by 2015’s Fifty Shades of Grey. While it was very well known how lewd that film was, it doesn’t seem to be as clear with this one. To put it simply, this is 1700s Fifty Shades of Grey.
The one other small thing I would note is that this is that this may be the eighth time you’re seeing Jacob Elordi on your screen since 2023, the performer has been exceptionally busy with films during that period. For those who are fans, more for you, for those who may have seen enough of him during that period, you will have to live with him on your screens a little longer, as this is his first of two movies this year.
If the first Fifty Shades film or any of the others were a hit for you, then Wuthering Heights will be as well, but for those outside of this audience, it will require a bit of an open minded approach. By no means is the film ruined by the singular issue of explicit scenes, it is a well structured well acted piece. It’s just worth noting before you head into the Twin Cinemas what you’re getting into.
Screening Times at Mercury Bay Twin Cinemas: Saturday, 14 March 4:15pm, Tuesday, 17 March 7:00pm.
A Lifestyle Village in Thames on the Coromandel 2 BEDROOM VILLAS NOW AVAILABLE!
bayleys.co.nz/2202107
Vendor has moved overseas
Perched in an exceptional location, this architect-designed home frames panoramic coastal views from nearly every vantage point. At the heart of the home lies a dramatic open-plan kitchen, living and dining space crowned by a striking vaulted ceiling. A gas fireplace centres the living area, while expansive stacker doors connect the interior to a sun-soaked deck overlooking the captivating curve of Mount Paku. Step into the lush central courtyard, where curated plantings surround a private spa and outdoor gas fireplace—an idyllic space for quiet evening retreats. The master suite is a haven of calm and indulgence and a separate wing is ideal for hosting family or guests. Additional features include a dedicated media lounge or fifth bedroom and space for a boat ensuring practicality complements prestige. Easy access to town and boat ramp. Don't miss the opportunity! bayleys.co.nz/2201767
by appointment Belinda Sammons 027 272 7728
Kylie Pullen 021 163 6514
kylie.pullen@bayleys.co.nz
Wharekaho 21 Leah Road
Stone’s throw from the beach
This much-loved 1980's coastal retreat offers relaxed, easy-going living just moments from the beautiful sands of Wharekaho Beach. Inside, the home features two-bedrooms and two-bathrooms, plus a rumpus room used as extra sleeping accommodation. The open plan living and dining area features a cosy fire and sea views from both the living room and the deck. Step outside to sun-soaked outdoor spaces where you can enjoy sea breezes, and listen to the waves drifting in. Set on a low-maintenance section, this property offers great potential to refresh or personalise over time.
bayleys.co.nz/2202066
792 sqm 2 2 1 For Sale $1,080,000 View 1.45-2.15pm Sat 14 Mar or by appointment
Neil Kember 021 0840 5991
neil.kember@bayleys.co.nz
Chelsea McLean 021 907 510 chelsea.mclean@bayleys.co.nz
M H REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
Surplus to requirements
Tucked away and surprisingly spacious, this home offers outstanding flexibility for extended family living, guest accommodation, or earning potential through holiday letting. With 210sqm (mol) of living, the layout is perfectly suited to a home and income style setup, two families sharing, or hosting friends and family while maintaining privacy for everyone. Upstairs, enjoy a sun-filled open plan kitchen, dining and lounge opening out to a sunny entertainer's deck with small peeks of the bay. Off-street parking leads to a single garage with additional toilet, plus there is ample space for a boat and extra vehicles.
bayleys.co.nz/2202099
481 sqm 4 2 1
Sale $965,000 View 10.45-11.15am Sat 14 Mar or by appointment
Neil Kember 021 0840 5991
neil.kember@bayleys.co.nz
Chelsea McLean 021 907 510 chelsea.mclean@bayleys.co.nz
M H REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS,LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
Whitianga 238B Cook Drive
The wonders of that very first time in New Zealand
BY MARGARET LOVELL
In last week’s issue, I shared the beginning of our accommodation adventures in New Zealand. This was early 2002. I had only ever holidayed in Greece but my husband was pursuing a long held hope of taking me to see the country that had won his heart so many years before. He felt we should try what many New Zealanders enjoyed for a holiday. He said it was a good deal. He booked a caravan! In England we had been on many a holiday with four children in a caravan. They are set up like small bungalows, with bedrooms, kitchen, lounge, your own bathroom etc.
So that was what he thought we were getting when he booked this bargain night! Oh dear!! There was this old, small towing caravan…grotty, would be my more acceptable description! I knew I could not lie down in that caravan.
Toilet facilities’ were some way off via steps and a broken pathway – no lights! I said I would sit in the car all night!
FREE!
Other things I recall included the fact of going to the furthest point we could reach in the time available, in that direction. We arrived in Thames!
There was a basket on the counter of a small shop – (no Pak’n Save in those days). In this basket there were several items marked….FREE!!! I had never seen that before – little key rings and oddments, this and that…. lovely! We bought some things we didn’t really want, to justify the pleasure of finding the freebies! We did some of the beautiful tourist things too – a Maori culture evening and Hangi. The first experience of the Haka was a little frightening in its presentation, but inspirational when the meaning was explained. The rhapsodic music and sheer beauty of the Maori dancers were so refresh-
ing. What a change to see real feminism displayed in all shapes and sizes – rather than the false, promoted idealism of ‘you have to be a certain shape’!
Mind you, by the time the Hangi was actually ready and we had backsides groaning with pins and needles from sitting on wooden benches for so long,,,,I think anyone slim amongst us was ready to ravage and convert!
By now we had lost all track of time and were travelling north of Auckland to visit a relative still living in Whangarei. By early afternoon we were tired and hot from driving and came to a lovely little town called…Warkworth. Time for refreshments…..but it was like a ghost town…no one around! Then I saw some figures at a doorway with a sign saying, ‘Backpackers’. I went over and asked if they knew if there was anywhere my husband could get a cup of coffee?
A young man said ‘No, but we’ll make one for him.’ Very nice and kind! Our daughter stayed with him and I walked off to explore the other end of the ‘dead’ town.
EVERYTHING CLOSEDALMOST!
Nowadays everyone in New Zealand knows what to expect if they enter a ‘Bakehouse’ establishment. But this was my first time…..all those rows of every variety of cake/colour/contents/ flavour?
What was so exciting was ..the. shop was open….at 3.00pm!!
I struggled to choose a cake each and as I left, they did close… but no matter by then. I walked back down the desolate street and couldn’t help noticing how many estate agent shops there were. I thought this must be an up and coming place with so many properties to sell in the area. Back at the Backpackers Lodge I asked how much was owed for the coffee and was told, ‘Don’t worry, never mind’! And he meant it.. What? Kindness like that when everywhere is closed and he won’t take any payment…impressive. Mind you, being able to buy the bag of cakes was also impressive.
It was only when we arrived at my sister-in-laws that we found out it was New Years Day, so natu-
rally everywhere was closed! But these two acts had amazing long -term consequences……..
When we got back to England, I couldn’t stop thinking about Warkworth. The New Zealand dollar was a whopping $3.25 to the Englich pound and maybe, we could actually buy a small house in New Zealand – Warkworth of course!
A HAND WRITTEN LETTER TO A REAL ESTATE AGENCY
No way of ‘looking up’ anything then with no online at one’s fingertips! So I wrote a letter to “The Postmaster” Warkworth, New Zealand. I asked if my letter could be passed onto any real estate agent in the town please! Requesting any information about houses for sale etc….such a long shot! That’s how it was then.
