Whangamata Head Girl Sage Dunn and Head Boy Harrison Biddle with MP Scott Simpson. Parade Commander Evan Kasker with Piper Phil
Playing Battle of the Somme.
Pauline’s Piece
Anzac – more reverence and meaning
There were more marchers, more young people participating in the Anzac parades and services across the Peninsula. Some were at dawn, others mid morning. The time of day didn’t seem to matter - the numbers increased.
There seemed to be more open reference to Christian faith and the part it has played, and is playing, in remembering the cruel and enormous loss of young life, honouring the fallen and those who returned and finding meaning beyond that to ensure freedom and peace are solid foundations in our lives. The Lord’s Prayer was led in Maori and English at Matarangi as well as Service prayers. In Whitianga, Padre Mike Walker not only spoke of some of the terrible facts of Gallipoli and recognised all ensuing conflicts that have involved New Zealand service men and women, but he
read from The New Testament encouraging people to have resilience, finally leading the crowd of over 700 in prayer.
The presence of old and young participating was an inspiration and as the writers of HaHei’s and Whangamata’s Anzac Day ceremonies have clearly pointed out, a key incentive was to involve young and old together.
There are now six generations remembering Gallipoli and World War Two and ensuing war involvement. This is a shared heritage in the hearts of every Australian and New Zealander. I have talked to immigrants – whose families were not in New Zealand for World War One or World War Two. In some cases, their forbears were the enemy in those wars. Some have experienced great suffering in their own homelands and they identify with suffering, loss and a
From the editor:
LETTER
TO THE MAYOR AND CEO FROM COMMUNITY BOARD CHAIRS
A letter was sent this last week to the Mayor and CEO of our Council, expressing concern that after 6 months since being elected, there is still no confirmed Terms of Reference. Community Boards need to have decision making powers and be powerful advocates for their communities.
Of particular puzzling note, the number of meetings for Community Boards was reduced without any real consultation which is not a good sign. This was done because there are two extra committees operating from the Mayoral office involving our elected Councillors. Changing
things is good but if Community Boards have less ability to work, then that needs addressing. However, those committees though important, are not the work of Community Boards.
EXCERPT FROM THAT LETTER:
We appreciate the pressure the organisation has been under, including recent weather events and Annual Plan work. However, the absence of clear direction is beginning to create real challenges on the ground.
What we are seeing is:
• Unclear roles and decision-making boundaries
• Inconsistent direction for staff
• Hesitation around engage-
longing for peace. They also have a faith and a love for New Zealand.
What we all can share is a reverence and sadness for what has passed and a desire and commitment to work for peace and prosperity. Going a bit further, an openness to love our neighbour can unify all of us.
My father was a gunner and when things were quiet he was the battalion cook. He was a big man in build and very strong from years of sheep farming in Wagga
ment between staff and elected members
• Difficulty progressing matters or obtaining timely updates
• This is not about individuals; it is a system issue.
Staff are operating without clear guidance, and elected members are finding it increasingly difficult to carry out their roles effectively.
Under the Local Government Act 2002, Community Boards have a statutory role to represent and advocate for their communities, consider local matters, and maintain an overview of services. Without clear access to information and defined ways of working, it becomes difficult to fulfil these responsibilities as intended.
STAR and SPACE STATION GAZING IN 2026 – your guide to the night sky
Wednesday, 29 April
– We have a good Tiangong pass from 6:27pm starting beside Venus very low in the NW followed by an ISS pass in the SW from 6:50pm travelling right between the pointers below the Southern Cross before disappearing into the Earth’s shadow. Thursday, 30 April – From 6:02pm low in the SW we have a good ISS pass and again at 7:03pm we have a long Tiangong pass in the SW. Friday, 1 May - We have a good long and bright Tiangong pass in the west from 6:01pm followed by an ISS pass in the SW from 6:52pm. Saturday, 2 May –Saturn, Mars and Mercury lie low on the predawn eastern horizon with Mercury the brightest and Saturn the highest and there is a good long ISS pass in the SW from 6:04pm and a Tiangong pass in the west from 6:36pm. Sunday, 3 May – From 6:54pm low in the west we have a long ISS pass moving just below Jupiter. Monday, 4 May – Again from 6:06pm in the west we have a long ISS pass moving just above Jupiter. Tuesday, 5 May –
There will be a Tiangong pass from 6:44pm in the west. Wednesday, 6 May – From 6:08pm in the west we have an extremely low ISS pass moving just above Venus and well below Jupiter. We might have a chance to get a brief look at Comet C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS) late this week or early next as it has just survived it’s close pass by the Sun. It might appear as a faint fuzzy smudge just above where the Sun sets after dusk. It will get slightly higher each night but also slightly dimmer as it moves away from the Sun. Binoculars will help to locate it but keep them well away from the Sun as instant blindness can result otherwise. Jupiter glows in the north and is now joined by brighter Venus much lower in the NW as Venus steadily climbs higher this week. The pre-dawn sky has Saturn, Mars and elusive Mercury on display just before sunrise very low in the east with Saturn the highest and Mercury the lowest.
Wagga. Jim fought in Papua New Guinea and endured the Kokoda trail. In a serious stoush with Japanese jungle fighters, the donkey pulling his gun reared up and he and the gun went down a mountain side. He was not chased by the Japanese whom he thinks believed he would not survive and was not important. The most terrifying of all was trying to avoid the gun and wagon also falling down the mountain. He was finally rescued and treated by Americans who got him to Brisbane Base Hospital where he met our mother.
My father was always grateful to the Americans for saving his life and told us so. However, he meant more than the incident where he escaped the Japanese. When he was returning to the Pacific War, all of the Aussie soldiers were spared the front row
There is also a concern of disconnect between governance, staff, and elected members, which risks creating unnecessary friction if not addressed.
From a Community Board perspective, the priority is straightforward:
We need a clear and agreed framework that enables staff and elected members to work together effectively and get on with delivering for our communities.
We would also note that these concerns are being experienced across multiple Community Boards, which indicates this is a broader organisational issue rather than a localised one.
The longer this remains unresolved, the greater the risk
attacks at some of the terrible island fortresses. My father said Aussies and Kiwis were protected from the first onslaught of Japanese fire, and sometimes hand combat. The Americans always went first – better equipment, different training and policy. Australian and New Zealanders were the second row of attack. There was great loss of life among the American Marines. My father was very clear that he owes his life to their bravery and to their policy of protecting the smaller units.
It is now a period where USA relations are frustrating, surprising, and decisions at the leadership level make our economy more vulnerable. But in that period of great overwhelming threat in the Pacific to Australia and New Zealand, USA helped a great deal – securing our future.
that these issues lose visibility, not because they have been addressed, but because other priorities take over. It would be beneficial to address this while there is still clear awareness of the impact. We would strongly encourage that finalising the Terms of Reference - Accord is prioritised…..
Signed:
Mercury Bay Community Board Chair, Richard Shelford-Woodcock Thames Community Board Chair, Adrian Catran Coromandel - Colville Community Board Chair, Gavin Jeffcoat Tairua – Pauanui Community Board Chair, Warwick Brooks Whangamata Community Board Chair, Mark Drury
Editorial/News: Contact Pauline Stewart, Editor/owner ph 027 271 6182 info@theinformer.co.nz Advertising/advertorial in The Informer: Phone (07) 866 2090, Email sales@theinformer.co.nz Letters to the Editor: 200 words or less please. Name and town of residence required. Email info@theinformer.co.nz Published weekly. Distributed throughout the Coromandel
Distribution: Over 10,000. ISSN 3021-4114 (Print), ISSN 3021-4122
Mike Walker and Trevor Fraser.
Whangamata – A day of remembrance for young and old
BY JACK BIDDLE
An estimated roll up of well over 1,000 people braved a crisp morning on the shores of Whangamata Beach to both attend, and to take part, in the ANZAC sunrise commemoration service. It was a fitting way to begin a day set down to honour those who gave their all and the many others who gave the ultimate sacrifice on the Gallipoli Peninsula during World War One. In addition, those who served in subsequent wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations around the world., were recognised. The sunrise service was soon followed by another well attended and watched, main street Civic Parade led by the Bay of Plenty Pipes and Drums, with speeches inside the War Memorial Hall, followed by the final act of laying wreaths and poppies, lowering of the flag, reciting of the ODE in both English and Maori, and the playing of the Last Post.
During his welcoming speech at the War Memorial Hall Whan-
gamata, RSA President, Geoff March, paid special recognition to all veterans, peacekeepers and observers along with current and past serving defence and police personnel. He also paid special recognition to the muchneeded and deeply appreciated uniformed services within the local community including the NZ Fire Service, Order of St Johns, Coastguard, Surf Life Saving and NZ Scouts. The many volunteers and members of the RSA were also given a special mention for their tireless and ongoing work as were the residents of Moana House who made the majority of
This year’s Anzac Commemorative service marked 111 years on from when Australian and New Zealand soldiers first landed on the shores of Gallipoli but it seems there is an ever-increasing number of people wanting to honour the sacrifices and bravery of men and women many of whom they knew little about.
