Te Kai Whakarongo Issue 1231 | 13 October 2026 | Proudly locally owned and operated
theinformer.co.nz
@theinformernz
CONNECTING COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA
Karen Moffatt-McLeod
BY PAULINE STEWART
TRANS-TASMAN AWARD FOR KAREN
O
ut of 3350 entries, local award-winning photographer, Karen MoffattMcLeod remarkably ended up with 2 finalists and finally the Grand Prize in what is a prestigious international photograph competition. The awards were presented in Melbourne, Saturday night a week ago. 2026 marks the eleventh year of the Alpha Awards celebrating the greatest images from across Australia and New Zealand, captured on Sony Alpha cameras and lenses. “I entered the Sony Alpha Awards not thinking I would have a chance, but it is good to compete,” says Karen. “I can’t imagine winning out of 3,350 entries.” “I had this surreal conversation on messenger with @ MeganMaloneyphotography and for a while I thought she must have got it wrong,” says Karen. “But no, no she didn’t. My image, “Between Us”, was awarded the Grand Prize! It is such big news; I am still struggling to comprehend it.” CATEGORIES Judging for all categories was based on aesthetic considerations, including but not limited to the photographer’s choice of subject, photographic technique and post-capture treatment.
Twin boys, Dylan & Bradley Field (locals) – the subject of the Grand Prize award.
OPEN PHOTO CATEGORIES: ding, Youth, Bird Life, Sea Life, Astrophotography, City/Street, Wildlife. Creative, Editorial, Landscape, Thank you Sony Alpha AU & Portrait, Seascape, Sports, Wed- NZ & Pixel Perfect Prolab (who
printed the images for the exhibition). Big thanks to the twins who were my subject – you boys were a dream to work with. Congratu-
•PRICE EsuP R E UFURNIT R
lations to all the finalists and the category winners – your work is truly amazing, and thanks to those who keep supporting me.
UP TO 30% OFF ON ALL
But hurry, ends 27 October 2026
PRICE • suPER RE FURNITU
SPF Furniture Thames 513 Pollen Street, Thames 3500 07 2116954 SPF Bed Shop 543 Pollen Street, Thames 3500 07 2119307 SPF Furniture Whitianga 33 Albert Street, Whitianga 3510 07 2800367 www.superpricefurniture.co.nz
Pauline’s Piece
The migrant and peace FILIPINO FRIENDSHIP have missed a few of my Filipino friends these past two months. They will be away for four months. That’s the rule from immigration. They must stay in the Philippines for four months and then re-apply for a visa - filling in the four months as best they can and then with a new visa they will return to their jobs. It is hard for their employers here to replace them – reliable, punctual, hard workers who quickly become skilled. Immigration demands that these rules are followed. I can only think this rule is for the benefit of the potential employee to step up and into these temporary vacancies. It is no benefit to the immigrants, and both the employers and migrants find it very expensive and non-productive.
piece of wool through a small hole to each crane – each was made so perfectly folded and in different colours. I suddenly realized it was Hiroshima Day, 6 August – many Australians knew about this day. It had not been prominent in my calendar. Big tears flowed down Yukari’s cheeks as she searched my expression. She knew the burden her country carried, and she knew the burden of the old soldiers. Her only hope was to offer herself in peace. I loved her heart. Yukari was loved by many in that home. Some of the old soldiers died and she was a loving and empathic presence for them. She was part of their own journey of healing and they, hers. She worked tirelessly – returning home after several years. There are “Yukaris” in our community and all over New Zealand.
Motel and Airbnb and business owners are invited to come to our office and get their copies of the Summer Magazine from this week The Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga
YO
TH
UR
IS
HIDEA WAY
BEACH HUT
1 B ath room
2 B ed ro o ms
50m2
BE
NE
IN
SU W H OM M M ER E !
1 Bath r o o m
66m2
H O U S E PA C K A G E $ 2 7 8 ,000*
HOU S E PACKAGE $291,0 0 0 *
SE AVIEW
SEAGUL L
3 Bedr o o m s
With gestures and pictures and single words, we managed to communicate. Her job was mainly knew she was serving food and often personally feeding some of the residents. Yukari would often look tired and for a period of several days she disappeared into her room coming out only to go to work. I had felt a bit miffed about this – no communicating and not trying to talk together. She seemed secretive. I was worried she was very unhappy and maybe the job was too hard and cruel - the old soldiers had not been kind. Then one morning she said to me “Please help me today a little” Sure I said, smiled and relieved. She opened the door of her room and hundreds of paper cranes literally fell out on to the floor. She explained that were to take them to her work. She had attached a
COROMANDEL SUMMER MAG IS OUT NOW
PREBUILT HOUSE PACKAGES
1 Be dr o o m
to spend at least two years learning the language. She knew a few basic words. I had no Japanese. She needed a job and without thinking too much I helped her get a job as a kitchen assistant at the local nursing home. I had overlooked that fact that this was full of returned soldiers – many who had fought in the Pacific and some who had been prisoners of war of the Japanese. When I took her for the interview there was an embarrassing silence until the matron said, “It’s okay, we will give this a try. There was no mention of language barrier or the fact that the soldiers were World War Two veterans. “The matron quietly said to me later, “No Japanese had ever worked here before.” I was afraid for Yukari – but not really able to make it clear to her the situation of her employment.
YUKARI In my first few weeks in Sydney, starting a new job, there were no apartments for rent near my work. So, as a 24-year-old, I rented a house. The Real Estate suggested I take an international boarder. I did. Her name was Yukari – she had come from Japan
O HO PRFF T T ES HE S
I
The small and medium businesses do not benefit from this and I trust the incoming winners in this election can cease this practice. People who have proved their worth and who are working hard and advancing their lives and that of their employer should be allowed to stay put and have their visa extended if their references and work record stack up. I support managed immigration – it enriches our lives, adds to our culture and our world view. Pastorally, we have a responsibility.
1 B a t hroom
81 m 2
3 B ed roo ms
HO U S E PA C K A G E $ 3 3 7 ,000*
Ever y pa ck age i n c lu d es
NEW tracked Scissor Lift available for hire, with 8.7m working height with stabilizing legs. 230kg lift capacity, non marking tracks, call today to secure your booking!!
Small engine sales, repairs and servicing. Corner Moewai Rd & Dakota Drive, Whitianga. Ph 0274 428 635
Business Hours Monday to Friday 8am-5.00pm Weekends by appointment
2 Bath r o o ms
92m 2
HOU S E PACKAGE $371,0 0 0 *
✓ Delivery from our Whitianga yard (up to 35km) ✓ Standard timber pile foundations ✓ Baseboards ✓ Ge o t e c h n i c a l r e p o r t f o r f o u n d a t i o n s ✓ B u i l d i n g Co n s e n t w i t h T h a m e s C o r o m a n d e l D i s t r i c t C o u n c i l ✓ Heat pump ✓ Fisher & Paykel oven, cooktop, rangehood and dishwasher ✓ Co m p l e t e w i t h q u a l i t y f l o o r i n g , c u r t a i n s a n d b l i n d s TAL K TO US ABOUT YOUR SITE 027 4 97 1 1 8 3 evans ho m es @ x t r a . c o . n z
Pricing based on a standard site. Evans Homes reserves the right to change or withdraw house packages without notice. Package inclusions are subject to availability. Additional costs may apply following site-specific engineering assessments. Package pricing excludes power, wastewater and stormwater connections and land.
2 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
HARKIN BOAT WORKS
45+ years of experience in timber and composite construction • New Builds • Modifications • Repairs
Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques
Phone +64212207288 | harkinnz@gmail.com Unit 1, 5 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga 3510 www.harkinboatworks.com www.theinformer.co.nz
EVENTS
Local play - a first in four years
Friday Lunchtime Concert Features Thames Citizens’ Band
S
exy Laundry is the first local play in over 4 years to appear at the Monkey House Theatre in Whitianga, so excitement is building. Written by Canadian playwright Michelle Riml and starring Lana Garland, Stephen Parker and directed by Kaspur Franke, Sexy Laundry is a comedy/drama that follows husband and wife Henry and Alice as they attempt to spice up a stale 25 year marriage. Alice, a full-time mum and real estate agent who has been feeling neglected lately has cooked up some juicy weekend plans by renting a chic city hotel room and bringing with her a copy of ‘Sex for Dummies’. Meanwhile Henry, an aging building engineer with conservative sensibilities, has reluctantly agreed to participate in Alice’s “ridiculous exercises.” What ensues is a night of comedic mishaps, tender moments, and self-discovery. Whilst Stephen Parker is better known currently as a mathematics teacher at MBAS, he has held many roles in life from firefighting and motel ownership, plus has volunteered as a teacher in Papua New Guinea. So he is now
Lana Garland.
bringing that adventurous spirit to the Monkey House stage. The production is then incredibly lucky to have the professional actress Lana Garland in its’ cast. From international movies and shows such as King Kong & Xena: Warrior Princess, plus national TV appearances in The Brokenwood Mysteries and Shortland Street, this is Lana’s first foray back into local theatre in Whitianga, since growing up here, so this is a very special treat for theatre goers. This is a truly local production, with many amazing volunteers
behind the scenes who have invested their valuable time as prompts; providing set items, alongside mentoring advice; plus of course having a local venue provide the rehearsal and show space. LET’S FILL THE SEATS Now we need the community’s support to fill the seats as this makes local theatre possible – the show runs this week, from Thursday 15 to Sunday 18 Oct. Tickets are $25 and available now at Eventfinda/www.beatfairy. com or the Whitianga isite.
Thames Music Group’s October Free Friday Lunchtime Concert, on Friday 16 October at 12:15pm will feature Thames Citizens’ Band (TCB). As those of you who have attended previous TCB performances will know, TCB is not a traditional brass band, as it was in its roots, or even a concert wind band, as it later became. The current band does have brass and other wind instruments, but it also includes string instruments: at least one, slightly amplified, violin, a bass guitar, and, possibly, a double bass. With members playing so many different instruments, often not their primary ones, the ensemble offers a constantly changing
musical feast. This feast is not just well played notes, joyous rhythm, humour, and urge to move. It's conveying ideas, thoughts, and inspirations that are so hard to express with words. This concert’s feast has a very large dose of courage worthy of your being present to acknowledge it. EVENT DETAILS: Thames Music Group’s Free Friday Concert series presents Thames Citizens’ Band, Friday 16 October, at 12.15 pm, St George’s Church, cnr Mary and Mackay Streets, Thames. Free entry, koha/donation gratefully accepted. Contact: thamesmusic group@yahoo.co.nz
Sale!
15% off Quick-S tep flooring *T&C’s apply
Adore your floor for less 205 SEALEY ST, THAMES. PHONE 07 868 6128 www.theinformer.co.nz
WHITIANGA FLOORING XTRA
68 Albert Street, Whitianga
P: (07) 866 2836
E: whitianga@flooringxtra.co.nz The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 3
Your Weekly Kitchen Calendar Sponsored by
\
WHERE
THE LOST SPRING 07 866 0456
37 Albert Street Whitianga 07 866 4647
Mercury Bay Club
Cnr Campbell St & Cook Dr, Whitianga 07 866 5576
1 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open daily from 11 am till late 07 866 0013
1 Blacksmith Lane Whitianga 07 866 0620
Wednesday
Thursday
OPEN THURS & SUN 9 – 7PM FRI & SAT 9 - 9PM Best Food & Service in Town
LUNCH SPECIALS
$19.95 or $27 Phone 07 866 0456 with a Wine BEER O’CLOCK ENJOY 50% OFF YOUR FOOD BLOW OUT!
All food half price From 5-7pm, your fav beers will be at prices from 6pm till 9.30pm that’ll have you doing a (Yes, you read that right!!) double take! Throw in our T+C’s Apply $2 Wings and you’ve got Plus Live Music another great reason to Francie Lidgard be here! SNOOKER 12.30PM Visitors welcome
HANDLE CLUB
QUIZ NIGHT
4 - 6PM
WITH VEGAS
7PM
30% off any main meal From 5pm
TRIVIA
Restaurant Open 7 days
+ Glass of Laurent Perrier Champagne $18
FRI-YAY
Saturday
Sunday
DIP, SIP & DINE 1 Hour Dip, a Cocktail, a Main Meal $110
ALA CARTE BRUNCH
ALL WEEK FUN
Sports on all day, TAB, delicious menu, beersies flowing Good times!
Enjoy our ‘World famous in Whitianga’ AUSTRALIA VS WINNING WHEEL, ALL BLACKS Meat raffles & Live music every week!! Complementary Sweet As Nibbles!! Are back !! FRIDAY NIGHT MEMBERS DRAW, DOOR PRIZE & RAFFLES FROM 5.30PM
BLAZE ROCKERS
7.30PM
$28 LAMB SHANK COMBO
DJ Lamb shank, mash DANGERUST potatoes, peas & gravy plus your choice of tap beer or 9pm – LATE house wine
10.30AM RAFFLES ONLY $1.. DOOR PRIZE RSA
From 9am - 1pm + add a swim for $25 We Do Great Breakfasts!
SUNDAY FUNDAY!
BINGO with Brent is HERE 1.30pm
SUNDAY’S LOOKING STOUT Guinness Happy Hour 4-6pm
8 BALL 12.45PM Restaurant Open
Monday
Tuesday
EVENTS
Christmas, Work-Do’s, Birthday’s, Hen Parties. Call Events @ 07 866 0456 Tell us What you Need
Our 2 for 1 Steak deal is on !!
THE BEST BURGER deal in town IS ON! BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ! LINE DANCING leson all our sons with Ceeann IS BACK!! burger lessons, beginners & fries meals. welcome, good tunes, All Day, Dine in only great crew.
HAPPY HOUR ...Smitty’s Sip Off 3 - 6pm MONDAY MADNESS BINGO !! 1-3PM
TUESDAY NIGHT MEMBERS DRAW, DOOR PRIZE & RAFFLES FROM 5.30PM
$25 BANGERS & MASH COMBO
$26 PORK RIBS COMBO
Thur - Sat 11.30am till close. INDOOR BOWLS Sun - Wed 5pm till 7PM, NEW PLAYERS DARTS 6.15PM WELCOME!! close. SNOOKER 1pm
ALL BLACKS vs AUZZIE Live on our BIG SCREEN !!