To my delight I had a couple of responses. The latter really followed up with zeal and consequently made a sale! It was just over a year later we had less than a week spare to make a quick visit. It was to ‘clinch the deal’ (or not) for what had been a favourite to see –nicknamed “Glo-worm grotto”. But when I saw it I was disappointed because of unfenced acreage and although it had a
ABOUT MARGARET:
• An award winning sculptor and a Fellow of the Royal British Society of Sculptors
• Following her training at the Slade, London and at the Academy of Fine Art in Florence, she has carried out numerous commissions and exhibited across the UK, Europe and the USA.
• Her works are largely in bronze and vary in size from miniature to monumental. They range from lifelike portraits to sculptures that express natural forms to soaring movement.
media room with massive expensive audio equipment all over one wall…..and beautifully pristine tiled outbuildings for his collection of old Mercs and Classic BMWs. (which would have been my studio space) - there was no wash hand basin in the toilet! We remain baffled as to why -even now- a house would be designed with a WC room having no hand washing basin!
That agent then spent the rest of the time we were in New Zealand taking us all around to try and find something suitable. It was not long after that he pointed to a building which was no more than a distant slit on the hillside and said, “That’s where I am taking you next.”
We couldn’t believe it….such a wonderful position. We looked at each other and rolled eyes not wanting to seem too keen! But it was love at first sight. It was called “Dark Summit” - the view and the solitude were fantastic. The decision was made and we bought it, returning to England as proud owners of New Zealand property! (Yes, the law allowed that in those days).
Over the next few years, trips were made to and fro and all the family wished they could be in New Zealand!
• In the past few years, Margaret and her husband have made the outskirts of Matarangi their home.
Environment Matters
Sheer incompetence at decision making level
BY MALCOLM CAMPBELL
Alastair Brickell wrote a great piece in The Informer Issue 1194. He is absolutely correct that given time, the western half of the Coromandel Peninsula is going to finish up in the Hauraki Gulf and the eastern half in the Pacific Ocean. Already on the western side of the Peninsula at low tide, wide fans of silt can be seen at the outlets of the many streams carrying the hills into the sea, slowly forming an extended land area.
DRAINAGE AND INVENTIONS
In 1952 my father bought 200ha
of virgin peat land, no fences and no drains. Our family could not farm without drains; we could not grow grass in water. A farmer on the Hauraki Plains, Murdoch Carter had designed a basic implement. it was a large beam with an angle wing at about 30 degrees. Just plough a big furrow with a swamp plough and drag this Carter Drainer along would get you a basic shallow drain. Progress was made to a back blade on a crawler tractor, and we were able to dig in the soft peat a much deeper open drain and more importantly, maintain the said drain more efficiently at up to 200metres an hour.
Then we saw an implement at a
Field Day, and it gave us an idea. We built yet another drainage machine. This machine enabled both digging and maintenance, including spreading the material at not 200 metres an hour, but up to 800 metres in 40minutes.
This won me first prize in the Farmer Invention Award in 1974. Do not get too carried awa; it can only maintain up to 1.5 metres deep. I still have one of these machines if anybody wants to view it. When leaving the property we had arrived at in 1952, we had gone from no drains to 20 kms of open drains. It was important to maintain the drains at least every second year.
Part One
IGNORANCE AND LAZINESS
This is where the laziness speaks and I call the culprits-‘ twits’.
“It is much cheaper to spray and poison the weeds, than mechanically open the ditch,” they said.
So now there is a supposed drainage outlet, clogged with poisoned debris deliberately impeding the water flow, able at times to block culverts and as at Waihi in the most recent deluge, weeds so extensive they have matted up about a hundred metres of fence and flattened that too.
Water is one thing, but water and rubbish is a totally different ball game.
Look at the people at Te Araroa
surrounded by debris in some place up to two metres deep and not the first time either. A whiff of Roundup will never fix that situation. Somebody will have to get in there and move the trash, something people did, before the criminal RMA. Now we have the mad situation where local government staff are in control of their relevant authority and at the same time, they are afraid of making a decision (even if they thought they knew how), until they have a Resource Consent. Experience and drainage knowledge is out the door in favour of fairyland bureaucracy.
To be continued.
Biggest most comprehensive motorhome caravan show
The Covi RV & Outdoor SuperShow is on from the 20-22 March 2026 at the Auckland Showgrounds, Greenlane, Auckland.
The biggest most comprehensive motorhome and caravan show in New Zealand has everything you need irrespective of if you are just starting out on your journey or are a seasoned motorhomer or caravanner.
We have free seminars from all the industry experts, buy a motorhome or caravan at the show and go into the draw to win the Covi $10k Cashback, and we are auctioning a brand new Elddis camper at no reserve on Saturday 21 March at 12noon.
Better yet, we have partnered with the great team at Total RV to giveaway a magnificent Trav-
GRAND PRIZE
eller 17ft Cruise Caravan, as the ultimate Grand Prize.
ENTRY TICKET IS AN ENTRY FOR TOTAL RV GRAND PRIZE
All you need to do is get your
tickets stamped at the booths around the show and you’ll go in the draw to win this fantastic caravan.
Proudly Aussie built, the Total RV Grand Prize, is fully set up for
off-grid adventures with 110L fresh water and 110L grey water tanks, a 100Ah lithium battery and 200W solar panel.
Inside, you’ll find all the modcons including a generous 200L compressor fridge, instant hot water system, and a cooktop with mini grill.
Finished with reliable 12-inch brakes, the Traveller 17 ft Cruise Caravan is ready for the ultimate Kiwi road trip.
Increase your odds of winning when you buy tickets online. You’ll not only get a second Grand Prize entry, you’ll go in a separate draw to win an Adjusta mattress worth $7,200. These awesome prizes must be won. See ticket information below.
Plan your end of summer trav-
els around the show and stay for free at the rally at Ellerslie Racecourse, the perfect base for a weekend exploring the city. Take advantage of the free shuttle buses between the rally and the showgrounds, bring your pets (on a lead) and enjoy a round of golf at the great 9-hole inner-city golf course, located right next to the rally site.
Come and enjoy the last of summer and see us at the Covi RV SuperShow at the Auckland Showgrounds, Greenlane, Auckland March 20 - 22!
Tickets online at www. supershow.co.nz, tickets available online until 10.00pm Thursday, 19 March, or buy tickets at the gate.
Council clears budget hurdle – more to come
BY GEOFFREY ROBINSON
Newly elected TCDC councillors have confirmed a tightened 2026-27 draft budget reflecting a clear public mandate at election time to stop unsustainable rates increases.
At its regular meeting on Tuesday 24 February, Council revisited and formally adopted a laundry list of cuts and policy changes that had been hashed out in four workshop sessions with staff over summer.
The result for ratepayers will be a district-wide average rates increase in the range of 3.2%3.8%, depending on final staff calculations and any changes made in response to public consultation. With several million in budget savings still to be found after the Council’s last workshop on February 12, a follow-up meeting ofthe Mayor’s Efficiency Taskforce (MET) closed the gap.
Planned changes to depreciation funding policy are now projected to reduce rates requirements by roughly $3.5 million, and approximately $1 million in personnel cost reductionsacross the council are to be identified. The MET comprises
Mayor Peter Revell, Deputy Mayor John Grant, Cr Flemming Rasmussen, CEO Aileen Lawrie, and senior staff.
