Issue 1196 10 February 2026

Pauline’s Piece

Romance sometimes works

Stan, my husband was not a romantic but yet he was; in his own way. He loved occasions to do with my life or our life; a birthday, or Christmas or an anniversary. He would plan little secret surprises- wrap up many small presents and call me into the room to enjoy the occasion. Sometimes it would be the dining room or have the gifts all in a row, laid out on our bed.

Some would still be in the store plastic bag but have some sticky tape added to define the shape. These weren’t presents divinely wrapped. Stan had dressed them in his awkward way. He would write something sweet or clever on the present. I would carry on as if I didn’t want all this fuss, but really, I loved it and as I was not someone who laughed readily, I would find myself smiling and then laughing at the funny, wonderful things he wrote.

He wasn’t big on roses or flowers, but the effort and ingenuity was something I really miss. What I don’t miss is the confidence he had in buying me clothes or jewellery. Some of his choices were painful, but he was very proud of his purchases. They were generally a bargain

he had found somewhere. If he did get it right, I would plan an occasion to wear it. Sometimes he would forget some purchases he had bought for me. I was relieved.

I remember the purchase of a very special T-shirt. I had been shopping in Queenstown and came back with a scarf that I really liked and it was cold. He was shocked at the price and said “Dare me to go and buy you something for $2.00!” “Stanley this is Queenstown and I don’t feel like one of our games.”

He was undeterred. “It will be fun,” he said and off he went. Our young son, Walker joined hm, always in to help dad win.

Two amused faces peered around the door about two hours later and I was asked to close my eyes. “We have been for a snack as we achieved our $2 purchase very quickly and you will love it.”

I pretended disdain but was interested, thinking, ‘Not one of these purchases where I have to feign my joy but I did wonder what he had in the bag.’ “$2.00! $2.00!” chanted Walker.

“Compliments of the Salvation Army!” said Stan gleefully.

I groaned as Stan began opening the bag – cringe cringe!

Suddenly I was gazing at a black and sparkling T shirt with music notes all over the front. The weave was soft and the neck well finished. I loved it and tried to hide my pleasure so as not to make it easy. He knew I loved it and to this day, 37 years have passed, and I still have it. It’s not just a memory because I still wear it.

I genuinely received a treasure for $2.

Was all of this romantic ? I don’t think so. We made this effort and he did it more than I did, because

we just loved each other and it was fun. For Stan, it wasn’t an effort – he was incredibly able to plan things which I didn’t notice. Over the years, we would sometimes try for the total surprise –we just got better at it.

No fear ever, of rejection, was the key.

I applaud whatever efforts you are going to for Valentine’s Day or a partner’s birthday or. Christmas. Put your heart into it more than the dollars.

I might just wear that T shirt on Valentines Day.

and SPACE STATION GAZING

A Day of Kotahitanga, Community, and Connection

BY NGĀ TŪMANAKO WHITIANGA CHARITABLE TRUST

On Waitangi Day this year, more than 3,000 people gathered in Whitianga. Families arrived early, children lined up for rides, neighbours stopped to talk, and visitors mixed easily with locals. By mid-morning, it was clear this was more than just another summer event. It was a day people wanted to be part of.

The celebration began with a whakatau, a formal welcome offering the opportunity to experience and, where appropriate, participate in tikanga Māori within a shared community setting. Local kaumātua Joe Davis reminded the crowd that Whitianga holds deep national and Pacific significance. He spoke of the great Polynesian navigator Kupe, who named this place Te Whitianga a Kupe, and of the nearby stream

Taputapuatea, a name shared with one of the most sacred sites in Polynesia. These connections place Whitianga within a wider Pacific story of navigation, settlement, and shared origins.

As the formal welcome concluded, the day’s programme got underway. For the day, the space became an open-air marae setting, anchored by a stage designed to echo the form of a wharenui.

From here, Mayor Peter Revell, accompanied by his wife, opened proceedings and set a respectful tone for the celebration.

People travelled from across the Hauraki rohe to attend, alongside visitors from Auckland, Hamilton, Hastings, and beyond.

Volunteers and organisers spoke with attendees about where they had come from, reflecting strong regional support. Overseas visitors were also welcomed, some experiencing Waitangi Day, and even Aotearoa, for the first time.

Free children’s rides and face

painting kept tamariki entertained, with a much-loved highlight being the little fire engine giving young ones a ride around the marae ātea. Market and kai stalls reflected the generosity of the community. Te Puritanga o Hei kura were up before dawn, with kaiako and parent helpers preparing a hāngī from 5.30am that sold out early. Intergenerational stallholders featured too, including a grandmother alongside her mokopuna selling sweets.

Te Korowai Hauora o Hauraki and Te Puna Hauora o Hauraki offered health checks and support, while

volunteers shared free watermelon slices donated by a local farmer.

Entertainment added further depth to the day. Sunn Solo set a relaxed tone with his one-man Aotearoa reggae sound, while kapa haka was a strong presence throughout the programme. Local rōpū Te Puritanga o Hei performed with pride, Te Wharekura o Manaia again drew strong crowd support, and Hauraki Kōwhao Rau brought strength and precision as they prepare for the upcoming Tainui regionals.

Taonga pūoro artist James Webster offered moments of playfulness and depth, while Te Paea Seasons and Vegas Brown, a local favourite, kept the crowd engaged. Tipene delivered a standout set to close the programme, continuing to build national recognition.

Behind the celebration is Ngā Tūmanako Whitianga Charitable Trust, guided by a long-term, community-shaped vision. Given

the depth of history connected to this place, the aspiration to establish a community marae is both timely and necessary. It would be a place for tikanga Māori, learning, gathering, and connection. Recent weather events have highlighted the lack of a dedicated, resilient space to bring people together and look after locals during times of need.

Those wishing to learn more about Ngā Tūmanako Whitianga Charitable Trust, or to support the kaupapa, are encouraged to get involved in ways that suit them, including volunteering, supporting future events, or contributing via www.ngatumanako.org.nz.

This Waitangi Day was more than a commemoration. It was a reminder of what can happen when people come together, and an invitation to continue building something meaningful, together. Ngā mihi nui to all who made it happen.

See page 5 for more on Waitangi.

Does the Treaty of Waitangi unite or divide us?

BY VERNA CARR

This is one of New Zealand's most challenging questions because people fundamentally disagree about what fairness and unity actually mean.

TWO DIFFERENT VIEWS

Some New Zealanders worry the Treaty creates division by treating citizens differently based on their ancestry. They're concerned about co-governance arrangements and feel that Treaty principles have grown beyond what was originally written. They believe we should move forward as one unified nation where everyone has equal rights, regardless of background.

Others see the Treaty as our founding document – the agreement that made British settlement legitimate and created lasting obligations. They argue we can't achieve real unity by ignoring past injustices and broken promises. Addressing historical wrongs and honouring partnership principles is essential for genuine togetherness. Co-governance, they say, simply recognises the authority ("tino rangatiratanga") promised to Māori in the Te Reo version.

WHY IT'S COMPLICATED

The 1840 Treaty itself contains genuine ambiguities. Translating concepts of sovereignty and governance between two vastly different cultures created tensions that remain unresolved today. The English version says chiefs gave up complete sovereignty, while the Māori version says they granted "kāwanatanga" (governance) but kept "tino rangatiratanga" (chieftainship) over their lands and treasures. These aren't just translation quibbles-they shape today's debates about resource manage-

ment, governance and rights.

FINDING COMMON GROUND

Many New Zealanders recognise truth in both perspectives. Perhaps the Treaty both unifies (as a shared foundation) and divides (when interpretations clash). This debate likely won't end soon. It reflects deep questions about identity, fairness, and what it means to honour commitments made nearly two centuries ago.