30% off pizzas allllll day
Mash potatoes, 2 x Sticky Pork ribs pork sausages, peas and Fries, plus & gravy plus your your choice of tap choice of tap beer or beer or house wine house wine
Open from Closed Closed Open from Open from Open from Open from 11:30 late. Happy 11.30am - late. Wednesday Wednesday 5pm till 5pm till hour 4:30-6:00pm. 11.30am - late. to Sunday to Sunday late. Book Complimentary late. Book Live piano Roast Lamb Make a booking Make a booking online or call online or call canapés start 4:30. from 5.30pm shoulder Live piano from online or call online or call 07 866 0620 07 866 0620 from 5pm 5:30pm 07 866 0620 07 866 0620
KEEP UP TO DATE WITH US BY FOLLOWING US ON 20 Black Jack Road, SOCIAL MEDIA OR er BY CHECKING OUT Kuaotunu omeness) OUR WEBSITE! 07 866 4480 FUSH ‘N CHUP MEAL DEAL 2 for 1 ALL DAY LONG Buy1, get 1 free! Dine in only (sorry, no takeaways)
She’s worth the drive!
THURSDAY SEAFOOD & EAT IT FROM 5PM DARTS NIGHT Best Gosh Darn Night of the week... Courtesy Tav’n Wag’n will pick you up and drop you off inWhiti. Must book though… Just give us a call
FRIDAY
$10
MARGARITAS Friday Night Shenanigans
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
OPEN
MONDAY
BREAKFAST 9-11AM
CLOSED, KITCHEN AND LIVE TUNES SEE YOU AND PIZZA FROM 5PM WITH THURSDAY SPECIALS STELLA RILEY
Scallop Burger (Add Bacon for Extra Crack the Awesomeness) Buffalo Wings board (Warning Spicy Stick it to win it Tav made sauce) Complimentary nibbles Fish & Chips Fresh is Best! From 4.30 - 6.30pm
LIVE SPORTS
Sauce)
Delicious Chorizo + Roast Kumara Risotto
Friday OYSTERS
Thursday Sunday
Fantastic food, MATES RATES Cold beers, Amazing Because Food & Garden Bar, PLUS the Drinks taste better BEST banter around! at 20% OFF. Free Pool 4pm till close All day Only on a Monday Sunday T & C Apply
TICKETS 11am till 9pm AVAILABLE
Tender Tuesdays
at the Tav 200g sirloin steak, eggs & chips $20 Available all day!
Follow us on facebook & Instagram for everything you need to know - Opening hours, upcoming events, Summer gigs + food specials!
O P E N 7 D AY S E F T P O S AVA I L A B L E
Private Hire Charters • Auckland Airport Transfers 4 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
T O TA L M O B I L I T Y AC C P R OV I D E R www.theinformer.co.nz
Tell me a story - your story A creative writers workshop and a story telling evening were held on Saturday 10 October at Kūaotunu Hall. BY VERNA CARR
STEPH PARKYN: AN INVITATION TO WRITE AN UNTOLD STORY If you’ve ever stared at a blank page and thought, “I have nothing to say,” Steph Parkyn would beg to differ. On Saturday 10 October at Kūaotunu Hall, she ran a creative writing workshop that proved otherwise – and did it with more laughs than grammar rules. Steph has already published three novels set around the Napoleonic wars and the French Revolution: Into the World, Josephine’s Garden and Freedom of the Birds. She has an enquiring mind and likes the science of research and putting historical pieces of the puzzle together. But on Saturday she left the emperors and revolutions at home and turned her attention to ordinary people with pens in their hands. Her message was simple: everyone has a story that wants to be told. You are only limited by your imagination. And spelling? Grammar? Those can wait. The workshop was not about getting things “right.” It was about giving people permission to play. Steph treats words like an art form with infinite possibilities – capable of carrying feelings, facts, secrets and humour. She reminded the group that we all have stories that live in our private spaces, waiting patiently to be coaxed into the light. Then she set her students loose with exercises that required only one thing: have a go. Nothing had to be perfect. Notebooks were allowed to be messy. Ideas were allowed to be contradictory, half-formed or downright ridiculous. Inspiration, she insisted, usually turns up after the pen starts moving, not before – giving the writer
Above: Steph Parkyn. Below: Ange, Beverly, Isobella, Colin, Neera, and Dave at the story telling evening.
time to come from the heart and share a piece of themselves. She teaches how to write a story without being boring. She calls her favourite teaching formula the “head, heart and legs” of a story. Head: What’s actually happening? The facts, the concepts, the ideas. Heart: What do you want the character – and the reader – to feel? Laughter, tears, indignation, courage, or the full emotional spectrum? Legs: What’s the action or narrative drive that makes someone keep turning the page? Steph asks how is the character relevant – what is his or her story? How is the character developed
and does the character evolve as their story is told? The real joy of stories and storytelling is the chance to invent whole new worlds and see those worlds through the different perspectives of different characters. This chance invites you to figure out the universal stories and truths of humanity. Steph will be running another creative writing workshop as part of the Readers & Writers Festival in May 2027. If you’ve got a story itching to get out or even just a half-baked idea that might one day grow legs. As Steph likes to say, every story, however messy, unfinished or unrefined, wants to be told. The blank page is waiting for you to pick up the pen.
AEROVIEW GARDEN CENTRE
New season fruit trees
have arrived instore
Seed potatoes
We have 14 varieties available including Maori seed potatoes
Open 7 days a week Monday - Sunday 8.30am - 5.00pm
www.theinformer.co.nz
The Dag Man powdered sheep manure back in stock 382 Ngati Maru Highway, Thames
Phone 07 - 868 7960
ANGE GREGORY: A PIECE OF YOUR OWN LIFE When you hear the words “Once upon a time,” something ancient stirs. Eyes light up. People lean in. Storytelling is one of our oldest instincts – the circle around the campfire, the shared laughter and quiet nods that turn strangers into neighbours. Nothing much has changed. On Saturday 10 October at Kūaotunu Hall, about thirty people gathered for an evening of storytelling. The idea belonged to Ange Gregory, who had been inspired by a podcast and simply wanted to create something warm and real for her local community. She invited an eclectic group of speakers, all sharing authentic pieces of their own lives. First up was Neera, whose topic was “A Challenging Day at Work.” She spoke about life as a relief teacher in a small country school, working with children who have learning differences. Her story was quiet, heartfelt and full of empathy – both for the students and for the everyday pressures teachers carry. Colin followed with tales from the heartland of China. During the COVID lockdowns he could no longer teach his usual foreign-exchange students, so he took a university post in a major Chinese city. He described the cultural shock of moving from small-town New Zealand to a place of enormous scale, where few people spoke English. Yet, what stayed with him was the kindness of ordinary Chinese people who welcomed him into their homes and showed him sides of the country tourists rarely see. It takes courage to stand up and tell your story. Sandra had recently had an
Ange Gregory.
operation on her mouth that made speaking difficult; yet she still stepped forward. Her piece was called “My Hero.” She briefly touched on the gold diggers and pioneers of early Kūaotunu before turning to the person she most admires - Luke Riley of Luke’s Kitchen. She spoke warmly of how Luke had built the place from almost nothing into a thriving community hub, where people can gather and eat good food. Then came Dave, who had the room howling with laughter. He recounted a trip around Vanuatu – a close encounter with a dugong, the decision to “go native” in a traditional penis sheath, and how near he came to an active volcano. Beverly’s story, “Million Dollar Girl,” began with her days as a policewoman in Melbourne chasing a thief who had stolen a computer from a car. She acted out the scene with full arm movements and sound effects, keeping everyone entertained. The heart of the tale, though, was quieter and more moving; – going through a divorce and facing the loss of her home, she was lent the money she needed by a
couple she had known for only a week. She still marvels at how generous people can be when a miracle is required. Angela read a poem she had written to her father about walking the dog around the beaches of Kūaotunu and Otama. Her love for her dog and the place she calls home were evident. Isobella closed the evening with a short video made by her granddaughter – a young woman growing up in New York who spends Christmas with her Kiwi grandmother and, in doing so, reconnects with her roots. That is the power of storytelling. It does not merely describe connection. It is the connection. It bridges people across the chasm of generations, time, culture, distance and even silence. Every one of us carries hardships, fears, loves, triumphs and ordinary days. When we tell those stories – honestly and without polish – knowledge is passed on, strangers become community, and the circle around the fire grows a little wider. And they lived, if not always happily, ever after, but at least they got to tell their story.
Coastal Sanctuar y Beauty
All of our staff are fully qualified and experienced. Facials, massage, waxing, eye treatments, spray tanning, manicures and pedicures, electrolysis, Dermapen Gift vouchers available
Book at coastalsanctuar y.com or call us on 07 866 2679 07 866 2679 • 14 Victoria Street, Whitianga enquiries@coastalsanctuar y.com • www.coastalsanctuar y.com The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 5
Four stores in one and always worth the visit
The. Big.
Sale. Save on selected beds & bedding.
Elements Wave 3 ‘Grab & Go’ Mattress
Chiropractic Perform Pop Up Bed
Elements Wave Queen on AdjustWave 1 Base
Available rolled in a bag for easy transport. Grab one in-store.
Combining trusted back care into a smart, space-saving design.
Everyday comfort that moves with you.
459
1,599
QUEEN MATTRESS ONLY $
KING SINGLE NOW $
Swisstek Precision Bed
Chiropractic Reflex Bed
2,158
QUEEN NOW FROM $
12 months interest free On purchases $499 & over.*
Appliance servicing Responsive 7-zone pocket spring support for reduced partner disturbance.
With the addition of KülKōte to help maintain a comfortable temperature.
3,499
QUEEN NOW $
PROMOTION RUNS 7 – 22 OCTOBER
NZ Made
4,199
QUEEN NOW $
Find your perfect match with Sleepmap, our free, in-store bed matching system.
Sofa Spring into Sale Comfort Sale
• Custom exclusive designs by Danske Møbler • Choose from a stunning range of fashion fabrics and quality leathers from Tasman Tanning • Luxurious quality and comfort guaranteed
UP TO 20% OFF
HURRY! LIMITED TIME
When you buy NZ made by Danske Møbler, it’s a decision you will never regret!
In partnership with
PROMOTION ENDS 31 OCTOBER
PROMOTION ENDS 19 OCTOBER
coromandel life:style centre 4/9 joan gaskell drive, whitianga 6 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
* On selected items. Furniture illustrated is indicative only. Furniture for living Excludes Stressless®.
.
(07) 866 5726 www.theinformer.co.nz
‘Fine Wines’ – that’s us – Gary and me BY REEMA
W
e came to Whitianga in 2015. After we got married, I worked at That Curry Place in the centre of town. That was my first job and I was there for three years. Gary worked at the time at Liquorland and I would help him out after I had finished at the restaurant. I found that I had a passion for wines and spirts. I helped Gary at the shop learning all the different kinds of wines. This was new to me – a woman does not follow that kind of interest where I come from in India. We wanted to do something together that was our own business – so we set out to open a boutique wine store in our town. The bottle stores serve a purpose but they don’t cater for international people looking for something special. We began contacting small wineries rather than go to a big supplier. It took us two years to get a license for the store and open, but it was all worth it in the end. I left my job as soon as we got our license. This was a dream come true that I could never have imagined before we came to Whitianga. I never thought I would be pursuing this in New Zealand. This is my passion. Fine Wines and Spirits is us – Gary and me. We can work together on our store and there’s time for me to do extra online study – gaining more knowledge
Reema in her shop – Fine Wines & Spirits, in Albert St, Whitianga; Gary and Reema at the recent annual Oceans Festival.
of wines and spirits is important to me. I keep on searching for what I want to know. We were the first in town to start a Wine Tasting Club and offering regular events. This last year’s wine tastings were very different – we had Italian, French, Spain, and American themes. I loved matching Italian food with Italian wine. And enjoying the way our members were adventurous being willing to savour new tastes. The invitations go to our regular customers as they are our loyalty members. We are definitely
going to continue the wine tasting nights but we are also going to initiate gin and whiskey tasting nights and will have a couple of these before the end of the year. We have around 180 gins in our stock as it is the most popular spirit. In fact, of the two most popular gins, one of them is local Awildian Gin from Thames. Vodka also remains popular. The younger ones go for RTD’s (ready to drink). They like a 10 pack or 12 pack and some have less than zero percent sugar. Trends in spirits have changed a lot. Last year we got the license to sell RTDs in
Whiti Nails & Beauty have relocated! Lakin and her team have moved from Lee Street to
33 Albert Street, Whitianga (Above SuperPrice Furniture next to Chang Thai Restaurant) Stairs and elevator access.
Phone 027 8453 174 lakingibson@xtra.co.nz
our boutique store. Definitely business has been much quieter this year. The closed highway effected so many businesses and it took a lot of time to catch up. But this year has taken that catch up away. Reema shared shares some of her medical journey this year that has added to the difficult economic time. It all started just before last Christmas. I was in so much in pain with my back. Nothing seemed to relieve it. I went to get an MRI scan. Unfortunately, the results showed I had a disc extru-
sion (out of my spine). When we contacted the best specialist in Auckland, it was clear that I could not get an appointment anytime soon. However, I knew I could not live with the pain. We both decided it was better for me to fly to India (our home country)_ to have the disc intrusion operation. It was our busiest period here, but the pain gave me no choice. I flew to India in February and had the operation. It was a long journey of recuperation – for the first three months after. I was in so much pain and not able to turn my body left or right. However, my parents were there for me and Gary and the staff kept things going here. It was a hard time for everyone. Finally, I got the green light to return and came home in August. Now I am feeling better and am able to do gentle work. I am back to my beautiful store and to my beautiful customers – this is where I belong. Almost every day I was in India facing a lot of uncertainty. I would receive beautiful messages from my friends in Whitianga. That kept me going and their support here kept Gary in good spirits. We have never been judged critically by others here. We have survived these six months because of the love of this community. The most important reason for what makes this store is the people. The people keep us going – keep us believing it is possible to have a thriving boutique wine and spirits store.