COLLEGIALITY BUT NOT CONSENSUS
While the full Council meeting was largely collegial and united in its commitment to achieving the mayor’s 3.8% rates increase cap, and while many budget cuts were rubber stamped, discussion around several items reflected compet-
ing concerns, specifically the urgency of overall rates relief versus cost impacts in individual circumstances. Although not voting as a bloc, on a number of more forcefully debated items, including enforcement of bylaws, rates remissions, timing of rates bills, and council staff wages and salaries, Thames Ward councillors were notably less hawkish than their East Coast colleagues.
100% RATES REMISIONS
In a significant backtrack
from earlier workshop direction, Council decided to continue its policy of 100% rates remissions (totalling $750,000) for owners of separately habitable units, such as granny flats. Councillors had previously directed staff to consider a possible shift to a 50% remission. A relatively minor proposal to streamline rates billing was also abandoned over affordability concerns and impacts on low-income individuals.
Councillors requested their individual votes be recorded
CLARITY THAT MATTERS MOST.
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on these and several other contentious items.
A final Draft Annual Plan reflecting last week’s decisions will be adopted at Council’s 24 March meeting. Legislation will require public consultation on the proposed reductions in mowing and garden services, as well as opening hour cutbacks at the Coromandel, Matarangi, and Pāuanui transfer stations, as these technically would be service level cuts. The public will also be consulted on planned changes to remission policy for late rates payment penalties, as well as remissions for excess water charges where leaks are identified.
While the headline number of 3.8% represents an average increase for all ratepayers, individual bills for the year starting in July will also reflect the controversial change adopted by the previous Council last year from land value to capital value rating. Several thousand individual properties, depending on improvements, will see rates increase or decrease by more than 10% as a result, far more or less than the annual plan would otherwise yield.
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Excellent gathering at Kuaotunu community – resilience issues
Steve Hart, as Chair of Kūaotunu Residents & Ratepayers’ Association(KRRA), reports on their recent special meeting called to discuss storm resilience.
PREPARED BY STEVE HART
The KRRA called together the community on Wednesday, 18 February to discuss resilience and how they and various agencies responded to the 21 January storm and how residents could prepare for future similar storm events. Over residents turned out in the Kūaotunu Hall and the discussion was lively, well-presented and informative.
The January storm came swift and fast as more than 390mm of rain fell in the catchment in just 24 hours. Cemetery Road, State Highway 25 and several Pumpkin Flat residents’ properties were inundated with floodwater. A young couple and their baby had to evacuate as floodwater entered their home and two women were evacuated by kayak. Roads became impassable and a major slip over SH25 west of the boat ramp cut off travel to the north of Kūaotunu for nearly a week.
Kūaotunu Emergency Response Group (KERG) spokesperson, Carolyn Cook, outlined how the KERG team responded early at the outset of the storm event by activating its Community Response Centre at 9.00am in the Kūaotunu Hall. The purpose of the CRC was to provide community support. Assistance and accommodation was readily available for evacuees and those in need. Communication was maintained via local social media and CFM (also interviews done on RNZ). All vulnerable people at Kūaotunu registered with KERG were contacted and assistance offered.
Kūaotunu Fire & Emergency Deputy Fire Chief, Andrew Mobberley, provided an informative insight into how FENZ worked closely with KERG throughout the storm, providing sandbags where needed, assisting with evacuations and undertaking road safety control. Andrew provided essential safety information including
why no-one should try to navigate slips during and after storm events.
NZTA East Waikato Roading Network Manager Ryan Boyle spoke on various issues involving the damage to the state highway on a regional scale and the localised damage requiring substantial ongoing repair work at the summit. Urgent remedial works on an unstable slip south of the Kūaotunu Hill Summit resulted in a 3 day road closure.
Mr Boyle confirmed there had been safety issues with traffic management at the summit and the issue was rectified. The slip on the eastern side of the summit (opposite the recently completed retaining wall) would involve significant repair work and assessments were underway to determine what the repair would involve.
The slip on SH25 at the Kūaotunu Boat ramp had been cleared for the road to reopen but the substantial amount of slip debris in the coastal area would remain as it is not part of the NZTA emergency works recovery.
DECISION AWAITED
When challenged on this, Mr Boyle pointed out that NZTA only have a responsibility for the state highway within the road corridor and that the debris in the coastal environment was a Waikato Regional Council responsibility. The decision on responsibility and removal of the extensive debris is still awaited.
COUNCIL AND WAIKATO REGIONAL STAFF SPEAK TO THE GATHERING
TCDC Interim Roading Manager Len Whittaker gave an update on the Blackjack Road slip at the village entrance. Mr Whittaker agreed the current one-way road markings were not satisfactory, and he undertook to ensure the road safety issues raised would be resolved urgently. The Blackjack Road slip was one of many slips on the TCDC roading network but was listed for urgent retaining wall works May – June.
Waikato Regional Council was represented by Rick Liefting –leader of the Regional Resilience
team; Chloe Wilson – program lead for the Hauraki and Coromandel Catchment Team, Steven Cornelius – Senior Engineer Resilience Team and a WRC Regulatory Team member.
The team spoke at length about floodplain modelling, forecasting storm events, 60/100 year significant rainfall events, rainfall data and planning for future weather events. Much of the discussion was data driven and the practicality of flooding events going forward was challenged by attendees due to flooding events happening every 2/3 years.
The WRC regulatory process was described for developments in flood plains and Chloe Wilson described how issues with swales, culverts, rivers, streams and estuaries are often consequences of poor maintenance when flood events occur. WRC are available online for Requests for service (REQ) for maintenance prior to events.
LOCAL DEVELOPMENT
DEBATED
Cemetery Road residents Jo and
Phil Pullin presented on their application for a nine-lot subdivision on the floodplain at 4 Cemetery Road, Kūaotunu. They envisaged their application would not affect other properties within the catchment. Their application had met with opposition from KRRA and residents within the Kūaotunu catchment.
SUMMARY STATEMENT
“Being resilient to the effects from future major rain events is foremost in the mind of the community and our association, so KRRA will endeavour to tackle some of the issues that were highlighted at the meeting.” Steve as Chair commented at the conclusion of the meeting.
“It was an excellent gathering of the community to hear from the various emergency service groups who support our community during emergency events and the agencies who have a responsibility to repair damage to local and crown owned roads and those who manage our water catchments, rivers and our coastline.”
The slip in Kuaotunu; Cemetery Rd and flooding paddock January 2026.
Celebrating the women behind our Rescue Helicopter missions
ADAPTED FROM PRESS RELEASE
This International Women’s Day, Sunday, 8 March , the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter recognises the vital contributions women make onboard the rescue helicopter, and the wider community. As part of this celebration, Jennifer shares her insights into her role as an Air Crew Officer/Paramedic.
She joined the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter crew in 2022 after working as a frontline paramedic. “No two days are the same,” she says “a mix of aviation and medical responsibilities.”
Jenifer’s skills and dedication
are central to ensuring life-saving missions can happen every day, often in the most challenging conditions. As both a Paramedic and Air Crew Officer, she serves as the pilot’s second set of eyes and ears while also supporting the Critical Care Flight Paramedic during missions.
Her day begins with “checking the aircraft fuel and oxygen levels, followed by making sure all the medical and rescue equipment is in the aircraft and secured.” She then meets with the Pilot to discuss “weather, flight conditions, aviation notices that are valid during our shift, and any aircraft or base duties that need to be completed that day.” Whether her
shift starts at 7am or 7pm, she prepares early to ensure she’s ready to respond the moment a call comes in.