CELEBRATING TOGETHER IN WHITIANGA

To mark Waitangi Day 2026, the Nga Tomanako Whitianga Chari-

table Trust brought our community together with "Whitianga Ki Whitianga" at Buffalo Beach Reserve on Friday, 6 February.

The day began with a traditional Māori greeting ceremony, followed by a wonderful performance from Mercury Bay Area School's Kapa Haka group, karakia (prayer), and korero (speeches).

The celebrations were a fantastic success, uniting people from the many nations that make up our multicultural community. Visitors explored market stalls offering food, traditional arts, crafts and cultural experiences includ-

ing Rongoa (Māori medicine) and Mirimiri (massage). Throughout the day, the crowd enjoyed live music and dance performances.

AROHA KI TANGATA - LOVE TO ALL PEOPLE

Congratulations to the hard-working team at Ngā Tūmanako Whitianga Charitable Trust for organising this enjoyable, family-friendly day where everyone felt welcome. The well-organised event gave visitors a wonderful taste of Māori culture while celebrating and remembering the Treaty of Waitangi, our country's founding document.

Family picnic – so good to be here

BY PAULINE STEWART

The whole day’s event was laid back and relaxed but also competitive. Bike races and so many good things to enjoy at the Whitianga Bike Park gave the community a very successful Family Picnic.

Every child who wanted to had a personally timed bike race around the designated track. You could do two laps or one. Speed was the essence and then being alert was the second essence as the track had some dips and hills and a little gravel and required effort and focus. Children could have a second or third go to try and beat their personal best –racing against themselves. Many did. However, knowing the fastest rider in each age group would win an engraved cup and a prize was quite the incentive.

There was a talent quest with high talent entries, face painting, temporary tattoos, sausage sizzles, great music to dance to and many shady places to sit with your friends and family and have a picnic. Some bike racing entrants went cycling into the bush to try one of the many trails. Some didn’t have a bike but Jon Maud, Manager of the Bike Park had at hand a number of bikes of different sizes for children to use. This offering is available all year round to users of the Bike Park –a free bicycle to use and a helmet

“Could I have my teddy back?”

as well.

The Lions Clubs, both Whitianga and Mercury Bay, organised this event, with Jilly Needham leading the detail and the team. A date was first set for January 11which had to be called off and a new date set. This happened three times until finally, Sunday, 8 February, the fourth date promoted, the

weather was kind and the community responded. I can’t think of any organization other than our Lions Club who would stay with the plan and keep offering a family fun day and picnic event for the sake of the local children and families.

All funds raised go to the Mercury Bay Performing Arts Trust to

assist their upcoming production of Beauty and The Beast which will take place in May with over 55 young performers. The opening night is 7 May and there will be 8 shows of this internationally recognized story in music, dance and drama.

The fledgling Trust is meeting a great need for children and young

people in the region in terms of singing, dancing, drama,instruments -the performing arts and participating in all of the behindthe scenes aspects of live stage production.

We commend Fabian Roberts on this successful initiative and it was great to see some of the young musical performers assisting in the presentation of what was a very happy ‘outdoor festival-fair-picnic-in-the-park-day’.

Izzy Pauling, who danced at the family picnic will be one of the dancers in Beauty and The Beast. Bonnie Roberts, the Talent Time host at the picnic, has also landed a role in the show.

The Family Picnic finally happened – an excellent programme in a beautiful park venue.

The community says thank you!

Seniornet Seniornet, Whitianga

At SeniorNet we’re all about helping our seniors becoming much more comfortable using their tech devices. If you’ve read the directions on your new device and you are still bamboozled, sign up for a 45 minute Oneon-One session. Our tutors, Molly, Megan, Pam and Alan are familiar with the ins and outs of Android and Apple devices and how to help you.

If you feel a bit more confident using your iPhone or iPad and are curious to get to know all the little tricks that you might not find out yourself, join one of our iPhone Users Groups. There are two groups that meet on alternate Wednesdays for two hours from 2:15 until 4:15. Email Sheryl at seniornet. whitianga.admin@gmail. com to book your session.

On March 4 at 10:15am join us for our Term One presentation given by the Audiologist at Bay Audiology. She will describe the benefits of hearing aids, apps or other help available and answer your questions. The presentation will be at 2 Cook Drive, Rooms 9 & 10. Email to the SeniorNet address in previous paragraph.

WE NEED A TREASURER

Our wonderful Treasurer, Dave Campbell from Cooks Beach, is giving up his adding machine and Excel spreadsheets for different pastimes. If you are motivated to enrich the life of the community and yourself, volunteering for a non-profit organisation like SeniorNet is the way to go. The service we provide the community is

valuable and needed and the people involved -- our volunteers, our committee and our members are fantastic.

The job is not demanding and requires attendance at a monthly, usually one-hour committee meeting in town. The added bonus is that you are entitled to free tuition at any of our classes or presentations. You would just have to join the organisation. Whitianga is so lucky to have capable and experienced retirees living here. If you have a bit of spare time to give to the community, why not step up and help us help you and your friends?

We’d love to hear from you! Please email our Admin, Sheryl at: seniornet.whitianga.admin@ gmail.com

Where did those red roses come from ?

Every year on 14 February, sweethearts and lovers around the world offer gifts, flowers, cards, jewellery and chocolate, and enjoy amorous dinners and dates – all in the name St. Valentine. So it may come as a surprise to know that the real St. Valentine was no romantic. In fact, the original tale of St. Valentine is far more gruesome – and elusive. We dive into the history of this day of candy and cupid and find out how Christian martyrs became the patron of love.

WHO WAS ST. VALENTINE?

The true origins of St. Valentine have been widely debated, with many stories claiming that the real St. Valentine was a priest or bishop in Rome who was executed for performing illegal marriages for Chris-

tian lovers. Some say he carried messages between imprisoned Christians and had a romance with a young blind woman who he healed and left a letter signed “your Valentine”. However, the most likely story is that there were multiple St. Valentines who died on 14 February in the 3rd century. At least two of them were executed under Roman Emperor Claudius Gothicus in 269-270 A.D, when it was common to persecute Christians. Historians draw this information from the Bollandists. They were an order of

Belgian monks who gathered evidence on saints from archived manuscripts around the world for three centuries. Hence, red roses are from a much later history and probably connected to making money. I think genuine romance tops the ancient history and a red rose (or flower) and gentle kiss might win the approval of all these Saints. I invite people to try something different for Valentines Day. These two pages are just some of the invitations from Chef Nee at The Mercury Bay Club with his sumptuous and generous meal, Chang Thai with Asian romantic décor to the swing of The Buffalo Beach Club. They represent hospitality working to brnig you a great experience. And there are more across The Coromandel.

A star beach club

BY SUZANNE HANSEN

While growing up, I was fortunate to live in close proximity to many different beach locations, where I always made a point to sink deeply into the “beach vibe” of the place. In all of these different beach locations, I’ve gravitated toward the rustic, family-friendly beach shack, replete with snacks and beverages, good music, where one could absorb the atmosphere and meet a bunch of people.

I’ve always thrived on a relaxed atmosphere which is not pretentious, and which augments the beach seascape, provides decent live music and good food. The new Buffalo Beach Club (BBC) on Whitianga’s Esplanade is all of these and more.

Buffalo Beach Club (BBC) is the realised vision of Dash Fellows and a couple other resident digni-

taries, to produce a fabulous local hangout spot on the beach which is elegant in its simplicity, and it has quickly become a summer star in Whitianga. Nothing is fancy about the BBC, except it maybe has the best yet affordable wine list I’ve seen around Whitianga for a while. The food is tasty, well priced and borne of a strong relationship with Texas Pete’s Barbecue Joint in the Waikato. The menu provides a tasty assortment of authentic southern barbecue which just plain tastes great. There are no fancy plates or table settings, Yet there are plenty of tables and bar leaners in the shade and a fantastic kids (or adult) sand play area with a number of things to keep the young and young at heart entertained while their caregivers and whanau enjoy the great beach shack vibe safely within an arm’s reach.