Scott Simpson National Party Candidate for Coromandel
Mercury Bay – the sun, the moon and the tides
Wednesday 14 October
Thursday 15 October
Friday 16 October
Saturday 17 October
Sun: Rise 6:35am Set 7:32pm
Sun: Rise 6:33am Set 7:33pm
Sun: Rise 6:32am Set 7:34pm
Sun: Rise 6:30am Set 7:35pm
Moon: Rise 8:02am Set 11:17pm
Moon: Rise 8:43am
Moon: Set 12:15am Rise 9:30am
Moon: Set 1:07am Rise 10:23am
High Tides:10:25am 10:35pm
High Tides:11:06am 11:15pm
High Tides:11:47am 11:55pm
High Tides:12:30pm
HOT WATER Low Tides:3:51am 4:13pm BEACH
HOT WATER Low Tides:4:31am 4:55pm BEACH
HOT WATER Low Tides:5:10am 5:37pm BEACH
Sunday 18 October
Monday 19 October
Tuesday 20 October
Sun: Rise 6:29am Set 7:35pm
Sun: Rise 6:28am Set 7:36pm
Sun: Rise 6:26am Set 7:37pm
Moon: Set 1:53am Rise 11:20am
Moon: Set 2:32am Rise 12:20pm
Moon: Set 3:06am Rise 1:21pm
High Tides:12:38am 1:16pm HOT WATER Low Tides:6:32am 7:08pm BEACH
High Tides:1:24am 2:08pm HOT WATER Low Tides:7:17am 7:57pm BEACH
High Tides:2:15am 2:56pm HOT WATER Low Tides:8:07am 8:49pm BEACH
www.theinformer.co.nz
HOT WATER Low Tides:5:50am 6:21pm BEACH
THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS Sponsor the tides column
For details email: sales@theinformer.co.nz
Authorised by S. Simpson, scott.simpson@national.org.nz
The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 7
Mike’s Minutes
‘Worth Watching Online’
JUST KEY IN THE TITLE AS WRITTEN TO FIND THE VIDEO IN YOUTUBE (it’s better on a flat screen TV) 1. What The News Should Have Told You About China’s Space Station China’s Tiang Gong or “Heavenly Palace” is the most advanced space station ever developed by the human race. Western media concentrate on images from the International Space Station but the crew on Tiang Gong live and work in a modern spacious environment very different from the ISS which was built using 1980s technology. 2. What’s the Difference Between Tarmac and Asphalt? Have you ever wondered if “tarmac” and “asphalt” are the same thing? This video breaks down the real differences between the two commonly confused road making materials. 3. The Biggest Train Station in the World is Now Open Chongqing East is unlike any other train station on the planet. China’s new high speed rail hub is absolutely enormous, so take this opportunity to visit this mega project. Enjoy watching, Mike
Megan - she will be missed BY PAULINE STEWART
M
egan Henson was a lively and generous leader in this community particularly in the Mercury Bay Lions Club and SeniorNet. Her death came after a short illness and was simply unexpected. At the time she was the President of the Lions Club. These words are on behalf of all the members of Mercury Bay Lions and were read by Krystine Banicevich. “Megan has been a greatly valued member and friend of our Lions Club. She was a member for 12 years. “During this time she was President 2016-2017, then again from September 24 – June 25 and elected again this year in July for a further term. Megan’s contribution to the running of our club has been invaluable She was always very encouraging to our new and old members and her vast knowledge of things will be missed by all of us. She had a unique sense of humour and her part in the fun we had at the many lunches and dinners held to celebrate various events made them so much fun. She was also key in organizing our many fund raising projects. She will be sadly missed by all ‘The Pink Ladies’ I would like to thank John for his support of Megan in so
Megan Henson.
Skills for Life You will work as a team, build trust, show initiative and increase con�idence in communication and decision making processes. Leave the course with nationally recognised certi�icates to help you enjoy a lifetime of safe boating or open your way to an array of maritime careers. By the end of the course you will have gained your Marine VHF Radio Certi�icate, Coastguard Day Skipper quali�ication and a First Aid Certi�icate. Deep Water Survival training is also part of the course along with lots of Practical Boat Handling Skills and Coastguard Search and Rescue Techniques, like Man Overboard.
whitiang
physiofirst whitianga
31 May – 6 September 2026
Enrol in the Cadetship programme and open up a world of opportunities for personal growth, weekly challenges and a lot of fun.
Wellington area. John and Megan met and got married in Wellington. Their professional and family lives were in the Wellington area – Porirua, Kilbirnie, Central Wellington, Churton Park and their last family home before moving to Whitianga was the suburb of Ngaio where they lived for thirty years. Megan and John had come to Whitianga for holidays when the roads were gravel. “We always loved it,” says John, “and we decided to return in our retirement. We had planned a round trip of New Zealand to see where we would like to retire before making a final decision. We started off in Kapiti; we had friends there who had recently retired. We liked it but wanted to look further to make comparisons. We went to Napier, Hastings, Havelock North; thought about Papamoa, Tauranga, Welcome Bay. However, in the end we were looking for a smaller community and we didn’t want to travel miles through traffic to decent facilities. “Whitianga had grown a lot for us, it still had the culture of a resort area and it gave us a sort of buzz. A small town feel but beautiful.” Later this year, Megan and John would have been 60 years married. “Megan loved it here. It’s our home.”
physiofi
many ways. She always said she couldn’t have done it without John. Our sincere condolences go to John and the family.” The Informer talked with John, Megan’s husband to offer some empathy and to gather a little of Megan’s journey to share with readers. “Megan was a strong personality and her interests matched that. Her leadership with SeniorNet and the Lions were situations where she could use her initiative and also lead. She dabbled in politics in her early life and was involved in the engineers union in the printing industry in her professional work. That experience gave her a self-confidence in
Whitianga Coastguard Alan Jackson Memorial Cadetship
talking with people at all levels. She was comfortable in her own skin and that put others at ease. She understood well how personalities do matter, particularly when people were giving their time as volunteers. “Megan was very much a community minded person. In the fifteen years we spent in retirement here, it was her priority to serve the community. She encouraged other people, even inspired them with her confidence in their ability. “We shared that together but I am the back room person; not comfortable with public exposure. I liked to support her efforts. “Megan’s strong mental alertness was with her right through her life but in recent times her physical strength gave way. Even when she was sick, she would be writing a report or going through someone’s finances to help them or nutting out a problem for a SeniorNet participant. She would find a way through it, sick or not. A passionate interest was Genealogy and she would assist many with that.” Megan was born in Rotorua, one of five daughters but the family moved to Wairua when she was young as her dad was a military man. The family also spent years in Auckland and
GET BETTER!
Physio | Acupuncture | Rehab | Hand Therapy Book online: www.physiofirstwhi�anga.co.nz ACC Cer�fied
21 Coghill Street Whi�anga | 027 466 7213 28 Albert Street, Whitianga Phone 07 866 4532 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm, Sun closed
Are you 15-17 years old and Ready to Jump Onboard? Think you’ve got what it takes to join our cadetship and take advantage of this All Expenses Paid opportunity?
Applications There are only 10 places available and we are currently taking applications by email to info@whitiangacoastguard.co.nz. Tell us a little about yourself and any water based skills you may already have. Also let us know what you hope to do with these new found skills in the future and why you think you should be chosen to be invited onto the cadetship this year. Remember to include your contact details and those of a parent. Closing Date for applications is Sunday 10th May.
8 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
www.theinformer.co.nz
for Tairua Residential Care Ready Anything Day gets a local WOW visit BY PAM FERLA
Happy resident, Doreen, leads the way for models at Tairua Residential Care; Models from Tairua Library’s Wearable Arts Fashion Show delighted residents of Tairua Residential Care.
BY PAM FERLA
T
he wow factor of a wearable arts fashion show was a treat for residents of Tairua Residential Care on Friday, 9 October. A group from the Tairua Library organised the visit, which featured vibrant costumes of Te Reo Wiki Maori Atuas/Gods, created for the wearable arts fashion show held at the library recently. As well as librarians, girls and
some parents showed off their remarkable outfits to the residents and staff, with music adding to the happy occasion. The girls costumes were inspired by Maori gods, Nga Atua. Tairua librarian Julie McCallum, showed off her kiwi outfit (with the cutest feet) before she transformed into a huge eel in the second half of the show. The adult models also featured a recycled newspaper outfit made by Colleen Coyle. Resident, Doreen Bushe, got
into the spirit of the show by dancing around the room followed by a line of delighted models. Resident, Ian Chisholm, remarked that he had “never seen anything so good as the costumes on show that day.” The young models were Tallulah Buskin, Arabella Kay Fraser-Diamond, Caliyah Gurnick and Cartier Le Lievre. Maori artist, Sally Bell, also supported the project for Te Reo Wiki – Maori Atua Fashion Show.
Young model, Tallulah Buskin, shares a happy moment with resident Doreen Bushe.
People on the Coromandel should be more prepared for the next emergency, thanks to Disaster Resilience Expos being held around the peninsula. The latest expo organised by Thames-Coromandel District Council was in Tairua on Saturday, 10 October at Tairua Rugby and Sports Club. There was a good community response to the event, which had more than a dozen stalls, with the emphasis on practical, family-friendly information. Barbecues, raffles and prizes were part of the event and there were plenty of helpful staff and volunteers to advise visitors. As well as local people from the police, fire brigade and ambulance, a group of volunteers from Tairua Residents and Ratepayers Association attended. Chairperson, Jo Finnis, said the day went well, with a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of practical information. The association had a stall promoting water resilience, and it received keen interest in its display of small water tanks at special prices.
Spring Do Up Sale Refresh your home for less!
FREE 40 underlay & installation on selected
*
carpet *
% off
custom curtains*
20-
% 40
off
selected readymades*
1 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga Phone 07 834 6463 *Terms & conditions apply
www.theinformer.co.nz
The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 9
Health and wellbeing for all of us Green Party candidate for Coromandel, Pamela Grealey, says the cost of living and access to healthcare are the two issues she is hearing about most as she travels around the electorate. “Over the past few weeks the same concerns keep coming up: the cost of living, and whether people can get the healthcare and support they need. “The two are more closely connected than we sometimes acknowledge. Our health isn’t determined only by what happens when we walk through the door of a doctor’s surgery. It is affected by whether we can afford good food, keep our homes warm, pay our bills, stay connected with other people and get healthcare when we need it. “That matters particularly in an electorate like ours, with rural and isolated communities and a significant older population. For many people, getting healthcare can mean travelling considerable distances, taking time away from work, finding transport or relying on somebody else to get them there. Even before the cost of treatment is considered, accessing healthcare can have a cost of its own. “For older people: what happens when you need more support to remain at home, or eventually need residential care? Everyone deserves to know that appropriate care will be there when they need it. “The Green Party believes everyone, wherever they live, should be able to access timely healthcare. That means strengthening primary healthcare and investing in the health workforce so our GPs, nurses and other health professionals have the resources and support they need. The Greens would bring dental care into the public health system too so that it doesn’t depend on whether you can afford a large bill. “These aren’t luxuries. They are the foundations of health and wellbeing, and they should be there for all of us.”
Mercury Bay Vision – Part 2
Beach erosion; Beach-side pool in Cairns.
BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN
T
his is the third of the series of columns to be printed under the title Mercury Bay Vision. These columns come from a document submitted to the TCDC, entitled World’s Best Thermal Ocean Village – Vision and Planning Document. This document was prepared based upon submissions made to an earlier Vision series run by The Informer along with other contributions from the community. Electronic copies are available to the public through The Informer. It is a growing document with contributions still able to be included from the community for items of vision not yet included. Part 1 covered the beachfront from Brophy’s Beach to the Taputapuatea Spit. Last issue we injected a general understanding of what is needed to prioritise an influx of overseas tourists looking for a luxury holiday and not relying on our weather effected roads. Part 2 This moves south, covering Buffalo Beach from the reserve to the Esplanade. Buffalo Beach features as a jewel in the Mercury Bay collection. There are many other attractions, some of which are internationally famed, but without
the glorious beach these attractions would be lesser. It is fitting therefore that the Vision document draws attention to the beach, outlining the maintenance aspects that must be considered and suggesting possible enhancements.
SEA WALL Preservation of the beach involves protecting it from erosion. The effects of erosion are there for everybody to see. Part of the beach is protected by a sea wall, and this must be extended so that all of the beach is protected. If not done much of it will be significantly damaged or lost. The pictures show examples of damage to the beach and such damage will not suddenly stop if we do not intervene. The opposite will actually happen where facilities such as the walking/ biking path through the reserve risk being washed away if nothing is done. The accompanying pictures illustrate this problem. I realise there are many different designs of sea walls. Very large rocks over time, will break up. With a gradient that is in line with the wave force, these broken rocks level out gradually and allow the deposition of sand restoring and even extending the beach. Adjacent to the row of palm trees along
the Buffalo Beach, many large rocks are buried beneath the walking path, green grass and sloping sand to the beach.
PRESENTATION OF THE BEACH Around the world it is acknowledged by beach front tourist centres that the beach must always be presented in pristine condition for visitors and local’s enjoyment. If you visit places such as the Australian Gold Coast you will see early morning workers out disposing of any rubbish and using tractors to rake and tidy up the sand. When the tourists wake up, the beaches are pristine. Of course, the volume of user pays enables this, but this attitude and commitment to create similar practices is essential in Whitianga, ensuring Buffalo Beach is always presented in the best possible light. The current ideology espoused of not wanting to clean the beach because forestry slash is “natural” has to be replaced with a focus on people. ALL YEAR, BEACH FRONT HEATED POOL Tourism is the main driver of the Mercury Bay economy. Currently tourism numbers peak over the summer months but
Astronomy Tours and B&B Phone (07) 866 5343 www.stargazersbb.com
Authorised by Miriam Ross, greens.org.nz
PARTY
VOTE coromandel@greens.org.nz @nzgreenparty
10 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
the town and surrounds would benefit from increasing winter tourism numbers, offering increased business for hospitality retail businesses and corresponding employment opportunities. The enjoyment it would give visitors and residents alike would be an attraction. Currently the main all year tourist attractions we have are based around thermal activities, in particular, Hot Water Beach and the Top Ten Holiday Park Heated Pools and The Lost Spring in Whitianga. It is suggested we enhance our offerings in Whitianga township through the building of a heated swimming pool complex close to Buffalo Beach and close to town. This has been done in many locations overseas. Many of you will have seen facilities in places such as Brisbane, Townsville and Cairns. They do not take away from other attractions but increase the length of time tourists stay in any one place. The picture above is of the pool in Cairns. A heated pool such as this would prove to be a major tourist attraction, offer a much-needed facility to residents and be a major differentiator between Mercury Bay and other regions vying for tourists in the upper North Island.