Each day brings different scenery, different people, and different challenges. With no ‘typical day’ on the rescue helicopter, Jennifer and the other two crew members on shift – the Pilot and Critical Care Flight Paramedicmust be prepared to fly to a wide range of missions.
These could include hospital transfers, motor vehicle accidents, or search-and-rescue beacon activations. The variety within the role offers constant opportunities to use and develop a wide range of skills.
Coromandel Rescue Missions
For the Auckland & Coromandel Westpac Rescue Helicopters 1–28 February 2026
03.02.2026 Whitianga
03.02.2026 Thames
06.02.2026 Coroglen
One thing that is guaranteed is ongoing training.
On quieter days without callouts, they spend time undertaking either medical or crew training and completing inventory checks. In 2025, the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter completed 745 missions.
Thank you to Jennifer and all the exceptional women working onboard the rescue helicopters.
Your Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter relies on generous donations to help fund its lifesaving missions. Donate to your local rescue helicopter today https://give.rescue.org.nz/ event/waikato-westpac-rescue-helicopter/donate
Assist a male patient in his 20’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist with the interhospital transfer of a child suffering a medical complaint. The child was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.
Assist a child suffering a medical complaint. The child was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.
06.02.2026 Pinnacles Stood down enroute and re-tasked to another mission.
06.02.2026 Hahei
07.02.2026 Whitianga
08.02.2026 Whitianga
12.02.2026 Thames
14.02.2026 Colville
Tasked by Police Search and Rescue to assist with a boat taking on water but was stood down overhead and returned to base. All enquiries to Police.
Assist a male patient in his 80’s suffering an injury from a fall. He was to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition.
Assist a female patient in her 20’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition.
Assist a female patient in her 70’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist a female patient in her 70’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.
15.02.2026 Coromandel Tasked to Coromandel Airport to assist a female patient in her 30’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
19.02.2026 Thames
Assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.
19.02.2026 Kopu Crew were stood down enroute and returned to base.
21.02.2026 Coromandel
22.02.2026 Thames
24.02.2026 Thames
25.02.2026 Te Mata
25.02.2026 Coromandel
26.02.2026 Whitianga
Assist a male patient in his 80’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist a female patient in her 30’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.
Assist with the interhospital transfer of a female patient in her 20’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown from Thames Hospital to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition.
Assist a female patient in her 60’s involved in a motor vehicle rollover accident. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist a male patient in his 50’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition.
Assist an elderly female patient suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.
WWRH Air Crew Officer/ Paramedic Jennifer.
Letters to the Editor
FISHING POEM
I fish, you fish, we fish for our tea, A family day out on the brightblue sea!
We take just enough, we leave some to grow, The sea is on loan – this is something we know.
Big fish! Small fish! Fast fish! Slow! Silver fish that flash and glow. Striped fish! Spotted! Round and flat!
Oh, what an ocean of this and that!
But best of all fish – most marvellous, divine –
The marlin! Bright blue, with a sword for a spine! It leaps! It twists! It cartwheels the sky!
The king of all oceans - and you can see why.
Then one fine morning came hundreds of boats - oh, what a roar! With motors revved up, they thundered offshore. With rods! And with reels! And with hooks! And with nets!
They charged into open water, free of regrets.
“I shall catch the BIGGEST!” they bragged with glee,
“The most marvellous marlin who swims in this sea!
I shall wrestle it! Wrangle it! Hang it up HIGH!
And post forty photos for everyone’s eye!”
“It’s a COMPETITION! Take what you can!
The fish here are free - grab all that you land!
Whoever gets the biggest wins the trophy, you see!”
No thought for the future. No thought for the sea.
They cast without thinking, they hauled without care, They grabbed and they snatched at whatever was there. No mind for tomorrow, no heart for the sea, Just points on a leaderboardthat’s all it could be.
They didn’t want supper. They didn’t need stew.
They wanted a trophy. A photo. A coup.
“I conquered! I won it! I’ll tell you the tale!”
(The marlin, it seemed, had a rather different email.)
After the weekend they packed up and left,
Leaving Whitianga quiet - and a little bereft.
No thank you. No sorry. No glad that I came.
They left nothing behind them — not even their shame.
The future
No red fish are left now. No fish are in view.
No silver ones flashing. No striped ones or blue.
No MARLIN leaps skyward. No sword splits the air.
When Mum and Dad go out fishing – nothing is there.
So here is the thing, and it isn’t so funny:
The ocean doesn’t care about trophies or money.
When you go out fishing, catch it with care -
Take what you need and leave plenty to spare.
Fish just need oceans, and we need the same. Leave enough fish in it… …to come back again.
Verna Carr, Whitianga SHAME INDEED
Citing the article in The Informer, last week (front page and p.5), the local territorial authorities allowed the houses north of our ex boating club to install rock walls without resource consent.
Then I believe they sold them retrospective consent. This wall ended just before the club and CAUSED the sea to scour out the seaward land in front of the clubhouse. In between the two storms, the club paid for large concrete blocks to be installed to temporarily save that land.
Then the same territorial authorities threatened fines and court action if they weren’t removed.?
A few years earlier on the other side of the Bay, a lot of rate payers’ money was wasted to move sand around Flaxmill Bay to try to save the beach and the road. It didn’t work.
Then one civil disobedient man built some groynes out of used sacks and PROVED that alternatives to council policy work. Then the authorities actually installed geo-cloth groynes that have saved the beach and road.
When there is no consistency in government corporate policy, there can be no trust.
Groynes are used internationally to prevent sea ingress. If there is no systemic change in coastal management, then the time for civil disobedience is NOW. Perhaps we could have a quick revolution after finishing doom scrolling, Netflix and televised sport....
Roger Harwood, Whitianga
MERCURY BAY BOAT CLUBHOUSE
I would like to put in a tender for the Mercury Bay Boat Clubhouse. My tender is One Hundred, NZ Dollars, including GST. ($100.00)
Should I be the successful tenderer I would like to donate the Clubhouse to the Mercury Bay Boat Club.
Conditions of that tender would be that it will be reinstated on the existing site. The club has an existing lease on this site.
At that point I would wish to involve the whole wider community to restore this valuable community asset. I have no doubt that with the generosity of the community, volunteers, donors, fundraisers, machinery operators, that the club can be back up and operating, at no cost to the rate payers.
I would suggest that the building be bought forward 4 or 5 meters and re piled and re connected to existing services. I would then suggest building a beautiful rock wall garden right along the waterfront with plantings of grasses and coastal flowers. How good would that be. This should not be confused with a rock protection wall, heaven forbid.
The local Iwi could be invited to create a beautiful rose garden at the rear of the site, with seating, so as we could all take time out in the garden to pay our respect to our ancestors.
The clubhouse could be filled with Americas Cup Memorabilia
reflecting the rich history of the Club.
Imagine how nice it would be for the sailing members to return to the clubhouse after a day on the water and have a nice BBQ and a drink or two. The community could use it for Weddings, Funerals, and community functions.
Kiwis are well respected around the planet as movers, shakers, and people that can fix things. This is a disgrace that this club has been put in this position by lazy politicians.