The BBC is spacious, colourful and cheery. It also has an ice cream shop with incredible offerings from Indulge and Lewis Road for those who need a creamy treat. Those with a thirst or a yearning for ice cream can wander in straight off the beach or seafront walk to also grab a cold drink, and settle in for good vibes and easy afternoons, with live events that roll on into the evening. In

Valentine’s Day at Buffalo Beach Club

my opinion, BBC is becoming one of the best beach pitstops in New Zealand. Open 7 days a week, from 12 pm - 9 pm, there is great live music most weekends – real toe-tapping, sing-along levels of talent, giving patrons a great reason to stay and socialise. This is a formula that is working well for the BBC, made evident by their popularity over the busy Christmas/

New Year time. Even now that the hoards are fewer, the club still attracts a great following of locals celebrating their choices to live in Whitianga

Of course, summer does not last forever and Dash, Justine and the BBC team are busy planning their autumn and winter strategies. Suffice to say, the BBC will become a cosy local hangout in all seasons.

Youth photographers amazing! Mercury Bay Art Escape

Congratulations to the winners of The Mercury Bay Art Escape Youth Photography Competition! All of the entries were impressive and showed great creativity and talent.

1ST PLACE

Indy Marshall (age 16)

The Sting of Summer Indy is currently at Mercury Bay Area School in Whitianga. His passion is macro photography which is the art of capturing extreme close up images of small subjects and making them appear lifelike. His particular interest is native orchids.

2ND PLACE

Lily Hutton (age 9) Cartwheeling into Summer Fun on the Coromandel

This was captured on Hahei Beach using a tripod and her mum’s phone – proof that creativity matters more than gear!

A selection of the entries are currently on exhibit at Hot Waves Café, Hot Water Beach

Thanks to Vaughan Grigsby at Stephensons Unichem, Whitianga for providing the prints on beautiful fine art paper and for his continued support of Mercury Bay Art Escape.

3RD PLACE

Cooper Fletcher (age 8)

The Pōhutukawa Monarch Cooper’s mum shared:

“Thank you for this opportunity. Cooper spent the entire holidays taking photos with our ‘big’ camera, phones, and underwater cameras. He had a ball being out and about, looking through the lenses of the cameras.”

KSAR wants you!

Land Search and Rescue (LSAR) is run in New Zealand by an NGO based out of Christchurch. Whilst the primary Search and Rescue responsibility sits with NZ Police, the great majority of the staff on the ground are volunteers. They do an excellent job.

In 2024/2025 there were 526 land search and rescue operations across the country with around 55 groups covering off search and rescue operations across a much-varied landscape. Our cousins in Coastguard New Zealand cover off an even larger and potentially more dangerous environment on the water.

Across the Coromandel Peninsula there are a number of LSAR groups with Tairua Pauanui Whangamata (TPW), Thames, Paeroa Te Aroha and our very own Kuaotunu Search and Rescue (KSAR) This group covers from a large chunk of the District from Pumpkin Hill to the South up the Eastern ride of the Peninsula. Depending on the size and scale of the operation each group can

and does support their neighbours I am privileged to be the local Chair.

In recent years our callout rate has dropped just like our Fire Service counterparts. In their case the advent of cell phones and the change from cooking our beloved chips on the stove in bubbling oil, there are now fewer operational demands. That is due to trampers carrying cell phones and in some cases, personal emergency locater beacons.

Our local KSAR was started by the legendary Steve Hart from Kuaotunu.

(Not the Mayoral aspirant from the western side) I

believe some 18 years ago.

As a result of Steve and his successors leadership, the group has thrived and has a highly professional set -up near Whitianga Airfield collocating with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter,

The local SAR team is blessed with a large and varied amount of equipment including thermal imaging devices, GPS, medical gear and an excellent array of personal equipment and superb training provided and paid for by LSAR not to mention their generous assistance with equipment.

At present our local team is looking out for new members. These are required to perform a number of vital functions and not just in the field. So, if you have an interest in the outdoors, are reasonably fit, want to provide a community service and join a great team then get in touch as we want you.

The best place to start is on the Land SAR website www.landsar.org.nz or contact local coordinator Shannon Gregory on Kuaotuntu@landsar.org.nz.

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Education 2026

BY ROSS DUNN, PRINCIPAL, MERCURY BAY AREA SCHOOL

It has been a privilege to welcome our students, staff, and whānau back to Mercury Bay Area School for the 2026 year. There is a positive energy on the grounds, and after the success of 2025, we have every reason to start the year with a sense of pride and momentum.

Reflecting on 2025, our NCEA results have given us much to celebrate. In particular, our Level 1 achievement was fantastic, with over 70% of our students successfully gaining their qualification. This is a testament to the hard work of our learners and the support of our teaching staff. Even more pleasing was seeing our best attendance statistics to date. We know that attendance equals achievement, and seeing our rangatahi showing up ready to learn acknowledges the hard work of our students, their families, and our staff to be attending. We are looking to further improve on last year’s results as we move

through 2026.

We officially kicked off the year with a moving full-school mihi whakatau. This was a significant occasion as we welcomed a large body of international students, alongside new staff and students across the school. A heartfelt thanks goes to Ngāti Hei for supporting us through that process and ensuring our new arrivals were welcomed appropriately.

Beyond the classroom, we have lots of positive developments and ongoing moving parts around our property. Our site

saw a hive of activity over the summer break with lots of roofing and gutters replaced, painting of buildings, and a move and refit-out of the school canteen. These improvements are just the beginning, as we have further major developments scheduled to start during the Term One holidays. As we settle into the rhythm of the new year, I want to thank the community for your ongoing support. We are a school that thrives on the partnership between home and the classroom, and we are off to a great start.

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Record Numbers and Golden Fleece Glory at Tairua Cocksy Classic

BY DANA COCKS

The Tairua Cocksy Classic returned over the weekend with record numbers of anglers taking part in one of the country’s most unique charity fishing competitions, an event where creativity, camaraderie and good humour are just as important as what’s landed.

Far from a traditional fishing tournament, the Cocksy Classic features a mix of quirky categories and species, plenty of banter, and the occasional bit of friendly sabotage. Anglers and divers compete for the coveted Golden Fleece Award, which comes with a year’s worth of bragging rights, Cocksy’s Golden Work Boot Trophy, and the right to wear the iconic yellow shirt into the following year’s competition.

Now in its sixth year in Tairua, the event kicked off on Friday night with a lively safety briefing filled with humour and excitement, as teams prepared for fishing to begin from 12.01am on Saturday. Some crews headed out late Friday night to be on the water and ready to go as soon as the clock ticked over.

The Golden Fleece this year was claimed by local Tairua butcher Brett Collins, who

impressed judges with a creative entry, a Hammerhead fish, highlighting the competition’s emphasis on originality as much as fishing skill.

The Cocksy Classic raises funds for the Kiwi Kids Charity, a grassroots organisation run by event organiser Dana Cocks that supports children and communities

throughout New Zealand through practical, hands-on initiatives. All proceeds from the competition go directly back into the charity’s work.

The event has been proudly sponsored by Dayle ITM since its inception which was originally established as a memorial for John “Cocksy” Cocks, a Tairua

local well known for his appear-

and

and his wife Dana met through charity work, a legacy that continues through the competition’s strong charitable focus.

With a second Cocksy Classic now held at D’Urville Island in the South Island, a friendly North vs

South rivalry has emerged, adding another layer of competition to both the fishing and fundraising efforts.