This was highlighted by both Mr March and guest speaker, The Honourable Scott Simpson after listening to the speeches by Whangamata Area School Head Boy, Harrison Biddle and Head Girl, Sage Dunn, both of whom were also flag
AEROVIEW GARDEN CENTRE
bearers during the days service.
In their speeches Harrison and Sage commented on Anzac Day being not just about remembering names, but remembering lives, and reflecting on the deep sacrifices made by so many New Zealand and Australian soldiers both on the battle fields and also on the home front. Both spoke of personal family connections where World War II had suddenly taken away the dreams and aspirations of young people, of a similar age to themselves now, and turned their lives into total uncertainty with many good years lost.
To both, ANZAC Day was about
taking the time to acknowledge the sacrifices made and that we are truly blessed and thankful that a past generation gave up their present so that future generations could have a better future.
If anything summed up the Anzac Day commemorations in Whangamata, it was both the older and younger generations coming together in remembrance and paying tribute to those who fought so hard and to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to provide both Australian and New Zealanders with a much brighter future. The values of the Anzac spirit were well and truly on display.
the wreaths laid.
Whitianga
Anzac day
FROM HON SCOTT SIMPSON, MP FOR COROMANDEL
Anzac Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices that have been made by our Defence Force throughout our country’s history, as well as acknowledging the service of that is being given by current service personnel.
Every person and every town has their own connection to Anzac Day, and it’s become a sacred tradition for many people to attend a local dawn or civic service and share their story. I was at the services in Waihi and Whangamata to pay my respects to the fallen and to commemorate all those who have served in our country’s Defence Force.
This year’s Anzac Day services took on added significance, because it was the first commemoration to formally recognise all those who have served New Zealand in times of war. The legislation that gives effect to Anzac Day hadn’t been updated since 1966, and it specified that service personnel from six conflicts, ranging from the South African War to the Vietnam War, were to be acknowledged. This also included those who have given their lives in service of New Zealand at any time.
The Anzac Day Amendment Act was passed by Parliament earlier this year and this piece of legislation broadens the meaning of Anzac Day and makes it more inclusive by officially covering other conflicts and persons who have served New Zealand in times of war or in warlike conflicts in the past and in the future.
Aileen Lawrie, Chief Executive of TCDC and member of the Kerepehi Brass Band, performs The Last Post.
Parade enters Soldiers Memorial Park, led by piper Phil Nielsen.
Jallymae (Jai) Prangnell and Frederick lead the National Anthems and the Song of Gallipoli.
Padre Mike Walker, Commander Muzz Kennett, RSA President Trevor Fraser share leadership of the service.
All the children were thoughtful and reverent.
Kim Abrahamson lays a wreath on behalf of Mercury Bay Community Board.
L-R: Flying Officer Leaf Wolfe, Cadet Forces, Herby Lawson 83, sergeant and radio operator in Territorial Forces (Royal NZ Signals), Corporal Jessica Atrill 16, Thames High School yr 12 student, Air Training Corps.
The parade in Pollen St Thames.
Photos: Garry Brandon.
Anzac day
Hahei Kotare Reserve
BY MAGGIE BEATTIE
ANZAC Day Commemoration in Hahei was held at the Kotare Reserve. A memorial and flagpole was completed and built last year to acknowledge the terrible toll that wars have on communities and to recognise those that have died in the service of their country from Hahei and surrounding areas.
In 2026 the Kotare Reserve Garden Trust Com-
mittee replanted around the Kotare Memorial Garden which provided a beautiful garden and a place of serenity and ecological health to all who attended ANZAC Day this year. We wanted to focus this year on encouraging younger adults and especially our youth to participate in the Commemoration. We had a number of young guest speakers this year:
• Katey Donovan read a poem by Stewart Elliot
called "Why's Grandad Cranky all the Time"
• Thea Dozell is a Year 7 student at Whenuakite School and she researched and wrote her own poem called "A Teenage Lament" I have enclosed Thea's poem is featured here in The Informer. She has copyright to the poem (a clever young girl) Thea and her parents consented to have it printed.
• Valerie Drewitt-Fisher made a presentation on what ANZAC Day meant to her.
• Ana Van Beynen led the Ode in Te Reo and Valerie in English.
• At the conclusion of the Commemoration, a number of students from Whenuakite School sang a Waiata.
• As a finale two field guns were fired. Attendees were in excess of 300 this year and we ran out of programmes.
Maggie Beattie, is Hahei Residents and Ratepayers Association, ANZAC Day organiser
A TEENAGE LAMENT
BY THEA DOZELL
Mail sent back, their owners unfound, Blood seeps into broken ground. Choking smoke snakes round barbed wire, Bullets sing a ghastly choir. Gas seeps into the roughly dug trenches, Men lie unmoving on cold wooden benches.
Heads ring from the echoing screams, Joy only shines in long-lost dreams. For beside me scuttle rats of plague, And youthful souls would happily trade Their spirits for a crumb of good rich food. The masses seethe, a solemn brood.
Eyes lie open unseeing, Perhaps death would be more freeing. Friends and comrades cut down where they stand, Broken forms in foreign lands.
Satan’s laugh runs wild and cruel, Soldiers shrink on cold hard gruel.
Best beloved, live long and free. Remember them – and think of me.
Ana Van Beynen.
Thea Dozell. Katey Donovon.
Anzac day
Remarkable residents Anzac history – Tairua
BY PAM FERLA
Areminder of war time challenges and tragedies affecting Tairua comes with an ANZAC display at Tairua Heritage Society Centre. Society committee member, Jan Collier, organised the display, which features memorabilia from her family collection. Her grandparents, Charles and Mary Beach, are part of the historical fabric of Tairua and operated Beaches Store and campground near Tairua Wharf from 1918 to the mid 1970’s.
The ANZAC displays include a collection of airgraphs sent to local families from the front, plus replies from families in Tairua. There are also poignant letters to and from war zones.
A moving display headed The Lost Boys acknowledges men with connections to Tairua who died during WW1 or WW2. Twenty-three-year-old Patrick Heath was the first local man killed in action in WW2. There is also J J McCarthy, son of a Tairua publican, who was an unarmed volunteer radio operator at Betio Island (part of the Republic of
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Charles Beach fought in the first World War and was injured in 1917, losing his right arm and shoulder. Back in New Zealand, he was treated at Thames Hospital. But his mother could not travel to Thames from Tairua so had to wait till he came home. Their two sons Allan and Patrick, fought in WW2.
Kiribati) and was beheaded by Japanese towards the end of the war.
Other names on this board are – Colin Lowe (son of Percy and Jessic Lowe), and Charles and Samuel Savage (sons of Benjamin Savage and Janet Black), all killed in action.
There is also a display of Prisoner of War poems compiled by Tairua Heritage Society committee member, Jennie Healey. This is from her father, Private Ian Nicol’s collection. He was a POW at Staglag V111, E from 1941 to 1945.
Jan Collier’s father, Bill Darrah, was one of the local residents in the Home Guard, after being sponsored from the army by his brother-in-law Allen, to look after the family farm. Bill is the local identity featured in a 1938 photograph on horseback overlooking Tairua’s Ocean Beach. This is on display at the centre.
Tairua Heritage Society opens Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10am-2pm. It features permanent and pop-up displays. Recent displays included surfing, history of Tairua Country Club and growth of the town. The ANZAC display is available for viewing until 3 May.
The centre is fundraising for a permanent home. For more information check the website www. tairuaheritage.nz and Facebook.
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George Ririnui, Guest Speaker.
Jennie Healey (left) and Jan Collier check the ANZAC displays at Tairua Heritage Centre.
Te Rerenga School perform a song sung by the Maori Battalion on their return home.
Matarangi Fire Brigade Cadets join the parade.
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What a journey – Day Spa, a Hotel, Art & Space centre – geothermal Pacifica!
BY PAULINE STEWART
The Lost Spring is already a destination. It has been since it opened eighteen years ago. You just need to sit in the foyer and listen to the front counter greetings and conversations. Groups, couples and individuals have searched out The Lost Spring as their destination for enjoyment, relaxation and restoration. Some come holding a brochure they have picked up. Some have booked online from overseas and others are accompanied by local friends and relatives who want them to experience the, geo thermal pools, the Day Spa treatments and pampering, plus Combos including Dip and Dine. They have heard Whitianga is a paradise and The Lost Spring is a must for their experience.
Added to the interchange in the foyer are locals checking in to enjoy their local discount on a month of swims in the pools, or to use a Dip, Sip and Dine Gift Voucher.
Several metres away on the upper level, a large-scale project has been underway for several years. The Informer has been watching the construction reveal its wonders in all its many dimensions. This is s Pacifica development on a Pacific Resort scale. Of course, there is
still lots of scaffolding as building is in progress, but then, suddenly beautiful tree -top paths appear perfectly finished. Several new Day Spa rooms have been completed, pacifically furnished – spacious, colourful and relaxing. There is the well-advanced construction of a clam-shell thermal pool high among the palms.
Alan Hopping works daily in this somewhat unbelievable space, with a team of architects, builders and creatives.