Ready to help, no charge. Never Give Up. (NGU)
Douglas Anderson, Whitianga
BOATING CLUB
The saga of the Mercury Bay Boating Club building and its demise is deeply saddening for me, and all the other surviving ‘old salts’ who were involved in its conception and planning. For years we worked tirelessly for fundraising and to obtain the necessary Consents. When it finally came to fruition, we were so proud of our beautiful building!
May I tell you about my (not) memories of that auspicious opening day?
Derek and I were very involved in fundraising for the clubhouse, but in 1995 we left New Zealand to begin our round-the-world voyage. In February 1998 we were with the yacht in Bristol, England, half-way through our circumnavigation. We got jobs at the Royal Mail Centre and were able to visit the family in the Midlands every weekend. Then over the fax machine came the invitation to attend the official opening of the Boating Club clubhouse. Derek decided that we couldn’t afford two airfares, or to give up both wages, and in less than no time he was on the plane and I
was still on board Hibiscus in the English winter. We were locked into the small boat marina; the water was iced over, the walkways were treacherous and there was snow on the roof of the yacht. I continued to catch the bus to work. Derek returned, full of the excitement of the day in Mercury Bay. Councillor Joan Gaskell had done the honours by firing a brass cannon, forged by club member Brian Parker. That story has been repeated so many times, I could almost believe I was there! We can only hope that the beloved clubhouse will go to people who will love it as much as we did.
Dorothy Preece
THE ESPLANADE PROJECT NON-TRANSPARENCY
I believe we all thought we had “Put the Esplanade to Bed”. But, NO! Funding is about to be placed on the TCDC table for consideration/approval very shortly. I ask that all those who fought so valiantly against this revenue eating, non essential monster, to voice their opposition loudly and clearly before this proceeds any further. Letters directly to the CE, Mayor and all Councillors will serve as a reminder that we do care about where funding is directed and our voice needs to be heard. That this has proceeded without “Transparency”, “Openness” and “Honesty” is shameful. We must continue to stand up and demand that we be treated the same way our Councillors and TCDC Staff expect us to treat them. We have the benefit of some very effective Councillors now, but re-establishing the guidelines on governance within Council will take time. We need to support those who support us. We can do this.
Ady Cole-Ewen, Wharekaho
Ray’s Report #15 Mayor’s Report
Mercury Bay Pony Club at Ballyndene
For over 50 years the Mercury Bay Pony Club has turned out numerous young riders largely due to the efforts of the riders themselves, their parents and a great team of volunteer coaches and the good offices of the local Iwi and the local forestry company.
Some of the Club’s riders have competed at a high level both at home and overseas where some alumni are involved in training and coaching. Pony Club is indeed the main grassroots for our internationally renowned New Zealand riders.
In early March a team of 6 young riders headed across to the Hunua Ranges to compete in the Franklin and Thames Valley District Pony Clubs annual Ballyndene competition. This competition has been going since the
last decade of the 20 century. It is named after a stellar Eventing horse and involves a serious of competition testing the rider’s horsemanship. It was hosted and superbly organised by the Bombay Pony Club.
This year some eight Pony Club Teams including rom Bombay, Waiuku, Tuakau, Thames, Pukekawa and our very own Mercury Bay Pony Club competed. The local team took out a very credible second place in two events including the very popular dress up the ponies and riders’ event. The Mercury Bay Kilted Courage were resplendent in their tartan gear and their decorated horses accompanied by the strains of the bagpipes. It was enough to warm the heart of any true Scotsman.
Pleasing progress, with more work ahead
BY PETER REVELL, MAYOR
Over the past four months, I have remained very mindful of what residents and ratepayers asked of councillors during last year’s election. The message was clear: reduce rate increases and strengthen connections with our communities so their voices are genuinely heard. Since October, your new council has been intentional in responding to those priorities.
With seven new councillors and a new mayor elected, there was a strong mandate to bring rates under control while improving engagement. Achieving a proposed rates increase of 3.8 percent or lower has required significant effort from councillors, staff, and community boards. Last week’s resolutions mean the increase we will consult on aligns with that commitment. It has been demanding work, but delivering on election promises matters.
We recognise there is still more to do. Consultation with the public on key recommendations will be essential, as we balance affordability with the
need to ensure council continues to operate effectively. Not every decision will attract universal support, but we were elected to make decisions in the best interests of the district as a whole, and that responsibility guides us.
Strengthening the role of community boards is another important focus. Board chairs now have speaking rights at council meetings, reinforcing their place at the table. While some council business is broad and procedural, it is vital that boards have the opportunity to be heard at the decision-making table. Work is progressing on an “Accord” to clarify the respective roles of council and community boards. Though still a work in progress, it will provide an important
foundation for the remainder of the triennium.
Encouragingly, boards are actively listening to their communities. Recommendations from both Whangamata and Tairua-Pauanui have recently progressed through council, particularly in support of community organisations. This demonstrates the value of strong local representation.
Looking ahead, responding to the most recent storm and continuing recovery work remains a priority. Building resilience in our roading and infrastructure networks must continue, regardless. We continue to look to central government for final guidance as to how they may be able to assist us financially so that the burden does not all fall on the ratepayer. At the same time, our Long-Term Plan beckons and we need to clearly identify the key priorities for councillors and staff in the years ahead, ensuring community boards play a central role in shaping and delivering those outcomes.
Progress has been made, but there is still important work before us.
Whitianga Coastguard
BY STUART, WHITIANGA COASTGUARD
Over the past month we have had three urgent callouts two being medical and one of a vessel dragging its anchor in the river, fouling another vessels’ mooring ropes. Thankfully both the medical patients, one a diving incident handed over to the Westpac Rescue helicopter team and the other related to allergies and handed off to the local St Johns team, are well and the vessel managed to clear the ropes and with the tide change, made its’ own way back to shore. Thank you to our other emergency service partners and well done to all the Coastguard crews involved in attending these calls.
We also undertook another nineteen general callouts covering fuel, mechanical, grounding, and various other scenarios as well.
In all we spent over three hundred crew hours on the water attending to the callouts and thankfully none were too far afield.
In addition, the radio operators and Duty Officers dealt with another twenty seven incidents covering overdue vessels, SAR watches (where a vessel might have an issues but is happy to attempt to return under their own power with the vessel placed on a 15 or 20 minute watch), groundings, missing tenders and unfortunately a drowning.
In total the unit spent over 1100 hours in support of their duties.
A request from our radio operators. An up-to-date callsign (correct vessel name and contact details) is a significant help to us in taking trip reports and working out who the owners of vessels are. This
does cut down our time in investigating reports and on airtime. Call signs combined with a Trip report are also the first step in working out a Search and Rescue response.
So, if you change your vessel, change mobile numbers etc please think about updating your call sign details. The link to the call sign register is www.boatingeducation.org.nz/marine-vhf-radio-call-signs The unit is looking for both Radio Operators to cover our local working slots and wet crew to go out to assist the vessels and people on them.
The Radio operators’ operate from a radio room in our shed and the wet crew are on a duty roster. Training is provided for both. If you think you are interested please contact our office on either 07 867 1994 or by email at info@whitiangacoastguard.co.nz.
The Coastguard Summer raffle is to be drawn any day. Good luck to all those who purchased tickets and supported our unit. Safe boating.
Across the River Swim 2026
The iconic ‘Across the River Swim’ couldn’t have had better conditions over a week ago. Just shy on 50 years, this event has been so well supported by students and teachers and the fantastic Mercury Bay community. Parents, siblings, grandparents and visitors from other countries filled the esplanade shoreline enjoying the life and vigour of hundreds of swimmers.