With strong community backing and a growing reputation, the Tairua Cocksy Classic continues to stand out as an event built on generosity, humour and a genuine sense of connection.

Opinion Empowerment – more

A meeting with attitude

BY PAULINE STEWART

They were all connected to one community –Wharekaho (Simpsons Beach) – 120 people. They gathered to discuss a matter that effects everyone on the Coromandel – water and wastewater reticulation

The meeting had been called by Chair of the Residents and Ratepayers in Wharekaho, Murray Ward. The one agenda item was to sort out a way forward regarding water and wastewater reticulation to the residents and ratepayers in Simpsons Beach.

Background: TCDC had sent letters in December to all ratepayers announcing the upcoming installation of reticulated potable water and wastewater. The costs outlined a ten-year payment plan. The letter also offered information sessions with dates set before Christmas.

These dates gave residents only a few days’ notice and it was Christmas time.

It would be fair to say the letters got an angry response reflecting the frustration of seeing this project outlined in several Long Term Plans over the years removed and now it was going to happen but at a hefty cost. The other festering point was that only one option was being offered to the residents. The cost of having to pay upfront or over ten years about $70,000

was unacceptable. There was an additional cost of $17,000 payable upfront per household for a macerater unit.

Mind you, it was not as if Council were going to be digging drains in February 2026, but a plan had been decided on with no input from residents. Mercury Bay Community Board had not been consulted or notified of the letter.

Since then, TCDC has apologised for both the content and timing of the letter.

After Murray Ward set out the reason for the meeting, Councillor Flemming Rasmussen set out the parameters he had worked hard on to provide a more viable option. This was to spread the cost over 50 to 80 years by borrowing the money as suggested by central government in their

Local Water done Well.

Grey Hopper of Hopper Developments was there to present Hoppers’ interests as they are developing housing across the road. Both Councillor Flemming and Gray were direct and frank with costings. Residents were just as forthright and asked some very difficult questions

Many residents expressed frustration that all the cost was totally on them and could not see any return for their rates over 40 years – no infrastructure provided over the last 40 years.

However, the meeting accepted that other options must be considered and these are set out and will be referred to all in the next few days.

Option One: Status quo - the existing situation remains that is, people have their own water –

tanks and bores and everyone on septic tanks.

Option Two: As outlined in TCDC letter. Install potable water reticulation and wastewater reticulation. Cost is spread over ten years (heartily rejected).

A proposed change which effects the following options: Cost spread over life of the system – up to 80 years – this is being proposed by Councillor Flemming instead of the existing policy of TCDC which is to spread the cost over 30 years. Strange that the letters received, offered only ten years. The huge cost difference between paying something over ten years and eighty years can be the difference between staying or giving up. Everyone who uses the system over 80 years is helping to pay for it.

Option Three: Status quo –but a programme of regular inspections of septic tanks by professionals – as in Auckland and other p laces. TCDC does not have this.

Option Four: Wastewater reticulation to go ahead but NOT water reticulation. This is much cheaper. No water meters and ongoing charges. Bore water would be purer when septic tanks systems are no longer there

These options will be presented to the residents and ratepayers before going to Council for ratification.

or less

for Community Boards?

This intended meaning of the word empowerment means having more power to serve.

A letter has come to all five chairs of the five Community Boards to inform them that the number of meetings per year has been reduced to six. Before, it was one a month except for January.

The Chair of Mercury Bay Community Board has expressed the shared concern over this in a letter to the Mayor, Peter Revell. As we go to print, the Chairs are meeting to discuss what they can do to get this decision reverted. it seems there was no planned discussion or consultation.

Tony Fox who is an experienced Councillor and Community spoke passionately at the most recent Mercury Bay Community Board meeting expressing his impatience and concern that none of the 11 submissions at the November meeting had received any action in terms of a report coming back to the next meeting. He was questioning the ability of Community Boards to actually serve their communities with the current interpretation of the role of staff with elected board members.

His message was; Who is in charge? Who is using their power to serve the community?

Busy Coromandel summer for Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopters

The efforts of Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter crews are being acknowledged following a particularly busy start to 2026 across Coromandel.

After flying 170 missions to Coromandel in 2025, the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopters – operated by Northern Rescue – attended to 30 rescues alone in the first month of 2026.

Northern Rescue Chief Operating Officer Karl Taylor, a former Critical Care Paramedic, says crews responded to 16 medical events and 13 accidents and one search and rescue mission throughout Coromandel in January.

“Callouts ranged from serious medical emergencies to accidents in remote locations, where rapid access to advanced medical care can make a life-saving difference,” says Taylor.

The summer period traditionally brings an increase in activity, with more people holidaying, boating, hiking, and travelling throughout Coromandel.

“While the region offers incredible outdoor experiences, due to its topog-

raphy it can also present challenges when emergencies occur far from immediate medical help, which is where our Northern Rescue

Helicopters are so effective in reaching people. Our January statistics highlight just how vital air ambulance services are for communi-

ties and visitors across the Coromandel,” he says.

In acknowledging the hard work of Northern Rescue’s engineers, pilots and

“We are proud to work alongside our fellow first responders for the good of the community 24/7,365 days a year. We are all here to deliver high levels of care when people need help the most.”

Northern Rescue operates both Auckland and Northland Air Ambulance Services, completing over 2,064 missions in 2025.

“Our Northern Rescue team is immensely grateful to the Coromandel community, and other communities we serve, for their ongoing support and generosity towards Northern Rescue.”

And as summer rolls on, he urges locals and visitors to Coromandel to take care, plan well and look out for one another.

Taylor says it is also timely to remind people that if a loved one or a member of the community requires urgent medical assistance, to call 111.

paramedics, Taylor also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of all first responders for keeping people safe in Coromandel. Taylor says everyone plays a part in helping people sick or injured, from motorists first on scene at road crashes, to Police, Fire and Emergency NZ, Hato Hone St John and volunteers.

Art Expo

Leave a lasting legacylasting to communitthe y you love

e Mercury Bay Future Fund was o cially launched by Sir Stephen Tindall in October last year to assist and facilitate Endowment Fund bequest giving here, providing a lasting legacy to our community.

What is an endowment fund?

An endowment is a philanthropic investment fund that is created through generous people making donations or leaving bequests in their Wills. e invested funds then generate long-term ongoing income for the charitable groups or projects nominated by the donors or bequestors and/or the Fund’s Deed. e original principal is kept intact, providing a revenue stream to the non-pro t recipient forever.

• How are these local endowments invested?

e Mercury Bay Future Fund, and any ‘Named Funds’ set up by locals, are managed by Momentum Waikato, one of 18 community foundations around New Zealand. Momentum’s various funds make up its investment portfolio managed by Craigs Investment Partners and JBWere, overseen by its experienced Investment Committee.

• How can I and/or my family set up an endowment fund?

You should rst contact the two ‘Fund Champions’ in Mercury Bay – Peter Farmer and Geo Balme. Contact details are set out below. A er contact, Peter and Geo will guide you through the process and advise you on potential local non-pro t recipients for the income from your invested bequest.

e experienced team at Momentum will then organise a meeting at a date and time of your convenience, to con rm your lawyer’s support, ensure all arrangements meet your expectations, and then sign your Bequest Plan.

• Is there a minimum dollar ($$$) amount?

e Mercury Bay Future Fund welcomes donations and bequest pledges of any size from residents or visitors. You can make one-o or regular contributions to this Fund, which will then use the resulting income to make annual disbursements to Mercury Bay charities and projects.

OR, you can establish your own NAMED FUND to provide perpetual support to the charities of your choice, with a donation or bequest of $50,000 or more.