“We are about six months from absolute completion,” says Alan stepping down from one of the tree-top construction areas. “I expect by year’s end for The Lost Spring to be the top end Number One Day Spa and boutique thermal pool destination in New Zealand. We will have the capability to welcome an extra 25 couples per day.”
The boutique hotel is the next stage after this is completed and then follows the Lost Spring Pacific Art and Space Centre with
an extended restaurant area –the latter having some aspects already completed. Alan and his board are planning that seventy percent will be overseas clientele and 30percent domestic market visitors. This is a big challenge but one they are up for. Their goal, just for the Day Spa, is that they will employ 35 therapists over twenty-eight stations. The lounges in the street tops are just about finished with all having the completed touches of Pacific
Island style and furnishings. Alan is very focussed on The Lost Spring with its new additional facilities needing to be first in terms of the level of hospitality provided across all their services. “This is not just for one day but for every day,” he says. “Being a top end Day Spa and geothermal pool destination means being top end with hospitality and care to detail. We want to spoil everyone who comes, and to exceed expectations, is our commitment” says Alan.
The artist’s concept of the clam-shell geothermal pool; The new entry to the Treetops Day Spa level.
PINKY’S
Digital Decoder
By Agent EJ
Subscription fatigue, geopolitical tremors, and the cost-of-living crunch are driving a quiet exodus toward free and open-source software. New Zealand has a rare window to capitalise.
When people can no longer afford eggs, they start reconsidering their Spotify subscription. Economic pressure sharpens scrutiny of every recurring charge. Free and open-source software has long carried a reputation of being clunky and demanding patience. That view is now badly out of date. Sites like openalternative.co reveal polished apps across every category, many of which match or surpass their proprietary rivals. LibreOffice, once the butt of jokes, today welcomes refugees ditching Office365 amid rising fees. This trend has resulted in Microsoft’s market value taking a dive. It’s especially embarrassing, after tech executives from Google to Meta, hedged their bets on a pro-business administration. Instead, the country got a president who threw all rhyme and reason out
the Windows® (pun-intended), while funding new wars that did nothing to ease the supermarket bill.
Since Trump's return to the White House, a significant portion of the world has begun treating US technology products as geopolitically unreliable. Services operating under EU jurisdiction, now offer more predictable privacy protections, and a degree of insulation from volatile Washington policy. The directory eualternative.eu has emerged as a practical resource for consumers seeking alternatives to Silicon Valley.
This reshaping of allegiances is also an opening for Kiwis. Our local sector produces genuine talent and innovators, yet we consistently lose them across the Tasman. Australia has absorbed that brain-gain brilliantly. Canva, the
The Great Unsubscribe
design platform that positioned itself as an affordable alternative to Adobe, is now worth 65 billion as of last year. The lesson is not that our talent is inferior; it’s that affordable, well-designed software, whether open-source or simply non-American, is an emerging growth market, and yet we keep exporting our people best placed to serve it. The marketing industry majorly benefits from this shift. As AI saturates workflows, so will people’s rejection of slop in favour of more human-centred approaches. Businesses will not only need even more competitive services and pricing, they need to invest and get creative with their advertising if they want to stand out and remain in the race.
The subscription model was meant to be convenient, but it has become more like a tax. When geopolitics, inflation, and privacy concerns all point the same direction, the once untouchable tech-oligarchs, are now scrambling to save their empires.
Anzac day
Kiwi Brown’s War
The story of Pvt Stanley Curtis Brown NX3887
BY DOROTHY PREECE
Last week’s Informer story about Howard Baker’s father serving in Crete, prompted Whitianga resident Larissa Jackman (nee Brown) to tell of her father’s war experiences, also in Greece and Crete. Fortunately her father told many stories, and Larissa recorded everything.
As a young man in his 20’s Stanley Curtis Brown went to Australia, and that’s where he was when World War 11 broke out. His Dad had fought in the Boer War and the First World War, and Stanley wanted to do his bit, but getting home on the boat to New Zealand would have taken time.
So instead, he joined the first echelon of volunteers with the Australian Imperial Forces and joined the 6th Division Machine Gun Battalion. From then on, he was known to his mates as ‘Kiwi Brown’.
In May 1940 the 6th Division left Western Australia on the Queen Mary, bound for the Middle East, but instead were diverted to U.K. to bolster defences there. Off the coast of South Africa Stan threw
overboard a message in a bottle to his mother in Glen Massey, in the Wakato. His mother received it 2 years later after it was picked up in Madagascar.
For several months the 6th Division were camped on the Salisbury Plains, with the Battle of Britain raging in the skies above them. In November 1940 they
left for desert training in Egypt and in April 1941 they joined the British units fighting in Greece. Stan recalled fighting around Mount Olympus, and in the town of Larissa. (That’s how his daughter got her name.) They carried the big Vickers gun all the way up the mountain and back. Time and time again they regrouped
as the Germans pushed them back. Many soldiers were hiding in the hills and much equipment was abandoned. The 6th Division Vickers gun was the only one left. The men had no provisions. They were cold and starving.
The survivors, including British and Kiwi troops, were taken off at night from the beach at Corinth, rescued first by barge, then onto a schooner, and eventually signalled ‘SOS’ to the British destroyer Griffin. Once on board, they were given mugs of hot chocolate. It was their first food for many hours. They landed at Suda Bay, on the island of Crete.
Larissa captured Stan’s words: ‘Machine gun was unusable, no tripod. Very little ammunition or weapons. No food or organisation. Still with what was left of the unit.’
They were in Suda Bay for 4 days before moving to Galatos. German Paratroopers were landing, and by May 30th the Germans had occupied the island. Australian, Kiwi and British troops were again evacuated in a convoy of ships bound for Egypt. ‘Set sail for
Alexandria (Egypt) on the Thurland Castle. Heavily bombed on the way across. Discovered cases of bully beef down below and had the first good feed for months. Now only 3 left from our unit.’ The troops left for Australia on 10th March 1942. This was not the end of Kiwi Brown’s war. His battalion went on to fight the Japanese in New Guinea, and in Borneo. Stan did manage to get home to the Waikato once or twice to see his mother. The local paper (date unknown) recorded, ‘Considerable interest was aroused when a soldier appeared in a slouch hat and greenish coloured uniform –a rather unfamiliar sight…’ Larissa says her father experienced only friendship while serving 6 years with the Aussies. “He made so many great friendships and over the years he received many Christmas cards from his Aussie mates.” Larissa has visited the town of her namesake in Greece, and she has been to Crete. For her, ANZAC Day is a very important day on the calendar. Among her father’s souvenirs she even has a bottle of desert sand.
Stanley Curtis Brown.
Larissa Jackman holding the very precious story board.
Inspiration Alley
By Ananda Laberge
The last time you forgave someone?
BY ANANDA LABERGE
Ido a morning meditation every day, and during one such session, it occurred to me that I had a negative feedback loop about a particular politician, whose identity is inconsequential. This person, whom I’ve never met, but against whom I had made various judgments – based on what I had read, seen, and heard stories about from others (who also had never met this politician) - was causing me distress. I have done a lot of work on forgiving others in my immediate sphere, including close family and friends, so this experience was giving me pause. Why was I able to forgive those who had impacted me most in my past, and yet doing it for a stranger was proving challenging? The deep inner work I had done previously in forgiveness released me from an anger I didn’t want inside me, and I am deeply grateful for this. I understand that anger and resentment only hurt us in the end, so it serves no use to hold onto them. And yet, here I was, finding it difficult to let go
of negative feelings about a person I had never even met! I had to remind myself how I had gotten there in the past. Because the path to forgiveness with my inner circle was so personal, I could break each memory down - and let it go. I had to disassociate myself as a victim. I could acknowledge wrongdoing on their parts but then had to free it from inside me. So, I
Mowing
–
tried the same method with my political nemesis. Once I made this connection, the path forward became clear. I had to look at each action this politician had done and release it individually. But a creeping thought kept coming up: would I lose my political identity if I forgave them? Would I still have my convictions? I wasn’t sure, but I was willing to find out.
I imagined myself as this political figure, which didn’t come naturally or easily. When I stripped off this person’s political clothing, what was left was just another someone trying to do the best they could. I could hold onto the fact that I thought they were misguided in some of their decisions, but have we not all been misguided at times? I believe many mistakes we make come from a place of fear. It can cause havoc in our lives. I could really relate to this from a human to human perspective, which afforded me a path forward.
There have been plenty of stories out there about incredible acts of forgiveness of strangers; the ones that have impacted me
the most are those of mothers and fathers who have forgiven their child’s murderer(s) or wrong doer(s). Did they get there in the same way? Did they see them as just people who made the most heinous decisions with the worst of outcomes? I’m sure there was a lot more involved, but perhaps this is where they started.
My slight against a political figure is by no means a comparison to anything I’ve outlined above. But I do take from it that if they can do it in the most difficult of circumstances, we can do it for everyone else we hold a grudge against.