A huge thank you goes out to Jeremy and Louis Lomas from Whitianga Ferries, Darrell and Linda Bird from Divezone, Gary Hinds and the Hot Water Beach Safety team, Hayden Coburn, Stewart Laing and Graham Caddy, Harbourmaster and Coastguard.
Our year 13’s were treated to a guard of honour by Mrs Hutt and Leisa for their last ever river crossing.
May of the swimmers were there just to enjoy the experience with their noodle floats , boogie
boards and surrounded by lots of school friends. Teachers and lifeguards in canoes wrapped this very big swimming event around in safety. No swimmer needed to be concerned. Other swimmers led their year race with experienced strong strokes coming out of the estuary victorious.
MBAS is famous and well deserved for its plane building programme but this swimming race across an estuary with a strong current and students racing across 100 at a time must make this school unique in New Zealand. The information here was taken from the weekly school newsletter.
Senior Girls – 1st Angel Scobie, 2nd Miranda Coleman Senior Boys – 1st Wilfred Asquith, 2nd Liam Morgan, 3rd Tom Lamason
‘Copper’ Moon spectacular
BY ALASTAIR BRICKELL
Few people outside late on the evening of Wednesday, 3 March could have missed the lovely sight of a total Lunar Eclipse. Often referred to by the media as a “Blood” Moon, it is to me more of a “Copper” Moon as that is the lovely tint the Full Moon adopts as it slips through the Earth’s shadow. The colour is due to the sunlight refracting or bending around the entire Earth with the blue light being selectively absorbed by dust in our atmo-
Luna eclipse – Auckland 3 March 2026.
sphere. So really, what we are seeing on the surface of the Moon is the reflected light of all those sunsets around the Earth. Eclipses are the only time we can readily watch the Moon’s motion as it glides through the tiny spot in space that is the Earth’s shadow. That spot is always there but only rarely does the Moon pass right through it. It must be at Full Moon as that is the only time the Moon is exactly opposite the Sun but for most
months, it moves just above or below this small spot in its relentless 28 day voyage around the Earth. We will not have a chance to observe another eclipse in New Zealand until 2028 but that will be a special year. On 31 December, 2028 we will have another Lunar Eclipse while on 22 July we will have an even rarer Total Solar Eclipse, but you will have to travel to Dunedin or Australia to properly see that one.
Photos: Togo, Evakona
Naomi Bell, Phoebe McDougall, Elizabeth Till, India Percival , Levi Stewart. These year 13students have done many estuary swims. The exception is Naomi who is a new student
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.
1. Encroach (8)
5. Enthusiasm (4)
7. Praise highly (4)
8. Smallpox scar (8)
9. Hypodermic syringe (6)
12. Arduous experiences (7)
15. Open-air (7)
19. Hates (6)
21. Re-used (old material) (8)
22. Solo (4)
23. Of sound mind (4)
24. Chatted (8)
1. Long claws (6)
2. Was loyal to, ... with (5)
3. Crisp fruit (5) 4. Region (6) 5. Walking corpse (6) 6. Points out similarity (6)
10. Leave room (4)
11. Letterhead insignia (4)
12. Belonging to us (3)
13. Paint roughly (4)
14. As well (4)
15. Musical dramas (6)
16. Give (to charity) (6)
17. Parentless child (6) 18. Rise (6)
19. Certify (accounts) (5)
20. Slice down the middle
For last week’s solutions see page 28.
Proudly
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.
Sudoku instructions Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.
What’s On
OP SHOPS
Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.
St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat 9.30am-2pm.
St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen St, Whitianga. 9.30am-1pm Wed-Sat.
Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-2pm. Donations welcome.
SPCA Op-shop – 2 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 9am-4pm.
MONTHLY
AA Driver Licensing – NEW LOCATION. Friday, 13 March and Monday, 23 March. Whitianga Community Service Trust Centre, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga.
American Muscle Street and Custom Club Whitianga – Club meetings first Sunday of the month, 11am at Buffalo Beach Reserve for cars and coffee. Phone Reg and Julie Smith on 027 493 5822.
Cooks Beach Garden Circle –Last Thurs of the month 11.15am-2.30pm. New members welcome. Ph Anne on 07 866 0268 for more information.
Craft Group – Meets first Saturday of the month 10am-3pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr, carpark end. Work on your own craft (stitching, colouring in, scrapbook, card making anything goes). Bring your lunch and enjoy mixing with other crafty people. Any queries ph Alison 021 0508 772 or Sally 027 3962 383. Kūaotunu Dune Care – Every third Wed of the month. To get involved, please email kuaotunudunecare@gmail.com.
Hospice Waikato’s Bereavement Support Group – Lost a loved one? Join Hospice Waikato’s monthly bereavement support group. Connect over morning tea with others who understand. Held on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 10.30am to 12.00pm at Whitianga Social Services. Registration required. Contact Hospice Waikato to register at 07 859 1260.
Mercury Bay Model Railway Club – Monthly meet. Contact. Damon 0273551650
Mercury Bay Shooting Federation – Muzzle loader, rimfire, centre fire, military, pistol. Email mbsfsecretary@gmail.com
Ohuka Garden Club meets 2nd Wednesday of the month. New members welcome. Contact Beverley Sheppard Ph 02109028855 or email beverley@annabells.co.nz
Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Fourth Monday of every month, 10am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Jo on 021 264 3753. Tairua Market takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month all year at Tairua Community Hall, 9am till 1pm. Food, fruit and veges, crafts, clothing, home decor, plants, furniture, books and much more.
FORTNIGHTLY
Greeting Card Making – The second and fourth Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. All materials provided. Contact Rev. Gillian Reid on 021 781 081 or just turn up.
Knit for a Purpose – First and third Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. Ph Gillian Reid on 021 781081 for further details, or just turn up.
Mercury Bay Creative Fibre – Spin, knit, weave, crochet. First and third Wednesday every month, 10am-1pm, supper room of Town Hall. Phone Sue 021 274 7899. Email suzyed@ outlook.com
Mercury Bay Quilters – 10am-4pm on the first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016.
Whitianga Tramping Group – Every second Sunday at 8.30am. Phone Wally 021 907 782 or Lesley 021 157 9979 for more information.
WEEKLY OR MORE
Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.
Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info.
Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and values based ministry for boys. For boys aged
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.
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.
Coroglen Farmers Market every Sunday until Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25), from 9am-1pm.
Coffee and Discussion Group – Every Sunday, 2-4pm, at The Lost Spring. Topics are open and respect shown. No charge. Convener Peter H. Wood.
Cooks Beach Care Group – Meet new friends, learn about coastal conservation and make a difference. Hands-on weeding and planting, Thursday mornings. Register at: www. cooksbeachcaregroup.org.nz; www.facebook. com/CooksBeachCareGroup
Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling Club –Wednesday at 1.45pm. Come and join us at the Community Centre (Hall). New members are most welcome, please contact Coral ph. 0212303944.
Cooks Beach Pickleball – tennis courts, cnr Purangi Rd and Rees Ave. Saturday mornings 9am. All welcome. First time free, then $5. Contact Kevin 021 396 062.
Coromandel ‘Growers & Artisans Market’ –Every Saturday from 9am - 1pm at The Anglican Church Hall, Coromandel Town.
Dog walking group – Every Thurs, 2pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to a very sociable group. Ph Jenny on 021 186 5797.