• What if I am not a permanent resident?

ere are many non-permanent residents here in Mercury Bay. It is estimated that up to 50% of local Named Endowment Funds will be formed by non-residents who are determined to leave a lasting legacy to this community that they love.

• What are typical non-pro t recipients from a named endowment bequest?

e essential aspect we stress is that YOU decide the recipient(s) of YOUR Named Fund.

e Mercury Bay Future Fund itself will typically support local medical facilities and equipment, rescue helicopters, sports clubs, education needs, and tackling deprivation.

Mercury Bay Future Fund

MOMENTUM WAIKATO

Proudly Sponsored by Farmer Autovillage and Farmer Family

MY NEXT STEP: Contact either of your two Fund Champions Peter Farmer | E: peter@farmerautovillage.co.nz Geo Balme | E: gbalme@xtra.co.nz

Marine Education Programme just got easier Environment Matters

The Friends of Te Whanganui o Hei Marine Reserve Trust are delighted to announce that delivering the Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) marine education programme will be easier than ever this year. The Trust is extremely pleased to be able to support the funding needed to deliver both Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) and the Whitebait Connection (WBC) programmes to local schools across our region. We have been fortunate to have our funding application approved by the Waikato Regional Council’s Environment Initiatives Fund, receiving $36,000 over two years to support programme delivery to schools.

A huge thank you to Waikato Regional Council for their ongoing support.

A NEW EQUIPMENT TRAILER

We would also like to sincerely thank Pub Charity for funding the refurbishment of the Trust’s purpose-built specialised equipment trailer used to deliver the EMR programme throughout the Hauraki/Coromandel region. It transports snorkelling equipment, enabling students to safely experience their local marine environments, including the Te

Whanganui o Hei Marine Reserve.

Pub Charity originally funded the full cost of building the trailer in 2012, and when it became clear it was in dire need of refurbish-

ment, they once again stepped up to support the community, contributing $2,528.65. Thanks also to Coastal Signs, Whiti Trim and Shade Ltd, Bridgestone Tyres, and

JC Motorcycles, the trailer is now back on the road with a fresh new look. Trailer artwork was created by Konrad Kurta, Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust.

ADDITIONAL THANKS FOR THEIR SUPPORT

• Coroglen Tavern

• Admirals Arms Hotel

• Smitty’s Sports Bar and Grill

• Whangamata Sports Bar

NEW CO-ORDINATOR

With the refurbished trailer ready to go, the Trust is pleased to introduce Shona Whittaker, our new Programme Delivery Coordinator.

Many will already know Shona as a Whitianga local - a proud mum of two, local business owner, and experienced marine professional with an extensive background working in ocean environments.

Shona joins the Trust supporting local tamariki to gain essential skills and knowledge to help protect and care for our marine and freshwater environments. She brings a deep connection to community, environment, and the creation of positive pathways for future generations of kaitiaki. „ The Friends of Te Whanganui o Hei Marine Reserve Trust is a registered Charitable Trust. Anyone wishing to make a donation to support the operation of the Trust and delivery of the EMR programme can contact the Secretary, Barbara Ritchie, at barbritchie@xtra.co.nz. For more information, or to register your school’s interest in the Experiencing Marine Reserves or Whitebait Connection programmes, please contact: Hauraki/Coromandel Regional Coordinator, Shona Whittakershona@mountainstosea.org.nz

Letters to the Editor

JONO RIDLER - LIVE OCEAN SWIMMING FOR A CAUSE

It was just after 7.30am off Opito Bay on Sunday 1s February, Jon started hi swim where he had finished on Friday at the north of Opito. He had a rest day Saturday as he had a tendon in his wrist causing concern. I was surprised being the only enthusiastic supporter in my kayak being joined later by another kayaker. Jono’s support team made us feel so welcome and special, At times, Jono was swimming at 4kph. I was just amazed at such a strong and determined character he is, just a legend, supporting and making us all aware of the seabed destruction bottom trawling causes.

John Glover, Kuaotunu Editor’s Note: Last issue of The Informer ‘Swimmer takes on epic 1,600km ocean challenge’ P.17

TREVOR AMMUNDSEN CONNECTING THE DOTS

After years of enduring Trevor Ammundsen’s climate "skepticism," it was refreshing to see him finally acknowledge reality. By conceding that the havoc wreaked on private property is a "fiscal time bomb" for ratepayers, he has finally connected the dots that oil companies

and climate scientists have recognised since the 1970s. Welcome to the side of climate science, Trevor; what took you so long?

Ron Alder, Whangamata TCDC AND FLOOD PROTECTION

Trevor Ammundsen’s recent articles regarding the Taputapuatea Reserve present a narrow, parochial view that misinterprets both Council policy and the technical and cost realities of flood management.

While Ammundsen frames a $20,000 saving as a “failure,” the true “fiscal time bomb” lies in the precedent of using general rates to protect private property interests against the indisputable realities of rising seas, coastal flooding, and the increasingly intense and damaging rain events driven by climate change.

Firstly, Ammundsen ignores the TCDC Coastal Hazards Policy (Sections 2.1.3 & 2.1.4), which clearly states that while Council has an obligation to protect public infrastructure, it is the responsibility of private owners to undertake their own adaptation actions. Expecting Council to intervene in every instance of private risk would create an astronomical liability for all ratepayers.

Secondly, the attack on Council staff is unjustified. The Waikato Regional Council’s 2024 Coastal Inundation Tool classifies this area as a “disconnected inundation” zone. This means the Taputapuatea reserve suffers from a “bathtub effect” where rising groundwater and trapped stormwater will likely cause flooding regardless of walls or

A poem offered by one of our readers

WHAT TYPE OF FRIEND ARE YOU?

By Beverley Sheppard

Friends can be anywhere and any way, Friends can have a little or a lot to say.

Sometimes it feels so good to say what you really think, I certainly have that attribute and a kitchen sink.

I love my friends popping in and visiting me, I love close friends videoing and calling me. What kind of friend are you?

Are you a bit absent and often say you have the flu?

Or are you the 6 monthly friend and phone calls are too hard?

Or are you sharp as a glass shard?

Listening for a subtle change in their voice.

Listening for what’s missing in their words of choice. I sometimes ask “what do you really need?”

Do you bother to really hear their planted seed?

Superficial conversations are cheap and easy. Meaningful conversations are damn good and breezy.

Texting is a pain in the neck sometimes.

We need to hear our friend’s voice often enough to hear their chimes.

Chimes of not really happy and a bit lonely sounds.

Chimes of too much work and heavy burden mounds.

Can I please encourage you to listen anew

Listening with ears intent you will not rue

A hug or a cup of tea is often desired.

I know I’m sometimes a frantic mess and hard wired.

But best of all my close friends call in to visit me.

I’m so blessed to have them that I’m happy as a bumble bee.

I’ve learnt my friend’s voices so I know when they are stuck or sad,

I can hear a change in their look or speech if it’s bad.

Best of all I have friends who keep me accountable.

Keeping me out of bed and nothing is insurmountable.

Being a great friend means being responsible, possibly delectable and a little vulnerable.

Invincible, paintable and having God’s joy that is uncontrollable

The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to 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. These letters do not reflect the editor’s view. The editor reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.

bunds. Staff were correct to defer to regional expertise rather than throwing good money after bad.

Finally, the real fiscal threat is the sheer scale of coastal protection across the district. The 2024–2034 Long Term Plan allocates $92.7 million for district-wide works, with Thames alone requiring $78.2 million. Most of this will have to be funded through targeted rates, with property owners who directly benefit from the seawall paying roughly 75% of the capital costs over 20-30 years.

Council’s expert consultants scoped the total estimated cost of coastal flood protection in 8 locations over the coming decades at $1.1 billion, with $342 Million for Whitianga and $623 million in the Thames ward. This is the real “fiscal time bomb” for ratepayers that Ammundsen omits altogether.