I am reminded by a quote from the great Mahatma Gandhi, who said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Such a simple saying, but incredibly profound -particularly since Gandhi lived this philosophy. I wish for more political stability, more authentic leadership, both in our regional councils all the way up to the highest seats of leadership in the land. And I wish this for every country in the world. So, with that intention, and with my forgiveness, I am doing my part to live by Gand-
hi’s words the best I possibly can. With our election looming in the coming months, I will still be voting for those I believe will follow through-to the best of their intentions - on the promises they make. Whoever gets into office, I know they will make mistakes, and I hope to be more compassionate with them because of the work I’m doing on forgiveness in this space.
I will still be politically brave, voice my opinion with logic and reason to back me up, and hope that everyone chooses this approach rather than the alternative of apathy and non action. Political discourse is meaningful and important, and it’s our civic duty to follow through with action, especially on election day by checking a box. It seems my political identity is still intact. I look forward to sharing a different perspective each week. Please feel free to write to me your response or your own journey.
Contact: ananda.laberge@ gmail.com
is not our biggest cost
the conversation we should be having
Thames-Coromandel District Council’s 2026/27 draft Annual Plan is open for consultation. Ratepayers are being asked about reductions to park and berm mowing and garden services, and shorter hours at the Coromandel, Matarangi and Pāuanui transfer stations.
BY PATRICK KERR
These are real service changes and they warrant public input. But after working through Council’s own audited figures for 2024/25, I believe we are being invited to deliberate on the visible cents while the less visible dollars escape serious scrutiny.
THE NUMBERS THAT DON’T APPEAR
TCDC’s Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2025 shows total operating expenses of $143.7 million. Once depreciation ($37.6 million) and finance costs ($4.5 million) are set aside, the controllable operating spend of around $101.7 million breaks down into two visible categories and one considerably larger invisible one.
Personnel costs were $26.4 million, covering around 248 full-time-equivalent staff. Every salary band is disclosed. Every councillor’s fee is published by name. The Chief Executive’s remuneration of $381,891 is public. This is genuine transparency and it should be commended.
The remaining $75.2 million sits in a line called “other expenses.” Within that, Note 6 of the accounts reveals: $35 million in contractor payments, $3.65 million in consultants and legal
fees, and $29.6 million in “other operating expenses” — a catchall that almost certainly includes IT, software, utilities, insurance, fleet, travel and a good deal more. These three lines together represent roughly $68 million of external spend. That is more than two and a half times the internal wage bill. And unlike the staff costs, not a single supplier is named, not a single major contract is itemised, and no annual comparison is published against the cost that identical functions would incur if delivered in-house or procured jointly with neighbours.
This is the structural issue: internal costs, which are smaller, are fully transparent. External costs, which are larger, are functionally anonymous.
WHERE THE REAL SAVINGS SIT
The mowing and transfer-station proposals save tens of thousands.
I accept that small savings add up, and I am not arguing against service reviews in principle. But four structural areas look to me like where the larger opportunities actually lie.
Shared services across councils. In New Zealand there are 78 councils including unitary councils like AKL/ WLG, CHRC, and regional councils (like WRC), each running its own finance system,
legal reviews, policy drafting, and IT. TCDC already belongs to WLASS and Co-Lab, the Waikato inter-council bodies established to pool these functions. The mechanism exists. The question is the depth of what is actually shared. Last year’s attempted Water Services Organisation with Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty is the clearest recent example: Council’s own modelling projected savings of $500 per connection by 2034. That collapsed not because the savings weren’t real but because of inter-council politics. The opportunity has not gone away. Procurement discipline on the major contracts. A $35 million contractor line, disclosed as a single number, invites complacency. A four-year $60 million water maintenance contract was signed with Citycare Water for commencement on 1 April 2026. Other large, long-running arrangements cover waste collection, roading, and facilities. Each deserves individual, public, yearon-year benchmarking. Ratepayers have no way at present to assess whether any of them represent good value.
Development contributions that actually reflect growth. Development and financial contributions came in at $1.87 million against a budget of $2.99
million — a $1.1 million shortfall. The 2021 Long Term Plan noted explicitly that “ratepayers have had to fund services that benefitted visitors” and agreed this was “not fair.” Five years on, the imbalance remains. Existing ratepayers continue to subsidise growth and tourism.
Capital planning and lifecycle honesty. The Thames pool exemplifies the problem: original estimate $14 million, subsequent ratepayer impact modelled at $1,100–$2,000 per household per year under some options. Delayed and under-scoped capital decisions compound into much larger bills later.
WHAT I AM ASKING FOR
Before this Annual Plan is finalised, there are three disclosures Council could make at essentially zero cost that would let ratepayers engage meaningfully with the real cost base:
1. Publish the top 20 suppliers by total spend for 2024/25, with the amount paid to each. This is routine disclosure in most central government agencies and several overseas councils.
2. Publish the consultants and legal fees line disaggregated by firm and by activity area (3 Waters, roading, planning, governance, HR, legal counsel).
3. Publish the total annual cost of TCDC’s membership of WLASS, Co-Lab, LGNZ, Taituarā and any other inter-council body, together with a short statement of the specific services received in return. None of that is commercially sensitive. All of it is available internally. Publishing it would shift the quality of the conversation.
THE BIGGER POINT
I am not arguing that Council staff or contractors are overpaid, or that the people doing this work are doing it badly. I am arguing that a democratic consultation on a maximum 3.8 percent rates rise shouldn’t have a blind spot the size of $68 million.
A recent community satisfaction survey – TCDC’s own –recorded 21 percent satisfaction with Council’s financial management. That is a striking number. Ratepayers aren’t stupid. They can tell when the conversation is being held at the wrong altitude. Reducing services will save thousands. Improving systems can save millions, every year, compounding across Annual Plans and Long Term Plans. Mowing is not our biggest cost. We should be having the conversation that matches the scale of the numbers.
How to direct donations when disaster strikes?
BY DAVID CHRISTIANSEN, EXECUTIVE OFFICER, MOMENTUM WAIKATO
It has been heart-breaking to see the damage and disruption caused by the recurring storms of recent months.
Such emergencies have enormous impacts on ordinary people, but they are also when New Zealanders are their most generous.
For businesses wanting to send financial support to the frontline, the challenge can be knowing how to get it to where it is needed, and then trusting it got there.
After a disaster, a Mayoral Relief Fund is set up by the local council, which receives money from both the Government’s National Emergency Management Agency and the general public, and then distributes it based on applications received for assistance.
This process generally works, but the appeal itself can only reach so far, as councils are not fundraisers, have only broadcast communication channels, and don’t have charity status for tax rebates on donations.
Also, some in business simply feel weary about giving to a council, for reasons ranging from
avoiding a conflict of interest in other dealings, to habitual suspicion of bureaucracy. As ever, the greater the trust, the greater the likelihood and scale of generosity.
Meanwhile, private-run online appeals can be insecure and lacking credibility. There can also be concerns about the cost and destination of crowdfunding sites’ fees.
Which are all counts on which Momentum Waikato, as the region’s community foundation, has been able to help following the recent storms across Otorohanga, Waipa and Coromandel.
We ran several ‘Greatest Needs Appeals’ during Covid, so our resulting connections and ‘back office’ know-how enabled and guided these recent efforts.
Our supporters are generous people who want to give wisely and locally, so proportionally they responded more readily to our calls for donations than a council could achieve via a wide callout. We also expedited donations from businesses and others we know to be receptive.
Such donors can readily connect with our team if they have
queries and see our strong track record, factors which build and reinforce ongoing trust.
After each of our recent appeals, we distributed the gathered donations to the Mayoral Relief Funds, though with slightly different approaches.
Momentum is partnering with the Thames Coromandel District Council on the Coromandel Future Funds, which were set up last year to build local longterm financial resilience following previous weather events. So, we collaborated with TCDC staff
on appeal priorities and handled some callouts in tandem with them.
Whereas with the Waipa and Otorohanga district councils, we simply reached out to the mayors and then delivered the collected donations to add to their Relief Funds, which were warmly received.
Momentum Waikato is proud to able to back up the broad range of people and organisations who have to mobilise when disaster strikes. On behalf of us all, we say thank you to them.
Rhodes Park and football club Thames two weeks ago; The slip at Kuaotunu boat ramp in January.
CONCERN FOR BUILDERS
With regard to “Builders forced to tighten their aprons.” in 14 April issue of The Informer. Open discussion about the realities facing the construction sector is important, particularly as conditions shift after a strong period for many.
However, it is equally important the narrative reflects the full picture of our local industry. The suggestion that some projects are now surpassing the local skill set does not align with the track record of builders and subcontractors in our area. Local professionals have consistently delivered high quality projects under the unique demands of coastal and remote builds. Their work has achieved national recognition, featuring on the covers of home and architectural magazines, winning awards, and appearing on national television. While there are valid concerns about a tightening pipeline, rising costs, and broader economic pressures, these challenges are not unique to our area. The growing presence of out of area firms should not be interpreted as a gap in local capability. Local builders have the experience and proven track record to deliver across all levels of the market.