Elevate Fitness – Strength and balance class using chair, sitting and standing exercises –Monday and and Thursday 9:00am Whitianga Town Hall, $10, ACC approved. Aqua Fit Water Workout, Hot Water Beach Resort, $20 including soak in spa, 11:30am Monday and Thursday. Movement to Music exercise class –strength & cardio, The Embassy of Friendship, Coghill Street. Call Nicole 021 0265 2693.
Hahei Contract Bridge Club – Every Tuesday 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Learners and casual welcome. Contact Don Barry 021 741 959 or Robyn Hogg 021543015.
Meditation Classes – Thursday evening. Spiritual, heart, soul development. Sacred energy, chakra activations, working with spiritual guides. Open forum conversation, Thursdays, 6.30pm at Flat 1, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga. Cost $10. Contact Verna 027 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com.
Mercury Bay Badminton Club – Thurs 5-7pm, MBAS school gym. Now open to new members wanting to play competitive Badminton. Coaching provided for those wanting to improve their skills. Phone Steve for more details 027 211 3568.
Mercury Bay Badminton – Every Wednesday 9-11am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, ages 16+. Phone Carol 027 474 7493 for more information.
Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club – 92 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Social Bowls, Thursday & Sunday at 12.30pm, Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.
Mercury Bay Bridge Club – Every Wednesday at 1.00pm and every Thursday at 7.00pm at the MB Bowling and Sports Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. For more information contact Gavin 021 146 9203.
Mercury Bay Community Choir – Meets
Mondays 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the music room
Mercury Bay Area School. Friendly inclusive non auditioned choir. All welcome. For enquiries phone Kate 027 2709058.
Mercury Bay Environmental Trust – Every Tues and Fri from 9-11am, location advised prior. For more information, phone 022 104 1701 please email mbenvironmentaltrust@ gmail.com or go to www.mbet.co.nz.
Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club. 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.
Oneness Meditation Centre – The centre focuses on the meditative art of going deeper within. Learn how to meditate, breath, calm the mind, relieve stress, anxiety and be a calm, peaceful, courageous, dynamic human being. Every Monday, 9.30-11.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881 or email linda_c@orcon. net.nz
Self-defence classes – Town Hall, Tues/Wed 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146. Spiritual Conversation Mornings – Every Tues and Wed, 10.30am-12pm, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga the Starlight Centre. Grab a coffee and join in some great conversation where we talk about topics and subjects that have meaning. $5 donation. Contact Verna 027 320 0079.
Tai Chi for all levels – Town Hall, Mondays 6-7pm. Gold coin donation. Ph Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.
Tairua Contract Bridge Club – Every Monday at 12.30pm at the Tairua Bowling Club, 44 Hornsea Rd. Contact Lynnette Flowers 021 252 4709 or Johanna Bonnar 027 466 3726.
Whenuakite Area Playgroup – 9.30am12.30pm every Wednesday morning at the Hahei Community Centre. Ages newborn-5years. We invite all parents, carers, visitors and grandparents. Contact whenuakiteareaplaygroup@gmail.com
Whitianga Art Group – Every Thurs/Fri 10am-4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.
Whitianga Menz Shed – NEW LOCATION - 18 Abrahamson Drive, Open Tues/Thurs, 9am-12 noon. Phone Glenn 0274-952-015. All welcome. Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/Fri 9am12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@ playcentre.org.nz or 027 880 3947.
Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games. Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info. Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome. Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss
Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.
Yoga for Everyone - beginners/retirees/ inflexibles welcome. Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 4.20pm, Fri 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25/90 minute session. Txt Rosemary 0274 489326 for info.
DANCING
Argentine Tango Dance Class – Fridays, Town Hall, Whitianga, 5.30-7.30pm. No prior experience or partner necessary. Text Sergio for questions 027 410 2454
Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran. com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm. Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Held in the Whitianga Town Hall. Tuesdays beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.45-2.30pm; Thursdays Seniors 10.15-11.15am, Absolute Beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Improvers 12.451.45pm. Night class held at Mercury Bay Club for Absolute Beginners 5/30-6.30pm. Contact Margaret 027 463 8850, Glynis 021 1099 155,
Kathleen 022 154 1702. Silver Swans Adult Ballet Class – Tuesday’s weekly 10am to 11.10am $20, Whitianga Town Hall supper room. All ages welcome. Marilyn Swan,experienced professional teacher of Dance.M: 0273365263 E; swanebbs@gmail. com
Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes – Town Hall, Monk St, $7 per session. New Beginners, Wed 2.30-3.30pm, Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.30-11.45am, Intermediate classes Wed, 12-1.30pm; . Contact Kathy 027 4321 353 or Cecily 027 294 1750
Zumba – Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk St. GROUP INFO
Mercury Bay Athletics – For info contact mercurybayathletics@gmail.com
Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. Phone Cecily 027 253 3088 or Chrissy 021 177 4226.
SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated –Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet. whitianga.admin@gmail.com.
Whitianga Bike Park – 144 Moewai Rd, Whitianga. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, BBQs and walking trails. Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact John 027 366 4606.
Whitianga Gun Club – For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Neville Crawford 021 276 2169.
Whitianga Community Patrol – Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043.
St Andrew’s Church Opshop Supporting our Local Communities Applications for funding are invited from not-for-profit groups in Mercury Bay. Tell us about your work, your projects. Apply in writing to P.O.Box 168 Whitianga Or hand in your letter at the Opshop in Owen Street, behind the church.
Grey Power Mercury Bay Inc Coffee Morning 10.30am on Thurs 26th March Doors open at 10.00am. At the Mercury Bay Club. Come & join us. Ph: 07 866 5516
Bingo is back At Mercury Bay Club. Starting Monday, 2 March at 1.00pm Hope to see you there!
Would you like to have a go at Pickleball?
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
10.30am on Thurs 26th March Doors open at 10.00am. At the Mercury Bay Club. Come & join us. Ph: 07 866 5516
Thames-Coromandel District Council is seeking to contact the registered owner (Harrison Kahungunu Renata, or family members) of 52 Goldfields Road, Manaia (record of title SA5B/1064).
If you have any interest in the land or any information that will assist the Council in making contact, please contact: Susan Bilski on 07 86802420, or email susan.bilski@tcdc.govt.nz
DOC Coromandel deer incursion
TRADE SALES SUPPORT
We
• Receiving incoming calls
Following up customer inquiries • Processing orders for collection or dispatch • Source and Order special products and solutions
• Handling general price enquiries
• Co-ordinate plan estimations and facilitate pricing
• Providing backup service for our Account Managers
We will be looking for the following attributes in the successful candidate:
• You will need strong communication skills
• Provide a high standard of customer service
• Be able to work under pressure and organise your time and environment for maximum efficiency
• You will need to be computer literate
Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work permit and will be required to undergo pre-employment and medical testing.
If you have a “Know How Can Do” attitude, enjoy working in a team environment, and would like the challenge this position brings, then please forward your CV and cover letter to:
“Don’t threat or worry, instead of worrying pray. Let pititions and praises shape your
MB Club Snooker
Six Red semi-finals were held recently. The semi-finalists in this Championship are Dave Coleman playing Peter Schultz, and Rob Reilly up against Bob Haase. The matches will be contested over the next week.
A six red is a bit like one day cricket compared to a three day match. A normal game of Snooker is 15 reds on the table; a Six Red provides for a quicker game. It certainly is a great game of focus and strategy, with a careful eye and a skilful hand with the stick.