If the Council rushed into uncoordinated works for every affected landowner, the resulting rates hike would be the fiscal rates explosion he fears.

Sound governance requires adhering to established policy and hydrological and climate science, not

reactive knee-jerk spending on localised symptoms.

Denis Tegg, Thames

I AM ASKING WHY?

I am wondering why so many in our town are so sick. I go to the supermarket and see people who look like they’re on death’s doorstep, some who are fairly young as well as older folks. I don’t dare ask ones I know “how are you” anymore.

The doctors are booked up weeks ahead, perhaps the doctors could enlighten us on why this is so? Is it wrong diet, climate change, crook water etc?

Please medics, what is it?

Dan Allen, Whitianga

GREED AND PROFIT DRIVEN MOTIVES

Mountains of pine slash on Tolaga Bay beaches, slab hillside slips, and an ocean stained brown are all signs that we as a society have interfered with nature in the pursuit of wealthy.

Our forebears cut and burnt the original forests, ploughed the wetlands, and overstocked the farms (to pay back bank loans).

This made the run-off to water courses syrupy brown and thus the sea is the same.

Now the pine forests

are harvested recklessly and missing undergrowth because of pussums and pats adds to the problem. Climate change with its extra rainfall will continue to damage ur living spaces. Planting more pies or any pines is not the answer! In addition to the slash they cause soil loss and are a wild fire risk.

Native tree plantings resist this erosion but take longer to grow. Where is the profit in this in our capitalist society?

Peter H Wood, Whitianga ACTUAL REALITY PLEASE!

After reading the latest column from red-neck vandal and commentator Malcolm Campbell, quoting a notorious rat, possum and pig entrepreneur from the northern Coromandel to justify a blinkered, self-justifying view of actual reality, I think The Informer should attempt at balanced editorial perspective by seeking out some real Coromandel environmentalists who actually know what the hell they are talking about with regard to the destructive nature of introduced pests and their effect on our native flora and fauna.

Dal Minogue, Whitianga

Celebration of Helpers

Would

your organisation like to have a stall?

The Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust is joining with Whitianga Fire and Emergency again this year, to hold another Celebration of Helpers. This was a great day out last year, and based on feedback, we are holding it at a time of year with hopefully, more agreeable, at least, warmer weather.

This is a great opportunity for the public to meet the people behind some of Whitianga’s helping organisations and find out more of what these organisations do and how people can get involved.

We know there are many people in our community that may have time to offer, who may have thought about volunteering but are not sure where to start or who to approach. This is your chance to explore opportunities to give back to your community, it’s organisations like these that keep small communities like ours going.

Last year we had emergency services vehicles and vessels on show. There was raffle tickets, plants for sale, a sausage sizzle and activities for the kids. We’re hoping to have much the same this year – maybe even more!

If you are an organisation that includes volunteers and you would like to be involved, please contact Di Taylor on 027 252 7996 or ditaylor1965@gmail.com

Otherwise come on down on the day and bring the children. We look forward to meeting you.

Games & Puzzles WIN!

Crossword Puzzle

to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.

1. On the inside (8)

5. Classic painting, ... Lisa (4)

7. Blunt (4)

8. Removing errors from (8)

9. Ran after (6)

12. Regards highly (7)

15. Animal trainer (7)

19. Overrun (6)

21. Raiders (8)

22. Silent (4)

23. Repair (4)

24. Scientific ideas (8)

1. Charge with crime (6)

2. Geography reference volume (5)

3. Great fear (5)

4. Surrenders (6) 5. Confused state (6) 6. Cherubs (6)

10. Author unknown (4)

11. Tea, ... Grey (4)

12. Tip of grain (3)

13. Change direction (4)

14. Fencing blade (4)

15. Balloon gas (6)

16. Insist (6)

17. Knowledgeable (6)

18. Navigates (6)

19. Matter of concern (5)

Win a coffee and a muffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/ photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@ theinformer. co.nz to reach us by 12.00 noon on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly.

Every row and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once. ACROSS

20. Pelvis-to-knee bone (5)

MERCURY BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC

What’s On

OP SHOPS

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust

Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.

St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat 9.30am-2pm.

St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen St, Whitianga. 9.30am-1pm Wed-Sat. Social Services Op-shop – 15 Coghill St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-2pm. Donations welcome.

SPCA Op-shop – 2 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 9am-4pm.

MONTHLY

AA Driver Licensing – NEW LOCATION. Tuesday 27 January, Friday 13 February. Whitianga Community Service Trust Centre, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga.

American Muscle Street and Custom Club

Whitianga – Club meetings first Sunday of the month, 11am at Buffalo Beach Reserve for cars and coffee. Phone Reg and Julie Smith on 027 493 5822.

Cooks Beach Garden Circle –Last Thurs of the month 11.15am-2.30pm. New members welcome. Ph Anne on 07 866 0268 for more information.

Craft Group – Meets first Saturday of the month 10am-3pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr, carpark end. Work on your own craft (stitching, colouring in, scrapbook, card making anything goes). Bring your lunch and enjoy mixing with other crafty people. Any queries ph Alison 021 0508 772 or Sally 027 3962 383. Kūaotunu Dune Care – Every third Wed of the month. To get involved, please email kuaotunudunecare@gmail.com.

Hospice Waikato’s Bereavement Support Group – Lost a loved one? Join Hospice Waikato’s monthly bereavement support group. Connect over morning tea with others who understand. Held on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 10.30am to 12.00pm at Whitianga Social Services. Registration required. Contact Hospice Waikato to register at 07 859 1260. Mercury Bay Model Railway Club – Monthly meet. Contact. Damon 0273551650 Mercury Bay Shooting Federation – Muzzle loader, rimfire, centre fire, military, pistol. Email mbsfsecretary@gmail.com

Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Fourth Monday of every month, 10am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Jo on 021 264 3753. Tairua Market takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month all year at Tairua Community Hall, 9am till 1pm. Food, fruit and veges, crafts, clothing, home decor, plants, furniture, books and much more.

FORTNIGHTLY

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

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

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

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

WEEKLY OR MORE

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

Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info.

Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and values based ministry for boys. For boys aged 5-13 years old. Tues 5.30-7pm For information contact Robyn 020 409 39674. Chess Club – s 6.30-9.30pm, MB Bowling Club. Players of all levels. Cost $2. Contact Brett Soanes 0272117195 or brettsoanes16@ hotmail.com

Chinwag Café – Every Friday from 10.30am12.30pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook

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.

Drive. A place for over 50s to meet other people, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a chinwag.

Coroglen Farmers Market every Sunday until Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25), from 9am-1pm.

Coffee and Discussion Group – Every Sunday, 2-4pm, at The Lost Spring. Topics are open and respect shown. No charge. Convener Peter H. Wood.

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

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

Cooks Beach Pickleball - tennis courts, cnr Purangi Rd and Rees Ave. Phone Kevin 021 396 062 for enquiries.

Coromandel ‘Growers & Artisans Market’

When: Every Saturday from 9am - 1pm

Where: The Anglican Church Hall, Coromandel Town.

Dog walking group – Every Thurs, 2pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to a very sociable group. Ph Jenny on 021 186 5797.

Elevate Fitness – Strength and balance class using chair, sitting and standing exercises –Monday and and Thursday 9:00am Whitianga Town Hall, $10, ACC approved. Aqua Fit Water Workout, Hot Water Beach Resort, $20 including soak in spa, 11:30am Monday and Thursday. Movement to Music exercise class –strength & cardio, The Embassy of Friendship, Coghill Street. Call Nicole 021 0265 2693. Hahei Contract Bridge Club – Every Tuesday 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Learners and casual welcome. Contact Don Barry 021 741 959 or Robyn Hogg 021543015. Meditation Classes – Thursday evening. Spiritual, heart, soul development. Sacred energy, chakra activations, working with spiritual guides. Open forum conversation, Thursdays, 6.30pm at Flat 1, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga. Cost $10. Contact Verna 027 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com.