STAR and SPACE STATION GAZING IN 2026 – your guide to the night sky Tuesday, 13 October – The Moon now sits directly above Mercury at dusk with Venus below it in the NW. Wednesday, 14 October – The crescent Moon sits just below the red giant star Antares at dusk with Mercury and Venus much lower down. Thursday, 15 October – The crescent Moon now sits just above Antares at dusk with Mercury and Venus lower down. Friday, 16 October – The Moon is now well above Antares at dusk with Mercury much lower down. Venus is almost lost in the Sun’s glare but faint Mercury is still visible. Saturday, 17 October – Venus is now so low in the western dusk sky that is lost in the Sun’s glare. Monday, 19 October – First Quarter Moon tonight. Tuesday, 20 October – Jupiter shines brightly in the pre-dawn sky below Mars and above Regulus, the brightest star in
Leo. Wednesday, 21 October – Jupiter sits about half way between reddish Mars and Regulus in the pre-dawn eastern sky. Brilliant Venus gets ever lower in the western dusk sky as it rapidly plunges towards the Sun. It will pass by it early next week and then gradually start to become visible in the morning sky as it will be on the other side of the Sun. Much fainter Mercury is visible low on the western horizon above Venus while bright Jupiter is in the eastern pre-dawn sky sitting below slightly reddish Mars. Slightly yellowish Saturn is high in the sky all night and can be spotted as a planet since it doesn’t twinkle like the stars do. Unusually there are no planned visible passes by either the ISS or Tiangong this week.
www.theinformer.co.nz
LISTING YOUR HOME? Don't sell yourself short. Ask for the Arizto Advantage.
The Arizto Advantage • Lowest commission in town, save you thousands of dollars on your sale. • No upfront listing costs, you pay nothing until your property sells. • No fixed contract periods, list with Arizto and you can cancel anytime, without any financial costs at all. • Trade me platinum pack on every listing. Base listings on all real estate sites: • Professional photography • Drone and full home video • Home floorplan • Largest wooden for sale sign in town
Call Neill or Pete today and ask for the Arizto Advantage by name for your listing.
Neill Fawcett & Pete Neumark-Payne N: 027 487 2717 | P: 021 153 6797 Arizto Ltd. Licensed REAA 2008 | Admin Fee + T&Cs Apply
www.theinformer.co.nz
The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 11
Mayor slams tree theft Election memories Thames-Coromandel Mayor Peter Revell is asking residents to keep a watchful eye on local parks and reserves after numerous thefts of trees and shrubs. “Our green spaces are for everyone to enjoy, so when people steal from them, they’re stealing from the whole community.” Council budgets are tight, and there’s no guarantee stolen trees can be replaced. “In Opito bay, we had two Kowhai trees stolen. Some kind person donated replacement trees, then thieves came and took those as well! It leaves a really sour taste in the mouth.” Thames-Coromandel District Council says more than one person or group is
probably behind the thefts because plants have been taken from locations more than a hundred kilometres apart. Most recently, Omahu Cemetery was targeted, and it’s not the first time. Titoki, ornamental pears and native grasses were dug up, leaving Council parks staff with a mess to clean up along with the replacement bill. The council says it’s serious theft. Peter Revell says if people see anything suspicious, they should notify the police. “This is not a victimless crime – it costs the community, it costs ratepayers, and it’s just disrespectful: I think most people would agree that stealing from a cemetery is a particularly low thing to do”.
MERCURY BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC Robert Lindsay Dip Phty(Otago) ADP(OMT), Dip.MT. Co-author of ‘Treat Your Own Shoulder’, ‘Treat Your Own Knee’ & ‘Treat Your Own Hip’ and Associates Rebecca Wood BHScPhysiotherapy Crystal Vause BHScPhysiotherapy, Post Grad Cert Acupuncture Manipulation / Back and Neck Pain / Work Injuries Sports Injuries / Post Surgery and Fracture Rehab Acupuncture Hand Therapy / Women’s Health Clinic
Physiotherapists with the qualifications to provide excellence in physical health care 24b Lee Street, Whitianga (Next door to Pathlab) Kuaotunu & Hahei Clinics 0800 868 9579
Te Pirita Hall where Shaun’s dad was Returning Officer for the elections.
BY SHAUN FAY
I
grew up in Canterbury in the middle of nowhere. Literally our house and the hall. Dad was a schoolteacher and the school bus driver, and we lived at the end of his run in a cold, isolated government house with a really big shed for the bus. Not much happened there apart from some good gossip on the party line. However, every three years there was an election and this was exciting. Mum was a housewife who every election would get a job as Dad’s electoral assistant. It was her only job during the marriage, and she loved every penny she earned. Dad of course was the returning office and took no nonsense from Mum. They would set up in the hall and be ready for the 50 odd voters that would stagger through at various times. As kids we weren’t allowed in the hall but at lunchtime we could drop the sandwiches Mum made the night before at the door. I was always fascinated by the whole thing and every three years till I was 18 and moved to the city I would take a huge
interest in it. Of course, there was no internet or other communication and Dad at the end of the day would come home and phone through his results once Mrs Brownlee from down the road had finished talking to her sister. I would listen in as he spoke to someone somewhere and gave him the numbers including the one vote for social Credit “That would have been that truck driver from Ashburton”, Dad concluded. We would then sit and watch our black and white TV as some results come through. I don’t recall it being as fast as these days, or any early voting but there was still great anticipation and discussion about the pending result. All those memories from 1966 – 60 years ago – return every three years which is why I put my hand up every election to work in the polling booths. I imagine the process is a very different scene from Mum and Dad’s in the 60’s. November the 7th isn’t far away. Our democracy is one of our most treasured possessions, I hope you take the time to help us keep it.
Coromandel
Employment Law & Advocacy Phone to discuss:-
• Personal grievances • Unfair/unjust dismissals • Disciplinary meetings • Unpaid wages or leave • Work place harassment • Health and Safety at work • Work stress
Geoff Martin LLB Barrister
021 942 213
geoff@coromandellaw.co.nz
www.coromandellaw.co.nz
PHONE YOUR ORDER AHEAD - READY TO GO!
Ph 07 864 8617 Main Road, Tairua
TAKEAWAY TAIRUA
• Fresh Fish n Chips • Oysters/Scallops • Mussel Fritters • Real Fruit Ice cream • Raw Fish • Icecreams & Shakes OPEN 6 DAYS Wed - Mon (12pm to Late) • Closed Tues 12 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
www.theinformer.co.nz
Digital Decoder By Agent EJ
Before we vote on AI, we need to understand it
W
ith the election on 7 November, politicians across the spectrum are making all sorts of colourful promises about how they are going to legislate AI and frame this technology into our governance. Meanwhile, we're well behind the rest of the world on guard-rails and future-proofing, even as two-thirds of larger NZ firms already run AI tools. Part of the problem is that many Kiwis don't know what AI adoption would actually look like in their daily lives, beyond Siri and ChatGPT. Plenty assume they've managed without it so far, so they don't need it. Some are cashing in on that gap, selling expensive AI courses, training packages, and consulting to businesses afraid of being left behind. China has recognised how much the AI race matters, which is making some people nervous. In a cul-
The Digit 5 by Agility Robotics used in Amazon Warehouses.
ture that values collective accountability, community groups are running AI workshops for seniors, teaching practical skills like comparing grocery prices or spotting scams. We also see this in the way their seniors are making a comeback to classrooms, with the establishment of The Seniors University of China (SUC) for the aged in Shandong. But underneath the veil, cost-of-living pressure also seems to be pushing some older people
to upskill and work longer rather than retire. Going back to school probably isn't top of mind for Kiwi seniors. But supply chains are a different story. For a remote country with hard-to-reach regional towns, it makes sense that this industry is keen to adopt. Yet that same enthusiasm has truck drivers and logistics managers worried about job security, and they're not alone: 87 percent of NZ companies reported roles changing or
disappearing because of AI in the past year. It’s true that there will be thousands of new jobs created from AI, but we need to look beyond electoral promises and start seriously thinking about the looming consequences and what alternative employment is available. Companies would need to start calculating compensation if whole sectors get made redundant. And who pays to fix the malfunctions that will inevitably arise once AI runs most of our systems? My proposal to all political parties is that these issues are too important not to retain non-partisanship across whole of government. The old line that we're "ten years behind the rest of the world" might buy us time to watch how things play out overseas. But I worry we’re going to miss crucial milestones that could have made us world leaders.
REMINDER: SH2 Karangahake Gorge daytime closures
State Highway 2 (SH2) through the Karangahake Gorge will be closed from 9am to 4pm each day between Monday 12 and Friday 16 October (weather dependent). The closure will cover a 500-metre section of SH2, beginning near the historic rail tunnel bridge and extending toward Paeroa. Property access will be maintained throughout up to the closure points, but not though the closure. Road users should plan to travel through the gorge outside the closure times, while inter-regional traffic should consider using SH29 over the Kaimai Range. Emergency services and first responders will continue to have access through the closure area, Monday to Thursday, but possibly not Friday 16 October if rock-armouring work on a riverside retaining wall within the closure area can be completed. That requires a large crane being based across the lanes, and emergency services should call ahead to ascertain if access is possible. The rock-armouring requires continuing low river levels so is not guaranteed to happen.
A Lifestyle Village in Thames on the Coromandel A variety of villas and apartments now available!
All villas and apartments are within walking distance to Thames’ shops, cafes, and walkways. The perfect location to enjoy your fun-filled retirement.
ALL ENQUIRIES WELCOME, VIEW OUR VILLA AND APARTMENT OPTIONS TODAY!
Living the lifestyle, loving the choice...
Phone us to view by appointment! Come and experience the difference!
82 Richmond St, Thames Phone 0800 868 5484 richmondvillas.co.nz www.theinformer.co.nz
Our open plan, single level apartments feature covered balconies with fantastic views of the sea, Kauaeranga River and mountains. Each unit’s elegantly finished kitchen, lounge, bedroom and bathroom offer stylish warmth and light. All residents enjoy scenic views from each level’s shared lounges, use of the Village Community Lodge and participation in all activities and amenities at your leisure The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 13
Travel with Sarah Jane
The Twelve Apostles may be the headline, but the Great Ocean Road is the real story T he Twelve Apostles have become one of Australia’s most recognisable travel images. The limestone stacks rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean. They are photogenic and deserving of their place on postcards, travel brochures and social media feeds. But they also present a problem. For many visitors, the Twelve Apostles have become the destination, the photograph and the entire reason for driving the Great Ocean Road. The journey is often treated as a race from Melbourne to one famous lookout, with stops measured by how quickly people can park, take the photo and move on. That is a shame, because the Great Ocean Road is far more than a single viewpoint. The Twelve Apostles may be the headline, but the road is the story. Stretching along one of Australia’s most dramatic coastlines, the Great Ocean Road offers wild beaches, rainforest walks, shipwreck history, small coastal towns, wildlife, cliffs, changing weather and quiet corners that reward travellers who slow down. It is not just a route to an
Great Ocean Road.
attraction. It is one of the country’s great scenic journeys. The irony is that one of the world’s great coastal drives is increasingly experienced through a windscreen. The best moments on the Great Ocean Road often happen between the famous stops. Ask travellers what they came to see and many will say the Twelve Apostles. Ask what they actually remember most clearly and the answers are often different: a koala sleeping above the road near Kennett River, a quiet beach near Apollo Bay, mist lifting through the trees near Cape Otway, a coffee in a small coastal
town, or waves crashing into cliffs at Loch Ard Gorge. These are the moments that stay. Not because they are famous, but because they feel personal. The Twelve Apostles are impressive, but they are also crowded. Travel has a habit of funnelling people into remarkably small spaces, and this lookout is a perfect example. Visitors arrive by the busload. Car parks fill. Viewing platforms become busy. Everyone wants the same angle, the same photo, the same proof of arrival. Meanwhile, much of the surrounding coast remains surpris-
ingly underappreciated. There are beaches where the wind does most of the talking. Forest walks where the air changes completely. Clifftop viewpoints without the same crowd pressure. Shipwreck stories that give the coastline a darker, more layered history. Towns where the best part of the stop may be a bakery, a harbour, a bookshop or a bench facing the sea. The further travellers move away from the postcard version of the Great Ocean Road, the more interesting it becomes. This is not to say the Twelve Apostles should be skipped. They are worth seeing. The scale of the cliffs, the force of the Southern Ocean and the fragility of the limestone formations all make the site memorable. But they should be seen as one stop in a much wider landscape, not the whole point of the trip.
SLOWING DOWN MATTERS The best way to experience the Great Ocean Road is not to drive faster, but to make the road itself part of the journey. Stay overnight if possible. Take a detour. Stop at
the lookout that is not famous. Walk the short trail. Explore the town that was only meant to be a fuel stop. Sit on the bench. Watch the weather. Leave enough room in the day for something unplanned to become the best part. This approach changes the trip. Instead of racing toward the “main attraction”, travellers begin to notice the road’s smaller details: surf beaches, river mouths, windshaped trees, old signs, changing light, cliff edges, forest gullies and towns that still feel connected to the sea. For visitors coming from Melbourne, especially those with limited time, it can be tempting to treat the Twelve Apostles as a bucket-list item to tick off. The Twelve Apostles deserve their reputation. But they are not the Great Ocean Road. They are one dramatic chapter in a much larger coastal story. A story of cliffs, forests, wildlife, shipwrecks, weather, beaches, towns and ordinary travel moments that rarely make the brochure cover. See bestbitstravel.com for more information.
NEW ZEALANDERS FIRST We are the only nationalist party. We are the only socially conservative party. We are patriots of our country, New Zealand. We are the voice of common sense.