Bob Haase, one of the organisers of Snooker at Mercury Bay Club welcomes enquiries and potential players of all ages. For enquiries, email Bob at rjhaase@hotmail.com or just come to Mercury Bay Club on a Wednesday or Saturday at 1.00pm.
Semi-finalists in the Six Red championship (L to R):
SPORT UPDATE
HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Results Week One Betty Dunn Pairs Tues, 3 March
North/South: 1 Peter and Robyn Hogg 71.50, 2 Val Dwight and Denise Knutson 56.00, 3 Margaret Muir and Loring Stewart 49.00.
East/West: 1 Robyn Waters and Dave Dylla
65.50, Tadek Gower and Don Barry 60.50, 3 Maggie Beattie and Ngaire O’Brien 56.00.
TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB
Round One: March Pairs. Monday 2 March
North/South: 1, Christine Meinhold & Jim Buffett
64.00. 2= Peter McNeil & Tony White, Jill Huston & Johanna Bonnar 56.00.
North/South: 1Don Barry & Robyn Hogg 58.2; 2 Sue Gill & Tadek Gawor 56; 3 David Dylla & Alison Tichbon 52.1
East/West: 1 Chris Southwell & Pete Hogg 61.7; 2 Faith Stock & Lois Page 57.9; 3 Jenny Layton & Susan Swan 54.6 Cook Pairs round 1
Thursday, 5 March
MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS
There were 24 players this week, so 501 doubles were played. Three teams won three of their four sets to go through to a one-game shootout final. They were Bluey Stratton & Merson Lumba, Mike Gillett & Benson Lockhart and Peter Reekers & Kevin Taylor. Mike Gillett and Benson Lockhart came away convincing winners. Highest finish for the ladies was 91, scored by Rose Stables and for the men, 116 scored by Beau Hamilton. Only one 180 scored this week and that was by Beau Hamilton for the second week running. Well done Beau. AGM and prize giving for the dart club is on the 22 March at 1pm at the club.
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday, 4 March
A good turnout of ten players saw some close games in section play, but it was Ian Baumgren and Peter Challis who won all three games to contest the final. Peter established a substantial early lead but Ian made a valiant effort to claw his way back into the match only to fall short at the last hurdle, leaving Peter an easy black to
claim top prize. With two wins each were Ken Gibson, Rob Reilly and Jason Smith. A break of 20 saw Ian take the high break prize.
Saturday, 7 March
There were 8 players who battled out three rounds in section play. Ian Baumgren was the only player to win all three of his games to take top honours for the day. With two wins each were Rob Reilly, Greg Murphy and Phil Jones. A great 27 clearance of all the colours saw Bob Haase take out the Highest Break Prize which had been jackpotting since last October.
MERCURY BAY
INDOOR BOWLING
CLUB
Thursday 5 March
Winners: Ray Rout, Wayne Fisher and Jan Harvey
Runners Up: Keith Denney , Ian Mitchell and Marie Denney
Good Sports: Ian Pudney, Shirley Marshall and Christine Mitchell.
THE DUNES
MATARANGI GOLF
CLUB
9-hole Men’s Shootout
Stableford Qualifying Haggle 2
Monday 2 March
1, Paul Anderson 22 on count back; 2, Jim Dale 22; 3, Barry Titchmarsh 21. Nearest The Pin#18: Jim Dale.
9-hole Men’s Two Man
Coromandel and Hauraki Plains Ladies Pennants
Once a fortnight the Coromandel and Hauraki Plains golfing ladies gather to compete in the Ladies Golfing Pennants. 1st round of pennants was played at Pauanui on 2 March with a stunning day with 10 clubs, 60 players in 2 x divisions. Pauanui, Thames, Hauraki, Thames, Whangamata, The Dunes, Paeroa, Mercury Bay and Te Aroha clubs taking part. The two team winners of each round then go through to the finals played late April or May played at Bay of Plenty.
The two winning teams were The Dunes and Coromandel. Congratulations to all that played.
A big thank you to the volunteers behind the scene for making the morning come together. Also, to Raylee behind the scene putting on lunch. Good luck ladies for the next rounds coming up.
Ambrose Haggle
Tuesday 3 March
1, Ray Green and Noel Rogers, 2 Rey Bertling and Mark Deutsch
1, Brenda Riggs 39; 2, Nicole Dunn 37 on count back; 3, Paul Anderson 37.
Nearest The Pin #18: Allison Drake-Wells Twos: Andy Swainbank #5; Russell Barnett, Craig Batty, Selwyn Knaggs, Oliver Rose, Tony Nicholson, Jade Kennedy # 7; Allison DrakeWells #18.
PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB 9-hole Stableford and Putts
Tuesday 3 March
Stableford: 1, Jo Geoghegan; 2, John Hamilton; 3, Mark Bell. Putts: 1, Anne Costello. Cooks Building Supplies
Monthly Medals 9-hole Stableford
Thursday 5 March
Winner of Monthly Medal: 1, Steve Borlase; 2, John Hughes.
18 Hole Nett
Saturday 7 March
Winner of Monthly Medal: 1, Donna Dinsdale; 2, Mike Farrance; 3, Richard Agnew. Thank you to Cooks Beach Building Supplies.
Dunes Matarangi (pink) and Coromandel Teams.
Bob Haase, Dave Coleman, Rob Reilly, Peter Schultz.
1st eq. Alan Drew & Deddie Cragg with Faith Stock & Chris Southwell 56.4; Geoff Jervis & Amy Hyde 53.2
Tairua Golf and Country Club
On 18 February the 18 Hole Ladies (Robyn Hayward, Paula Parfitt, Jan Collier, Connie Graham and Gabrielle Tucker) played in the Karin McGirr at Hauraki. Congratulations to Pauanui who won this tournament.
On 20 February 9 Hole Ladies (Sue McDonnell and Kim Kelly) played in the Karin McGirr at Titoki, Whangamata. The results were very close with Tairua winning the trophy by one point from Whangamata. This was very exciting as Tairua has not
Mercury Bay Athletics Sports
won this trophy before. These trophies are played for between the Thames Valley Clubs.
Monday 23 Feb. Tairua Ladies (Annette Eltringham, Robyn Hunter, Carolyn Williams, Anna McGuire, Kay van Lubeck and Jan Stanley) played at the Beaches, Titoki, Whangamata. Annette had the winning Stableford of 21 which helped the Tairua Team win by 100 points to Titoki’s 95 points. Coromandel Vets has now started, with six clubs competing.
Tairua won the first two rounds and were second in the third so after three rounds, Tairua are currently leading, a great start to defending our title.
JUNIOR GOLF MUSTER - SUN
8 FEB
Our first Juniors Day - Wow ! What a success with around 30 kids from very small to much bigger than the adults all laughing, running and having a good time. We certainly do have some seriously good budding golfers.
These four young Athletes entered in the Tauranga meet relay, several grades above which they were able to win. This was their first time. Over the past few months, they have put the club on the Waikato Bay of Plenty athletics map with their hard and long training sessions and dedication. They have attended several Club and School champs gaining top honours.
Coming to the end of season they have two big championships to attend. Contact Freya at Mercury bayathletics@gmail.com
Sue McDonnell and Kim Kelly; Annette Eltringham, Robyn Hunter, Carolyn Williams, Anna McGuire, Kay van Lubeck and Jan Stanley.