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

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

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

Mercury Bay Bridge Club – Our Club sessions start again during the first week of February 2026. For more information, phone Gavin on 021 146 9203.

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

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

Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club – Will recommence in March 2026, Phone Cheryl 027 452 7887 or Sandie 021 825 667 for more information.

Mercury Bay Pickleball Club - At the Mercury Bay Area School Gymnasium, Tuesdays Members Only 5.30-7.30pm; Saturdays Social & New Players 9.30-11.30am; Sundays All Players 4-6pm. Members, Visitors & Guests $5, a complimentary session is available to new players wanting to trial pickleball. Membership is only $20 PA and can be completed online at www. mercurybaypickleball.co.nz Contact Tony 021 426 150. Mercury Bay Sports Park sessions are weather dependant & advised on our facebook page Mercury Bay Pickleball. Matarangi (Matai Pl Courts) Thurs 3-5pm (Winter) 5 -7pm (Summer) Saturday 9-11am Contact Grant 022 383 6351. Hahei Tennis & Pickleball Club-Thursday & Sunday Contact Tim 027 843 2683 or refer their facebook page.

Mercury Bay Squash Club – New members/ enquiries to Dawn Thurgood mercbaysquash@ gmail.com

Mercury Bay Table Tennis – Every Tues, 9-11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Ph Anne on 07 869 5162 or 027 565 5575 for more info.

Mercury Bay Tennis Club – Social tennis at Lyon Park on Thursdays at 5.30pm. All welcome. Ph Jason 022 186 7992 or Carl 027 680 5570.

Oneness Meditation Centre – The centre focuses on the meditative art of going deeper within. Learn how to meditate, breath, calm the mind, relieve stress, anxiety and be a calm, peaceful, courageous, dynamic human being. Every Monday, 9.30-11.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881 or email linda_c@orcon. net.nz

Self-defence classes – Town Hall, Tues/Wed 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146. Spiritual Conversation Mornings – Every Tues and Wed, 10.30am-12pm, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga the Starlight Centre. Grab a coffee and join in some great conversation where we talk about topics and subjects that have meaning. $5 donation. Contact Verna 027 320 0079.

Tai Chi for all levels – Town Hall, Mondays 6-7pm. Gold coin donation. Ph Tony 027 333 5146 for more info.

Tairua Contract Bridge Club – Every Monday at 12.30pm at the Tairua Bowling Club, 44 Hornsea Rd. Contact Lynnette Flowers 021 252 4709 or Johanna Bonnar 027 466 3726. Whenuakite Area Playgroup – 9.30am12.30pm every Wednesday morning at the Hahei Community Centre. Ages newborn-5years. We invite all parents, carers, visitors and grandparents. Contact whenuakiteareaplaygroup@gmail.com

Whitianga Art Group – Every Thurs/Fri 10am-4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information.

Whitianga Menz Shed – NEW LOCATION - 18 Abrahamson Drive, Open Tues/Thurs, 9am-12 noon. Phone Glenn 0274-952-015. All welcome. Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/Fri 9am12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@ playcentre.org.nz or 027 880 3947. Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games. Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info. Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome. Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.

Yoga for Everyone - beginners/retirees/ inflexibles welcome. Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 4.20pm, Fri 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25/90 minute session. Txt Rosemary 0274 489326 for info.

DANCING

Argentine Tango Dance Class – Fridays, Town Hall, Whitianga, 5.30-7.30pm. No prior experience or partner necessary. Text Sergio for questions 027 410 2454 Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran. com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm. Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Held in the Whitianga Town Hall. Tuesdays beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.45-2.30pm; Thursdays Seniors 10.15-11.15am, Absolute Beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Improvers 12.451.45pm. Night class held at Mercury Bay Club for Absolute Beginners 5/30-6.30pm. Contact Margaret 027 463 8850, Glynis 021 1099 155, Kathleen 022 154 1702.

Silver Swans Adult Ballet Class – Tuesday’s weekly 10am to 11.10am $20, Whitianga Town Hall supper room. All ages welcome. Marilyn Swan,experienced professional teacher of Dance.M: 0273365263 E; swanebbs@gmail. com

Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes – Town Hall, Monk St, $7 per session. New Beginners, Wed 2.30-3.30pm, Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.30-11.45am, Intermediate classes Wed, 12-1.30pm; . Contact Kathy 027 4321 353 or Cecily 027 294 1750 Zumba – Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk St.

GROUP INFO

Mercury Bay Athletics – For info contact mercurybayathletics@gmail.com

Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. Phone Cecily 027 253 3088 or Chrissy 021 177 4226.

SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated –Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet. whitianga.admin@gmail.com.

Whitianga Bike Park – 144 Moewai Rd, Whitianga. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, BBQs and walking trails. Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact John 027 366 4606.

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

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

GREY POWER

URGENT PUBLIC MEETING

WHITIANGA TOY LIBRARY IS AT RISK OF CLOSING.

Please save the date for our first Grey Power coffee morning of 2026: 12th February at the Mercury Bay Club. 10.30am start. We’re pleased to share that our first guest speakers for the year will be the Community Resilience team from Thames-Coromandel District Council Civil Defence, who will talk about practical preparedness, local support, and how communities can look after one another during emergencies. WE URGENTLY NEED:

PUBLIC MEETING

TUESDAY 17 FEBRUARY - 7:00PM TH

HOUSE LOUNGE & CABARET

Trades & Services

Trades & Services HOUSE

Phone: 022 3123

Email: mikehoey66@gmail.com

Classifieds

To be held on Thursday 26 February 2026, 7pm at the Coroglen Tavern All welcome

BAY FOOTBALL CLUB

17 February, 6pm, Mercury Bay Area School Library, 20 South Highway, Whitianga

If you are interested in helping out at this rewarding and positive club, please attend or contact us at: mbfootballclub@gmail.com

NOTICE OF A SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING

join the familyFind peace and friendship. Enquiries: ph 022 1322 061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz

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Sports

MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS

20 players this week. 501 doubles were played. Good to see some visitors come along for the night. Only one team went through unbeaten in all four sets and they were Malcolm Cryer and Roscoe Anderson. Highest finish for the men was 105, scored by Selwyn Whatarangi. Highest finish for the ladies was 50, scored by Chris Bennett. No 180’s scored this week.

MERCURY BAY CLUB

SNOOKER

Wednesday 4 February

Six players competed over 4 rounds in section play with 2 players achieving 3 wins out of four. Tim Stapleton, making a rare visit, and Rob Reilly played off for 1st prize with Rob taking out the honours with a comfortable win. Tim took out the high break with 22. Those with 2 wins were Peter Challis and Ian Baumgren.

Saturday 7 February

Seven players turned up with Bob Haase and Rob Reilly the only players to achieve 3 wins out of 3

in section play. The play-off final was a close tussle but it was Bob who made the decisive break with some clever snookers to take top honours. Our Canadian visitor Kevin Taylor achieved 2 wins. The high break jackpot prize was not struck.

MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB

9 hole Women - Gross

Tuesday 3 February

Div 1: 1, Alison Goodlet ; 2, Christine Godden

Div 2: 1, Sharon Morrisey; 2, Adele Conway

9 Hole Mixed - Stableford

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

Nearest The Pin: Phil Drane 18 hole Women – Kaimarama

Cup/Summer Putting

Wednesday 4 February

Div 1: 1, Dianne Gilmore 68; 2, Kim Allan 69; 3, Alison Bryson 69.