Vincent Andersen
GET IN TOUCH: vincent.andersen@nzfirst.nz Authorised by Vincent Andersen, vincent.andersen@nzfirst.nz
14 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
www.theinformer.co.nz
Ray’s Report #40 A stunning Sunday at Hot Water Beach BY RAY VAN BEYNEN
O
ne of the jewels in the crown of the Coromandel Peninsula is undoubtedly Hot Water Beach, or Te Puia (hot springs). It’s at the end of a short drive off SH25, along a spectacular but poorly maintained road that ends down at the southern part of the beach. During daylight hours and at low tide, large numbers of visitors can be found luxuriating in the hot springs that bubble up out of the sand near a large piece of rock, in an area that has fierce and sometimes fatal rips. Last weekend it was a privilege to join some local surfing legends and keep a weather eye on four young ones as they hit the waves with their boogie boards. Complete with a trusty beach chair, a very necessary sun hat and an ecstatic dog, there really was no better place to be.
Photo: Destination Hauraki Coromandel.
Several of the surfers had just spent the morning tidying up the car park surrounds and mulching the planted areas. Chapeau to them, and to those who have worked tirelessly for years restoring and planting the surrounding dunes. Not so to those lazy littering sods who can’t quite make it to the very generous rubbish bin. There is a great deal of history at Hot Water Beach, and the areas adjacent to the hot springs are part of a urupā (Māori
Better Now
You work hard. Your pay should go further. Labour will cut everyday costs.
burial ground). In the early 1800s, during the Musket Wars, the Ngāpuhi chief Hongi Hika descended on the Ngāti Hei pā site at Hāhei, where the local iwi were slaughtered in large numbers. As a result, the area and Hot Water Beach are deeply tapu. There is certainly a spiritual and mystical feeling at Hot Water Beach, and also along the gully that leads to the Hāhei pā sites. The fiercely independent Hot Water Beach surf club sits at the end of the beach, and its members provide a hugely valuable service in keeping visitors safe. The nearby Moko and the two cafés, Hotties and Hot Waves, are well worth a visit, and the Top 10 Holiday Park must be one of the best places to stay on the Peninsula. Take the trouble to walk the 2-kilometre beach when visiting. You won’t get cleaner, fresher air, and it’s great for the body, the mind and the soul.
What’s happening at Seniornet, Whitianga? Term 4 got underway with a presentation about the Whitianga Resource Recovery Centre. Megan and Tracey gave us helpful information on what kinds of used phones, laptops and other tech devices can be given to the Centre, how the Centre "mines" the metals from them and saves a large proportion of the "innards" going to the landfill. The Resource Recovery Centre also has a "re-store" where you can find all sorts of useful gadgets and even white ware like washers and dryers. The Resource Recovery Centre is located next to the Tip (Transfer Station) on South Highway. Would you like to learn about creating a personalised calendar for your family? On Wednesday, 14 October, we will start a series of four sessions on creating a SNAPFISH calendar. This is a very special calendar which incorporates your own photographs on each page.
SeniorNet member, Jenny, with her Snapfish Calendar.
Families love these and they make a special, unique gift for friends and family. Book your Snapfish sessions by phone: 021022-62504 or email Carol our Administrator at seniornet.whitianga. admin@gmail.com If you’re struggling with a new phone, tablet
or other tech device, get in touch with Carol. If you’re an Apple user and would like to meet with other interested Apple users, join our Apple user group. All our classes are held at various times on Wednesdays from 10:15am, until 4:15pm. We’d love you to join us!
Better Future
Your hard work should get you somewhere. Labour will help you get ahead. Backing Kiwi businesses with a new government investment fund
Three free GP visits a year for everyone with a new Medicard
Backing apprentices with hiring incentives and $1,000 for tools and kit
Weekly public transport capped at $20 in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and $10 everywhere else
Backing small business with new laws to get them paid on time and support to invest
Free prescriptions and maternity scans
Backing the next generation with good jobs and opportunities to build a future here at home
Solar power with no upfront cost to lower power bills
Spend less on the basics. Keep more for everything else.
Seniornet
Good jobs and incomes so your kids can build a future here at home.
Fully costed. Fully paid for. See the detail at labour.org.nz
Glen Bennett for Coromandel
glen.bennett@labour.org.nz labour.org.nz/glenbennett /glenbennettlabour /glen.bennettmp @gbennettmp Authorised by Rob Salmond, 2 Gilmer Terrace, Wellington.
www.theinformer.co.nz
The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 15
Paul Henry coming to The Coromandel I’ve been traveling around New Zealand in a van with an enormous picture of my face on the side. Let me tell you what these past weeks on the road have done – they have filled me with immense pride and hope for this country. I’ve met extraordinary people... over 6000 at my town halls alone I'm told. People building businesses, raising families, taking risks, creating things. And I'd love to meet you too. As you probably know by now, I didn’t stand for ACT because I needed something to do. I stood because I think New Zealand has extraordinary potential, and I’m not prepared to sit back and watch us settle for mediocrity. That means telling a few uncomfortable truths. Our economy is too small. Our bureaucracy is too big. We cannot borrow our way to prosperity. We cannot tax our way to prosperity. And we certainly can’t divide our way to prosperity. The good news is that none of this is inevitable. New Zealand is still paradise. We’ve just forgotten what we’re capable of. PAUL HENRY UNLOCKED: TRUTH TELLING FOR A BETTER TOMORROW That’s what they’ve called my road trip. It’ll be a town hall style event with plenty of time for your questions. Ask me anything. Well... almost anything. I hope you’ll come along. It would be great to meet you.
Paul Henry on his road trip around NZ.
After all, if we’re serious about turning this wonderful slice of paradise around, we should at least be talking to each other. If you know someone who thinks New Zealand can do better, even if they’ve never voted ACT before, bring them along. These meetings aren’t just for the converted. They’re for anyone who believes our best days don’t have to be behind us. WHITIANGA Where: Mercury Bay Aero Club, 7 Dakota Drive, Whitianga When: Monday, 19 October, from 2:00pm THAMES Where: Thames War Memorial Civic Centre, 200 Mary Street, Thames When: Monday, 19 October, from 6:30pm
16 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
Ask for Hannah
PlaceMakers Whitianga presents another year of The Great Pumpkin Grow-Off, featuring the mighty Giant Atlantic Pumpkin! Registration is open now! Registration is in-store at PlaceMakers Whitianga, 24 Joan Gaskell Drive.
There is a $2 entry fee for 5 seeds. There will be prizes up for grabs for the biggest pumpkins across different age categories, so get involved and show us what you can grow. Don’t miss out on this fun and festive community challenge!
www.theinformer.co.nz
Letters to the Editor enable members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest/concern. Please keep them to 200 words or less.They do not reflect the view of the Editor who reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.
TWO DIFFERING RESIDENTS GROUPS AT WHAREKAHO (SIMPSONS BEACH) Recently, the TCDC did their own testing of the water at Simpsons Beach. The testing proved negative and very low levels of E. coli were found. These results need to be in print in your newspaper as the testing that was done some time ago still seems to be the narrative and are promoting negative thoughts. The testing and results can be sourced from the Council. Also, the newspaper seems to concentrate on the WASBRA group which has only a small number of people whereas WAKA, the Wharekaho Simpsons Beach Kaitiaki Collective has a much larger community group does not seem to get mentioned. A balance is needed. On another note, the editorials in the Informer I find are well written. David Lang, Simpsons Beach
VOTING TO CHANGE CLASSIFICATION OF THE MOEWAI PARK RESERVE Is this a forerunner of what we are going to get in a bigger council and a bigger region? Already the local voice is not being listened to? How could a staff members report be the wisdom of the day when a Community Board’s vote and deliberations were not heeded. The Community Board had a unanimous vote except for one
www.theinformer.co.nz
Letters to the Editor
absentee vote at the Local Board level. You had councilors speak to the Thames meeting and the Chair of our Community Board. You degraded this current Community Board’s vote and knowledge of the situation. It is bad news On another note, I think the Digital Decoder is an excellent column. That guy knows what he is talking about. Mervyn Gregory, Whitianga
COST OF LIVING: THE ISSUES NEITHER PARTY WILL TOUCH Election 2026 was meant to be about what keeps New Zealanders awake at night: power bills, grocery prices, petrol and rates. Instead, the campaign buses have rolled out of the depot loaded with everything else. Count the signposts on the roadside: culture wars, identity politics, tax handouts, climate lectures, law and order, and blame-shifting. Each is a legitimate subject in its own right. Yet each is being deployed for the same purpose, which is to steer the conversation away from the household budget. The most telling feature is that this is bipartisan. Whether the bus is red or blue, the message on the side panel is identical: “We won’t touch this.” Electricity, food, fuel and rates keep climbing, and neither major party has offered a costed, measurable plan to arrest
them. When two competitors converge on the same route and agree to discuss anything else, voters are entitled to ask who is actually being served. A regulator that identified a persistent, known hazard and then declined to act would be found negligent. Failing to correct a known risk is not a neutral act; it is a decision. Costs identified years ago and still uncorrected point to a failure of governance, not of circumstance. So, the question is a fair one. A government, or a party seeking to become one, that cannot control and correct the cost of living: is it really worth our vote? Before marking your ballot, demand specifics. What will you cut, what will you cap, by when, and how will we measure it? A government that cannot govern
the cost of living has no claim to remain in power. Just an opinion. David Yeomans, Pauanui
NGATI HEI NOT CONSULTED!! SHAME ON TCDC Ngati Hei were not consulted on the zone change of reserve land on Moewai Road from Recreation Reserve to Local Purpose Reserve, obstensively, to allow another iwi to move in and build a marae in the centre of a quiet residential area. The local residents rightly took their concerns to our Mercury Bay Community Board. Our 4 elected Community Board members declined the zone change. This should have been the end of it. However, with Deputy Mayor John Grant in opposition to the Community Board decision, he took it back to
council for a final vote. Our other two elected MB Ward Councillors Flemming Rasmussen and Tony Brjlevich supported their Community Board decision which by the way were totally inline with ten unanimous submissions from local residents. The vote was carried 5/4 – by councillors who do not represent Mercury Bay – and the zone change was confirmed. Ngati Hei, with new and strong representation now in place, are the iwi of this land. That TCDC have seen fit to ignore them is not just a disgrace but undeniably ignorant and unacceptable. Any funding, land, or benefits, offered in Mercury Bay should be 100% in support of Ngati Hei. There has been no public consultation, and had the Community Board not been so effectively emasculated by the adoption of The Accord, no public consultation would be necessary. Our Community Board did the job we elected them to do and they showed the respect due to Ngati Hei. Council needs to make a decision here - either re-instate CB’s to do what we elected them to do, or shut them all down and put the funding into infrastructure. (Public feelings on these decisions will no doubt be made clear at the next local elections). I agree with Tony Fox – our Council is broken. Broken from the Top, and continues on down. Ady Cole-Ewen, Wharekaho
The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 17
WIN! Games & Puzzles Issue 1231
Crossword Puzzle © Lovatts Puzzles 5414
Name:................................................................................................................... Phone no:..........................................................................................................
Last weeks winner CONGRATULATIONS Karl Doyle For last week’s solutions see page 22
Issue 1231 – Grid 1198
Sudoku Puzzle
Proudly sponsored by Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@ theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.
ACROSS 1. Poked (6) 5. Genghis ... (4) 7. Lay oneself open to (5) 8. Window ledge (4) 9. Inscribe (4) 10. Sparkle (5) 11. Madness (6) 13. Slope (4) 14. Game park tour (6) 18. Change title of (6) 21. Criss-cross structure (4) 22. Uneven (in quality) (6) 24. Below (5) 25. Territory, Puerto ... (4) 26. Swoop (4) 27. Turn upside-down (5) 28. Performs slalom (4) 29. Tribal seniors (6)
DOWN 1. Bumps roughly (7) 2. Light timber (5) 3. Drab (5) 4. Conspirator (7) 5. Moscow citadel (7) 6. Praise (7) 12. Aggressive dog (3) 15. Ill on plane 16. Laborious 17. Chilled cuppa (4,3) 19. Argentina’s ... Peron (3) 20. Paris boulevard, Champs ... (7) 22. Priggish person (5) 23. Kept us going, ... us over (5)
Proudly sponsored by
Win a fish and chips for one from Snapper Jacks in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@theinformer. co.nz to reach us by 12.00 noon on Monday each week. The winner must claim their prize from Snapper Jacks directly with ID with their published name.
Name:......................................................................................................................... Phone no:................................................................................................................
Last weeks winner CONGRATULATIONS Yolanda Wills Sudoku instructions Fill in the boxes using the numbers 1 to 9. Every row and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.
OUR LEGAL SERVICES INCLUDE: PROPERTY - COMMERCIAL - FAMILY COMMON LAW - PERSONAL - FINANCING TRUSTS - ASSET PROTECTION - NOTARY PUBLIC WHAT WE OFFER: • Long tradition of trusted performance and reliability • Quality of service and practical advice • Promptness and efficiency • Reasonable fees and regular reporting
Satellite Dish Sales,
Installations, Realignments, Starlink Installer Decoder Sales, Set-ups & Re-scans for new channels
Call or text Woody (Steve)
14 Monk St, Whitianga 3510 www.renniecox.co.nz whitianga@renniecox.co.nz 0800RENNIECOX (0800 736 643) 18 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
The change0275 437 980 is coming whiti.css@gmail.com www.theinformer.co.nz
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.