What must not be overlooked is the role local tradies play beyond the job site. They are among the most consistent supporters of our
community, sponsoring grassroots sports teams, backing local clubs, and contributing to schools and community initiatives. This commitment strengthens our social and economic fabric. When work is awarded locally, the benefits extend far beyond the build itself. It supports local employment, apprenticeships, and ensures investment stays within the community.
Supporting local trades is a strategic choice that sustains our local economy and community.
Damian and Rekha Percival
SKILLED BUILDERS ABOUND
As one of the local building companies covering our wonderful Peninsula paradise, Urban Homes were disappointed with the writers ‘opinion piece’ on “Builders forced to tighten their aprons’’ in 14 April issue of The Informer.
With over 25years of building experience, it was disheartening to see an article in our local paper that is suggesting that several current build projects here surpass the local skill set and that out-oftowners are better equipped to handle these complex builds.
There a number of proven and experienced building companies operating locally that certainly have the skillsets and in turn support the communities they live in by supporting local – it is their kids in the schools, the clubs and their families that support local
community events – MB Netball, MB RFC, MB Environmental Trust, Menz Shed and of course the volunteers in the Coastguard and local Fire Brigades. Like so many local businesses are! Support your local builder and business and in turn they can support your community and do it with skill and experience but also with personal responsibility – because of where they call home.
Tanya & Dan, Urban Homes SUPPORT FOR PATRICK KERR
We’ve been away over the past week, on our return we’re catching up with the Informer dated 14 April. In response to Patrick Kerr’s letter headed “TCDC: cut the bureaucracy; not the services”.
We support Patrick in everything he says, we voted for him, it’s a pity more of you didn’t . Ros and Tony De Coek, Matarangi
PROBLEMS WITH ALASTAIR BRCKELL
I was wondering if you can help me? I’ve noticed that Alistair Brickell is being given more and more of a voice and platform in your paper, from letters to the editor to now writing articles. I know hearing opinions that differ from your own is important, but he is frequently making claims that are not backed by science or
Peninsula GLASS & SCREENS GLASS & SCREENS
respected evidence. Some of what he is sharing are dog whistles, misinformation or engaging in conspiracy theories.
To me it’s like back in the 90s or early 2000s when journalists thought they need to give equal air time to both sides of the climate change debate... Two “sides” so each side gets half the airtime. But in reality at that time roughly 98% of scientists and studies backed that climate change was real and human-caused.
Presenting fringe viewpoints as equally valid to scientific consensus can mislead the public by creating a false impression of debate where little exists among experts. I hope you consider reducing the time, space and validity you give to Brickell’s misleading narratives.
Anonymous, Coromandel Peninsula
PAYING RATES SINCE 1958
I was somewhat appalled and extremely disappointed to read in the letters to the editor in the Informer on 14 April that the council’s budget for the planned upgrade of the Esplanade project is $12 to $18,000,000 yet they cannot afford to supply water and sewage services to the residents of Wharekaho which are considered to be necessities of life,
In December 2025, Wharekaho rate payers we advised by mail, without any consultation to the
residents that TCDC expect residents to contribute $70,000 estimated per property to install water and sewage to the area together with an additional fee of approximately $20,000 per property to supply piping and a pump from the property to connect with the council’s roadside pipes. Having paid rates since 1958, I find this totally unacceptable as we have little to show for the thousands of dollars in rates we have paid to date.
I trust the council may reconsider their options
Margaret Syme, Wharekaho
MOEWAI
PARK RESERVE –OBJECTION TO CHANGE
I am asking for residents to write to the Chief Executive and Mayor of TCDC regarding the proposed reclassification of Moewai Park Reserve under the Reserves Act 1977 (Section 24).
I have written a letter formally objecting to the proposed change from a Recreation Reserve to a Local Purpose (Community Facilities) Reserve.
I am doing this as a resident of South Highway West and Moewai Park Road. We strongly value this space as an essential green area within our community.
For more details or to express your opinion write to me at neeragiri@gmail.com.
Neera Giri, Whitianga
GRUMPY OLD MENZ
Editor’s note: This is a parody!
BY VERNA CARR
Ladies, you had a vision of your husband's retirement. The golden years. The reward for decades of hard work. You imagined leisurely lunches, a little quality time together, perhaps some gentle pottering in the garden. What you actually got was a grumpy old man in a recliner asking what's for dinner at 10am – while reorganising your spice rack alphabetically and explaining, with great patience and authority, the correct way to load the dishwasher. You've only run this household single-handedly for fifty years, but rest assured, he's found a better system. Bless.
Sigh. Bite your tongue. Count to ten. Or better yet – send him to the Menz Shed on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
The Menz Shed is essentially day care for men, and nobody is pretending otherwise. He arrives. He gruntgreets twelve other blokes. He picks up a piece of wood – and suddenly, miraculously, he is a ‘Man with Purpose’. He is building something. He is useful. He is not colour-coding your pantry.
At the Whitianga Commu-
nity Menz Shed, he has an entire workshop at his disposal – hand tools, bandsaw, drop saw, lathe, angle grinder – and nobody is watching him with that look. For two glorious mornings a week, he is not a hazard to be managed. He is a Man with a Mission. A Man with a Power Tool. And he knows how to use it. (Or someone will quietly teach him.)
He is, frankly, somebody else's problem – and he has never been happier.
Morning tea is the beating heart of the whole operation. Chocolate biscuits appear and vanish at a speed that defies explanation. This is where the real work gets done – the laughing, the ribbing, the tall tales delivered with a com-
pletely straight face and zero remorse.
Secretary Fred Collins sums it up perfectly: "The Menz Shed is where wood gets turned into sawdust and lies into truth.” Fish get bigger. Career highlights grow grander. The story about the time someone "almost..." gets a fresh embellishment every single week. Nobody minds. Nobody calls anyone out. What matters is the laughter, the friendship, the camaraderie – the quiet, uncomplicated comfort of belonging somewhere.
For a couple of hours on a Tuesday or Thursday, men get to be one of the boys again – enjoying the kind of easy, no-fuss friendship that most men didn't even realise they'd
been missing. It's not therapy. Nobody asks how you're feeling. There's no herbal tea. Instead, you solve the world's problems, debate the wood grain, mutter darkly about the council, and argue passionately about the rugby. Real conversations. Real mates.
The loneliness dissolves. Purpose reappears. The fog lifts. Turns out that laughing with other men and talking about things your wife has absolutely zero interest in is, very good for your mental health and general wellbeing. Who would have thought?
So men – don't be grumpy. Get off your rusty dusty. Go build something.
Your wife will be thrilled –partly because she's proud of you, and mostly because the moment your car left the driveway, she moved the spice rack back, reloaded the dishwasher properly, and is currently enjoying the silence. Everyone wins.
You'll find Menz Sheds in Whitianga, Thames, Whangamata, Matarangi, and Pauanui. Give Glenn or Fred a ring. They're good blokes. They'll see you right. Glenn Schache (President) – 027 495 2015 Fred Collins (Secretary) – 027 245 4105.
$50 fuel voucher from Aroha A Frames
I am an accommodation provider on the Coromandel, for my sins !!
I have been here for ten years. I am now offering guests $50 fuel vouchers if they stay 2 days or more.
Tourism is sinking...especially middle range accommodation. The wealthy can still afford to travel an pay any cost but families, mid range earners, pensioners cannot afford it.
The fuel crisis is affecting the middle range of income earners. We really need guests to survive myself so we have decided to do something about it.
The A frames are two bedroom and sleep four people. We have lovely views all year round in winter stand up paddle boarding is ideal, as is cycling and walking the coastal walkway. We are 18 minutes north of Coromandel town. We are ready to welcome visitors and will ensure they have a very good time here in this piece of Paradise.
Ph Bronnie 027 459 2516.
The men at Whitianga Menz Shed are far from grumpy.
Mothers Day Concert Passione Quartet EVENTS
Hailing from Auckland, Passione Quartet is a group who were brought together by their sheer love of music and a like-minded aim to enjoy and share the immense power and beauty of classical music. The group formed at the beginning of 2024 and has enjoyed playing at numerous public and private events around Tāmaki Makaurau, establishing themselves as a
professional quartet with a high level of dedication to their craft. Their passionate musicality and fine ensemble skills has also opened up opportunities for them to receive coaching from the New Zealand String Quartet in Nelson (2025 and 2026) as well as from the Australian String Quartet in Adelaide. A uniquely holistic approach to understanding chamber music and classy ensemble dynamics awaits
you with their rich, colourful and tightly unified group sound in the beautiful St Georges Church in Thames.
DETAILS: Thames Music Group’s Sunday Concert Passione Quartet, Sunday 10 May 2026 at 2.00 pm, St George’s Church, Mackay Street. Tickets: $20/Adult, $15/ TMG Member, Free entry/ Under 18 yrs old.
Contact: thamesmusic group@yahoo.co.nz
Sean Kelly & The Super 8’s
Sean Kelly & Friends present an intimate show of live Irish music played to the backdrop of Super 8 movies taken by Sean's Dad, a renowned Cine enthusiast, in and around Derry & Donegal 1958-1988.
The show features Sean Kelly on vocals, whistles, bodhran and guitar, Jono Lonie on fiddle and electric mandolin and Maree Limpus on AV and cello.