Div 2: 1, Shay Geach 69; 2, Jillian Kent 70; 3, Chris Van Veen 74.

Twos: Rachel Johnstone, Kim

Allan

Nearest To Pin: Deb Livingstone, Betty Tocker Longest Putt: Janine Hayde

18 Hole Men – Stableford

1, Ron Campbell 43; 2, Rohit Ranchhod 38; 3, Johnny Lister –38 (RIP xxx)

Twos: Johnny Day (2), Patrick Gonthier, Dom Szparagowski, Mark Kilgour

Eagle: Ken George

Gross: Div 1, Steve Geach 78; Div 2, Alan Coubray 89.

9-hole Mixed – Stableford

Friday 6 February

1, Don Maguire - 22; 2, Alan Barradale - 22; 3, Jeff Dixon - 20 18 hole Mixed - Stableford

Saturday 7 February

1, Dan Ray 43; 2, Graeme Butler 39; 3, Steve Geach 38.

Twos: Rohit Ranchhod (2), Steve Geach, Cam Goodger, Mike Franklin, Janine Hayde.

THE DUNES MATARANGI

GOLF CLUB

9-hole Men’s Stableford

Shootout Qualifying Haggle

Monday 2 February

1, Peter Murphy 23.

9-hole Ladies Stableford

Tuesday 3 February

1, Julie Clayton 19; 2, Maree

Cabaret 17 on count back; 3, Ruth Fisken 17. 18 hole Men’s Monthly Net

Medal

Wednesday 4 February

1, Geoffrey Hill 65; 2, Zane Broon 68 on count back; 3, Nick Lambert 68.

Twos: Geoffrey Hill # 7, 16, 18, Ross Alexander # 7, Norman Gilbert # 13, Geoff Atmore and Russell Barnett # 18.

Nearest The Pin #18: Graham Harrison

9-hole Men’s Stableford

1, on count back Mark Deutsch 24; 2, Graham Kemp 24; 3, Rey Bertling 19. 18 hole Ladies Stableford Shootout Qualifier

1, Cathy Drake-Wells 41 on count back; 2, Bev Gwyn 41; 3, Mary Coughlan-Mason 39. 18 Hole Saturday Mixed Haggle Stableford

Saturday 7 February

1, Mike Purchase 38 on count back; 2, Paul Dixon 38; 3, Tony Nicholson 37 on count back; 4

Chrissie Smith 37.

Twos: Noeleen Mulligan # 5, Tracey Mulligan and Ross Alexan-

Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

BY LACHIE HARVEY

Positive outlier in a sea of dull and nihilistic content. That’s how I would best describe the new HBO show A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. Don’t be fooled by its absolutely monstrous name, the show is innately simple. It follows the story of a hedge knight, a fictional knight-errant, otherwise known as a wandering knight, set in the same world as the hit shows Game of Thrones & House of the Dragon. Where its counterpart shows are known for their graphic violence amongst other unsavoury things, A Knight of the Seven King-

doms takes a tamer approach, building a more wholesome story. By no means does the show shy away from violence or from vulgar content, but it uses it far more sparsely and prioritises the positives as opposed to the endless negatives seen by its cohort.

The titular character, Sir Duncan the Tall, is a simple man, who constantly makes blunders and errors. He is compelling on screen due to this ditsy nature, and one can’t help but relate to his struggles. He’s accompanied in his travels by a young squire Egg, and the relationship between the two is the centre focus of the show. Their dynamic is thoroughly

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entertaining and a breath of fresh air in an otherwise dreary modern TV show landscape. More and more modern fantasy shows lean heavily into a grim and depressing approach, started by this show's forebear Game of Thrones. Knight of the Seven Kingdoms wonderfully betrays this approach with humour, there are several moments of genuine hilarity, particularly between the two main characters, that will have you laughing out loud. There’s also a real sense of humanity to the show, you leave each episode not just entertained but also happy, there’s no brutal reality check at the end, just good

old fashioned escapism, something a lot of modern shows have long abandoned.

Another positive to this show is that it’s not a trek to complete, with the final episode coming this Sunday February 15th, the show’s entire runtime will take up a meagre three and a half hours spread through 6 concise episodes. Comparatively, the recently released Stranger Things season 5 spans a whopping 10 hours in 8 episodes. So realistically the only issue you might find with the show is that there isn’t enough of it.

This show isn’t an edge of your seat nailbiter thriller, and it’s not fit for young family viewing given

der # 7, Mike Purchase and Norman Gilbert # 13, Kerry Mason # 16, Tony Nicholson, Mary Coughlan-Mason, Graham Harrison # 18.

Nearest The Pin #18: Shane Webster.

MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB

February Pairs Round One Wednesday 4 February

North/South: 1, Chris Southwell & Jan Autumn 59.6; 2, Alison Tichbon & Kate Palmano 53.4; 3, Pat Doube & Bob Schibli 52.4. East/West: 1, Robyn Hogg & Tadek Gawor 65.1; 2, Giorgio Allemano & Faith Stock 64.7; 3, Deidre Stevenson & Chris Hilford 53.9.

Opening session (Thurs) Thursday 5 February 1, Deidre Stevenson & Augusta Canegallo 58.3; 2, Faith Stock & Angela Cook 52.8; 3, Hillary Scott & Amy Hyde 51.4.

MERCURY BAY TENNIS CLUB

Cup Trophy: Gubb Electrical def P.C. Surveyors 9-2, 9-8. Plate Trophy: Coastal Carpets def The Rugby Club 9-2, 9-2.

the content, but it is a thoroughly entertaining watch, and will, if nothing else, leave you smiling when you’re done. The show is available on the streaming platform Neon, if you don’t regularly pay for it, pick up a singular month’s subscription to check it out.

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Peninsula Riders Shine at Scootering Nationals

BY JENNY PUCKRIN

The Freestyle Roller SportsFRS) NZ Scootering Nationals 2026 brought top talent from across the country to Bayskate in Napier from 21 January to 24 January, with four talented young riders from the Coromandel Peninsula making their mark on the national stage.

Kicking off the competition in the 11 and Under divisions, the next generation of Peninsula talent continued to impress. Representing the Just Scootering Academy, Jacob Foulkes, 11, defended his title in style, taking 1st place once more in the 11 & Under Street Division. His younger brother, Liam Foulkes, aged 9, made his Nationals debut, delivering confident performances and completing some fantastic runs in both the 11 & Under Street and Park divisions.

Also flying the local flag was Zaden Newton, 10, a seasoned competitor who relocated to Pauanui last year. Newton displayed his skill and consistency with 2nd place in the 11 & Under Park Division and 3rd place in the 11 & Under Street

Division, rounding out a stellar set of results for the team.

Separately all three boys said, "I like it because it's fun and I get to be with my mates." Zaden also added, “I like doing the competitions.” For Liam it is, “I like going to different skateparks and meeting new people.”

Closing up the competition,

we had Seth Smith aged 19, who once again competed in the fiercely contested Open Men’s Street Division, securing an impressive 6th place against a strong field of experienced riders, with clean runs with some great style. Seth has been a national champion in younger divisions, and this was his first time at Open level. championships. Seth has become a mentor for many young skateboarders and scooters not just locally but for those entering district and national competitions. Seth commented on the experience.

“I like scootering because you meet very cool people not just to ride but to push each other further. I’ve made some of my best memories through scootering. It teaches you discipline and to never give up. You get a great sense of accomplishment when you learn a new trick, the list goes on.”

The riders’ achievements have filled the community with pride, showcasing the Peninsula’s growing strength in the national scootering scene.

Freestyle Roller Sports is an umbrella organisation for skateboarders and scooters.