What’s On
From a small town to packed theatres across Australia
Stu 0274 572 243 or Kevin 021 396 062. and Wednesday 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran. 5146. com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm. Coromandel ‘Growers & Artisans Market’ – Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Every Saturday from 9am 1pm at The Anglican Spiritual Conversation Mornings – Every Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Held in Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Church Hall, Coromandel Town. Tuesday and Wed, 10.30am-12pm, 15 Mill Rd, the Whitianga Town Hall. Tuesday beginners every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm. Whitianga the Starlight Centre. Grab a coffee 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.45-2.30pm; Dog walking group – Every Thurs, 2pm, Lovers Mercury Bay Resource Recovery Centre Reand join in some great conversation where Thursdays Seniors 10.15-11.15am, Absolute Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes Use Store 239 South Highway, Whitianga Open we talk about topics and subjects that have Beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Improvers welcome to a very sociable group. Ph Jenny on Tues-Sat 9:30am-3:30pm meaning. $5 donation. Contact Verna 027 320 12.45-1.45pm. Night class held at Whitianga 021 186 5797. St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, 0079. Town Hall for Absolute Beginners 5.25-6.25pm. Hahei Contract Bridge Club – Every Tuesday Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat Contact Margaret 027 463 8850, Glynis 021 Tai Chi for all levels – Town Hall, Mondays 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. 9.30am-2pm. 1099 155, Kathleen 022success 154 1702.is inspiring Kolbie’s FROM INTERVIEW WITH 6-7pm. Gold coin donation. Ph Tony 027 333 Learners and casual welcome. Contact Don St Andrew’s Church – Owen St, Silver Swans Adult Ballet ClassEight-year-old – Tuesday others back home. KOLBIE AND HER Op-shop DAD, BLAIR Barry 021 741 959 or Robyn Hogg 021 543 015. 5146 for more info. Whitianga. NEW HOURS - 9.30am-1pm Tue-Sat. weekly 10am to 11.10am $20, Whitianga Tairua Contract Bridge Club – Every Monday Harlow Macaw from TairuaTown also Hahei Tennis & Pickleball Club - Thursday & Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill St, Hall supper room. All ages welcome.Marilyn Sunday Contact Tim 027 8432683 or refer their at 12.30pm at the Tairua Bowling Club, 44 olbie Fraser is seventeen joined the Adelaide and Sydney Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-2pm. Swan, experienced professional teacher of Hornsea Rd. Contact Lynnette Flowers 021 252 facebook page. and welcome. until the beginning legs336 of BIG Nutcracker tour, Donations Dance.M: 027 5263Live’s E; swanebbs@gmail. 4709 or Johanna Bonnar 027 466 3726. Meditation Classes –Spiritual, heart, soul of 2025 –she was in Lane, CooksWhitianga. development. Sacred energy, chakra activations, Whenuakite Area Playgroup – 9.30ama remarkable achievement for com SPCA Op-shop 2 Blacksmith BeachMon-Sun preparing to go to Welsomeone young. Performing Open 9am-5pm. Tairua ZUMBA GOLDsoclass – Tuesday weeklyin 12.30pm every Wednesday morning working with spiritual guides. Open forum 9-10am. Held in Tairua lington for her post-MBAS college theupstairs Party scene’ in Fishing front of& thouat the Hahei Community Centre. Ages conversation, Thursday, 6.30pm at Flat 1, 15 MONTHLY Marine Club. $7. All welcome, Mill Rd, Whitianga. Cost $10. Contact Verna 027 newborn-5years. We invite all parents, studies at the New Zealand School sands each day, contact HarlowTheresa thrived Due to space we have had to remove the 027 5760602. carers, visitors and grandparents. Contact 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com. of Dance. on stage and says she loved Monthly listings this issue. Please refer to last whenuakiteareaplaygroup@gmail.com Whitiangaevery Line Dancing – Town Mercury Bay Badminton – Every Wednesday She is quietly that22talminute Club of it.Classes She has since weeks’ paper (issueproving 1230) page for the Hall, Monk St. Absolute Beginners Wednesday Whitianga Art Group – Every Thursday and 9-11am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk ent backed by grit goes far. Late returned home full of inspiration monthly meetings. 2.00-3.00pm ($5); Beginner/Improver classes Friday 10am-3pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and Street. Social badminton. Casual players and last year almost at the end of her and will continue training under Monday 10.30-11.45am, Intermediate classes new members welcome. Phone Margaret on visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, FORTNIGHTLY first year at the dance school, KolSarah $7Fitzsimons at Thames Wed, 12-1.30pm. per session. Contact Kathy 027 635 1615 for more information. ages 16+. Phone Carol 027 474 7493 for more Greeting Card – The or Cecily 027 Theatre 294 1750.where all bie earned theMaking invitation tosecond a five-and Hauraki Dance information. Whitianga Menz Shed – 18 Abrahamson Drive, 027 4321 353 fourth Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Zumba – Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for week paid professional contract the girls have come from, united Open Tuesday and Thursday, 9am-12 noon. Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club – 92 Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. All materials Zumba andby Step Zumba Phone Glenn 027 495 2015. All welcome. Cook Drive, Whitianga. Social Bowls, Thursday with Rising Ballet their loveon ofMondays dance. at 4.00pm provided. Contact Rev.Company Gillian ReidBIG on 021 781 at the Whitianga Hall in MonkPeninsula’s St. & Sunday at 12.30pm, Contact Nirie Reddy 021 Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tuesdayand Fri Live,orperforming The Town Coromandel 081 just turn up. Nutcracker pro292 0197 9am-12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@ Knit for a across Purpose – First and third Fridays ductions Australia. presence in national dance continGROUP INFO playcentre.org.nz or 027 880 3947. Mercury Bay Bridge Club – Every Wednesday of Under the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter directors Joel Burke andthe ues to grow,Bay with Kolbie training Grey Power Mercury – We are going to in at 1.00pm and every Thursday at 7.00pm at Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor Fisherman, 7 Dundas Gillian Khalid Tarabay, partSt.ofPhone one of the Reid on ballet and Anderson have a Christmas lunchLiarah 3 December at the– 2nd the MB Bowling and Sports Club, Cook Drive, bowls and card games. Mondays at the 021 781 081 for further details, or just turn up. Mercury Bay Club. Doors open at 10.30am. highest-selling ballet companies year, Izzy Fitzsimons and Neka Whitianga. For more information contact Gavin Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, 1pm-4pm. Join Mercury Bay Creative Fibre – Spin, knit, Further info please phone Grey Power 021 146 9203. in thecrochet. Southern Hemisphere, Woolf - now accepted intoMercury the New us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age weave, First and third Wednesday Bay 07 866Zealand 5516 orSchool email:- of greypower. group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on Mercury Bay Community Choir – All welcome she completed 45 performances, Dance, first year every month, 10am-1pm, supper room of the mercurybay@gmail.com. Come and join us for 027 274 6964 for more info. to this friendly non auditioned choir. Mondays dancing ballet roles, someor mail contemporary programs. Town Hall.five Phone Sue 021 274 7899 our next get together. 6pm to 8pm Mercury Bay Area School Music Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every suzyed@outlook.com lasting nearly seven minutes, perher CoroMercury BayProudly Athletics carrying – For info contact Room. Start date 10th August. Phone Kate 027 Tuesday 9am start. For more information phone Mercury Bayaround Quilters – 10am-4pm forming to 80,000 people.on the mandel roots into every lesson, mercurybayathletics@gmail.com 270 9058 for more information. Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome. first and third and second and fourth She was also Mondays trusted with partner Kolbie’s journey is proof that Mercury Bay Environmental Trust – Every Lions Club – New members are Whitianga Toy Library - Tummy Time sessions Mercury Bay Saturdays of each month. Contact and Margaret on work, which was an honour big dreams are being built right Tuesday and Friday from 9-11am, location welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. for parents/caregivers and babies under 12m. 021 140 4016. embraced wholeheartedly. here home. has just now advised prior. For more information, phone 022 Every Wednesday 9:30am at the toy library Phone Cecily 027at253 3088Kolbie or Chrissy 021 177 Whitianga Tramping Group – Every second 104 1701 please email mbenvironmentaltrust@ 4226. Kolbie the begun her second year – carrying Shop 4, Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Members Sunday at could 8.30am.hardly Phone believe Wally 021 907 782 or Kolbie posing infront Nutcracker promotion in which she featured; Kolbie with young ballerina Harlow. gmail.com orof goThe to www.mbet.co.nz. and non-members welcome. Contact librarian@ SeniorNetwith experience she was and her the lessons life away Whitianga, Inc. – Learn,ofupdate Lesley 021 157 9979 forgetting more information. whititoylibrary.co.nz moreresilience information your to skillsfrom using home smart phones, in a friendly being chosen to be part of the nights walking 30 minutes uphill tures,golf and strict dancer nutrition forThat and decision and theetc. experience of Mercury Bay Golf Club – Twilight will WEEKLY OR MORE setting. Call Carol Wood on 021 022for 62504 or Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss commence Friday 2 October, from 3pm, elite ballerinas in the country. after training, soakedonby Wellingbecame unexpected hurdles, and change her situation, soon turned professional dancing several on seniornet.whitianga.admin@ Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitiangaton Big rain and – Wed5-6pm, 10, Whitianga last card to printed 5.15pm, must bemade in by theWhitianga She knows her achievements buffeted by by wind, Kolbie tough call to into Room opportunity as it wasemail afterCarolweeks and there will be more to gmail.com. Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose 7pm; Sunday Funday, cards in by 10.30am to this point are not just about legs burning and body exhausted. move, prioritising her health and that she earned the invitation to come! St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page for an 11am start. $10. Phone 07 866 5479. Whitianga Bike Park – 144 Moewai Rd, hours 0800 in the There229 were houses, different cul- training. dance Australia Well24/7. done! Phone AA studio. WORKS (0800 6757)Shared for or phone Cecily on 027 294 in 1750 for more Whitianga. Open Many bike tracks Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club. Every more information. information. available, picnic areas, BBQs and walking trails. Thursday evening, Whitianga Town Hall Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to Yoga for Everyone - Whitianga - beginners, 6.45pm.New members, beginners and visitors by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact retirees, inflexibles welcome. Monday 2.30pm, at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for very welcome. Phone/txt Cheryl 027 452 7887 Jon Maud 027 366 4606. Tuesday 2.30pm and 5.15pm, Thursday or Sandie 021 825 666 for more information. more info. 4.20pm, Friday 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Whitianga Gun Club – For information, phone Mercury Bay Pickleball Club – At the Mercury MP For Simple. Coromandel Badminton – Whitianga Badminton Club – $25 for a 90 minute session. Text 027 495 9477 or 021 276 2169. Bay Area School Gymnasium, Tuesdays Thurs 5-7pm, MBAS school gym. Four courts. Rosemary 027 448 9326 for info. Whitianga Community Patrol – Monitors the Members Only League Nights 5.30-7.30pm, Now open to new members wanting to play township and neighbourhood. If interested in Saturdays Social & New Members 9.30DANCING competitive Badminton. Coaching provided for volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043. 11.30am, Sundays All Players 4-6pm. Members, COROMANDEL-COLVILLE those wanting to improve their skills. PhoneIn terms of the Coromandel “Major events are critical for Argentine Tango Dance Class – Fridays, Guests & Visitors $5, a complimentary session Whitiangaour Lions Club – We and welcome new secBETTER HEALTH CARE Steve for more details 027 211 3568. Town Hall, Whitianga, 5.30-7.30pm. No prior pilot programme, it began in midhospitality tourism is available to local new players wanting to try members. Dinners first Thursday of every experience or partner necessary. Text Sergio for Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and Access to healthcare is one of 2025 and is being tors, at especially here the Coropickleball – alldelivered equipmentat provided, please month, 6.00pm The Mercury BayinClub. questions 027 410 2454. values based ministry for for boys.people For boys aged the biggest concerns the Coromandel Family Medical mandel. Accommodations fill up, wear non marking court shoes. Membership is Contact John 027 248 0779. Email whitianga@ 5-13 years old. Tues 5.30-7pm For information Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, $20 annually and online application is provided Centre and Colville Health Clinic restaurants and cafés thrive, and in rural and remote areas and lionsclub.org.nz contact Robyn 020 409 39674. at www.mercurybaypickleball.co.nz . practice. They’ve been benefiting local businesses see more cusour government is committed Chess Club – Monday 6.30-9.30pm, MB Outdoor sessions areaccess held at Mercury Bay to ensuring Zealanders support, better tomers, creating jobs and lifting Bowling Club. New Players of all levels. can Cost from extra Sport Park which are weather dependant and working more incomes.” getContact the care they need,027 when they orto information $2. Brett Soanes 2117195 and advised on our facebook page Mercury brettsoanes16@hotmail.com need it, no matter where they live. closely with an Emergency Care “Across New Zealand, Tourism Bay Pickleball. Coroglen FarmersBudget Market every SundayParamedic until Last year’s invested which can treat urgent directly contributes $17 billion Matarangi Pickleball Club (Matai Place Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25),care frompatients Courts) 3-5pm while (Winter) 5-7pm $164 million to strengthen urgent inThurs the clinic, to national GDP and just under 9am-1pm. (Summer) Saturdayto 9-11am and after-hours care nationwide, also available to respond local Contact Grant 200,000 jobs. Tourism makes up Coffee and Discussion Group – Every Sunday, 022 383 6351. meaning 98 per of Topics New Zea111 almost 12% of Coromandel’s GDP. 2-4pm, at The Lostcent Spring. are open andcalls.Mercury Bay Squash Club – Lyon Park, Issue 1231 – Quiz 23 landersshown. will No be charge. able Convener to accessPeter H. I’m hoping that there will be The economic ripple effect of respect Albert Street - New members/enquires support for similar major events is huge, supporting these services within one hour’s even more Wood. please email mercbaysquash@gmail.com 1) Why do koala’s confuse crime projects Mercury around Bay our Table region and – Every our local businesses and growing drive Beach of their home. of new the friends, Cooks Care GroupOne – Meet Tennis learn about coastal conservation and make 9-11.30am the Whitianga Town Scott Simpson and Chris Penk; Oceans Festival. initiatives funded was a pilot thea rest ofTuesday, the country in theatcomour economy.” scenes? difference. Hands-on weeding urgent and planting, Hall, Monk Street.areas All welcome. Phone Anne programme to enhance ing year. People in rural can “Events such as the Whitianga Thursday mornings. Register at:www.cookson 07long 869 5162 or 027 565 for more 2) Who the did King Edward VIII column Excerpt Oceans Festival don’t just bring and after-hours healthcare in six often travel distances for 5575 couple of weeks ago alongside Addition to Scott’s beachcaregroup.org.nz; www.facebook.com/ info. rural communities, including Cor- care and rely on small teams sup- Associate Minister of Emergency from his Press release Wed 11 Feb. visitors; they bring life and energy marry? CooksBeachCareGroup Mercury Bay Tennis Club – Social tennis omandel andIndoor Colville. regions, why at 5.30pm. Management and Recovery Chris to our region and to our towns Cooks Beach Bowling Club - porting large at Lyon Park on that’s a Thursday All 3) Who is the GOVERNMENT chair of MercuryFUNDING FOR I was thrilled hear the us at this is so important. Penk. which helps to create vibrant Wednesday at 1.45pm.to Come and join theinvestment welcome. Ph Jason 022 186 7992 or Carl OCEANS FESTIVAL Bayfrom Community Board? Community Centre from (Hall). New members are In other027 news, region is still communities and unforgettable announcement Associate We received a briefing 680 our 5570. We visit homes and most welcome, pleaseMatt contactDoocey Coral phone 021 Health Minister recovering from January’s Thames-Coromandel Dis- “I’m excited that the Coromanexperiences.” Oneness Meditationheavy Centre –the The centre businesses anywhere in the 4) What is the common name 2303944. on the art oftrict goingCouncil, which outlined the del will once again host the that these pilots have been rolled weather focuses event, but it’smeditative encourag“This funding is a significant Coromandel Peninsula at Cooks Beach Pickleball – Community Tennis deeper within. Learn how to meditate, for acetic acid? out and have shown the positive ing to see communities rebound impact of the storm and the work Whitianga Oceans Festival in Sep- boost to Whitianga and the Courts, 9am Saturday morning. Weather breath, calm the mind, relieve stress, no extra charge. so quickly and contractors impact thatNets locally It was stressed attracting visitors wider Coromandel, and I’m look5) throughIn Star Trek,tember where 2026, did Spock permitting. and led batsapproaches provided. $5 each, anxiety and be a calm,workpeaceful,ahead. courageous, can make, with faster care, better ing to stabilise our roads. There out these visits that support is from around New Zealand and ing forward to our region hostfirst time free. Contact Kevin 021 396 062. dynamic human being. Every Monday, 9.30come from? TRISHingCOMER are parts11.00am. of the Peninsula which another great event which accessBeach to treatment, and stronger available, Further info. text Linda 027 650 such as Civil Defence overseas, as part of the national Cooks Table Tennis – Every Thursday 4881 or email linda_c@orcon.net.nz links 6.00-8.00pm, between rural ser-Cooks are still affected by storm dam- payments through the Ministry of $70 million Major Events (07) and 2420042 encouragesor locals and visitors to night $5pp health each night. 02041714916 see pgPackage. 22 Beach classes – Town Tuesday vices. Community Centre. All welcome. Contact age, and Self-defence I visited these areas a Hall, Social Development. For solutionsTourism “ celebrate all that we have offer.”