As well as the professional music and visual delivery, Sean also presents an authentic dialogue on a tumultuous time in the history of Derry, Donegal and the north of Ireland.
It is a sensory-rich experience blending authentic Irish music with authentic imagery, no special effects whatsoever. This show is designed to entertain but also to enlighten and to leave the audience with that elusive sense of wonder.
SEAN KELLY AND HIS BAND
Sean Kelly, full-time Irish musician based in NZ since 1990. Sean started out as lead vocalist with Irish Band Roisin Dubh in the 1990's, The Celtic Flyers in the 2000's and now solo or with friends. Sean sings and plays whistles, bodhran and guitar. He has also sung Ireland's Call twice at Eden Park before two great All Blacks v Ireland rugby games. Sean has also shared the stage with The Chieftains in Auckland
and duetted with Florence Welsh of Florence and the Machine fame.
Jono Lonie, originally from Dunedin is a fiddle and mandolin player extraordinaire. Originally involved in the Dunedin rock scene in the 1970s and 1980s he moved to Auckland in the 1990s to join the burgeoning Irish and folk music scene which is where he first played with Sean, and they now have thirty years of playing together under their belts. Maree Limpus, originally from Wellington, has played the cello since she was a teenager. She joins Sean and Jono on cello on a select number of songs and also triples up as tour coordinator & AV operator.
Saturday 2 May 7:30pm, Kauaeranga Hall, $28 or $25 prebook. Book: khallmusic. nz, SHOP: Garden Music, 712 Pollen St, Thames.
Whitianga Wharf – once upon a time
BY RON MORGAN
When visiting any coastal town or city, I am immediately attracted to the waterfront, wharf and marina having a lifelong love of fishing and boats.
Whitianga wharf kindled this love from an early age. Countless hours were spent fishing for sprats and watching the continuous activity on the wharf. I knew off by heart all the bigger vessels and the skipper’s names and eagerly awaited their return at the end of a charter or fishing trip. Listening to their tales shared with fellow skippers was enthralling as a youngster. My range of expletives was broadened somewhat with tales of lost fish and my mother lamented with my priorities as I was not keen on mathematic tables but had to know all the names of the launches.
One vessel that made a lasting impression was the Ngaire skippered by Connie Simmons, who was I believe the first female charter skipper in NZ. Her bearded deckie, Komi, stood at the bow upon returning and made an impressive sight.
Another was the cabin boat Bernadine which is still in Whitianga and in pristine condition. It was
the Jet Boat which took folk on scenic tours run by Allan Watson.
The flags flying from the Game Fishing Club indicated a catch and often a large crowd assembled to view the catch and often take a portion home with them.
The Game Fishing Club was situated on the wharf as a two storied building. The wharf was constructed using Jarrah a heavy hardwood from Western Australia. Despite having qualities of durability, the piles did become unstable. I remember playing pool and leaving the last ball over the corner pocket and purchasing the customary drinks when a fishing boat berthed and bumped the ball into the pocket. The opposition were not impressed seeing their fortunes reversed. The skipper was rewarded later in the evening.
Many great nights were had in the old building. My Labrador dog Mako was a regular visitor, so much so that someone suggested he become an honorary member. This I did signing him up complete with his own membership card, attached to his collar.
Prior to this, there was a long and colourful history of kauri log exports and associated trade. In later years, a single building used for storage and a marine mechanical business was present.
During these years the ferry took passengers under the wharf after loading on the inside steps. There was, I believe, a problem with the crude toilet set up in the building and with the ferry travelling in the same area of discharge.
A regular visitor was the Lady Jocelyn with a range of cargo and passengers which took on butter from the local factory (now the Museum). There were deliveries of fertilizer from a barge and the wind would blow the dust over a wide area near the wharf. This would have upset the super popular Pie Cart which was at the end of the wharf. Their hamburgers were “to die for”.
Historically, some large vessels berthed at the wharf, no doubt dropping ballast rocks prior to entering. Over later years, the Spirit of New Zealand and The Manawanui were notable visitors, the latter making Whitianga its home port.
Some large fishing vessels also have unloaded their catches locally with a large fleet fishing a variety of methods evident over the years. One busy day when the scallop catches were being unloaded, a bin of scallops was dropped overboard. I persuaded my friend to get his dive gear and at least half of the bin was retrieved. Some tourists were
most impressed watching scallops being collected under the wharf!
The old Game Fishing Club was also a popular spot for “bombs’ with some courage needed to jump from higher spots! It is great to see an area still available for folk to jump off the wharf which has been a tradition for many years. I believe a rescue tube would be a better option for rescues than a life buoy as a rescuer trying to tow a life buoy and swim would have extreme difficulty compared to a rescue tube.
Many Miss Whitianga contests were a summer attraction on the wharf as was the Annual Regatta which featured a range of aquatic activities. The Cup for the river swim was located some years ago from a garage sale in Wellington and now is one of the trophies for the Mercury Bay Area School ‘Cross the River’ Swim.
VANTAGE
POINT FOR VIEWING MEMORABLE ACTIVITIES
The launching of boats from the launching ramp, Orcas in the harbour, Dolphins visiting and the resident dolphins in the 70’s, stock being transported to and from Mercury Island onto the stock trucks from barges, children’s fishing contests, the
Tauranga to Whitianga yachts, Box Net boats unloading their catches, viewing fish caught from the wharf as well as those notable game fish catches weighing in. The Black Marlin caught by Bill Clark in 1947 would be the most notable 924 lbs.
John Ellwood in between ferry runs one year, caught an incredible number of John Dory which he gave to folk who were at the right place at the right time. We used to throw stones on the seaward side of a sighted John Dory and managed to drive it ashore where we could flick it out of the water with a stick.
The Information Centre once received a request to book a seat for the Ferry crossing as well as their car (pictured) – assuming the ferry was a vehicular ferry (facebook photo – Lesley Hindmarsh).
The wharf and its surrounds will bring back many varied memories (some sad when loved ones have been ferried across to the cemetery) and others that will reflect the big part it has had in our lives.
It is great to see the recent developments, many safety-related, that will enhance the enjoyment and efficiency that this focal centre will continue to provide for our community.
Holiday action at the wharf; Old game fishing club.
Bill Clark’s Black Marlin 1947; Ron Morgan as a child on the wharf; The driver of this car tried to book a ticket for her vehicle on the Whitianga Ferry believing it was vehicular ferry.
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What’s On
OP SHOPS
If you have an activity or group or the existing information is incorrect, let The Coromandel Informer know. Call 07 866 2090, email info@theinformer.co.nz.
Our What’s On page is not guaranteed to run every week as often space is restricted. Consider paying for a classified advert if you want to guarantee your activity runs every week.
From a small town to packed theatres across Australia
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.
FROM INTERVIEW WITH KOLBIE AND HER DAD, BLAIR
St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen St, Whitianga. NEW HOURS - 9.30am-1pm WedSat
KMercury 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
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
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-Sun 9am-5pm.
olbie Fraser is seventeen and until the beginning of 2025 she was in Cooks Beach preparing to go to Wellington for her post-MBAS college studies at the New Zealand School of Dance.
MONTHLY
AA Driver Licensing – NEW LOCATION. Friday, 8 May, Monday, 25 May 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.
She is quietly proving that talent backed by grit goes far. Late last year almost at the end of her first year at the dance school, Kolbie earned the invitation to a fiveweek paid professional contract with Rising Ballet Company BIG Live, performing Nutcracker productions across Australia.
Under directors Joel Burke and Khalid Tarabay, part of one of the highest-selling ballet companies in the Southern Hemisphere, she completed 45 performances, dancing five ballet roles, some lasting nearly seven minutes, performing to around 80,000 people. She was also trusted with partner work, which was an honour and embraced wholeheartedly.
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.
Kolbie could hardly believe the experience she was getting and being chosen to be part of the elite ballerinas in the country.
She knows her achievements to this point are not just about hours in the studio. There were
Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information.
Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info.
Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and values based ministry for boys. For boys aged 5-13 years old. Tues 5.30-7pm For information contact Robyn 020 409 39674.
Chess Club – 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.
Hei Mara Garden Club Hahei - We meet on the first Monday of each month at members’ homes, 11am - 2.30pm. New members from Hahei and surrounding areas are welcome. Phone Liz on 0210649232 for more information.
nights walking 30 minutes uphill after training, soaked by Wellington rain and buffeted by wind, legs burning and body exhausted. Shared houses, different cul-
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
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. Contact Tony 021 426 150. Matarangi (Matai Pl Courts) Thurs 3-5pm (Winter) 5 -7pm (Summer) Saturday 9-11am Contact Grant 022 383 6351. Hahei Tennis & Pickleball ClubThursday & 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.
tures, and strict dancer nutrition became unexpected hurdles, and Kolbie made the tough call to move, prioritising her health and training.
Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome. Whitianga Toy Library - NEW Tummy Time sessions for parents/caregivers and babies under 12m. Every Wednesday 9:30am at the toy library - Shop 4, Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Members and non-members welcome. Contact librarian@whititoylibrary. co.nz for more information
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
Kolbie’s success is inspiring others back home. Eight-year-old Harlow Macaw from Tairua also joined the Adelaide and Sydney legs of BIG Live’s Nutcracker tour, a remarkable achievement for someone so young. Performing in the Party scene’ in front of thousands each day, Harlow thrived on stage and says she loved every minute of it. She has since returned home full of inspiration and will continue training under Sarah Fitzsimons at Thames Hauraki Dance Theatre where all the girls have come from, united by their love of dance.
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
The Coromandel Peninsula’s presence in national dance continues to grow, with Kolbie training in ballet and Liarah Anderson – 2nd year, Izzy Fitzsimons and Neka Woolf - now accepted into the New Zealand School of Dance, first year contemporary programs.
Hon Scott Simpson
COROMANDEL-COLVILLE
BETTER
HEALTH CARE
Hospice Waikato’s Bereavement Support Group – Lost a loved one? Join Hospice Waikato’s monthly bereavement support group. Connect over morning tea with others who understand. Held on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 10.30am to 12.00pm at Whitianga Social Services. Registration required. Contact Hospice Waikato to register at 07 859 1260. Mercury Bay Model Railway Club – Monthly meet. Contact. Damon 0273551650 Mercury Bay Shooting Federation – Muzzle loader, rimfire, centre fire, military, pistol. Email mbsfsecretary@gmail.com
Cooks Beach 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.
That resilience and decision to change her situation, soon turned into opportunity as it was after that she earned the invitation to dance in Australia
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.
MP For Coromandel
Coromandel ‘Growers & Artisans Market’ –Every Saturday from 9am - 1pm at The Anglican Church Hall, Coromandel Town.
Access to healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for people in rural and remote areas and our government is committed to ensuring New Zealanders can get the care they need, when they need it, no matter where they live.
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
Last year’s Budget invested $164 million to strengthen urgent and after-hours care nationwide, meaning 98 per cent of New Zealanders will be able to access these services within one hour’s drive of their home. One of the initiatives funded was a pilot programme to enhance urgent and after-hours healthcare in six rural communities, including Coromandel and Colville.
In terms of the Coromandel pilot programme, it began in mid2025 and is being delivered at the Coromandel Family Medical Centre and Colville Health Clinic practice. They’ve been benefiting from extra support, better access to information and working more closely with an Emergency Care Paramedic which can treat urgent care patients in the clinic, while also available to respond to local 111 calls.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I was thrilled to hear the announcement from Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey that these pilots have been rolled out and have shown the positive impact that locally led approaches can make, with faster care, better access to treatment, and stronger links between rural health services.
I’m hoping that there will be even more support for similar projects around our region and the rest of the country in the coming year. People in rural areas can often travel long distances for care and rely on small teams supporting large regions, that’s why this investment is so important.
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 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.
In other news, our region is still recovering from January’s heavy weather event, but it’s encouraging to see communities rebound so quickly and contractors working to stabilise our roads. There are parts of the Peninsula which are still affected by storm damage, and I visited these areas a
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
couple of weeks ago alongside the Associate Minister of Emergency Management and Recovery Chris Penk.
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.
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.
We received a briefing from the Thames-Coromandel District Council, which outlined the impact of the storm and the work ahead. It was stressed throughout these visits that support is available, such as Civil Defence payments through the Ministry of Social Development.
Proudly carrying her Coromandel roots into every lesson, Kolbie’s journey is proof that big dreams are being built right here at home. Kolbie has just now begun her second year – carrying with her the lessons of life away from home and the experience of professional dancing for several weeks and there will be more to come!
Well done!
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 12.45-1.45pm. Night class held at Whitianga Town Hall for Absolute Beginners 5.25-6.25pm. 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
“Major events are critical for our hospitality and tourism sectors, especially here in the Coromandel. Accommodations fill up, restaurants and cafés thrive, and local businesses see more customers, creating jobs and lifting incomes.”
Greypower, Whitianga – Our next gathering will be 10.30am Thursday 14 May for our AGM at the Mercury Bay Club. 10.30am start (doors open at 10.00am). Morning tea will be provided & memberships can be paid. Further info please phone Grey Power on 078665516 or E: greypower.mercurybay@gmail.com Come and join us there is lots to celebrate. 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, Inc. – Learn, update your skills using smart phones, etc. in a friendly setting. Call Carol Wood on 021 022 62504 or email Carol on seniornet.whitianga.admin@ gmail.com.
Addition to Scott’s column Excerpt from his Press release Wed 11 Feb.
GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR OCEANS FESTIVAL
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.
“Across New Zealand, Tourism directly contributes $17 billion to national GDP and just under 200,000 jobs. Tourism makes up almost 12% of Coromandel’s GDP. The economic ripple effect of major events is huge, supporting our local businesses and growing our economy.”
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.
“I’m excited that the Coromandel will once again host the Whitianga Oceans Festival in September 2026, attracting visitors from around New Zealand and overseas, as part of the national $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package. “
Whitianga Gun Club – For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Neville Crawford 021 276 2169.
“Events such as the Whitianga Oceans Festival don’t just bring visitors; they bring life and energy to our region and to our towns which helps to create vibrant communities and unforgettable experiences.”
Whitianga Community Patrol – Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043.
“This funding is a significant boost to Whitianga and the wider Coromandel, and I’m looking forward to our region hosting another great event which encourages locals and visitors to celebrate all that we have offer.”
Kolbie posing infront of The Nutcracker promotion in which she featured; Kolbie with young ballerina Harlow.
Scott Simpson and Chris Penk; Oceans Festival.
Mark McManus – lifetime with tools
Meet Mark McManus. He is not a newcomer to Whitianga, as he has been here trying to retire for six years. However, he is a newcomer in terms of establishing his business here on the Coromandel.
“When I was 15, my mates and I would come in an old van in the summer and sleep on Buffalo Beach in a tent. Later, we would stay at the camping ground near the wharf. Whitianga was where we lived for the summer holidays.They were great times.”
It was Mark’s family who brought him back to Whitianga. “I wasn’t thinking about moving from Auckland until my daughter and son-inlaw moved up here. I am keen on supporting my family and being there for the grandchildren, so I came with semiretirement in mind. My main motivation for coming was to come and be some kind of support as they ran their
businesses, which are Nautical Homes and DLM Construction. In these six years
I have found that I have been able to use my business skills and experience to do quite a lot here and slowly reduce my Auckland involvement.
Frankly, I have become a little bored of being semi-retired,” says Mark. He visited The Informer to get properly started in his business in Whitianga and on the Peninsula, believing he can add to the economy, provide employment and eventually assist young
people, in starting out in a trade; his thirteen-year-old grandson was his inspiration. He sees that many businesses are doing that in this area and he realized that he could be part of encouraging skilled trades to young people so they don’t have to re-invent the wheel.
Mark’s line of work covers a wide range – landscaping, design, retaining walls, foundations, concrete and paving, sewer pump installation and maintenance, drainage, piling and earth removing.
“None of these jobs come easy,” says Mark. “We need to demonstrate professional ability. It is not something bestowed upon a promise or personality; it must be earned – people are watching for professionalism at a number of levels.
“Of all the projects I have been responsible for or a part of, I think the one that pleases me is the Victoria Park Skate
Park in Auckland. It was a design, landscape and build project. There was a phase of my business where building skateboard parks was a major activity because of demand.”
Mark has four trucks and three diggers on standby and during the last storm in April, he had prepared his half-dozen generators in case people needed them if a power cut occurred. “I have a lifetime of tools that are waiting to be used.” Mark McManus Mobile: 027 493 1601. Email: mark@pmcivil. co.nz
Trades & Services
PLUMBING
Vicky 027
Darryl 027 336 8603 anchoredatcooks@gmail.com
Classifieds
Church Services
ANDREW’S CHURCH OP SHOP NEW
We are now open every TUESDAY TO SATURDAY 9.30am-1.00pm for pre-loved clothing and treasures. Come and find us behind The Community Church on Albert Street (opp. Z) ‘Serving the whole community’
Ongoing pollution confirmed at Simpsons Beach
BY ADY COLE-EWEN
Following a test at Simpsons Beach on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, that showed high levels of E. coli (299), had further testing over a larger area conducted on Tuesday, 23 April. Alarmingly, E. coli was found at all three storm drainage points discharging onto the beach. The tests did not include the northern and southern ends of the beach where the streams discharge into the sea. However, they will be included in the next testing. Readings ranged from (MPN/100ml) 276 to 308 to 387. The maximum acceptable level is ONE.
All tests were taken under the direction of Hill Labs - the internationally accredited laboratory recognised for conducting such tests. It is now widely known and accepted across N.Z. that all septic tanks leach and should not be used within at least 2kms of the foreshore. Fortunately, T.C.D.C. is finally in the process of working through providing the much needed, and long overdue,
infrastructure that will address this issue. Although, TCDC will now need to reassess their statement that they would not be reticulating the toilets at Winiata Reserve (one of the highest readings).
We suggest that TCDC follow up on the testing as it is expensive and is currently being paid for by local residents committed to not just the environment, but to the health and safety of all. Children are particularly vulnerable. A child can become extremely ill if exposed to even low levels of E.coli. I don’t believe the problem stops at Simpsons Beach. Council should be conducting regular testing across the Peninsula where septic tanks are still used close to our beaches.
The Lake Tarawera community is one of the more recent localities to have had to resort to reticulated sewage. The lake became badly contaminated after the population boomed and the number of baches and septic tanks increased. The lake water is now fresh and fully “alive” again, and residents are happy and confident that the water is safe for all.
Rugby news
Rugby season kicked off at Lyon Park, Whitianga with a hard-fought match between Mercury Bay Premiers team and Te Aroha College Old Boys. The score was 16 to 13 with a win for Whitianga. Next Sunday is another game at Lyon Park - Mercury Bay versus Waihou.
The Women’s Rugby begins next week with Mercury Bay playing Ngatea in Ngatea.
PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUB – LOOKING DOWN
BY KATE, WHITIANGA PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUB
This month’s challenge, ‘Looking Down’, encouraged members to explore the theme in their own unique and creative ways, and our members certainly delivered. A warm thank you to Sue Henley APSNZ for generously sharing her time and expertise in judging our entries and selecting our Photo of the Month.
BEST IN SHOW – ‘HELD IN DESCENT’ BY ANNAH
STRETTON
Sue praised this image as a highly creative and cleverly executed piece. The diagonal placement of the subject and the light on her face immediately grabbed her attention. She said ”I like the unobtrusive green leaves chosen for the background as they don't compete with the subject in any way, I also feel this is a very well composed image that fits the set subject perfectly.” – Honours
OF THE MONTH – WE
BY
This dynamic action shot impressed Sue with its joyful expression and perfect timing as horse and rider clear the jump. Sue commented “An excellent choice of shutter speed and depth of field have been applied here; the subject is nicely focused and there is just enough information in the background
to tell the story” – Honours Congratulations to Annah and Renee. Their winning images, and all March submissions, are now featured on our public Facebook page for everyone to enjoy. Looking ahead to April, the theme is Mystery Colour. Each member has been assigned a different colour, and we can’t wait to see how creatively they interpret it.
PHOTO
MADE IT!
RENEE LETH
‘Held in Descent’ by Annah Stretton.
‘We Made It!’ by Renee Leth.
Photos by Togo Kubota.
MERCURY BAY
BOWLING AND SPORTS CLUB
The Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club played the Patrons Cup on Sunday of ANZAC weekend. The winner was Dale Tegg, 2ndWayne Edmonds and 3rd - Nirie Reddy.
MERCURY BAY INDOOR
BOWLING CLUB
Thursday, 23 April
Winners: Alan Henderson, Wayne Fisher and Robert Jackson
Runners Up: Ray Rout and Betty Simpson
Good Sports: Cheryl Henderson, Lee Pudney and Pat Fisher
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER
Wednesday, 21 April
Only 2 players remained undefeated after 3 rounds of section play. In the playoff final, Rob Reilly and Ken Gibson showed good form to take out a comfortable win over Ken Gibson. Brian Codyre and Ian Baumgren achieved 2 wins each. Saturday, 25 April
Four rounds of games were completed in section play with many frames going down to the final black. The in-form Rob Reilly was the
only player to win all 4 of his games to take out the day's top prize. Ian Baumgren achieved 3 wins and Phil Jones scored the highest break of the day with a well-compiled 25. Entries are being accepted for the 10 Red Championship until the end of this month.
MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB
April Competition round 4
Wednesday, 22 April
North/South - 1 Giorgio Allemano & Don Barry 58.6; 2
Ischelle Stevenson & Robyn Hogg 55.0; 3 Gavin Hedwig & Pete Hogg 51.8 East/West - 1 Alison Tichbon & Rose Tegg 60.8; 2 Alan Drew & Kate Palmano 55.0; 3 Tadek Gawor & Terri Lipanovic 53.3
Buffalo Pairs round 2
Thursday, 23 April
1 Deidre Stevenson & Tadek Gawor 65.9;2 Terri Lipanovic & Ischelle Stevenson 56.4; 3 Larisa King & Gavin Hedwig 51.6
THE HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Results for week 3 of the Purangi Pairs, 21 April
North South - 1st Alison Tichbon and Peter Hogg 65.28%, 2nd Maggie Beattie and Tia Ormsby 51.39% East West - 1st Robyn Hogg
and Don Barry 75.00%, 2nd
Carol Henwood and Pam Churchill 56.94%
MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS
20 players this week, so 501 singles were played. Two players went through winning all four sets – Fletcher Bale and Rex Donaldson. A one game final was won buy Rex Donaldson. Highest finish for the night for the men was 123, scored by Beau Hamilton. This was a great effort with a bullseye finish. No finishes over 50 for the ladies. One player scored a 180 this week and that was Steve Martinovich.
MERCURY BAY GOLF
CLUB
Tuesday, 21 April
9 Hole Ladies;
Division 1 winners net: 1st Audrey Vickers, 2nd Jenny Leyton & 3rd Christine Godden
Division 2 winner: Bobby Preston.
9 Hole Men Stableford Winners: Edwin Lyle (17), Gordon Brain (16) & Rodrick Bott (15)
Wednesday, 22 April
18 Hole Women.
Aotearoa Cup: Winner, Karen Johansen
Best Gross Cup: Winner, Rachel Johnstone
Coronation Medal: Winner, Rachel Johnstone Veterans Trophy: Marg Maher. LGU round 1: Karen Johansen. Scramble: Div 1: Rachel Johnstone. Div 2: Karen Johansen. Congratulations to all winners.
18 Hole Men Scramble Net: Winners: Wayne Kearney (64), 2nd Rohit Ranchhod (65) and 4 tied on 70, Kevin Wallace, Sam Murphy, Steve “Birthday Boy” Collins & Tony Bartlett. Two’s: Steve Geach, Dan Ray, Sam Murphy, Cam Walls, and with 2 two’s Mickey “The Brickey” Henderson.
The men’s competition was a hot one, with Rohit Ranchhod shooting a career best 79 and Wayne Kearney having his best round for quite a while, the latter prevailing. Well done lads.
Saturday, 25 April
Mens scramble: Gross winners: Mark Boe, Senior with 74 and Vern Bahr, Junior with 91.
Net winners: Richard Steel (68) 2nd, Kevin Smith (69) and 3rd Greg Peterken (71)
Twos: Les, Wallbridge, Justin Wilson, Wayne Kearney & Steve Collins
Wednesday, 22 April
We had 27 ladies in the field vying for 5 different competitions. Yet another well-organized outing for our ladies. The day dawned fine & sunny with no wind to speak of, so a great day was had.
PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
Tuesday, 21 April
9 hole nett
1st Annelise La Roche 2nd= Neil Robertson, Lauren Stephen's 4th Wayne Morrison
Thursday, 23 April
9 Hole stableford
1st= Annelise La Roche, Ryan Cochrane 3rd= Callum Murray, Neil Robertson, Steve Borlase, Mark Bell
THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB
Monday: 9 Hole Men’s: 2 person Ambrose
Paul Dixon and Grant Short 31.25 Net
Lance Croawell and Peter Mathias 34.25 Net
Tuesday: 9-hole ladies:
Hidden Hole
Ruth Fiskin 44
Jo Nicholson 46
Wednesday 18 Hole
Men’s
Best Gross and Nearest the pin: Gary Bancroft 76, Bob Walker 66 Net, Allan Trow 66 Net, Max Gaskell 68 Net
Thursday: 9 Hole Men’s Haggle
Richard Cummins 34 Net, Dan Given 34 Net
Thursday: 9 Hole Ladie’s Haggle
Dee Mear 71 Net, Polly Lambert 72 Net, Brenda Riggs 75 Net,
Friday: ANZAC 9 Hole Haggle: Stableford
Maree Cabaret 27, Kayleen Smith 21
Nearest the pin: Tony Nicholson
Saturday Haggle: Net
Tony De Coek 69, David Gaskell 72, Kayleen Smith 72
Twos: Tony DeCoek on the 7th, Robert Fisken 7th, Kayleen Smith 13th
Sunday Junior Haggle: Gross
Luca Varga 39, Niko Varga 41
MOVIE FOR THIS WEEK
MICHAEL
Michael is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known.
The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.
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Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.
Michael stars Jaafar Jackson in his feature film
debut, Nia Long, Laura Harrier and Juliano Krue Valdi, with Miles Teller and two-time Academy Award® nominee Colman Domingo. Directed by Antoine Fuqua from a screenplay by three-time Academy Award® nominee John Logan, the film is produced by Academy Award® winner Graham King, John Branca and John McClain. Showing at Mercury Twin Cinemas: Wednesday, 29 April 6:45pm, Thursday, 30 April, 12:00pm, Friday, 1 May 6:45pm, Saturday, 2 May 1:30pm, Sunday, 3 May 1:15pm.
Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club: Dale Tegg, winners of the Patrons Cup.
Mercury Bay Golf Club: 27 ladies were in the field vying for 5 different competitions.
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