OP SHOPS
K
Hon Scott Simpson
Peter’s quiz
trish@mobilelawsolutions.co.nz
www.theinformer.co.nz 16 | The Coromandel Informer – 17 February 2026
The Coromandel Informer –www.theinformer.co.nz 13 October 2026 | 19
Land Search and Rescue needs you
Check out our local KSAR Facebook page or contact: Steve Hart nzwild@xtra.co.nz, Ray van Beynen nzpbkk@gmail.com
Trades & Services WHITIANGA TRADE
Grant Foote Painting & Decorating
OPENING HOURS
Interiors | Exteriors
HAMMER HARDWARE MOBILE POOL & SPA CLEANING SERVICES
Sharleena Tucker
• Pre-purchase inspections • Certificate of acceptance/ Third party reports • Fencing of swimming pool inspections • Buildings for relocation
www.poolqueen.co.nz
• Building project management • Small building projects • Building consultancy & advice
Coromandel Peninsula
www.inspectservices.co.nz
027 316 3384
0221 874 910
PC E Ele lect ctri rica call Lt Ltd d 0 2 74 7 1 2 2 47 matarangiplumbing@gmail.com
Based in Whitianga
Registered Electrician / Inspector www.pcelectrical.co.nz
• New House Wiring • Boat & Caravan EWOF • Lighting Design • Security Systems • Maintenance • House Retrofitting • Solar Energy • Underfloor & Under Tile Heating
Ph 07 866 5509
admin@pcelectrical.co.nz “The Total Package”
VULA AMANZI • Antifouling and Propspeed • Boat maintenance • Minor repairs Monthly specials and gold card discounts
Contact Brad on 028 400 8693 Email mbvula.amanzi@gmail.com
Your local housemover and foundation SPECIALIST Relocatable house packages for sale at 5 & 40 Kohunui St, Ngatea
For all your needs on the Hauraki Plains and beyond • LBP qualified • House moving • Houses bought & sold • On-site moves • Jacking & rolling • Structural moving • Re-piling • Re-levelling • Pile driving • Push piles phm.co.nz • sales@phm.co.nz
Andy 021 125 1668 Ian 027 442 6001
BOBCAT - Truck Hire
*Building Site & Driveway Preparation *Post Hole Boring *Trenching *Metal & Topsoil Supplies *Section Clearance/Landscaping Experienced Owner/Operator
Covering Whitianga, Coromandel and surrounding areas
WE MAKE THE EARTH MOVE
Mobile: 0274 934 212 A/Hrs 07 866 0505
20 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
MON - FRI (8AM - 4:30PM) SAT (8:00AM - 1:00PM) CLOSED SUN
Quality Workmanship 25+ Years Experience
WE’RE YOUR LOCAL FOR:
• Sleepers • Pergola Timber • Landscape Timber • Sheds • Fencing Rails • Custom Trellis • Decking • Smart Screens • Paving • Cement • Water Tanks • Nails, Bolts, Screws
Locally Owned and Operated
0274 343610
225 South Highway, Whitianga P: 07 866 2457 E: whitiangatrade@hammerhardware.co.nz
glfoote@xtra.co.nz
HOUSE WASH Local, professional, experienced House wash, roof wash, fences, driveway, patios – soft-wash for best moss and lichen clean and treatment, exterior window cleaning or general waterblasting, 100m hose so access no problem. Phone 0800 737 777 or Andy direct 027 313 4386 email: atlasgroup@xtra.co.nz
We clean curtains!
• Mould removal specialists • All fabric types, including thermals • Roman blinds – clean and repair • Pick-up/delivery/take down and reinstall
Local Whitianga agents covering Coromandel to Whangamata
BEFORE
AFTER
Visit our website: www.curtainclinic.co.nz or phone us on 0800 477 478 www.theinformer.co.nz
Trades & Services STUMP GRINDING SERVICES Servicing Whitianga & the surrounding area.
MRS MOW-IT-ALL
Maintenance & Landscaping PHONE: OLIVIA 021 713 900
Call Jon 021 0254 3570 or email jonmacca4@gmail.com
FARRIER AND HOOF TRIMMING SERVICE
KICKSTART MOTORCYCLES WHITIANGA
Agents for
Coromandel/Thames & Whitianga area. Phone: Tony 027 494 7692
SALES - SERVICE - REPAIRS
Peninsula Home Kills
ROAD, FARM AND TRAIL
SERVING THE WHOLE PENINSULA - 2011 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED IN THE COROMANDEL
Call Leanne
0800 102 345
leisurepools.co.nz
BJOLI BUILDERS Contact John 0276 425 654
NEED WINDOW & DOOR REPAIRS? • WINDOW HANDLES, SEALS, HINGES & STAYS • SECURITY LOCKS FOR WINDOWS & DOORS • SLIDING AND BI-FOLD DOOR ROLLERS, LOCKS & HANDLES • RETRACTABLE INSECT SCREENS
Processing beef, sheep, pigs & all game
027 726 3797 211 SOUTH HIGHWAY, WHITIANGA
Top quality sausages, bacon, ham & salami
kickstartmotorcycles211@gmail.com
Bookings essential
Phone Nick Burcombe 866 3970 or 021 2125 260 21 Rangihau Road, Coroglen
LTD COVERING THE PENINSULA
Construct, Place & Finish – Grind & Polish Cutting & Drilling – Floor Levelling – Bush Hammer Block, Hone & Seal – Concrete Sealing
LOCAL SERVICING FOR THE COROMANDEL
CALL US ON 0800 25 25 00 For all your concreting requirements including:
House Floors Driveways Pathways & Patios Vehicle Crossings Concrete Cutting
Warren Carla
Phone Email: info@concreteworx.co.nz
www.concreteworx.co.nz
Any queries or quotes please contact Nathan
027 687 0107 NZ manufactured aluminium windows and doors since 1990:
WHITIANGA
- New builds & renovations - Replacement joinery in existing homes
- Aluminium & glass balustrades
Photo: FernVision
07 869 5990 | nzwindows.co.nz 1 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga (Mon-Fri, 8-4)
Call 027 557 7023 shorelinepainters23@gmail.com
Whitianga Contact Stu Macfarlane Mobile: 021 914 226 Email: stu@drainagesystems.co.nz web: www.drainagesystems.co.nz Windscreens Showers Splashbacks Mirrors
07 867 1772 (24hrs)
22 Bryce Street, Whitianga whitianga@gatewayglass.co.nz www.gatewayglass.co.nz www.theinformer.co.nz
Residential & Commercial Glass “We’re your one stop shop when it comes to all things glass”.
HEAT PUMPS Sales and installation of Mitsubishi and Fujitsu heat-pump/air conditioning.
Call Bill for a free no obligation quote. 027 2714803
www.dynamicelectrical-whitianga.co.nz Warm up a medium sized bedroom with a Mitsubishi heatpump. Starting at $2000 installed.
Whitianga Property Renovators • Builders • Plastering • Painting • Section Maintenance • Wallpapering • Fences • Decks Maree(Director) WPR Safe as Houses swprenos@xtra.co.nz
Safe as 0274 571 436 Houses 0800 007 366
Your Local Electricians - we do it all! * Domestic * Commercial * Rural * Ph: 07 866 2452 | 027 4972 680 | 24/7 Service
• New Houses, Buildings and Renovations • Heat Pump Installations & Underfloor Heating • Security Alarms & Cameras • Maintenance & Service • Installer of Evnex EV Chargers plus we offer other brands • FREE Quotes - call today
www.coromandel.laserelectrical.co.nz | p.hally@laserelectrical.co.nz
JIMMY RODLEY CONCRETE POLISHING LTD Owner/Operated 25 years experience High quality finishes • Ground and polished concrete floors • Residential and commercial • Outdoor patios and driveways • Garage floors • Floor prep • Shot blasting • Fire hearths Contact Jimmy Rodley 027 656 8717 jimmyrodley@hotmail.com | 31 Wells Place, Whitianga
The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 21
Classifieds PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
STORAGE AVAILABLE
SITUATIONS VACANT
Now Leasing:
√ 3m x 6m bays available √ 6m x 10m bays available √ Fully undercover √ Great access and security
ALTOGETHER YOUR
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
EXPERTS
UNDERCOVER Car Hoist day hire Call Nick: 021 666 350 Call Caleb: 027 537 5953 STORAGE
Jasmin Cottle-Gallichan | 021 867 703 Melanie Stephens | 027 600 0349 Residential Property Managers
WANTED! Long term & holiday. Free rental appraisals. Landlords & Tenants, for all your rental requirements.
3.6m high doors
Quality homes for quality tenants.
Call
GR
Krissie Brand
STORAGE
OUR PROPERTY MANAGER OF 25 YEARS
07 866 2373 or 027 273 4420
8 GOLF ROAD WHITIANGA
Phil 027 343 3023 storage@gr8storage.co.nz
Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008 Understanding the Coromandel Since 1960
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT &
Coromandel Beaches Rentals Licensed Agent REAA 2008
Shannon Smith M 027 592 0636 P (07) 866 4981
Rentals
propertymanager.whitianga@harcourts.co.nz
GR8 STORAGE, WHITIANGA Phil – 0273 433023, Car, boat, campervan storage, 20 foot containers available to store your belongings.
MyStays offers full-service holiday home management with local care, professional standards & clear reporting.
Arrange an obligation-free chat today | mystays.co.nz
We have clean dry containers and units in a range of sizes for you to choose from at four different sites. If you need a temporary or longer term storage solution at an affordable price give us a call today! • Units – range of sizes from 2m x 1m to 9m x 6m with roller doors for easy access. Prices start from $30 per week. • Containers – range from 1.9m x 1.6m to 6m x 2.4m. Prices start from $27 per week. Moewai Road, Whitianga. Ph: 0274 817 258
E: whiti@totalstorage.co.nz www.totalstorage.co.nz
STORAGE SHEDS Whitianga Total Storage, opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660
NZ-OWNED & TRUSTED ACROSS THE COROMANDEL & NORTH ISLAND
Your Bach, Taken Care Of
For all your storage needs?!!
FOR SALE
XMAS GARAGE SALE
MOBILITY SCOOTER
Very affordable – handmade decorations. You name it, we have it! 39 ROBINSON ROAD, WHITIANGA
“Destiny” brand. Little used. New Battery and charger. $750 ono.
Saturday 17 October 10:00am-2:00pm
FIREWOOD FOR SALE
Contact: David 0274 985 091
Tea tree $250 or Pine $150 load per metre2 delivered. Phone (07) 866 3026 or text (027) 866 3026
TRIMARAN FOR SALE 30ft John Marples design. $600 o.n.o. Ph 020 4155 3686
C3 Church Whitianga Join Us – Expect Miracles! Sundays 10am 22 Coghill Street, Whitianga
St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church 82 Albert St Whitianga (Opp Z)
SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:00AM Come, join the family Find peace and friendship.
Enquiries: ph 022 1322 061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz
INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALER TAROT CARD READER VERNA (027) 320 0079 vernacarrspiritualhealing.com ACCOMMODATION OFFERED x www.tongariroriverretreat.com
GARAGE SALE
Church Services
HOLISTIC HEALTH
book@tongariroriverretreat.com 26 Ngawaka Place, Turangi. Ph 07 386 8949
PETER’S QUIZ ANSWERS Answers to quiz 24 on page 19
1) They have similar finger prints to humans 2) Wallis Simpson 3) Chucky 4) Vinegar 5) Vulcan
LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
Anglican Worship Every Sunday at 9.00am at St Peter the Fisherman 7 Dundas Street, Whitianga ALL WELCOME Enquiries ph 021 781 081 www.anglicanchurchwhitianga.org.nz
Trish’s Bible Gems
“The Lord is near to all those who call upon him... He will fulfill the desire of those that fear him. He also will hear their cry and will save them.” Psalm 145, V18-19
Where to pick up The Coromandel Informer
Paeroa – Arkwright’s Antiques, 4 Square Waihi – New World and Gold Discovery Centre Thames – Pak n Save, The Green Grocer, Richardsons Real Estate, Aeroview Garden Centre, Superprice Furniture, Goldfields Shopping Centre
Office: 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Phone: (07) 866 2090 Office hours: Mon-Fri 9:00am-3:00pm We are online www.theinformer.co.nz Facebook, Instagram @theinformernz
Tairua – 4 Square, Surf n Sand Takeaways, Bayleys Real Estate, Gull Service Station, Super Liquor Coroglen – Coroglen Tavern Whangamata – New World, Tango’s Shoes, Whanga Books, Challenge Service Station, Whangamata Food Market, Whangamata
Thank you to these businesses for their support
Club, Saskia’s Beauty Whitianga – New World, Woolworths, 4 Square, Waitomo Service Station, Z Service Station, Tango’s Shoes, Stephensons Pharmacy, Mercury Bay Pharmacy, Liquorland, Well Stocked Deli, Whitianga isite, Warehouse Stationery
Coromandel – 4 Square, Coromandel Oyster Company, Super Liquor, Coro Liquor, Coromandel Information Centre, Coro Super Saver, James & Turner Kopu – Mobil Service Station Also general stores at Cooks Beach, Hahei, Taruru, Te Puru, Tapu and Colville
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 Peninsula to Waihi. Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication is at the discretion of the Editor. Distribution: 10,500. ISSN 3021-4114 (Print), ISSN 3021-4122 (Online), © 2022 Mercury Bay Informer Ltd
22 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
Newspaper Layout: Debbie Morgan Business Manager & Sales: Emma Gaunt Delivery Managers: Dave Piper & Merv Gregory Writers: Trevor Ammundsen, Jack Biddle, Pam Ferla, Geoff Robinson, Verna Carr
www.theinformer.co.nz
Sports
Proudly sponsored by HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB
Week 5 Cooks Beach Pairs Wednesday 29 September 1=, Dave Dylla and Tia Ormsby, Peter Clark and Ngaire O’Brien 56.35; 3, Ann Scott and Pam Churchill 53.97. Week 1 Handicap Pairs Tuesday 6 October North/South: 1, Ngaire O’Brien and Peter Clark 63.63; 2, Val Dwight and Sheryll Roberts 59.18; 3, Margaret Muir an Natasha Courtney 48.10. East/West: 1, Angela Butterworth and David Dylla 59.63; 2, Maggie Beattie and Pam Churchill 58.33; 3, Denise Knutson and Jean Myles 56.35.
TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB First round Digger’s Creek Pairs Monday 5 October North/South: 1, Tony White & Johanna Bonnar 61.46; 2, Carol & Ron Baker 58.33; 3, Ray Verrall & Suze MacLean 50.69. East/West: 1, Christine Meinhold & Jocelyn Taylor 67.06; 2, Heather & Jim Buffett 62.30; 3, Glen Lovell & Heather Campbell 52.38.
MERCURY BAY DAY CLUB DARTS 27 players this week, so 501 singles were played. Two teams went through un beaten in all four sets and they were Mike Gillett & Fran Montague and Steve Pointing & Nan. Mike Gillett and Fran Montague ran away with an easy win in the one game final due to Steve and Nan having difficulty with the double to start. Highest finish for the men was 86, scored by Mike Gillett. No finishes over 50 for the ladies this week. No 180’s scored this week. MERCURY BAY CLUB INDOOR BOWLS Monday 5 October 1st Ray Rout, Ian and Christine Mitchell 2nd Ian Pudney, Jan Harvey Good sorts lionel Lawrence, Colleen Holmes and Sandie Morris.
MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Thursday 8 October Tonight it was the Drawn 4’s championship playing for the “Hart Shield”. There were some very close games but in the end there was only the one team with 3 wins. Winners: Ray Rout, Lee Pudney, Sandie Morris and Wayne Fisher. Runners Up: Alan Henderson, Ian Mitchell, Sue Webb and Betty Simpson. Good Sports: Ian Pudney, Judy Cullinane, Lionel Lawrence and Colleen Holmes. MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER Wednesday 7 October An excellent turn-out was reduced to three players after 3 rounds in section play. Bob Haase, Ian Baumgren and Rob Reilly had 3 wins each. Bob drew the bye into the final with Rob and Ian battling out a close semi-final game with Rob prevailing. He then carried on his good form against Bob, winning a close final to take the day’s honours. Good breaks of 22 were scored by Ken Gibson and Dave Colman but it was Peter Challis who
www.theinformer.co.nz
recorded the day’s Highest Break with 23. Saturday 10 October A round-robin was played over 4 rounds with Peter Schultz, Greg Murphy and Bob Haase achieving 3 wins each. In the play-off, Peter went through to the final to meet Bob with a good win over Greg. Peter then went on to win the day’s honours in a tightly contested game which was decided on the black. No high break was recorded. PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB 9 hole Stableford Tues 6 Oct 1 Jo Geoghegan, 2 =Mark Bell, Jason Godward, 4 Annabel Wharton. 9 hole nett Thurs 8 Oct 1 John Hamilton, 2 =Jo Geoghegan, David Young, Steve Borlase 18 hole nett Sat 10 Oct 1 Jo Geoghegan, 2 Grant Webster, 3 Kelly Phillips, 4 Frank Geoghegan. 4BBB nett: Callum Murray & Danny Phillips Nearest the Pin: Ian Gilmour
MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB Week Ending 10 October Sunday Fun Day Stableford winner: Dianne Eccles (41) 2nd Equal Paul Lupton & Levi Szparagowski both on 38. Hidden Holes: Jimmy Duncan Twos: Graham Duncan on #2. Tues 6 October Stableford Winner: Edwin Lyle on a countback from Jeff Dixon, Rodrick Bott & Les Walbridge, all on 19 points. Mens 18 Hole Wed 7 October Gross Senior: Sam Murphy (80). Junior: Ken George (91) Stableford Winner: Dan Ray (37) on a countback from young Levi Szparagowski (37), 3rd equal Ken George & Jimmy Duncan (36) Twos: Sam Murphy & Dan Ray. 9 Hole Men Fri 9 October Stableford winner: Bob Holiday (22) 2nd Rodrick Bott (21) 3rd Bruce Godden (20). Twilight: Stableford winners: Kevin “the Chief” Smith, Matty Menzies, Dan Ray a;; on 19 points. Twos: Kev and Dan AGM Mixed scramble Sat 10 Oct Stableford winner: Paul Lupton (45), 2nd Graeme Heathcote (42) 3rd Richard Steel. Twos: Nearly everyone. THE DUNES GOLF CLUB 9 Hole Men’s RED-WHITE-BLUE Tee day Stbfd Thurs 1 Oct 1st Ray Green 19, 2nd David Griffiths 18, 3rd Lance Croawell 17 9 Hole Men’s “IRISH PAIRS” Net Results Mon 5 Oct 1st Paul Dixon and Mark Rae Nett 60, 2nd
TAIRUA GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB 9 Hole Stableford Tuesday 15 September 1. Jan Stanley, 21; 2. Larraine Brooks, 20; 3.
Oct‘26
w
Susan McDonnell, 19; 4. Anna McGuire, 18. 9 Hole Stableford Thur 17 September 1. Carolyn Williams, 25; 2. Ros Rundle, 23; 3. Jan Stanley, 23; 4. Joyce Birdsall, 22. 18 Hole Scramble Meatpack Stableford 1. Maree Jamieson, 43; 2. John Fraser, 39; 3. Tony Anderson, 38; 4. Warwick Rogers, 37. Saturday 19 September 18 Hole Scramble Net Shootout 1. Gabrielle Tucker, 70; 2. Connie Graham, 70; 3. Leon Smith, 72; 4. Warwick Rogers, 73. 9 Hole Stroke Play Tuesday 22 September Division 1 1. Deun Prachachot, 48; 2. Paula Parfitt, 48; 3. Robyn Hayward, 49; 4. Annette Eltringham, 50. Division 2 1. Anna McGuire, 53; 2. Jan Stanley, 55; 3. Carolyn Williams, 58; 4. Frances Reid, 58. 9 Hole Stableford Thur 24 September 1. Ros Rundle, 23; 2. Anna McGuire, 21; 3. Joyce Birdsall, 20; 4. Annette Eltringham, 19; 5. Dennis Rundle, 19. 18 Hole Scramble Stableford 1. Maree Jamieson, 41; 2. Robyn Hayward, 39; 3. Tony Anderson, 37; 4. Leon Smith, 36. 18 Hole Stableford Sat 26 September 1. Ken Edwards, 36; 2. John Reid, 36; 3. Warwick Rogers, 34; 4. Fiona Caldwell, 33. 9 Hole Pairs Tuesday 29 September 1. Michael McCann & Joyce Birdsall, 29; 2. Jim Crozier & Jan Stanley, 32; 3. Dennis Rundle & Carolyn Williams, 32; 4. Jim Bell
October 2026
MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB Championship Singles round 5 Wednesday, 7 October North/South: 1 Ischelle Stevenson & Val Dwight 59.0; 2 Giorgio Allemano & Robyn Hogg 58.9; 3 Kate Palmano & Amy Hyde 50.8 East/West: 1 Bob Schibli & Jan Autumn 63.3; 2 Denise Knutson & Sue Gill 61.6; 3 Gavin Hedwig & Pete Hogg 55.3 Gumtown Pairs round 2 Thursday, 8 October 1 Kate Palmano & Rose Tegg 62.5; 2 Gavin Hedwig & Amy Hyde 60.0; 3 Terri Lipanovic & Ischelle Stevenson 55.0
On Thursday, 8 October the Peninsula Tyres Triples were held at Mercury Bay Bowls Club. It was a nice hot day and despite some who began to TYRE no one was DEFLATED with the PRESSURE of competition. Eventual winners were Peter Mead, George Anderson and Ray Rout. All bowlers said WHEEL be back!
Kevin Walmsley and Alex Fox Nett 68 18 Hole Men’s Net Medal Wed 7 Oct 1st Bob Walker (Purangi) 68, 2nd Chris Palmer 69, 3rd Murray (Muzza) James 71 Gross Results: 1st Allan Trow 80 TWO’S Results:Geoffrey Hill on Hole 5 Doug Smith on Hole 7 Mike Friis and Bob Walker on Hole 14 Ross Alexander on Hole 18 Nearest The Pin On Hole 18:Murray (Muzza) James 9 Hole Men’s Stbfd Thurs 8 Oct 1st Alex Fox (On count back) 19, 2nd Lance Croawell 19, 3rd Rey Bertling 19 18 Hole Ladies Mulligan Day Stbfd 1st Chrissie Smith 36, 2nd Marie Murphy (On count back) 35, 3rd Polly Lambert 35 TWO’S Results: Sheryn Parry on Hole 14 The Dunes Matarangi Pro Am Team Sat 10 Oct 1st Debbie Graham + Tony Maxwell + Soyoung Maxwell + Jerry Ren 94, 2nd Peg McLean + Lynne Fenwick + Janine Kerr + Nick Coxon 93, 3rd Kayleen Smith + Rob Smith + Trevor Martin + Dean Sipson 90 WINNING PRO OFF BLUE TEES **NEW COURSE RECORD** Quinton Thompson GROSS 68
For our latest screening schedule and trailers go to www.mercurytwincinemas.com
Shade that fits. Everyone’s home is different, and your shade should match. With Archgola, you can customise your canopy and outdoor blinds to fit your style and space just right. We’re about making your space, yours. Call Daniel for your FREE Quote 0204 198 4000 ARCHGOLA.CO.NZ
The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026 | 23
Sports
Proudly sponsored by
RUGBY LEAGUE GRAND Heartland Rugby FINAL – The Boars win!
The Thames Valley Swamp Foxes Heartland rugby season came to an end this last Saturday, 10 October. Mid-Canterbury Meads Cup won the semi-final with 37 to Swamp Foxes 28. Using the home advantage and the fact the Swamp Foxes had two players in the Mid-Canterbury had a 17-9 halftime lead. Meads Cup final will be Mid Canterbury v King Country Saturday, 17 October 1:05pm, Ashburton Showground.
T
his is the second year in a row that The Mercury Bay Boars have won the Grand Final title in the Hauraki District Rugby League competition. Waitak Warriors played hard as well and at halftime had the advantage with a small lead 12-10. But the Boars pushed through and the 38-24 winning margin was well deserved.
Whitianga Boat Repairs & Chandlery Mitch has over 45 years experience with an Advanced Trade Cert Wooden Boat Building qualification to back it up We specialise in woodwork repairs & maintenance, including teak decks & platforms, insurance and rot repairs, plus we fit new transducers, anchor winches, bow thrusters and more.
We stock International & Altex antifoul & marine paints, Propspeed, anodes, resin, fibreglass, TruDesign plumbing fittings and so much more!
15
LAURA ASHLEY FABRICS*
15
Phone or email for info: info@whitiangaboatrepairs.co.nz info@whitiangaboatchandlery.co.nz Mitch 027 4852046 | Phyll 027 4852036
WANT
• Native • Ornamental • Big Trees • Fruit Trees • Citrus • Hedging • Palms• Hire Plants • Bagged Products • Bulk Mulch • Bulk Compost and more... Open Thurs-Sun 8.30am-4.30pm; others days by phone appointment
WAITAIA NURSERY Waitaia Road, Kuaotunu Phone Colin or Cam 07 869 5910 www.waitaianursery.co.nz
24 | The Coromandel Informer – 13 October 2026
SELECTED BLINDS, SHUTTERS AND MOTORISATION^
Plus, a free in-home measure and quote!
#
Right now at Guthrie Bowron, get 15% off Laura Ashley fabrics*, and 15% off selected blinds, shutters and motorisation^! Orders must be in by 2nd November 2026, so pop in store and have a chat to our knowledgeable team about your window furnishings. Inspiration starts here, at your local Guthrie Bowron. Guthrie Bowron Whitianga 2/9 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga 3510 07 866 0035 Email curtains@gbwhitianga.co.nz *Applies to the retail price of fabric only. Excludes any making or installation costs and not available in conjunction with any other offer. Orders must be confirmed by 2nd November 2026 to be eligible for this offer. ^Selected styles and brands only. Conditions apply. Orders must be confirmed by 2nd November 2026 to be eligible for this offer. Please see guthriebowron. co.nz or in-store for full details. #Travel distance parameters may apply.
www.theinformer.co.nz